Many photography purists still prefer 20th Century manual cameras that appeal to the unique capture of iconic images and mechanical components. The Leica M8 is the prototype for the company’s transition from manual focus to digital rangefinder cameras, an effort that combines technology with classic styling that befits the Leica brand.

The M8.2 is a new model for the series, incorporating the original 10.3 megapixel lens and a 2.5” LCD sapphire crystal display monitor. The new M8 fits all previous M range Leica lenses and finally embraces full Program and Snapshot modes that answer the call for simplicity from less advanced photographers who want automatic exposure sets. Design improvements include a more defined on/off switch, a quieter shutter mechanism, and a Vulcanized grip.

The camera has also been released in a Safari special edition that is an exclusive silver anodized version of the new M8, with a matching Billingham olive green case with genuine leather strap.

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Tags: Add new tag, digital cameras

Divers and underwater explorers never know what they’ll find underwater, but now they don’t have to carry along a bulky camera to capture the moment when they do. The HD320 Underwater Digital Camera Mask is the brainchild of Liquid Image, makers of electronics for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

The mask makes possible one-touch access to capturing 5MP digital photos and 720p HD video. The HD320 also employs accessory lighting and an LED internal display to help viewer and camera capture better pictures. The device has a maximum rated depth of 115 feet.

The tempered glass lenses are pre-marked with crosshairs to square up a subject for the perfect shot. As with many of the best gadgets around, the device offers the ability to download images to a PC through USB or micro-SD flash memory, upgradable to 32GB.

A recent star of the 2009 CES Show in Las Vegas, the Sacramento-based Liquid Image plans to debut the mask this spring, at an estimated $215. Find more info here.

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Tags: underwater camera

Panasonic has recently launched two new high-definition cameras – the HDC-SD100 and the HDC-HS100. The HDC-SD100 model has a 60 GB hard drive whereas the HDC-HS100 which does not have any internal memory has only a slot for SD/SDHC memory cards. The difference in storage capacity is the main difference between the two models. Both camcorders are enhanced with features like HDMI interface, 2.7 inch LCD screen, 5.1 surround microphone and 12x optical zoom. The video recording settings are MPEG 4 AVC/H.264 at 1920 x 1080 where as the audio recording settings are in Dolby AC3 Digital. Both the camcorders come with a promise of a different recording experience.

via Gadgetizer

Sony announced a new accessory for its line of Alpha digital SLR cameras, with the HVL-F58AM external flash unit. The top-of-the-line flash replaces the HVL-F56AM model, and features Sony Quick Shift Bounce system, a flash head that can pivot 90 degrees on a horizontal axis. The guide number is 58 at 105mm and ISO 100.

Other improvements compared to its predecessor include a quiet recycle in as quickly as five seconds, representing more than a 50 percent improvement, as well as a larger LCD screen. Like the old model, wireless control is part of the HVL-F58AM’s CV, providing users with more lighting options, especially when using zoom lenses. The units can also control the ratio of lighting from up to three other portable flash units.

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This camera is excellent for all levels of user, combining the professional power of the 450D with the friendly Rebel Series. The 450D is a camera that provides high quality, professional image, for an affordable price, all squeezed into a small compact frame. The camera’s new feature, “live view,” allows the user to view the pictures on the LCD, not just the viewfinder. The 12.2 megapixel sensor is impressive in such a small package. It allows the photographer to produce impressive blow-up pictures as well as exceptionally detailed prints.

The 450D boasts an EF/EF-S Lens Mount, JPEG and RAW file formats, auto and manual focus, an ISO range of 100-1600, and secure digital storage. The 10X zoom allows the photographer to capture high quality shots from a distance. The size of the Canon 450D makes it perfect for storing in small compartments, pockets, and purses. It fits easily into your hand, but be careful, this camera was not meant to be dropped. This camera is perfect for someone looking for large-sized pictures, convenience, and affordability.