Olympus Imaging America Inc. on Thursday introduced its Stylus 800, a new point-and-shoot digital camera that features an 8-megapixel image sensor and the ability to shoot and view images in low light or bright light situations. The camera also has a 3x optical zoom and a 38 to 114mm focal length equivalent lens. Look for the new camera to hit store selves in July for US$449.99.
Bright Light Capture Technology is what Olympus is calling the new low-light feature; it’s designed to allow photographers to grab shots without needing to use a flash, such as a candlelit dinner or natural skin tones in subdued lighting. The camera’s sensors are rated up to ISO 1600; enhanced auto-focus works better in low light conditions too. The Stylus 800 can also record QuickTime movies with audio.
The new HyperCrystal LCD on the Stylus 800 also makes it easier to review shots you’ve taken in bright light: It views images using clear, high-contrast display than previous cameras. It’s a 2.5-inch screen that features a 160 degree viewable angle. The camera also features manual Aperture Priority and Shutter Priority modes, accompanying 19 different automatic pr-set scene modes. The Stylus 800 has red-eye fix, black and white and sepia modes.
The Stylus 800 measures 4.1 x 2.3 x 1.3 inches and weighs 6.4 ounces empty. It’s clad in a lightweight metal chassis with rubber gaskets to keep the elements out. Olympus vaunts the camera’s new optimized battery design, which it says will last “hundreds of shots” between charges.
The Stylus 800 has 32MB memory built in, and writes to xD-Picture flash media, supports PictBridge-enabled printers and connects to a Mac or PC through USB 2.0. Olympus provides software for download and editing, along with a wrist strap, USB cable, A/V cable, lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger and documentation.