Looks like ruggedized waterproof cameras are in popular demand. Almost all the major brands now have a point and shoot camera that’s extremely durable and are 100% waterproof up to certain depth. Here’s the latest in the rugged camera market, the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw. (What? Only 6 MP?!?!?)

AgfaPhoto presents the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw, its new
underwater and outdoor camera. The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw digital camera can withstand
pressures of up to two bar, and is water-resistant at depths of up to 10 meters. The new
DC-600uw takes videos with sound in YouTube format, which can then be immediately
uploaded to any compatible online platform. The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw can now be
purchased for 149 euros (manufacturer’s suggested retail price, including value added
tax).

Refined technology, with an aquatic look
Using the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is incredibly easy, even when snorkeling and diving. The
unique red quick selection button allows for quick change from land mode to underwater
mode, while the 2.4 inch display helps select what to shoot. The camera’s face tracking
function automatically recognizes faces, and brings them into clear focus. With its easily
distinguished glowing blue color, five-times (5X) digital zoom, six megapixel resolution,
high degree of light sensitivity up to ISO 1600, and support for the most common scene
modes, the new AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is the right choice for any summer vacation.

A strong partner on land too
The AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is also ready for any outdoor adventure. Whether mountain
biking or playing volleyball at the beach – the camera’s robust construction protects it if
accidentally dropped, and also protects it against dust and dirt. The AgfaPhoto DC-
600uw weighs 131 grams, and fits easily into almost any pocket or bag.

Included with the AgfaPhoto DC-600uw is a carrying case, a carry strap, a USB cable and
video cable, two AA batteries, an instruction manual, and a software CD-ROM. Additional
color variants will be available in July 2009.

PENTAX Optio W80: A waterproof digital compact camera designed for worry-free underwater photography, with outstanding shockproof performance for enhanced reliability under demanding conditions.

HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging Systems Division is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX Optio W80 digital compact camera. In addition to its outstanding waterproof, dustproof and coldproof capabilities — which allow for up to two hours of continuous underwater photography at a depth down to five meters — the new Optio W80 offers outstanding shockproof performance to withstand a fall from a height of one meter.

Features

Further enhanced waterproof and dustproof performance

By creating tighter external joints for a more airtight camera body, PENTAX has improved the Optio W80’s underwater picture-taking performance from four meters for the previous models to five meters, and for up to two hours of continuous operation. Along with this outstanding, IPX 8 (or JIS Class waterproof performance, the Optio W80 also provides remarkable dustproof performance equivalent to IPX 6 (or JIS Class 6) and exceptional coldproof performance for reliable operation at temperatures as low as –10°C. These features make it perfect for photographing outdoor activities, such as skiing, marine sports and fishing. It can be also used without worry in other situations where water or dirt can be a concern, such as in the garden or kitchen.

Exceptional shockproof performance

Special shock-absorbent material has been applied at crucial points throughout the Optio W80’s inner body, while all components have been redesigned to be more rigid and durable. This means that the Optio W80 can withstand a fall from a height of one meter* without damage to the body, further enhancing its reliability in harsh shooting conditions.

* Measured under PENTAX-original testing standards (from a height of one meter, onto a surface of 5cm-thick plywood), conforming to MIL-STD 810F Method 516.5-Shock.

Optical 5X zoom lens for excellent zoom coverage from wide angle to telephoto

Despite its compact dimensions, the Optio W80 features an optical 5X zoom lens covering focal lengths from 5mm to 25mm (equivalent in the 35mm format to approximately 28mm wide angle to 140mm telephoto). Thanks to this wide zoom range, the Optio W80 can be used for a wide variety of subjects and scenes, from spectacular landscape, majestic architecture and group shots to tight snapshots from a distance. Coupled with the Intelligent Zoom function, which allows even tighter zooming in on the subject, the zoom range can be extended to approximately 31.3 times.

High-quality HD-proportioned movie recording

The Optio W80 captures beautiful, flawless movie clips at 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels)** at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. It also comes equipped with advanced, user-friendly features designed to facilitate movie recording: Movie SR (Shake Reduction) mode, which automatically compensates camera shake during movie shooting; and Underwater Movie mode, which automatically optimizes all camera settings for underwater movie shooting.
** When the Optio W80’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output as NTSC/PAL data. If the user wishes to play back movie clips at high-definition-TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback.

High image quality

Combining approximately 12.1 effective megapixels with the PENTAX-developed imaging engine and high-performance PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio W80 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details. Even when images are enlarged to larger sizes, the user is assured of sharp, high-resolution prints with edge-to-edge sharpness.

Triple anti-shake protection to prevent different types of camera shake

Pixel Track SR mode
When recording still images, the Optio W80’s new Digital SR (Shake Reduction) mode effectively compensates for camera shake by processing affected images.
High-Sensitivity SR mode***
When it detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting, the Optio W80 automatically raises its sensitivity to as high as ISO 6400, making it possible to use a higher shutter speed. This effectively minimizes the adverse effects of camera shake and subject shake under poor lighting conditions.
Movie SR mode****
During movie recording, the Optio W80 prevents blurry images by effectively minimizing annoying camera shake through the use of exclusive software.
*** When the High-Sensitivity SR mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed to 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
**** When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting.

Auto Picture mode for automatic selection of eight different shooting modes

The Optio W80 features the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly mode not only makes the right mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport, Standard and Candlelight modes), but also features an auto macro mode, which automatically switches the camera’s focus range to macro in close-up applications.

Automatic recognition of up to 32 faces in a mere 0.03 seconds

The Optio W80 features the advanced Face Recognition AF & AE function, a great tool in casual shooting of people. This user-friendly function automatically detects up to 32 faces in the image field, then optimizes their focus and exposure settings in only about 0.03 seconds. The Optio W80 is also equipped with the Smile Capture mode, which automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile, as well as the Blink Detection function, which warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

Large LCD monitor for effortless outdoor viewing

Despite its compact body, the Optio W80 features a large 2.5-inch high-brightness color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots. This monitor is treated with a special AR (Anti-Reflection) coating to cut the glare of external light and minimize annoying reflections, making it easy to view recorded images even in bright sunlight.

Other features

- Macro mode to record dramatic close-up images of a subject from as close as one centimeter
- Digital Wide function to compose extra-wide-angle images (equivalent to an image taken with an approx. 21mm lens in 35mm format) from two images
- 20 digital filters, including Toy Camera and Retro, to add distinctive visual effects to recorded images
- SP (Super Protect) coating applied to the front surface of the zoom lens to repel water, grime and finger marks
- O-CC932 Protector Jacket (available as an optional accessory) to protect the camera body from scratches and grime
- AF-assisting spot beam projector (ON/OFF switchable) to assist autofocusing operation in the dark
- New D-Range setting to prevent whitewashed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas in an image
- Frame composite function (with 90 frames stored in the camera) to shoot or compose images with decorative photo frames
- ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewing, editing and filing software included (compatible with Windows Vista™)

Gill has increased its range of waterproof bags to now include a 5 Liter and 50 Liter Dry Cylinder Bags. A dry bag is useful in all boating environments, whether you are sailing, motor boating, paddling, or fishing.

Gill dry bags are made from durable waterproof fabric with roll-down closures that have integral snap buckles and webbing reinforcement to create a simple watertight seal. Each bag has a full-length translucent mesh reinforced panel so that you can easily see what’s inside.

The Dry Cylinder Bags have rounded bases that make them stable and easy to fit in the many awkward spaces often found in and around boats. When not in use, the bags fold flat and are easily stowed.

The L055 5-liter bag is ideal for storing smaller items and could be used as the crew’s ‘valuables’ bag, storing wallets, purses, mobile phones, keys and change.

Lance Jones, Gill North America’s Marketing and Sales Associate says, “I love this piece of kit! My wife and I each have a 5, 10 and 25-liter bag. The 5 Liter is perfect for overnight trips while the 10-liter lends itself well for a weekend excursion. We both use the 25 for carting clothing and other soft goods to our boat. One other nice feature is that you can put all sorts of stuff you don’t want to get wet like wallets, cell phones and the like, roll it up, snap it around your belt, and then swim to shore. No worries about your possessions getting wet!”

The L056 50-liter bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap and is ideal for larger loads such as clothing and waterproofs.

Specifications:

5 Liter Wet and Dry Bag
Style no. L055
Color: Black/Crystal
Size: 7in x 9in
Price: US $25.00
CAN $29.99

50 Liter Wet and Dry Bag
Style no. L055
Color: Black/Crystal
Size: 12in x 22in
Price: US $69.00
CAN $95.99

Canon has launched their first waterproof compact camera, the PowerShot D10. It is said to be waterproof up to 10 meters below, freeze proof up to -10 degrees, shock-proof from 1.22 meters high, and dust proof. From the specs it seems like it’s a rival to the Olympus line of waterproof cameras.

(Source: Canon)

The Canon PowerShot D10 has a 12.1MP sensor, 3X optical zoom, and a 2.5 inch LCD, and includes Smart Auto Mode, Face Select & Track, Blink Detection and Face Self-timer.

The Face Select & Track I’ved used before in on the SD790IS and it’s pretty awesome, especially when taking photos of moving subjects.

Suggested Retail Price: $329.99

Goes where others can’t:
From surfing to snorkelling, skiing to mountaineering, the PowerShot D10 is designed to accompany users on every adventure – it’s waterproof to 10m*, can withstand the shock of a drop onto a hard surface from 1.22m, is dustproof** and will function at temperatures as low as -10oC.

A range of protective accessories are available to keep the camera safe in challenging environments, including soft case, shoulder, neck and carabiner straps***. Thanks to an innovative connection system on the corners of the camera’s body, a secure and convenient set-up can be tailored for different activities. Users can also customise their camera’s appearance with an optional coloured Front Cover Set, and protect it from knocks and scuffs with a soft case.

Exceptional quality
Incredible 12.1 Megapixel resolution is captured by the camera’s sensor, allowing the freedom to crop or enlarge images while retaining outstanding image detail. The 3x zoom lens offers a range of versatile framing options, with Image Stabilizer preventing camera-shake from causing unwanted blur. This is particularly useful when participating in the high-movement activities for which the camera is designed.

Easy to use
To ensure that users stay focused on the action, DIGIC 4 powers a host of intelligent features that make great photos effortless. A new Smart Auto mode uses Scene Detection Technology to analyse the shooting scene in detail – checking subject brightness, contrast, distance and overall hue. The camera then selects the optimum mode from 18 possible choices, ensuring perfect settings for the scene.

Even the most active situations can be photographed blur-free thanks to Canon’s Motion Detection Technology, which detects both camera and subject movement and adjusts settings accordingly. Naturally great people shots are assured by Face Detection Technology, which now also includes new Blink Detection, to avoid the disappointment of mistimed people shots. Canon’s i-Contrast brightens dark areas in an image without blowing out lighter areas.

The PowerShot D10 also features a special 2.5” PureColor LCD II, which has been specially modified for better outdoor performance. Protected by a 2mm protective shield, it offers double the brightness of a normal PureColor LCD II – allowing easy framing or image review in virtually any environment.

From the beach to the ski-slopes, a wide range of shooting modes and Special Scene modes – including dedicated Underwater, Snow and Beach modes – delivers instant fingertip access to the correct settings. FaceSelf-Timer simplifies group shots by waiting until the user enters the frame before shooting.

“The PowerShot D10 is a boundary-breaking camera,” commented Rainer Fuehres, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. “It brings the hallmarks of the PowerShot range – exceptional imaging and ease of use – to places where many other cameras simply cannot go.”

Waterproof (to 10m), shockproof (1.22m), freeze-proof (-10°C), dust-proof digital camera
12.1 Megapixels
3.0x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer
Smart Auto mode with Scene Detection Technology

DIGIC 4 for ultra-fast response, superb image quality and intelligent
Exceptionally bright 2.5” PureColor LCD II with 2mm protective shield
Combats blur with IS and Motion Detection Technology
People shots made easy with Face Detection Technology, Face Select & Track and Blink Detection – plus FaceSelf-Timer and Auto Red-Eye Correction technologies
Optional accessory system includes Shoulder & Neck Strap Set and Carabiner Strap*** plus Front Cover Set
Range of shooting modes and Special Scene modes
30fps VGA movies
Printing
The PowerShot D10 features a dedicated Print menu for quick access to direct print options. Full PictBridge support means users can print directly to any PictBridge compatible printer without the need for a PC.

Language
The PowerShot D10 features a user interface that supports 26 languages: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Portuguese, Korean, Greek, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Thai, Arabic, Romanian, Ukrainian and Farsi.

Memory Card Support
In addition to SD, SDHC and MMC memory cards, the PowerShot D10 supports MMCplus and HC MMCplus card formats.

Software and CANON iMAGE GATEWAY
The PowerShot D10 comes bundled with the following Canon Software:

ZoomBrowser EX 6.3 (Windows), ImageBrowser 6.3 (Macintosh): For organising and editing images, movies and slideshows, or creating and printing digital photo albums.
PhotoStitch 3.1 (Windows), PhotoStitch 3.2 (Mac): For creating panoramic photos from multiple images.
The bundled software supports Windows Vista (including SP1) / XP SP2-3 and Macintosh OS X v10.4-10.5. Both cameras support PTP for driverless transfer to Windows XP and Macintosh OS X, along with MTP for image and movie transfers to Windows Vista.

Purchasers of the PowerShot D10 are eligible for free membership of CANON iMAGE GATEWAY: 100MB of online ‘personal gallery’ space for sharing stills and video with family and friends.