paddling with a camera

Olympus introduces two new models in their line of waterproof and shockproof point-and-shoot camera line just in time a paddling season opening: Stylus SW 850 and Stylus SW 1030. Both models are available in different colors and already shipping from amazon for SW 850 for $270 and SW 1030 for $377.

You can find a review of both new cameras in dpreview.com:

Olympus µ [mju:] 1030 SW
There’s no other camera like it. The Olympus µ [mju:] 1030 SW is waterproof to a depth of 10m, shockproof against falls to 2m, freezeproof to temperatures as low as -10°C and crushproof to weights of up to 100kg. And now, its stylish metal exterior – which is available in a choice of three colours (Platinum Silver, Midnight Black and British Green) – is also scratchproof. But this model isn’t only tough and good-looking; its great image results also make it a delight to have with you at all times. The incorporation of a 3.6x wide zoom (28-102mm on a 35mm camera) provides plenty of flexibility when it comes to framing: get more of the family into a group photo, or zoom in close from afar for candid shots. A 10.1 Megapixel sensor provides plenty of image detail, giving users the flexibility to crop shots later on a computer and still retain high quality. Meanwhile, an extra-large 2.7”/6.9cm HyperCrystal II LCD boasts a wider viewing angle as well as improved views – even in bright sunlight. In addition, Digital Image Stabilisation reduces blur caused by shakes. A new battery (LI-50B) provides more power so shooting can go on for longer.

Olympus µ [mju:] 850 SW
Sporting a sleek metal body in a choice of Starry Silver, Midnight Black or Metal Pink, the Olympus µ [mju:] 850 SW brings the durability of the shockproof, waterproof line-up to everyone. Waterproof to 3m, shockproof to 1.5m, and freezeproof to -10°C, this camera is ready for the bumps and bangs of everyday life. In conjunction with its tough exterior, the µ [mju:] 850 SW boasts a hearty 8.0 Megapixels to guarantee the flawless capture of every detail. Digital Image Stabilisation is also on board to reduce blur. For framing flexibility, a 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 38-114mm on a 35mm camera) gets you in close, and the large 2.5”/6.4cm LCD makes it easy to quickly preview and review shots. In addition, an LED Macro Illuminator is available for enhancing shots of close-up subjects during macro photography.

I like to shoot still pictures as well as video when paddling. It seems that video features in the Olympus Stylus SW models are still disappointing (see update on this issue!).

• SW 850
  640 x 480 / 15 fps Recording time: 10 sec
  320 x 240 / 15 fps Recording time: 29 min
• SW 1030
  640 x 480 / 30 fps Recording time: 10 sec
  320 x 240 / 30 fps Recording time: 29 min

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