Samsung Adds Four New Cameras, HD Capture

Samsung extended its popular SL-Series line by introducing four new models. The new 12.2MP SL820 and SL620 have 3-inch LCDs with a 5x optical zoom. The SL820 utilizes a 28mm wide angle lens, while the SL620 offers a standard 35mm lens. Both of these new cameras have Optical and Digital Image Stabilization to help reduce blur and ensure a crisp shot.

The new SL820 also offers high-definition video recording at a resolution of 720p, a first for Samsung’s SL-Series. This camera has HDMI connectivity for easy connectivity to an HDTV through a cradle. The SL820 uses H.264 compression. The SL620 can record video at a resolution of 640x480 using MPEG-4. You can use the camera’s 5x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilization while recording video with both the SL820 and SL620.

Both the SL820 and SL620 offer Samsung’s Smart Auto mode as well as a number of automatic controls. Smart Auto mode automatically selects one of the camera’s 11 scene modes based on the surrounding shooting conditions. These cameras also feature Samsung’s Smart Album program, which makes it easy to search for a specific image stored on a memory card. Smart Album organizes your digital images based on criteria such as the date the picture was taken, the overall color tone, and the type of picture (portrait, video, or another file type). Face Detection, Blink Detection, Smile Shot, and Beauty Shot round out the list of automatic features on the SL820 and SL620.

The other two new cameras in Samsung’s lineup, the 10MP SL202 and SL30, target entry-level shooters with a range of automatic features. Both of these cameras have a 3x optical zoom and Digital Image Stabilization.

The SL202 can record MJPEG video at VGA resolution with a frame rate of 30fps. This camera will also enable users to pause and resume video recording without saving the clips as individual files. Videos and pictures can be previewed on the SL202’s 2.7-inch LCD. You’ll find Smart Auto mode and Smart Album program on the SL202. Other automatic controls include Face Detection, Blink Detection, Smile Shot, and Beauty Shot.

Powered by AA alkaline batteries, the SL30 offers MJPEG, VGA video recording as well as Face Detection and Beauty Shot. Photos and videos can be reviewed on the camera’s 2.5 inch LCD screen.

Look for the SL820 in May at an MSRP of $279.99. The SL620, SL202, and SL30 will be available in March for MSRPs of $199.99, $149.99, and $99.99, respectively.