|
Casio has added three new models to its Exilim line of point-and-shoots. The 9.1-megapixel Exilim Zoom EX-Z85 emphasizes stylish design, while the 9.1-megapixel Exilim Zoom EX-Z250 and 10.1-megapixel EX-Z300 stand out for their wide f/2.6-5.8, 28-112mm (35mm equivalent) 4x zoom lenses. The EX-Z85 features a more standard 3x zoom lens, with an f/3.1-5.6, 39-114mm (35mm equivalent) range. Both the EX-Z250 and the EX-Z300 incorporate sensor-shift optical image stabilization. Those two cameras also offer a 230,400-dot, 3-inch LCD, while the EX-Z85 provides a 114,960-dot, 2.6-inch screen.
The EX-Z250 and EX-Z300 use Casio's updated Exilim Engine 3.0. According to the company, the new image processing engine allows the cameras to offer several new functions. They include a Handheld Night scene mode that automatically detects low light conditions and sets exposure to minimize blurring, a function that automatically enhances color and detail in shadow and highlight areas, a Makeup function that smoothes skin and lightens shadow areas on faces, and a Multi-motion mode that takes a quick series of 3-megapixel shots and combines them in one frame for a multiple-exposure effect. The Makeup function can be applied at 12 levels of intensity, and the EX-Z300 offers a dedicated Makeup button for applying the effect.
All three of the new Exilims offer programmed automatic shooting and a raft of Casio's Best Shot scene modes. They also share an Auto Shutter function that uses face-detection technology to tell when subjects are smiling and sensors to ascertain when camera movement is at a minimum, then releases the shutter automatically. Other notable features on the new cameras include manual focus, spot and tracking autofocus modes, spot metering, and a triple self-timer. The EX-Z250 and EX-Z300 also have an Auto Best Shot mode that takes a look at your subject and automatically picks one of six scene modes that it thinks will work best. All three cameras offer shutter speeds of 1/2000 to 4 seconds. The EX-Z85 provides light sensitivity settings up to ISO 1600, while the two more advanced cameras extend the range to ISO 3200.
All three cameras can record 30fps H.264 video with sound at 848x480 widescreen resolution, and provide a separate voice recording mode. The EX-Z300 can also record in high-definition 1280x720 resolution at 24fps. The Exilims save audio for videos in the AAC format so that the videos can be played with sound on iPods.
The three new cameras will be available in October 2008. The $179.99 EX-Z85 will come in brown and orange; the $249.99 EX-Z250 will be available with silver and black finishes; and the $299.99 EX-Z300 will come in silver, black, and pink.
|
