Waterproof digital cameras and camcorders

January 10, 2012

Olympus Waterproof Camera

Filed under: waterproof-camera — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Nigel Moreno @ 2:34 pm

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 at Amazon

Early cameras of the 16th and 17th century were capable to project images onto paper or glass but the study of capturing, processing and printing the images took numerous more years. Up until the 17th century, scientists believed that light was composed basically of the ‘white’ that is sensed by the humane eye. It took the exploration done by famous physicist Isaac Newton to discover that light is actually composed of a spectrum of colors. While he made a big contribution to the study of optics (that is at the core of camera advances) with this discovery, Newton did not actually have anything to do with camera development per se.

The early camera that basi became a phenomenon was a little more than a pinhole camera and may be traced back to 1558. It was called the Camera Obscura. The Camera Obscura was seen as a drawing tool for a clearer and realistic portrayal of objects. It was in the early 19th century that an invention named the Camera Lucida was introduced by Cambridge scientist William Hyde Wollaston that consisted of an optical device that could help an artisan view a distant scene or person or object on a paper surface that he or she was using to draw. In other words the artisan gets to view a superimposed effigy of a subject on paper and this effigy could be efficaciously used to undertake to draw, trace or paint it. Both the Camera Obscura and the Camera Lucida provided an effigy that was temporary, which could not be lastingly captured on to paper for later reference.

Studies nonetheless continued well into the 1800′s on how to in truth capture the effigy onto material. It was for the duration of this time, around 1822 that French researcher Joseph Nicephore Niepce, devised the introductory photograph by using paper that was coated with a chemical. The effigy would not stay permanently on the paper and would decrease rapidly after a short while. Even so, in spite of the short-lived nature of the image, the conception of photography was born with this experiment and paved the way for further study and development in this field.

Capturing images to retain them longer and permanently became the next big quest for researchers. Another Frenchman Louis-Jacques-Mandé Daguerre partnered with Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1829, to fabricate the routine of creating permanent photographs. Joseph Niépce passed away in 1833 but Daguerre continued with the work and succeeded in 1837 after a great deal of long years of experimentation. The procedure of capturing photographic images that would not fade away, introduced by Daguerre came to be known as the ‘daguerreotype’.

The word ‘photography’ was coined by scientist Sir John F.W. Herschel in 1839 and it is actually is derived from two Greek words ‘photos’ meaning light and ‘graphein’ meaning draw.

A more or less more innovative version of the daguerreotype called the Calotype routine that makes multiple copies possible using the negative and positive method became available very soon after. In fact, it was for the duration of the 1840′s that the use of photographic images in advertisements primary started and cameras made their mark on the power of visual communication. It was not much later, in the 1850′s that photographers basi started experimenting with underwater photography of seascapes.

Up until 1850, the procedure of capturing images was cumbersome calling for upto half an hour of light exposure. The invention made in 1851 by Frederick Scott Archer was a benediction since the new method termed the Collodion procedure called for just 2-3 seconds of light exposure to capture an image.

Prior to 1871, photographers went through a development procedure where they had to coat the plate with wet chemical each and each time and routine the effigy immediately. With the invention the gelatin arid plate silver bromide routine by Richard Leach Maddox, negatives did not have to be formulated immediately. This was an essential invention since up until then the captured effigy had to be processed instantly.

Kodak invented in 1888 by George Eastman has been a innovative day pioneer of sorts in cameras and photography for the masses. George Eastman and the scientists who worked with him at Kodak produced the photographic film in 1889 and made it available in rolls for the mass use of consumers. An indispensable milestone in our amusement and communicating history was the development of transparent roll film by Eastman. This development led to another key invention – the motion picture camera by Thomas Edison’s in 1891.

–>Modern Times

During the 20th century the pace of engineering science development in cameras and photography continued at an sped up pace much like a heap of other key technology developments. While various key inventions like car, telephone and the gramophone record happened in the later half of the 19th century, it is the last 100 years that saw major developmental work in galore areas of communications engineering science and as well as in other fields – TV, aircrafts, PCs, digital technology, digital cameras, mobile phones, fax machines and the internet, to name a few.

In the case of the camera, the developments simplified the whole procedure of photography, making it accessible to one and all at lowcost prices and the camera industry denizens of our times made it into a mass phenomenon. The introductory mass use camera became available at the turn of the 20th century and may be traced back to the year 1900. There are hundreds of models of cameras available today both for the novice as well as the professional and the camera is an crucial part of any family’s repertoire of will have to have gadgets.

–>20th century chronology in the history of the camera:

1913: 35 mm still-camera created

1927: The flash bulb introduced by General Electric Co. (The conception of camera flash existed much before but was based on the use of a flash light powder that was developed by German researchers)

1935- 1941: Kodak starts retail Kodachrome film and subsequently launches Kodacolor negative film. Canon freed the Hansa Canon in 1936, the initial 35mm focal-plane shutter camera.

1948: The conception of the Polaroid camera is introduced in the market. American scientist Edwin Land devised the procedure for instant photography. Later Polaroid Corporation devised the ‘instant color’ film around 1963.

1957: Frenchman Jaques Yves Cousteau invented the introductory waterproof 35mm camera for underwater photography named the Calypso Phot. The actual camera was produced by the Belgian airplane technical architect Jean de Wouters based on the blueprint and suggestions given to him by Cousteau.

1972: The electronic camera that does not require film was formulated and patented by Texas Instruments. This is nevertheless not the same as a digital camera even though you don’t require film in digital cameras as well. The launch of the digital camera is still some years away.

1975: Kodak’s experiments with digital imaging kicked off around the mid seventies but it will take another 20 years before a digital camera for the home buyer market is launched.

1978 – 1980: Asian players like Konica and Sony commence to make their mark. The ‘point and shoot’ automatic focus camera is launched by Konica while Sony starts talking when it comes to the camcorder and demonstrates a prototype.

1981: Sony launches a commercially available electronic still camera. Similar to the 1972 invention by Texas Instruments, the Sony electronic camera came with a mini disc on which images were recorded and stored. The recorded images could be later printed or viewed on a monitor using a reader device.

1985: Digital processing engineering makes it is entry. Digital imaging and processing is introduced by Pixar.

1986: The camera industry becomes even more buyer focalized and taps the fun and travel connotations behind camera usage, with the launch of the conception of the disposable single use cameras. Fuji is credited with the development of this concept.

Also in 1986 – 1987, Kodak started taking giant strides in digital development. Digital means, the photographic effigy is disunited into tiny units of dots or squares known as pixels. Pixels are the programmable units of an effigy that may be processed by computers. Each effigy could be made up of millions of pixels. The use of pixels in digital engineering allows storing huge volumes of pixels to deliver high definition print quality.

1990: Kodak introduces Photo CD’s. It is a system of storing photographic images on CD and then looking at them on a computer. With this development the user-friendly approach of the camera industry started out to take concrete shape.

1991: Kodak introduces a digital camera purposed at pros and journalists. Kodak is credited with the invention of a pixel based camera engineering science known to us as the digital camera. Digital cameras don’t use film similar to their predecessor electronic cameras but the storage method is altogether dissimilar and the final photograph is of much higher resolution. In a digital camera photos are recorded and stored in digital form. This digital selective information may be transposed to a computer and processed for printing. Kodak and Canon are well known digital camera makers and there are likewise assorted other key brands as well.

1994: The Apple QuickTake camera, a home use digital camera is launched. This is followed by the launch of a clutch of home use digital cameras by Casio, Kodak and others in quick succession for the duration of 1995 -’96.

–>The digital era:

The development of digital camera engineering science is considered to be linked to the development of TV and Video technology. The principles of transmission and recording of audio-visual images using digital electrical impulses finds use in camera imaging as well.

Through the 1990′s the developments continued in camera technology, the focus now shifting to the field of digital imaging which is where the future lies. Use-friendly features like software that may download digital images directly from camera onto home computers for storing and sharing on the internet is the new norm in the market place.

The camera, the computer, the software industry and the international web are today irrevocably interlinked to empower the user in experiencing the gains of camera usage to full potential. The innovation that sparked numerous an invention in the camera industry found it is way into the digital world as well and continued amid digital camera manufacturers. During 2001, the Kodak and Microsoft cooperative relationship ensured that digital camera makers could use the power of Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP) ordinary through Windows. The digital photo experience is a key visual driver in the Internet era. Many of Kodak digital camera models with EasyShare capablenesses are compatible with Windows XP. The Kodak EasyShare software enables users to transfer digital camera pictures directly from camera to their computers and then print the pictures or even email them.

Manufacturers in a related industry like the printing industry have adapted their merchandise to be in sync with the images developed by digital cameras. Cell phone manufacturers have tied up with digital camera manufacturers to give rise to new age camera phones in recent years. These camera phones may capture images and part the images through the cell phone.

Among the 21st century digital developments are the innovative product offerings from digital cameras makers and these are sure to occupy an necessary place in the ensuing history of camera development. For instance, the Kodak Professional DCS Pro SLR/c is a high-end digital camera and the Kodak website calls the DCS Pro SLR models the most feature-rich digital cameras on the market. It has an effigy sensor that may handle 13.89 million pixels and this makes it the most eminent solution digital camera available. High solution determines the sharpness or level of detail in photographic images. This is just a glimpse of the capablenesses that digital technology places in a user’s hands. Digital camera sales figures for 2003 show that the two key players Kodak and Canon have recorded impressive growth.

–>What does the future holds for camera users?

The features offered by digital cameras may be rather mind-boggling for the intermediate user and beauteous stimulating for most pros. Four key ongoing camera developments that are likely to further improve the routine of photography:

1. Greater solution from even the simplest, low cost camera models

2. Usage in any type of lighting conditions,

3. Compatibility all over a range of software, hardware and effigy types

4. Rich colors and tone

While the higher-end digital evolution continues, the prices of the simple camera have crashed to such an extent that even children and teens are proud owners of uncomplicated cameras. The camera and photography interest starts young and this produces a veritably big audience base for the camera industry.

And allround history, it is apparent that the endeavor of researchers and developers has been to make the camera available to a wide division of society. Without camera engineering and photography, the other key developments of cinema and TV would have been delayed and what a boring place the world would have been without TV and films!!


Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

OLYMPUS 227635 14.0 Megapixel STYLUS TOUGH-6020 Digital Camera (Black)

If you like to get out there and have fun, this is the camera for you. It’s rugged sufficient to handle whatsoever you may dish out, and smart sufficient to take unbelievable pictures while you’re doing it. Not only is it waterproof, freezeproof and shockproof, it’s packed with aweinspiring technology like one-touch HD movie recording.

Waterproof (16FT.) A revolutionary system of waterproof seals and gaskets keeps water out so you may take pictures as deep as 16 feet underwater.
Shockproof (5FT.) Life may be tough, this camera is tougher. Rugged metal body and innovative shock-absorbing construction are designed to withstand a 5-foot drop, bump, or other mishap.
Freezeproof (14°F/-10°C) Boldly enter that winter wonderland without worrying when it comes to your camera. The Stylus Tough-3000 is winterized to carry out at below-freezing temperatures.
Dual Image Stabilization Forget when it comes to blurry shots with this 2-in-1 anti-blur solution. Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization compensates for camera shake to keep your shots steady while Digital Image Stabilization captures crisp, clear images in any situation.
HD Video 720p A simple, one-touch button allows you to record movies with aweinspiring clarity in high-definition, right from your camera.

Olympus Stylus Tough-6020 Features

14 Megapixel
An amazing 14 million pixels in the high-resolution CCD give rise to superior effigy quality. Create poster-sized prints without losing a single detail.

5x Optical Zoom
You’ll never leave any person out. With it is 5x optical zoom you may get dramatically close to the action, and capture everyone and any person in sight.

2.7-inch LCD
This big 2.7-inch LCD features an extra-wide watching angle and anti-glare technology for requiring little effort composing and shooting even in direct, bright sunlight.

One-Touch HD Movie
With One-Touch HD Movie you may record widescreen, crystal clear HD movies (720p) right from your camera.

1 GB Internal Memory
Store more photos and videos than ever before, right in your camera with 1GB of internal memory.

Waterproof
A revolutionary system of waterproof seals and gaskets keeps water out so you may take pictures as deep as 16 feet underwater.

Shockproof
Durable metal body with an progressed shock-absorbing engineering protects it from drops of up to 5 feet.

Freezeproof
It’s Freezeproof down to 14°F/-10°C. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, sledding and other winter fun, this camera is winterized to carry out at below-freezing temperatures!

Dual Image Stabilization
Dual Image Stabilization combines Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds so you may capture crisp, clear images even if the subject is moving.

Tap Control
Operate picture playback, shadow adjustment, flash mode and more just by tapping the top, back and sides of the camera. Tap Control is idealisti for underwater use or when wearing gloves.

AF Tracking
AF Tracking mechanically tracks unpredictable, fast-moving subjects such as kids and pets, and continuously adjusts the focus and luminance so you may capture these photogenic whirlwinds with ease.

Creative Art Filters
Create Art Filters gives your photos a distinct look by applying particular artistic effects including Pop Art, Fisheye, Drawing and Pinhole.

Intelligent Auto
The Intelligent Auto setting identifies the scene you’re shooting — portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport — and adjusts the settings to optimize results.

Advanced Face Detection
Advanced Face Detection tracks up to 12 faces and mechanically focuses and optimizes exposures for sharp, brilliant portrait pictures.

In-Camera Panorama
In-Camera Panorama captures three images and stitches them together to manufacture one amazing panoramic picture by merely pressing the shutter button and tardily panning all over a scene.

Shadow Adjustment
Shadow Adjustment Technology brings out more details in shadows. It helps capture scenes precisely as you see them, even in difficult lighting situations, such as backlit shots.

Beauty Mode
Beauty Mode takes beauteous portraits by softening shadows and smoothing wrinkles and blemishes on your subject’s face. Edits may also be made inside the camera after taking the picture.

Perfect Shot
Using a live, multi-frame window on the LCD, you may preview the effects of respective settings, select and capture the perfective shot.

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Pic

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Picture

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Picture

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Photo

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Pic

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2

Olympus Waterproof Camera 2 Image


Most helpful customer reviews

456 of 460 people found the following review helpful.
5Great Camera, Perfect for High Quality Vacation Snapshots
By tommy1de
I am surprised by some of the negative reviews of this camera. I have a suggestion to those reviewers: READ THE MANUAL! One common complaint – slow start-up time – can be easily fixed by following directions in the manual: Turn “PW on Start-up” to off, this will keep the camera from loading the logo and the camera is immediately ready for use. Another common complaint is the time it takes in order to shoot the next picture. Some people incorrectly refer to this is “excessive shutter lag.” This is not the case: The default setting for this camera is to display the photo just taken for about four seconds after pressing the shutter button so the user can view the image. This is a handy feature I appreciate, but if I am taking fast moving action shots, this feature can be turned off in Shooting menu 2, “REC VIEW.” Once performed in accordance with the manual, photos can be taken immediately after one another. All of my photos taken with the 6020 are perfect, unless I do something wrong. I am amazed by the number of people who do not comprehend the basic concept of digital focusing: Press the shutter button halfway to focus the subject (focus box turns green to confirm proper focus,) compose your shot while continuing to hold the focus halfway, then complete the photo taking process by pressing the button fully. Read the directions and anyone who buys this great little camera will love it and have great success with sharp, clean, well colored photos! By the way, I have successfully used the 6020 in my community pool for testing underwater and I am looking forward to my upcoming vacation to Aruba this month.

144 of 146 people found the following review helpful.
5A Great Little Camera
By Timothy A. Warren Jr.
I have had the camera for a few days now and really put it through the paces. It is by far one of the best little point and clicks that I have had and I have had at least 5 in the past 5 years. It’s built well and has a exceptional battery life (275 picks per charge on average with 14 meg pictures) and the recharge is fairly quick. I added a 16gig memory card for the video recording aspect and I love it. I can record 5 hours and 50 mins of 720p on the thing which is way nicer than the Flip that I was looking at. I used to get an occasional blurry shot with my other cameras from them not focusing well on moving objects (kids) but with this one I haven’t had a bad shot yet on the kids running in the yard. It truly is amazing.

All in all it’s a great little camera for the price.

And don’t let the other guy scare you off from this camera. He more than likely put the card in before he hooked the camera up to his computer. By the way, make sure you hook the camera up to your computer BEFORE you put your memory card in. But if you screw up and put it in first all you have to do is clear out your pictures, eject the card and then plug it up to the computer for a fresh install.

95 of 109 people found the following review helpful.
3OK for the money
By T. Uherick
So let me start with the positive. The HD video is excellent. It’s as good or better than my Panasonic HD camcorder puts out. Now if I was only using it for video, that would give it 5 stars. But we take pictures with it as well, right? So there in lies the problem. The picture quality is average at best. I took 30 pictures at my 3 year old’s birthday party (at a water park) and I had to edit every single one when I downloaded them to my computer. Colors were washed out by the aggressive flash on any close-up pics. Far away pictures looked soft and lacked any detail. Now granted this water park was indoors but it was fairly well lit so that’s not an acceptable excuse. I also saw the same issue with poor focusing on anyone/anything moving.

Pros:
Superior HD Video (Why video is so crisp and accurate on colors amazes me when the pics are so average)
Rugged Design and feel

Cons:
Picture quality leaves a lot be desired. Olympus should’ve done much better
Needing to hook up to a PC to “initialize” the camera
Slow, slow, slow (from boot-up to picture taking. Just takes too long for someone with kids)

I already had a Sony DSC-TX5 on order (from Amazon) when I got this one for Father’s Day. Although the Sony is $100 more, it’s worth it to me to have crisp and accurate photos out straight from the camera. I believe I will have to keep the Sony and return this Olympus. We want to be able to have a portable camera that we can rely on for everyday activities as well as the beach and pool events. And this Stylus Tough just isn’t up for the task.

One small update: I found out that you can cut down on the start-up time by turning the “PW” setting to OFF. You can find it under the menu settings. Cuts start-up time down to about 3 seconds or so. You can also cut down your picture to picture time by eliminating the picture review. Still doesn’t help the picture quality however. I haven’t found a fix for that. :(

See all 211 customer reviews…

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