July 24 – Kodak receives top marks for being the first company to include a CMOS sensor in a cheap pocket-cam.

These CMOS sensors will see their first use in the 5-megapixel EasyShare C513, which also includes a 2.4-inch LCD display and a 3x optical zoom.

Although the hardware in this model isn’t going to win any awards, this new EasyShare is priced on the Kodak website as a miniscule $79.95, which is sure to have a significant appeal for those looking for a cheap pocket-cam. Read more here.

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July 24 - Panasonic has added another camera to their popular line of Lumix digital cameras.

The Panasonic DMC-FZ18 is an 8.1-megapixel camera that boasts a very impressive 18x optical zoom and a normal shooting ISO of 1600.

Aside from these, it seems that Panasonic has really decided to focus on image stabilization on this model.

It uses a MEGA Optical Image Stabilization system to reduce blurring from trembling hands and an Intelligent ISO Control to reduce blurring caused by the subject’s movement.

This product should be available in September for a modest $400. For a full list of specs on the DMC-FZ18, read DPReview’s write up here.

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July 16 – A post on FourThirds Photo has apparently detailed the specs on the upcoming Olympus E-P1 DSLR.

Although Olympus requested that the page be taken down, the details on the E-P1 are circulating around the internet. Apparently the E-P1 will feature will be a high-end 10-megapixel camera with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8,000 per second.

Other features include a dust reduction system, enhanced viewfinder, a better anti-shake system, wireless flash control, and excellent low-light performance.

Electronista points out that this model from Olympus will be in direct competition with Nikon’s D200, which will likely put the price of the E-P1 at $2,000 or below. There is no word on the release date. Read more here.

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July 12 – Pentax has unveiled a couple of new entry-level compact cameras today, and they appear to be a very solid offering.

The new models, the Optio E40 and Optio M40, will both have an 8-megapixel sensor with a 3x optical zoom. The big part of this offering is the number of easy-to-use features to cater to the entry-level or casual photographer.

With Pentax’s advanced facial recognition software acting as a serious crutch to those who aren’t well versed in the world of digital photography, the new models will also feature 16 picture modes.

These modes will feature (more…)