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http://www.insanely-great.com/news.php?id=894
Sony announces 5-mega-pixel camera
By ron carlson, Insanely Great Mac
September 4th 2002
This pro camera brings the resolution and control of the traditional SLR to the
digital format for about $1,000
Sony has announced the new Cyber-shot DSC-F717 digital still camera, which combines
point-and-shoot convenience with a host of manual photographic controls, sure to
inspire digital photographers to expand creativity and get better results from their
efforts.
"The Cyber-shot DSC-F717 camera offers the best of both worlds: the superb technology
people expect from Sony and the pure fun of a product that allows for unlimited
creativity," said Steve Haber, senior vice president of Sony Electronics'' Digital
Imaging Product Division. "And, with an expected selling price of $1,000, we know this
model bridges the traditionally wide gap between mass market cameras and
semi-professional models."
Armed with high-quality Carl Zeiss optics, ISO sensitivities of 100/200/400/800 and
shutter speeds of up to 1/2000 second in auto mode, the DSC-F717 produces stellar
results, even in the most demanding of shooting situations. Additionally, Sony''s
DSC-F717 offers a fast start time -- just over one second to power-up the camera -- as
well as rapid capture (JPEG, TIFF, MPEG-HQX video) and processing times.
The DSC-F717''s new features and controls include a new five-area multi-point focusing
system enables photographers to focus left, center, right, up or down of their framed
shot, providing more accuracy when focusing on the subject. The camera has a live
histogram display, accessible both in capture and playback modes, helping to ensure
more accurate exposure. Additionally, the camera''s multi-burst mode can snap up to 16
frames at 320 x 240 resolution that adds up to a single 1280 x 960 image -- perfect
for capturing every detail of subjects in motion, like a golf swing or high dive.
For better organization and easier access to image files, the DSC-F717 features a file
folder option that allows photographers to create and select specific folders for
customized photo-indexing. Lastly, when using the camera''s zoom capabilities, the
DSC-F717 has a new rotating zoom-control ring, for more intuitive precision handling,
offering the photographer an alternative to the camera''s standard toggle switch.
The camera will ship with a 32MB Memory Stick media, an InfoLithium M battery, an AC
adapter/in-camera charger, an A/V output cable, a USB cable, a shoulder strap and a
lens cap, and will be available in October for about $1,000.
Analysis: This camera will obviously rock and shifts the pro/consumer pricing paradigm
markedly. Moreover, if you want until after Christmas to purchase this model, you''ll
likely pay only two-thirds or one-half the price. At face value, this appears to be an
excellent tool -- on-camera file folders and professional settings galore, as well as
the improved speed -- that ordinary people can afford.
I haven''t used my SLR in a couple years, but I''ll sell, give or throw it away if I
can budget this camera in a couple months. Say goodbye to analog...
Post your comments at:
http://www.insanely-great.com/news.php?id=894
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