Casio introduces Exilim EX-H30

With a powerful 24mm-300mm (35mm equivalent) focal length, the EX-H30’s optics are sure to impress; however, that range can be further extended with no loss in image quality by leveraging Casio’s Single Frame SR Zoom. With Single Frame SR Zoom, users can extend the maximum telephoto range by 1.5x, putting an effective zoom of 18.8x right in the palm of their hand and in a camera body measuring under an inch thick (.95-inches). The ultra‑wide angle capabilities of the EX-H30 are also enhanced with Casio’s Slide Panorama technology, which will allow users to capture natural panoramic images. Furthermore, when panning across the scene, Slide Panorama will automatically recognize moving subjects, and will omit them from the combined points of the final image (maximum of 240-degree panning).

The new EX-H30 couples a high-performance, 16.1 megapixel CCD with Casio’s sensor-shift technology to produce beautiful images with stunning detail. Moreover, the advanced image processing capability provided by Casio’s Exilim Engine 5.0 ensures that color reproduction is clear and bright, and that images have a rich tonal gradation.  The new EX-H30 also boasts Casio’s super-resolution technology which will analyze and optimally process the respective areas of the photo that are contoured, textured with a detailed pattern, or flat, to deliver photos of exceptional quality and resolution.

In addition to high-resolution still images, the EX-H30 also offers 720p high-definition video recording with continuous auto-focus. While recording video, users can also take advantage of the camera’s full optical zoom so that they capture the action no matter how far away they are. All images and video can be reviewed right on the camera’s large, three-inch LCD display (460k).

For the enthusiast shooter looking for more control, Casio includes manual shooting modes on the new EX-H30, such as Shutter Priority and Aperture Priority. For those who value simplicity and want to capture beautiful images with each press of the shutter, Casio’s Premium Auto is the mode to use. When set to Premium Auto, the EX-H30 will automatically analyze the scene being photographed and simultaneously optimize settings for exposure, ISO, sensitivity, focus location, photo blur correction, tonal range, color balance, and level of noise reduction.

Premium Auto will automatically distinguish night scenes, back lighting, a blue sky, green trees or a sunset and can sense whether there is a person’s face in the frame, the movement and position of the subject, and whether a tripod is being used. All images are analyzed pixel by pixel to apply different corrections depending on the subject. For example, if Premium Auto recognizes that the subject of the image is a person, it will automatically apply Makeup Mode, and will automatically apply Landscape Mode if it detects that the subject of the image is a landscape.

Useful for travelers is the EX-H30’s Silent Mode. Users can set the EX-H30 to Silent Mode instantly, which will prevent the camera from emitting any sound or flash, so as to not disturb those around you. Users can also get creative and have a little fun with their images using the EX-H30’s Dynamic Photo function. With Dynamic Photo, users can combine moving characters preloaded to the camera’s memory, with a still image or movie background of their choice.

Thanks to Casio’s industry-leading, energy-saving technologies and a high-capacity, rechargeable lithium ion battery (NP-130), the new EX-H30 outperforms the competition when it comes to battery life. With one full charge of the battery, consumers can head out for the day, or in some cases, even the week, and document their travels knowing that they’ll have the ability to snap at least 1,000 photos.

The Casio EX-H30 will be available in four colors, including sliver, black, red, and gold, and will ship in March 2011 for $249.99.