Canon ImageNation continues Canon’s tradition of refreshing their product lines and bringing in some very significant and highly anticipated releases at the same time. ImageNation Summer ’08, aside from having an appropriately tropical theme, gives those in the media industry the same experience as all previous ImageNation events – that is, we’re still as excited as ever to cover everything’s that new in the Canon line-up!

                                             A bit more sand, some orchids leis, and a little bit of sun - a perfect image for summer!

The most anticipated release is undoubtedly that of the Canon EOS 450D Digital SLR Camera. Even if it is being billed as an “entry level” SLR, the specifications make it more of a convenient naming convention rather than an actual description of the camera. A 12.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor combined with the DIGIC III imaging processor gives the dedicated amateur and the uncompromising professional access to a lot of raw material to work with, delivered through the most comprehensive image processor in town. An integrated cleaning system, newly refined 9-point AF sensor and the wow-factor LiveView mode, wherein the LCD serves as a viewfinder similar to point-and-shoots, all serve to make this P43,000 (estimated) kit a must buy.

                                             A fellow editor enthuses over the 450D and its LiveView LCD screen.

Canon did not neglect their Ixus and Powershot lines – the new Ixus 80 IS comes in 5 metallic color choices, and packs 8.0 MP, 3.0x optical zoom, the lens shift-type Optical Image Stabilier and Motion Detection in a svelte frame, making this the beautiful and brainy option among Canon’s cameras. The Powershot series gets the most number of new members, including the multi-color A470, and the versatile A580 and A590 IS digital cameras. The A580 and A590 IS incorporates a new “easy mode”, for uncluttered and un-complicated picture taking.

                                             It wasn't so long ago that "entry-level" didn't mean 7.1MP and an accomplished design.

The PhotoDV line was also injected with new blood in the form of four models, the DC320 and DC310 DVD camcorders and the MiniDV-based ZR900 and ZR930 camcorders. Notable additions to these models include an external microphone input jack, a first for this class of camcorders, and the upgraded optical zoom facility, up to 48x on the ZR930 and the DC320. The Selphy ES20 was also prominently displayed; a portable printer that  gives scrapbookers an instant outlet for their creative energies and a fitting underline for the rest of Canon’s imaging products.

                                             Note the mic input jack at the side of this ZR900.

                                             The DC320 DVD-based camcorder.

The Laser Shot LBP 3310 and 3370 are also making their first appearance, sporting 26ppm printing speeds on single-sided printing, with duplex capability. That’s not the only thing that’s fast; their Quick Print function means only 6.5 seconds is required for the first page to pop out of the tray from a cold start, with zero warm-up time from standby. Canon’s XEED and LV projectors also made a showing, with the XEED series surprising many with its phenomenal 4000 lumen brightness level achieved through Canon’s AISYS (Aspect Illumination System). These portable projectors, the SX7 and X700 are also equipped with 1.7x zoom and one touch setup button. The LV7585 and LV7365 are for larger indoor/outdoor venues, presenting 6500 and 3000 lumens respectively with high contrast ratios.

                                             The XEED SX60 is quite compact considering its SVGA resolution.

In addition to these 16 new products, Canon also made some announcements regarding their upcoming marketing campaign headlined by the Gomez family as ambassadors for their camera and camcorder lines. Canon is also working with the popular clothing chain Folded and Hung for a summer swimwear and camera promo – watch out for these initiatives in the coming weeks! In other words, Canon is continuously working to provide the Filipino consumer the best and the most number of options when it comes to any kind of imaging need – with the ImageNation moniker, it seems like Canon is taking it literally – helping a whole nation prepare for a summer of wonderful and memorable images. With these products, it’s no more than truth. More pictures to follow.

                                             The Selphy line was being demonstrated - it showed easy setup and  quick printing .

                                             Other members of Canon's imaging lineup were also present, such as the above S5 IS and Ixus 960 IS.

                                             A flavor of the event proper, with huge billboards and enthusiastic crowds.