Several new 35 mm single-lens-reflex (SLR) cameras were introduced at Photokina, the largest photo show in the world the past September in Cologne, Germany. The new models are for use by both amateurs and professionals.
Here's a look at what was shown:- Canon EOS-3. Canon has had a pro-level SLR for years, but the new EOS-3 has several features full-time professionals will find interesting and attractive: 45-point autofocus, faster eye-control focus, a system that focuses in lower light and a 21-segment metering system that's linked to the auto-focus system.
- Minolta Maxxum 9. After years of research and development, Minolta introduced a professional-level Maxxum. Unlike other popular pro cameras, the Maxxum 9 has manual (user-friendly) control knobs and wheels - a throwback to earlier pro cameras. Another unique feature for a pro-level camera is a built-in flash. The camera does, however, have many features shared with other pro cameras: manual shutter priority, aperture priority and program exposure control; exposure compensation; and single/continuous autofocus.
- Nikon N60. Nikon was one of the first companies to offer automatic daylight fill-in flash in its cameras. This flash system makes it easy for photographers to add light to outdoor pictures. The new N60 features this fancy flash metering system as well as a 3D Matrix Metering system for accurate exposures in tricky lighting situations.
- Pentax ZX-5n. This camera's brushed titanium and black body give it a retro look - making it attractive to "way cool" shooters of the 1990s. The camera also is relatively small and light, so you can take it anywhere. For quick shots, there's program exposure control; for more control over the scene, the camera offers full manual control.
- Sigma SA-5. The SA-5 offers a high shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second, continuous film advance, virtually silent autofocus, a depth-of-field preview button and automatic exposure bracketing.
An SLR system can be a big investment when you add on lenses, filters and a flash. Before you buy, think about your shooting needs - and your budget.