If you are looking for a light-weight, simple yet effective and high quality HD video camera, Canon has the answer for you. The new Legria HFR106 has everything that you will require in order to capture life’s greatest moments on film; from sporting events to weddings to simple day-to-day living. Many of our customers here at Kirk’s Cameras have been interested to find out more, so read on to hear all about the technical specifications of this clever digital video camera.

The Canon Legria HFR106 is highly compact and incredibly light-weight - weighing a tiny 270g. This video camera will fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, without weighing you down. This compact camera offers full HD video recording for all of your needs, with a genuine Canon 1/5.5 inch HD CMOS Sensor, 20x Optical Zoom and recording that is delivered directly to your SDHC/SD card. Here are some more specifications especially for you:

- Dual Flash Memory
Records video directly to memory card. Up to 12hrs 15min with 32GB SDHC Card
- Fast Capture and Processing
True Progressive 1/5.5″ HD CMOS sensor for fast capture and processing and low power consumption
- HD Video Lens and Zoom
High precision aspheric video lens with 20x zoom
- High Speed Processing
DiG!C DV III image processor for high speed and quality processing of HD data
- Intelligent Auto and Face Detection
The camera automatically recognises the optimal shooting settings based on your environment (31 scenes)
- Internal Down Conversion
Convert HD video to SD video for easy uploading and burning
- Dynamic Image Stability
Perfect when shooting while on the movie
- Sharp Focusing on Demand
Instant Auto Focus for crisp and quick re-focus to ensure optimum HD footage
- Video Snapshot v2
Capture a 2, 4 or 8 second series of video and create engaging movies from a sequence of these clips and play it back to music.

Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood to ask an expert and find out more today!

The new Olympus PEN E-PL1 is triumphing over its previous models; with a surprisingly small camera body packed with technology normally found in bigger and heavier professional DSLR cameras and HD camcorders. This third-generation PEN has been designed and manufactured for photographers who always wanted better pictures and considered a DSLR, but were intimidated by the bulky size and complex interface. Fantastic for beginners, or for those who want something that looks, feels and acts a little differently!

The new PEN E-PL1’s simple design and easy interface enable users to easily create amazing images never dreamt possible - equalling an affordable and simple all-in-one package that travels with you to capture life in the high quality that your memories deserve. Here are some of the features of this fantastic digital camera:
 
11-point Autofocus
Lithium Ion Battery
Continous shooting speed at 3 frames per seond 
Sensor Shift Image Stabiliser
LCD Display 2.7 inch
Max Shutter Speed 1/4000 sec
12 Megapixels 
SD Memory Card
HD Movie with Sound
Live Guide
19 Scene-Select Modes
Intelligent Auto (iAuto) Mode
Face Detection
iEnhance System
Simple Pop-Up Flash
Olympus Dust Reduction System
TruePic™ V Image Processor
Multiple Software & Accessory Options
Waterproof to 40m

To find out more about this fantastic new Olympus PEN masterpiece, come in to Kirks Cameras and our friendly team will happily help you out!

The Mju Tough 8010 is an ideal digital camera for active Australians who need a camera that will stand up to the elements. This amazing digital camera is ground-breaking in its genre -  waterproof to a depth of 10 metres, shockproof against falls from as high as two metres, snowproof at temperatures as low as -10°C and can withstand loads up to 100kg. If you’re a photographer on the go, the team at Kirk’s Cameras know you will love it!

The design andf structure of this strong camera has been taken from previous models - put together to create the best yet! The Mju Tough 8010 assures reliable, high-quality shooting under conditions that ordinary cameras are unable to endure - perfect during a holiday or extreme sporting event. No matter the situation, the Mju Tough 8010 will take first class pictures of your adventures every time. Offering the outstanding imaging power of a 14-megapixel CCD, the Mju Tough 8010 also boasts a powerful 5x zoom and high performance Dual Shakeproof image stabiliser.

Here are just a few more of the incredible features:

Battery Type Lithium Ion Battery
5x Digital Zoom
Dual Image Stabiliser
LCD Display 2.7 inch
Shutter Speed 1/1000 sec
14 Megapixels
SD Memory Card
Min Aperture F3.5
Optical Zoom Range 3.6x
Waterproof to 10M 
Double lock Waterproofing
HD Movie recording
Photo surfing
Shockproof to heights of 2 metres
Crushproof to 100kg
Snowproof to -10°C
Tap Control

There are plenty more amazing features that can only be seen to be believed - so be sure to come on down to Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood today to see a demonstration of the Mju Tough 8010!

The brand new Samsung NX10 is a ground-breaking digital camera that provides photographers with an interchangeable lens system and optimum image quality in a compact body - a strong alternative  to the traditional DSLR camera. Users can now be as creative as they would with a DSLR, with the simplicity and fun of a digital camera. This camera is superb for those photographers who are not quite ready to take the jump to DSLR, but want something that is beyond a simple point-and-shoot.

The Samsung NX10 incorporates a quick auto focus, 14.6 megapixel size CMOS sensor and large 3.0 inch AMOLED screen, allowing users to easily view their images - even in bright sunlight or on overcast days. To add to the excitement, photographers can now record video in full HD. The quick AF system is Samsung’s latest and greatest, used in many of their popular DSLR models - guaranteeing that you will never miss a moment!

When analysing the physical appearance of the Samsung NX10, there are truly many high points. Available in two colors, black and silver, the Samsung NX10 is small, light weight and ergonomically designed to ensure maximum portability for everyday use. Travelling with the NX10 is a breeze - and certainly ideal. The interface is user-friendly; with self-explanitory icons and buttons available for the user’s convenience.

Samsung continues to extend the usage of AMOLED screens across many products, using a large 3.0 inch AMOLED screen in the new Samsung NX10. The AMOLED system provides easy viewing options even in bright sunshine and at those awkward viewing angles, meaning users no longer need to shield their screen with their hand or tip backwards and forwards. 

The Samsung NX10 contains a wide variety of features and abilities to put professional quality images within reach of the entry-level photographer - easily. The NX10 provides users with the opportunity to make use of advanced manual controls - to gain the optimum results at all times. A Smart Auto function hass recently been introduced which automatically detects the surrounding environment of the shot and selects the ideal shoot mode.

The Smart Range feature also enables the photographer to easily express both bright areas and dark areas in the same image - ideal for an unusual, unique photo. The Supersonic Dust Reduction system keeps dust particles clear of the image sensor that can often impair an image, ruining a perfect photo. There are many individual shooting modes, such as Fireworks, Beach & Snow, Dawn and many more - perfect for capturing those unique situations.

Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood today to find out much more about the Samsung NX10 - we guarantee you will be impressed!

For a compact digital camera with the appearance and high quality features of a sleek DSLR camera, Pentax’s x70 is the perfect option. This fun, fantastic new camera boasts ease of use with strong shooting options such as shutter priority and metered manual modes, sensor-movement Shake Reduction, fast operation and a high quality zoom lens. From sports to every-day shooting to landscape, the Pentax x70 can provide you with the best image every time.

Some of the strong qualities of this fancy digital camera include:

• 24X optical Megazoom Lens
• High Image Quality
• 2.7 Inch Colour LCD Monitor
• Shake Reduction
• High-speed Continuous Shooting Mode
• Fast Face Detection
• Movie Capture in HD
• Multi-mode Exposure System
• Auto Picture Mode

Do not hesitate to visit Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood to find out more about the Pentax x70 and it’s great features.

Are you considering travelling, but are unsure of how to travel with your DSLR camera? The team at Kirk’s Cameras firmly believe that if you have the opportunity to capture beautiful, memorable images with a DSLR camera, be sure to take it along! Here are a few tips on travelling with your DSLR camera:

Take any camera related stock that you have - just incase! Make a list of the camera equipment you have, the DSLR, lenses, back-up cameras, batteries, memory cards, USB cords, filters and other accessories that you may require. If you come across items you need, but do not have them around the home, be sure to purchase them well before your departure date.

Be sure to consider where and how you are going to travel. Will you have to carry your DSLR camera and all of it’s equipment around with you? Is your hotel or apartment safe enough to store your camera and it’s accessories when you do not need it? What sort of facilities are there for you to buy extra accessories if necessary, and are they in the area?

Think about what type of images you wish to capture. Depending on your scenery and tastes, you may require certain lenses - such as wide angle for landscapes and zoom for those up-close shots. Carrying around many lenses may be difficult, so be sure to take along the most versatile of your selection.

If you are travelling to more moist or wet zones, be sure to pack plenty of waterproof items such as plastic bags to store your camera and accessories in if necessary - particularly during emergencies or sudden downpours! You will feel far more comfortable if your camera is safe and dry at all times.

Finally, if you are considering taking quick and easy shots, and would like to have a plan B, take along a digital ‘point-and-shoot’ camera. Be sure to come on in to Kirk’s Cameras prior to your trip to obtain all of the items you will require!

The team here at Kirk’s Cameras understand that many of our customers are first-timers when it comes to DSLR cameras - and we would like to assist you in understanding ISO sensitivity. Be sure to look out for more of our simple, easy DSLR and Digital Camera tutorials and educational blogs!

ISO (’International Organization for Standardization’) sensitivity expresses the speed of photographic negative materials. Prior to ISO, this was expressed as ASA - standing for American Standards Association. ISO denotes how sensitive the image sensor is to the amount of light that is present at the time of photography. The higher the ISO, the more sensitive the image sensor and therefore the possibility to take pictures in low-light situations. In simple terms, ISO will help you to take images in the best lighting conditions at the best quality possible as per you settings.

In the past, ISO was a far more technical matter. Prior to digital SLR cameras, a photographer would have needed to physically change to a different roll of film if they required a different ISO speed. With the dawn of digital technology, you can simply dial the ISO straight in comfortably and easily - meaning that all of your images are on the one memory card.

The most common ISO speed settings are 100, 200, 400 and 800. Depending on your digital camera model you may also have them in the range of 64, 100, 160, 200, 400, 640, 800, 1600 and perhaps beyond. Some general tips to remember as a beginner would include:

• Use an ISO of 100 or 200 when taking photographs outside in sunny conditions.
• If the sky is overcast or it is evening time, then use an ISO within the range of 400 to 800.
• Night time or in cases of low light you might need to set your digital camera ISO to 1600.

The lower the ISO number, the slower the speed, the higher the ISO number, the faster the speed. A lower ISO will provide better image quality, however a higher ISO will capture the image you desire in low-light conditions. It is all about practice, trial and error in order to get your ISO settings perfect - we recommend you spend time getting the ISO perfect prior to taking your ideal photos. Good luck, and don’t forget to come into Kirk’s Cameras today for all of your camera needs!

For those on the hunt for a DSLR designed for the pros, this could be your next camera. The Nikon D3S is a refinement of the highly popular Nikon D3 - which set the standards high amongst professionals around the world. Perfect for speed photographers and photo journalists, the Nikon D3S is perfect for those looking for an upgrade - including brand new updated features such as a 720p/24fps HD video mode and a new Hi3 extended sensitivity setting that allows stills and movie capture at a whopping ISO 102,400.

Although this clever DSLR may appear chunky, it fits into the hand like a glove, providing comfort and confidence in your skills. The outer design is user friendly; with all buttons and functions smartly marked for ease of use. The features of this exciting DSLR camera are never ending - so we’ve narrowed down some of the most intriguing to add to our list.

• 12.1 Megapixel Sensor
• ISO 200 - 12,800 (ISO 100 - 102,400 in Boost Mode)
• 720p/24 fps HD Movie Mode
• 11fps in Continuous Shooting Mode
• Larger buffer for 48 RAW frames in one burst
• Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor
• In-camera RAW Processing
• Nikon EXPEED Image Processor
• Super Fast Operation   
• Auto-focus - tracking by color  
• Scene Recognition System
• Dual Compact Flash card slots
• Compact Flash
• 3.0 Inch LCD monitor
• Virtual horizon - indicates if camera is level
• HDMI HD video output
• Detailed ‘Control Panel’ type display on monitor
• Buttons sealed against moisture
• Dual battery charger as standard

If you believe that this camera sounds perfect for your next project, be sure to come right on in to Kirk’s Cameras in the heart of Ringwood - we will give you in-depth information, reviews and a demonstration of the Nikon D3S.

The Samsung ST550 is a breakthrough in the digital camera world - hosting two LCD screens for your convenience and fun! With a 1.5 inch front LCD, and a 3.5 inch back LCD touch screen, anything can be made a reality! Get ready to take some creative, rich and sharp shots with this brand new camera!

The front LCD features ‘Children Mode’ for fun and simple animation that captures those special expressions only kids can make - keeping them entertained and smiling. You can be assured that your timing is always perfect with the built-in Self Timer, which is great for those groups shots of you and your friends or family. The camera has an information centre that can assist you with Shutter tips and Funtion messages or information.

You will be able to see each and every detail with 1,152K High Resolution - even before and during that perfect shot. Any movement that you make will be sensed by the camera and used appropriately. The Samsung ST550 also features a 27mm Wide Angle Lens, for capturing landscapes and group shots. A huge 12.2 megapixels guarantees that you will see it all at the best quality, along with full HD video capturing abilities.

To find out more about the Samsung ST550, give the team from Kirk’s Cameras in Ringwood a call today, or come in and visit. Keep your eyes peeled for more information on the Samsung ST550 on our blog!

Canon have a selection of entry level cameras to suit any photographer - and today we are focusing on the Canon EOS 500D. This fantastic DSLR camera can make any avid photographer look like a pro, capturing high quality, sharp and rich photos with ease. Let’s take a look at some exciting features…

High Quality Images
15.1 mega pixel Canon-developed CMOS sensor captures superb image quality with low noise and natural colours.
Superior Processing
New DiG!C 4 Processor means faster processing, and new features such as Live Face Detection AF Mode.
Sharp Focusing
9-point AF and 6-point Assist AF for ultra sharp images.
Fast Shooting
Continuous smooth shooting speed of 3.4 frames per second. 
Sharper Previews
3.0 inch (920,000 dots) LCD screen with anti-reflection and anti-smudge coating for clear photo previews. Cleaner Images
Prevents and automatically removes tiny dust particles resulting in cleaner images

These are simply a few of the exciting features that the Canon EOS 500D has to offer. Come on in to Kirk’s Cameras in Melbourne today, or give us a call, and we will help you out with all of your entry level DSLR needs!