Sony debuts x12 optical zoom and image stabilisation Cyber-shot

The world's largest photo imaging trade show is underway in Orlando, Florida this weekend and new product announcements are coming thick and fast. One of the most impressive new products is the Sony DSC-H1 Cyber-shot digital camera which features a five megapixel, Super HAD CCD imager, 12X optical zoom lens and a large 2.5-inch LCD With a focal length range of 36 - 432 millimeters (traditional 35mm SLR equivalent) that's a significant telephoto reach, but Sony has fitted its Super Steady Shot optical image stabilization feature to counteracts camera-shake and ensure sharp images. This feature also benefits low-light photography by allowing the use of longer shutter speeds with reduced risk of image blur from camera-shake.

The DSC-H1 Cyber-shot is also compatible with optional telephoto or wide conversion lenses. The VCL-DH0758 model .7x wide angle conversion lens provides a wider field of view with virtually no color aberration or distortion - for comparison purposes, that's a single lens that offers a focal length range of 25 - 300 millimeters (traditional 35mm SLR equivalent)

The VCL-DH1758 model 1.7x telephoto conversion lens offers greater magnification - a focal length range of 61 - 734 millimeters. Both conversion lenses will be available by mid-June for about US$150 each and make the DSC-H1 Cyber-shot a very adaptable camera.

Sony's Real Imaging Processor circuitry is incorporated in the model for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking, while seven preset scene modes allow quick selection of the best setting for specific shooting conditions.

The camera also includes a five-area, multi-point auto focus to help you concentrate on the subject without mistakenly focusing on the background, as well as aperture/shutter priority and manual exposure modes for creative control of the image.

For added convenience, the model has 32 MB of internal memory (30 MB of usable memory) and a Memory Stick flash media slot. PictBridge compatibility enables prints in a flash when the camera is connected to an enabled printer.

"We've been able to put all these powerful capabilities in a camera that is far more compact than most would expect," noted Takahashi. "The combination of form and function in this model will broaden the market bringing advanced features to wider audience."

The DSC-H1 Cyber-shot camera will be available this June for about US$500