Review: EZVIZ C6CN and C1C Home Security Cameras

In our uncertain times security may be more important than ever! More and more of us are turning to online ordering and deliveries while we are stuck at home. And with the kids being out of school it is important to keep track of the whole family both while we are away or while we are stuck in our home offices. This past few weeks we've had the chance to test out two offerings from EZVIZ. The fully featured EZVIZ C6CN and the smaller more basic (yet just as capable) EZVIZ C1C.

EZVIZ C6CN Features and Benefits

The EZVIZ C6CN boast industry leading video clarity and complete 360° panoramic coverage of the area around your camera. Auto Motion Tracking & Notifications and automatic Day to Night mode switching mean that you should never miss a beat. There is even an option for simple one-touch Panoramic Photo Navigation for taking a full 360° photo around the camera.

EZVIZ C6CN Specifications

• Video Resolution: 1080p with 8x digital zoom
• Field of View: 340° horizontal, 120° vertical
• Night Vision: 2 infrared LEDs
• Network Connectivity: 802.11bgn (2.4 Ghz only) and Ethernet
• Smart Home Connectivity: Google home hub, Amazon Alexa
• Audio: Full-duplex, two-way live audio
• Local Storage: MicroSD card up to 256GB (not included)
• Security: 64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK
• Mobile Devices Supported: Android 5.0 or higher, iOS 9.0 or higher
• Dimensions: 3.45" x 3.45" x 4.43"
• Weight 9.1 oz

EZVIZ C1C Features and Benefits

Looking for some basic functionality at a lower cost? The EZVIZ C1C is such a camera. It delivers most of the same features as its bigger brother but in a smaller more concealable package. For about $20 you'll get standard customizable motion detection, Full 1080p HD video, night vision and two-way audio. Mounting is made easy with a magnet built-in base so it can be easily mounted to almost any metallic surface, a metal plate is also included. The C1C offers many of the same features as the EZVIZ C6CN. The C1C will automatically switch to night vision mode when the lights dim. You also get the same Smart motion detection zones and notifications draw specific zones within your cameras field of view where you would like to detect activity, when activity is detected, you will receive a notification in real-time.

The C1C’s 130-degree wide-angle lens provides excellent video quality. The image is sharp with little distortion even in night vision mode. Colors are accurate and vibrant. I found myself fairly happy with the default image settings. However, should you need to you can lower or boost the color saturation using a couple of presets in the settings menu. There’s also a backlight mode that, when activated, lets you tap overexposed parts of the image to see more details.

EZVIZ C1C Specifications

• Video Resolution: Full HD 1080p with 40 ft. super night vision
• Field of View: 106° horizontal, 130° vertical
• Audio: Full-duplex, two-way live audio
• Local Storage: MicroSD card up to 256GB (not included)
• Security: 64/128-bit WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK
• Mobile Devices Supported: Android 5.0 or higher, iOS 9.0 or higher
• Dimensions: 2.4" x 2.28" x 4.04"
Weight: 3.4 oz

EZVIZ App Setup with the C6CN & C1C

Setup of the EZVIZ app is pretty straightforward. You simply unpack your camera, use your phone to scan the QR code and pair your two devices. From there things are pretty self explanatory. One great feature is the ability to see and control multiple cameras right on your device. For those wanting several zones of coverage you can use the advanced control setup with the EZVIZ PC studio (available for windows PC only). The app will unlock advanced configurations of your network and video settings as well as increasing the number of cameras able to view simultaneously from 4 to 25.

Conclusion: Two good entry level cameras!

In my testing the EZVIZ C1C proved that you didn't need to spend a mint to get a full featured camera that, for most home users, provides everything you need to effectively monitor your home while you’re away. While it was a very capable camera. For those of us that like to track ever little detail having the pan and tilt option included in the EZVIZ C6CN is going to be a must and is definitely worth the extra cost. Fortunately the EZVIZ app allows you to run multiple cameras from one device so I strongly suggest buying them as a tandem.

If I were looking for faults I could say I found a couple. Firstly I would have liked to have had an option to use either camera as a webcam, especially in these days of telecommuting. The C1C would have been ideal to place on my desk or a shelf in order to communicate with my team. For the C6CN I wasn't overly impressed with the video tracking. This could easily have been due to my use rather than a fault with the camera.

Both cameras offers a trio of storage options: You can record event-detected video locally to a microSD card, use EZVIZ's network storage or store your video offsite with an EZVIZ CloudPlay subscription. The cameras come with a free one-month trial of 7-day storage. EZVIZ CloudPlay starts at 7-day playback: $5.99/month/camera or $59.99/year/camera. 30-day playback: $10.99/month/camera or $109.99/year/camera.

Fujifilm's New More Rugged FinePix XP30 Featuring GPS

Waterproof digital cameras are becoming all the rage these days. Last year several companies got their feet wet introducing their first ever waterproof offerings. With several other companies such as Olympus and Fujifilm introducing updated offerings. This year marks a first for the waterproof, rugged camera line with Fujifilm raising the bar by introducing the new FinePix XP30; the world's first water, shock, dust and freeze proof model featuring built-in GPS functionality.

The FinePix XP30 picks up where the FinePix XP10 left off featuring the same 4-way durability only with slightly more rugged specifications.You get a newly designed look with a riveted front that is waterproof to 5 metres/16.4ft as opposed to only 3m with the XP10. You'll also get shockproof protections for drops up to 1.5 metres/4.9ft, or a full foot and a half more protection over the XP10. Add to that the same Dust / Sandproofing as well as freezeproof protection down to −10°C.

To add to the cameras durability new is a new shockproof bumper design to shield the LCD screen in case of accident drops. A new rubberized grip to help keep the camera in your hands during tough conditions and a a strengthened glass lens cover providing better protection for that all too important lens.

The most emphasized new feature is the built in GPS sensor for geo-tagging support. Locations can be displayed either as longitude and latitude or by place name. The FinePix XP30 has an embedded list featuring around half a million places of interest across the globe. When a shot is taken, the image is tagged with location information, enabling you to quickly find shots of a place you've visited. Should users then want to create a photobook of a specific location they can do so using the Photobook Assist function where you can tag images then turn the pages of the book on the camera's rear LCD.

But that's not all. If you visit a location that you want to return to but can't remember which way to go, the Photo Navigation mode is invaluable. Simply find a shot of the location and the FinePix XP30 will not only tell you how far it is from your current spot, it'll show you the direction you need to travel to get there.

For those who want to re-trace their steps and map a route of their travels, the Route Logging function is sure to appeal. The FinePix XP30 stores location data every 10 minutes and, once the images are downloaded to a PC through MyFinePix Studio (bundled image viewing software), a map of the route, along with the pictures you took along the way is created using Google Maps.

Fujifilm FinePix XP30 / XP20 key features:

• 14.2 megapixel resolution
• GPS functionality - The XP20 drops the GPS function
• 5x wide optical zoom covering 28 - 140 mm (35 mm equivalent)
• CCD shift image stabilization
• 2.7 inch rear LCD with 230,000 pixels
• Waterproof to five metres
• Shockproof up to 1.5 metres
• Freezeproof to −10°C
• Dust / Sandproof
• Motion Panorama mode
• Available in Black, Silver, Orange, Blue, Green and White

Pricing on the new XP30 is $240 or $200 for the XP20 without the GPS. The cameras are available now for pre-order however they won't be available until mid-February for shipping.

My thoughts:

I've been watching the waterproof digital camera market since I did my review of the FinePix Z33Wp back on Aug of '09 and had been keeping a close eye on the XP10 since it was released. So naturally when I saw the data on the new XP30 I was a bit intrigued. I'll have to say that I'm not going to be an early adopter on this one. Given the drawbacks I faced with Z33WP I'm a bit shy of Fujifilm's cameras. I know these basic waterproof cameras are supposed to be pretty much point and shoot and you shouldn't expect something top notch but I'm a bit picky.

Right now the XP10 can be purchased for around $100 so at $240 the XP30 seems like an expensive alternative. After-all, GPS aside you aren't gaining much in terms of actual performance. Sure you get a rubberized feel that offers more protection and a few extra feet of waterproofing and drop resistance but that hardly seems worth it to me. I really do like the sounds of the GPS and Photo Navigation mode. I'm just not sure I'd actually use it that much. Hopefully we'll see some reviews soon and that will sway me one way or the other.

Malware Found On More Devices With Flash Memory

Following recent reports of malware being detected on the internal memory cards of gadgets like the Samsung Wave, HTC Magic and other similar devices Olympus Japan has issued a warning to customers who bought the new Stylus Tough 6010 shockproof and waterproof camera, informing them that their new cameras may be infected.

According to the advisory from Olympus Japan, just over 1700 units are at risk - and customers can check if their camera is carrying the malware by checking their serial number via a widget on Olympus's website (sadly, it's only available in Japanese).

As with most the cases of infection the malicious code, or worm,  is an auto-run hiding on the camera's internal memory. The auto-run itself does not affect the camera in any way and can not activate on the Stylus Tough camera, but it will attempt to infect your Windows PC should the camera be connected via the USB cord. Its currently unclear if the worm will try to infect external memory cards or not, I would say no considering the nature of the beast. However user that think they may be infected should not only check the camera but any external cards just in case.

2010 Flooded With Waterproof Cameras

At this years PMA several companies have announced either new or updated waterproof cameras. Some are rather plain and boring while others look extremely interesting.

Last year when I was looking for a nice pocket size waterproof camera I found only a few reasonably priced options namely the Fuji Finepix Z33WP, Olympus 550-WP and Polaroid T-833. This year it seems like everyone has jumped on the boat and is now releasing a waterproof camera of their own.

Major manufactures like Samsung, Sony and Casio have all joined Olympus, FUJI, Pentax and Polaroid in their underwater ventures pushing out several new cameras at varying price points.

On the budget end is the newly introduced GE G5WP a successor to last year's G3WP. The G5WP offers a metal enclosure, 4x internal zoom and a 12.2 megapixel sensor. GE won;t have the G5WP on store shelves until late in Q2 but the camera will be fairly price at an MSRP of $179.99.

Adding to the success of their FinePix Z33WP Fuji has added the new FinePix XP10 / XP11. Available in late February 2010 and priced at $199.95 is Fujifilm’s first ‘Four-Proof’ digital camera, which is waterproof up to 10 feet, shockproof up to 3 feet, freezeproof up to 14°F, and dustproof. The camera will feature a 12 Megapixel CCD sensor, ISO up to 1600, a Fujinon 5x optical zoom lens with a reinforced protective lens barrier, and a 2.7-inch High-Contrast LCD display. The FujiFilm XP10 has feature Face Detection, Digital Image Stabilization, Movie Editing Mode and Blog mode, Scene Recognition Auto, and Facebook/YouTube Automatic Web Upload function.

Samsung enters the market with their budget minded AQ100 underwater camera which they introduced just ahead of the PMA show. The AQ100 is a 12-megapixel ultra-compact that much like most the rest of the camera mentioned here is waterproof down to about 10. It has an internal 5x zoom lens, a 2.7-inch LCD, digital image stabilization and can record video at resolutions up to 720p at 30fps. The 12MP Samsung AQ100 will start shipping this Spring and has an MSRP of $199.99.

On the higher end of the scale are the newly introduced cameras from Casio, Pentax and Sony. Just last week Sony introduced the new Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 which will be hitting store shelves this April and will retails for about $350.The DSC-TX5 will feature a 10.2 megapixel sensor, a 4x optical zoom Carl Zeiss Vario Tessor lens and will be waterproof to 10ft, freeze proof down to -10°C (14°F) and shock-resistant for drops of up to 1.5 meters.

One of the recent additions that really caught our eye is the new Casio Ex-G1. Dubbed "the world's slimmest shock-resistant digital camera" this rugged 12 megapixel digital camera has looks to match it's toughness. Featuring IEC/JIS Protection Class 8 (IPX8) waterproofing at depth of 10ft and shock-resistance of drops at up to 7ft this camera might be one of the toughest in the bunch. Casio has already released the EX-G1 with an MSRP of $299.99. Learn more at the G1 Special Site

This years tough new camera that has caught our eye is the much rumored Pentax Optio W90 waterproof camera. Pentax has a long standing of making great waterproof, freezeproof cameras and the W90 is reportedly going to be the next in that great line-up.

The Pentax W90 features a 12.1 Megapixel image sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28 to 140 mm. Combining 12.1 megapixels with the Pentax-developed imaging engine and high-performance Pentax zoom lens, the Pentax Optio W90 should be able to deliver high quality pictures. The Pentax Optio W90 is also shockproof to 4 feet so it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Suggested retail is yet unknown however reports say we can expect it to be in the $400 range.

(update) Pentax has made the W90 official, announcing the release on 2/25

Not to be left behind Olympus has announced a few updates to both their "Tough" line-up as well as their WP line. The new Stylus Tough-8010 will be the new flagship of the "tough" line replacing the Tough-8000. This shockproof camera can withstand drops of 6.6 feet and is waterproof to depths of 33 feet. It caries a price tag of $399.99.

The 14 megapixel Stylus Tough-6020 will take over for the Tough-6000 and features shockproofing to drops of 5 feet and waterproof to depths of 16 feet. Both cameras are freezeproof to temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

For budget consumers Olympus has added the STYLUS TOUGH-3000, a little brother of the other tough line. The camera features similar specs to the Tough-6020 with a smaller price tag of only $229.99. Additionally they've add the X-560WP for $169.99. The X-560WP is predecessor to the Stylus 550-WP and features a 10mp sensor, 3x optical zoom and waterproofing to 10ft.

At the highest end of the spectrum is the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT2/DMC-TS2 the predecessor to the Luminx DMC-FT1/DMC-TS1. These tough little cameras feature full HD Movie support in AVCHD Lite not to mention a 14.1-megapixel High-resolution CCD, 4.6x Optical Zoom, 6x Intelligent Zoom and 9.8x Extra Optical Zoom. MSRP is set at $399

All these newly announced waterproof rugged cameras have us drooling. Having been able to test the FinePix Z33WP last year I'll say that having a waterproof camera is a must for the outdoor enthusiast. Rafting trips, boating trips and fishing just aren't the same when you don't have a good camera along to take snap shots. So look for some reviews as I'm sure I'll get my hands on at least one or two of these new toys.

Sony Releases The New Slim Rugged Cyber-shot TX5 Waterproof Camera

Sony today unveiled what it's calling the world’s thinnest and smallest certified waterproof (up to 10 feet deep) digital camera the Cyber-shot DSC-TX5. The TX5 is Sony's first rugged compact, designed to be dustproof, waterproof up to 3 meters (10ft), freeze proof down to -10°C (14°F) and shock-resistant for drops of up to 1.5 meters.

The TX5 camera will be available in silver, black, pink, green, and red this April and will retails for about $350.

Full Sony press release

Feb. 17, 2010 – Leading the industry in innovation and design, Sony today unveiled two new Cyber-shot digital still cameras (models DSC-TX5 and DSC-H55).

Slim enough to fit in your pocket or purse at less than an inch thin -- about the size of a deck of cards -- the TX5 is the world’s thinnest and smallest certified waterproof (up to 10 feet deep) digital still camera with Optical SteadyShot image stabilization and touch operation. Additionally, the 10.2 megapixel model is Sony’s first digital still camera with an “Exmor R” CMOS sensor that is also certified to be freeze proof down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, shockproof up to about a 5-foot drop and dust proof.

“Only Sony can deliver a technology-packed, ultra slim, fashionable T-series camera that is also durable. Until now, you couldn’t have it all in one camera” said Kelly Davis, director of the Digital Imaging business at Sony Electronics. “It is so versatile because it’s a great camera for both indoor and outdoor usage. You can easily take it from a day at the beach with the kids to a cocktail party with friends. This camera is also great for activities such as snorkeling, snowboarding or boating.”

Waterproof, Freeze Proof, Shockproof and Dust Proof

Waterproof in up to 10 feet of water for an hour, the TX5 lets you take high-quality photos, including panoramic pictures, and 720p high definition videos of your friends, family or pets underwater. From the tropics to the top of the mountain, the camera is also freeze proof down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can take pictures of the kids sledding or snowboarding. Not only is it ready for cold weather, but the TX5 is durable enough to withstand an accidental drop from up to approximately 5 feet. Additionally, it is dust proof, so you can take it with you on a camping trip or a mountain bike ride.

The camera features an “Exmor R” sensor and offers 10fps continuous burst shooting for capturing action shots, so you can get great photos of the perfect moment such as when your kids are in mid air while jumping into the pool. Additionally, the sensor provides outstanding low-light performance so you can take high-quality photos even after the sun sets.

In one easy press-and-sweep motion, take panoramic photos of the underwater landscape or breathtaking views from the top of the mountain using the Intelligent Sweep Panorama™ feature. Another benefit of the “Exmor R” sensor, this innovative feature combines separate captures, detects faces and subject motion and intelligently adjusts the width while stitching the images together, resulting in natural looking panoramic photos.

Equipped with a foldable, 25 mm equivalent wide-angle 4x optical zoom Carl Zeiss Vario Tessor lens, the TX5 delivers outstanding sharpness and high-quality photos while helping to keep the camera compact. The camera also has a three-inch (measured diagonally) Clear Photo LCD Plus (230,400 pixel) wide touch screen display that functions—even underwater. You can focus on your subject, operate the menu and share photos and videos with a touch of the screen—wet or dry. Additionally, you can decorate your photos using the paint feature or scroll through images by simply sweeping your finger across the screen.

Casio Introduces Tough New EX-G1

Just in time for the holidays Casio introduces a hot new waterproof camera for us to drool over, the new Casio Exlim EX-G1. Measuring a petite 103.5 x 64.2 x 19.9mm, that's less than an inch think for those who don't do metric, and featuring full waterproof and shockproof capabilities this ultra thin ultra portable camera can go just about anywhere.

The EX-G1 offers swimmers, skiers or the outdoor enthusiast up to 3 meters (10 feet) of waterproofing and has been drop tested to withstand falls of up 2.13 meters (7 feet). All this means this little camera is going to be tough and ready for just about any outdoor situation, whether it be lounging around on the beach, that backwoods hike or just having fun in the sun.

I haven't got a chance to get me hands on one yet, but I know I'd love to see one in my stocking this Christmas!

CASIO RELEASES WORLD’S SLIMMEST SHOCK-RESISTANT DIGITAL CAMERA
EXILIM G – Waterproof and Dustproof, in a .78-inch, Smart Design


Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., announced today the release of the EX-G1 shock-resistant, waterproof, dustproof digital camera—the first in the company’s new EXILIM G brand of digital cameras. With its smart design featuring functional beauty, the EX-G1 embodies Casio’s endurance-minded features and specifications in a sleek 0.78-inch low-profile camera.

Casio first introduced the shock-resistant G-SHOCK timepiece to the world in 1983. The G-SHOCK brand remains extremely popular among consumers and adventure enthusiasts around the globe thanks to its distinctive, unique design, rugged toughness and practicality, even under severe environmental conditions. In 2000, Casio launched the G’zOne, a durable, water-resistant mobile phone.

Casio is positioning the EXILIM G brand in an “endurance” category, which demonstrates its determination to create digital cameras suitable for top athletes and adventurers. The endurance category caters to those who never quit challenging both extreme conditions and their own limits. The new model was developed to embody this brand concept, using Casio’s years of experience creating technologies for shock resistance, waterproofing and slim-line design.

The EX-G1 is designed with shock-resistant elements throughout the camera, both inside and out, creating a smart look in a slim-line camera with functional beauty. In addition to capturing high-resolution 12.1 effective megapixel images, the EX-G1 also features modes such as interval shooting and multi-image capture which utilize the camera’s endurance qualities. The interval shooting function can automatically take still photos or movies at fixed intervals, enabling users to capture great shots while engaged in active sports such as snowboarding or cycling.

“Whether it is the lifestyle that you have chosen or your career path that requires you to carry a camera tough enough to endure life’s elements, the EXILIM G EX-G1 offers an endurance level that will withstand the demands of your daily routine,” says Toshi Iguchi, senior general manager of Casio’s Digital Imaging Division. “The EX-G1, Casio’s toughest camera to date, is a prime example of Casio’s constant devotion to creating cameras to accommodate all levels of photographers.”

Through rigorous testing, the EX-G1 has been designed and created with a shock-resistant shell which passes drop tests including multiple falls from seven feet. Featuring a two-layer construction with a stainless steel outer-casing, the EX-G1 inner body withstands shock and water damage. The camera’s intelligent design is constructed with a resin cover to protect the body side near the shutter and a resin lens ring to protect the lens.

The technologically-advanced design features waterproof performance and corresponds to IEC/JIS Protection Class 8 (IPX8) waterproofing. The EX-G1 can be used at depths at 10 feet for 60 continuous minutes. Water will not penetrate the camera even when directly sprayed with jets of water from every direction corresponding to Protection Class 6 (IPX6). Capable of withstanding temperatures as low as 14°F*6, Casio’s EX-G1 boldly captures images where any adventurer goes.

The EX-G1 will hit shelves in December 2009 with an MSRP of $299.99 and will be available in black and red.

Features

Slim-line Design with Toughness Construction

• Shock Resistance
  The EXILIM G EX-G1 offers the world’s thinnest profile* of .78 inch (excluding protruding parts) in a shock-resistant digital camera. The camera passed multiple drop tests of seven feet based on Casio’s own standard**.
• Waterproof/Dustproof
  The EX-G1 offers waterproof performance corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 8 (IPX8) waterproofing, and can be used for 60 continuous minutes at a water depth of 10 feet***. It also withstands water jets corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 6 “IPX6” waterproofing, and can be directly rinsed under running water. The EX-G1 is also impervious to dust, with performance corresponding to IEC/JIS Protection Class 6 “IP6X” dustproofing.
• Freezeproof
  Withstanding ever the coldest of temperatures, the EX-G1 endures through temperatures as low as 14 °F.

Shock resistant/waterproof construction and design

• Exterior
  The outer body of the EX-G1 is made from stainless steel to withstand external shocks while a polycarbonate cover absorbs shocks to the body side near the shutter. The camera’s wrist-strap holder is made of die-cast zinc to withstand drops while a rotating lock secures the external memory slot cover. For additional protection, the EX-G1 comes with two types of detachable protectors to absorb shocks.
• Internal construction
  The waterproof inner body of the camera is made from polycarbonate reinforced with fiberglass while a buckle-lock construction is added to absorb impact, using fewer screws to secure the inner body. Additionally, the camera’s frame comes equipped with speaker and microphone filters to prevent water from penetrating the camera.
• Lens
  To prevent damage to the camera’s lens, a resin ring as been added around the glass casing to ease shocks to the lens area. With the addition of a reinforced, glass lens cover, the EX-G1 is tooled with a multi coating that is water-repellent and prevents light reflection from ruining pictures. To further protect the camera from impact, high-performance damping material has been added to protect the lens unit from external shocks.
• LCD panel
  The acrylic plate to protect the LCD from water pressure and shocks is 1.5 times thicker than conventional point-and-shoot cameras. The LCD panel features a resin mount to ease shocks to the LCD panel area.

BEST SHOT functions befitting a waterproof, shock-resistant camera

• Interval shooting
  The interval shooting function allows users to automatically take still photos or movies at fixed intervals while engaged in action sports such as cycling, snowboarding, and wind surfing*5. With the EX-G1, users can take powerful photos from inside the action, the kind which are usually almost impossible to capture. The shooting interval can be set at 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, or 3 minutes, and the capture time for movies may be set at 3, 10, 20, or 30 minutes
• Great for a variety of outdoor photography scenes
  The BEST SHOT function enables users to take beautiful photos just by selecting the desired subject scene. The EX-G1 includes additional BEST SHOT settings suitable for various outdoor situations, such as “snow” and “beach” scene settings, which automatically adjust to prevent subject underexposure due to the brightness of snow or sun. There is also an “underwater” setting to control the tendency of underwater photos to come out looking too blue.

12.1 effective megapixels
This thin stylish model features a large 2.5-inch monitor with 230,400 dots of high resolution and a non-extending 3X zoom lens ranging from 38-114mm (35 mm film camera equivalent).

Intelligent AF
When the camera is pointed at a desired shot, the Intelligent AF function automatically detects the photo subject even if it is not a human face and determines the focus and exposure area accordingly.

Advanced Dynamic Photo function
Casio’s original Dynamic Photo function, which creates composite moving images using the camera’s own high-speed image processing technology, now does even more. When a moving subject is cut out of a number of images and combined with a different still shot that forms the background, the size of the subject can be changed to suit the background image. Additionally, the Dynamic Photo video can easily be converted in-camera into a motion JPEG movie file. Moving graphics such as hearts and bouquets of flowers are included so that users can have fun decorating their still images using the Dynamic Photo function. Casio not only allows users to have fun taking and viewing photos, but also provides innovative new ways for them to create original images, right on the camera.

Wide Screen Movies
The camera also features a wide format (16:9) Movie function. Just press the dedicated Movie button to take beautiful movies at 848x480 pixels.

For more details on the Exilim EX-G1 checkout Casio's Exilim G site.

Source: CASIO

Review: Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP

Summer might be winding down but its never too late to buy water toys and gadgets. The best part is often times towards the end of the season you can find some great deals out there. Over the last few months I've been watching prices on a select group of ‘waterproof’ cameras with my main focus being on the sub $200 range.

Last month the timing was right for me to make my purchase and when it was all said and done I ended up with the Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP. Currently priced from $145-179 the FinePix Z33WP falls in the same price range as the OLYMPUS Stylus 550WP, the Polaroid t833 and just below the OLYMPUS Stylus 850WP and Stylus 1050SW.

Featuring 10 megapixels CCD sensor, 3x optical zoom and waterproofing up to 3m (10ft) this little camera looked like the perfect companion for my many rafting trips. It was compact enough and easy enough to carry that it wouldn't be bothersome, yet had enough features to make shooting pictures fun and easy.

Picture Quality

One of the hardest things to find in a budget camera is one that does it all and unfortunately the Z33WP didn't handle many of the tasks I threw at it. The camera is equipped with 6 scene SR AUTO (Scene Recognition Auto) which is supposed to automatically detect and select one of the 6 appropriate camera settings: Portrait, Landscape, Night, Macro, Night Portrait, and Backlit Portrait. Sadly this really didn't help much.

Picture quality during the day was top notch however during low light or night time shots it was horrible. Being someone that has an active nightlife a camera that could take great night time pics is a must. Pictures often turned out blurry, grainy, dark or just plain bad. Even manually adjusting the setting couldn't help. This was really disappointing considering the quality of the day time shots.

Functions and Features

The Z33Wp has several great functions and features as well as several shooting modes that actually worked well. Shooting modes Underwater and Auction mode for instance really came out well when utilized. Shooting shots in the pool using underwater mode adjusted the color about perfectly while auction mode took great snap shots with just the right amount of flash and good color balance.

Movie recording left a lot to be desired as did some of the other shooting modes like Night, Party, Flower and Text. As mentioned night shots were horrible!

In terms of effectiveness the waterproofing and dustproofing were great. I never attempted to test the actual depth but I did do a lot of swimming and photo taking with the camera around my wrist. We even dunked it into a pitcher off beer to show it off at the nightclub (not a recommended test). I strongly recommend the floating strap as the camera is pretty small and easily dropped!

Conclusion

I didn't keep my FinePix Z33WP had I had it a little longer I might have found a way to work around the issues with night time shooting but its toward the end of summer and I need a better camera for shooting shots in the club. Overall its a nice little camera and would be great for fun in the sun days, parties at the beach or for those moments at the pool. For anyone looking for an all around camera though I'd suggest looking elsewhere.

Sony Adds Wi-Fi And Internet Browser To The Cyber-shot DSC-G3

Sony has introduced what it is calling the world's first Wi-Fi digital camera with web browser, the new Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G3.

Sony unveils world's first WI-FI digital camera with web broswer



LAS VEGAS (CES Keynote), Jan. 8, 200: With a focus on making photo sharing easier and more convenient, Sony today introduced the world’s first Wi-Fi® enabled digital camera that uploads photos and videos to Web sites through any public hotspot due to its built-in Web browser.

The new Cyber-shot DSC-G3 digital still camera answers one of the most pressing needs for photo enthusiasts: how to share those amazing photos and video clips of family, friends and events as soon as you shoot. The Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to upload images and video directly to popular photo and video sharing sites wherever a Wi-Fi connection is available.

“Research shows that our customers greatly value sharing images and video clips, but they often forget or don’t have enough time if they wait to get home to upload images,” said Phil Lubell, director of digital camera marketing at Sony Electronics. “Our new Cyber-shot DSC-G3 camera provides the simplicity and convenience of sharing in the moment, while the impulse is still fresh in people’s minds.”

The camera can wirelessly connect to any public hotspot, including hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and airports. Like a computer, the camera can connect to free or fee-based hotspots, as well as to secure and unsecured access points.

The new DSC-G3 model comes with complimentary AT&T Wi-Fi access to Sony’s Easy Upload Home Page until Jan. 31, 2012. It includes Wi-Fi access at thousands of AT&T hotspots across the United States, including participating coffee shops, selected book stores and major quick-serve restaurant locations, as well as hundreds of upscale hotels and airports.

“By collaborating with Sony to launch the first digital still camera with a built in Web browser and embedded access across the entire AT&T Wi-Fi service network, we’re enabling consumers to gain quick and convenient access to Sony’s Easy Upload Homepage through thousands of AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots across the country,” said Glenn Lurie, president of AT&T’s emerging device organization. “The wireless capabilities and cutting-edge features of the G3 camera with the reliable coverage of AT&T’s Wi-Fi network offers a unique consumer experience.”

Uploads Made Easy

The new camera makes it easy to connect to the Internet and upload images. By pressing the WLAN button on the camera, you can open its embedded Web browser.


After connecting to the Internet via wireless access points, the camera automatically navigates to the Sony Easy Upload Home Page, which includes direct links to photo sharing sites like Shutterfly and Picasa Web Albums; video sharing sites like YouTube and Dailymotion; and a photo and video sharing site, such as Photobucket. Also, the DSC-G3 camera allows you to access other sharing sites for uploading photos and videos through its Web browser.

Through the Sony Easy Upload Home Page, you can send e-mail notifications from the sharing Web sites to let friends and family know that you have posted new images and videos for viewing. This is perfect for sharing with loved ones that were not with you when you took the pictures or shot the videos.

When friends and family are nearby, you can use the camera to access photos you may have already uploaded to sharing sites and display them on its high resolution 3.5-inch LCD screen.

The camera supports DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) guidelines. By connecting to such DLNA-compatible devices as Sony BRAVIA televisions via access points, photos in the camera can be played back with high-definition quality. In addition to BRAVIA TVs, the camera can connect to other DLNA-compatible devices, such as Sony VAIO PCs.

Smart Camera

In addition to its wireless sharing capabilities, the new camera is built for high-performance imaging. The 10-megapixel camera is about three-fourths of an inch thin and includes a 4X optical zoom Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens. Although compact enough to fit in the camera’s slim dimention, this lens provides excellent sharpness and color accuracy.

The Intelligent Scene Recognition feature automatically identifies a total of eight types of scenes — backlight, backlight portrait, twilight, twilight portrait, twilight using a tripod, portrait, landscape and macro — and automatically optimizes camera settings for each challenging shooting situation, taking an additional shot in low and bright light scenarios.

With Sony’s Face Detection technology, the DSC-G3 camera detects faces in a scene and adjusts auto focus (AF), auto exposure (AE), flash and white balance accordingly. It can also distinguish between children and adults, allowing users to to prioritize faces according to their preference .

Combining the Intelligent Scene Recognition feature with Face Detection technology, the camera includes an anti-blink function that helps make closed-eye photos a thing of the past. The camera automatically takes two shots and then determines whether the subject(s) have closed eyes. It will record images with open-eyed subjects. If both pictures have subject(s) with closed eyes, the cameras will record one and display a warning so you can try again.

Sony’s Smile Shutter technology automatically captures a smile the moment it happens. You can use the adult or child priority setting when shooting scenes containing both adults and children, and the camera will distinguish one face from another.

The camera’s Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) determines the best exposure and contrast settings in almost any shooting environment, giving images a natural look with clearer details that match what you see with your naked eye. DRO also balances the contrast in scenes with strong highlight and shadow, recovering detail normally lost in shadow areas. Combining the benefits of Optical SteadyShot image stabilization with high sensitivity mode, Sony’s Double Anti-blur feature helps reduce camera shake blur, especially when there is low light .

Photo Library

The Cyber-shot DSC-G3 model is also a “photo album in your pocket” and has 4GB of internal memory that can store nearly 1,000 full-resolution or 40,000 VGA-quality photos. The 3.5-inch (measured diagonally) wide touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ screen is perfect for photo-like viewing with high contrast and wide-angle viewing. This Xtra Fine LCD screen delivers high resolution images (921,600 dots) that is approximately four times higher than conventional LCDs.

The camera also makes it easy to sort thousands of images. While shooting, images are organized automatically in albums by date. All images in an album can be displayed simultaneously as thumbnails on the screen, and the desired image can quickly be selected.

There are four ways to view photos: standard folder view, date view, favorites and event view. Images can be stored and managed on both the camera’s 4GB internal memory and an optional Memory Stick® media card.

In addition to the in-camera organization and search functionality, bundled Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software allows you to quickly organize images on a compatible PC. The software lets you search and organize images by event or face, and you can display images in calendar or chronological views organized into folders.

Source: Sony Press Release