Casio premieres several new EXILIM cameras
updated 05:50 pm EST, Mon January 9, 2012
All models hit 16.1 megapixels
Casio has announced several new EXILIM compact cameras. The flagship model is the EX-ZR200, a 16.1 megapixel compact which uses a 12.5x optical zoom lens, and supports 1080p video recording. Light sensitivity ranges from ISO 80 to 3200, and the camera also includes features such as Rapid Shutter and Premium AUTO PRO modes, the latter automatically enabling the likes of HDR, night scene, and anti-shake functions as needed.
Blurred backgrounds can be simulated in still photos, and HDR can be simulated in both stills and video. A Wide Shot option uses burst shooting to stitch produce extremely wide-angle images. The ZR200 will ship in black, white, red, and blue colors in April at a cost of $380.
The ZR15 shares many of the 200's features, such as its sensor, but uses a 7x lens. It also loses Rapid Shutter, and the Premium AUTO PRO mode in favor of just Premium Auto. The camera should ship in black, white, red, and gold shades in April, priced at $330.
The ZS150, ZS20, ZS12, and ZS6 are all described as "entry level" compacts, for instance sporting an "easy" mode which displays onscreen guides, as well as large lettering and icons for common functions. When one of the cameras is pointed at a subject, it will also automatically focus on what it assumes is the target. The ZS150 is equipped with a 12.5x lens, while the ZS20 is rated at 6x, and the ZS12 and ZS6 both sit at 5x. The ZS6 ditches the stainless steel casing used by its siblings.
All four entry-level cameras are again rated at 16.1 megapixels, but support just 720p video recording. The models are due in April at prices ranging from $120 for the ZS6 to $230 for the ZS150.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Nov 2008
Yawn . . . Most use phone cameras now
This is a non-event these days. Stand alone cameras are going the way of the dinosaur as phone cameras get better. The best camera is the one you have with you. Who will carry these with them all the time?