November/December 2009
|
HDR D-SLRCreate HDR images in-camera with the Pentax K-x, an entry-level model that packs plenty of top-notch features, including HD video capability. The lightweight camera has a 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor with Shake Reduction for capturing sharp stills and video. The camera’s Live View function offers three different focusing modes, including Phase Difference AF. Among other key specs are 1280x720 HD video recording at 24 fps, an 11-point autofocus system and a continuous shooting rate of 4.7 fps. Estimated Street Price: $649 (with 18-55mm lens). Contact: Pentax, (800) 877-0155, www.pentaximaging.com.
TOP-NOTCH GLASSRound out your lens kit with the latest wide-angle to moderate tele-zooms to come from Canon. The EF-S 15-85mm ƒ/3.5-5.6 IS USM delivers a focal-length range equivalent to 24-136mm in 35mm format, image stabilization and high-precision optics for excellent image quality. The EF-S 18-135mm ƒ/3.5-5.6 IS covers 29-216mm in 35mm format and features shake compensation of up to four shutter speed stops. Estimated Street Price: $799 (15-85mm); $499 (18-135mm). Contact: Canon, (800) OK-CANON, www.usa.canon.com.
COMPACT TELEZoom in for sports action, wildlife or portraits with the Sigma 70-300mm ƒ/4-5.6 DG OS lens. With the built-in Optical Stabilizer anti-shake function, you can shoot handheld at shutter speeds up to four stops slower than would otherwise be possible. The 21.5-ounce lens is just five inches long and three inches in diameter, making it ideal for travel. The lens is available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts. Estimated Street Price: $599. Contact: Sigma, (800) 896-6858, www.sigmaphoto.com.
FULL-FRAME RANGEFINDERThe new M9 is Leica’s first digital rangefinder to feature a full-frame (24x36mm) sensor—something many Leica shooters have been waiting for to make full use of their legacy Leica M lenses. The M9 looks nearly identical to the M8.2, with the same compact size and full metal housing for a portable, rugged build. The new 18-megapixel CCD image sensor, developed by Kodak, contains micro lenses that help corral light onto each pixel for maximum image quality. The bright rangefinder allows for fast and precise focusing, even in low light. Estimated Street Price: $6,995. Contact: Leica, (800) 222-0118, www.leica-camera.com.
DAY BAGPack up your D-SLR with a four-inch lens attached plus a couple of extra lenses and accessories in the Tamrac Explorer 200. A Speed Pocket on the front flap lets you get to accessories quickly. The Total Coverage Top can be zipped closed and buckled up for enhanced security and weather protection. Plus, the bag comes with a removable M.A.S. Rain Cover to protect your gear in extreme weather. Inside the lid is a smooth nylon pocket for holding lens-cleaning paper. Carry the bag using the adjustable BioCurve nonslip shoulder strap or EasyGrip carrying handle. Estimated Street Price: $54. Contact: Tamrac, (800) 662-0717, www.tamrac.com.
Page 1 of 4
0 Comments