Olympus Announces New Member of Successful SLR Family

February 24, 2002 – Olympus America, Inc. has answered the call for a more powerful and advanced SLR camera. This spring, consumers will have the chance to purchase the new IS-50, a high-performance 35mm SLR equipped with a 4.3x zoom lens. The IS-50’s ergonomic, all-in-one design provides ease of use and offers photographers a compact product packed with high-tech features and top quality expected from Olympus. Olympus plans to unveil the IS-50 at this year’s PMA. The IS-50, an evolved version of its predecessor, the popular IS-20, has a versatile 28~120mm 4.3x zoom lens with ED (Extra-low Dispersion) providing amazing photos and an enjoyable user experience. Additional lens features, including varied focal lengths from 28mm wide-angle to 120mm telephoto, ensure a range of photographic opportunities for the user. The IS-50 welcomes creativity and flexibility.

Photographers need not carry additional lenses, flashes and optional equipment since the IS-50 has everything included in its sleek design. This camera boasts an advanced, yet compact, twin flash system along with an Intelligent Variable-Power Flash System. Each flashtube offers different flash modes for different situations depending on the existing light, distance, and range of the photo scenario. The camera automatically determines what flash system is best for the photo. Artificial light and fluorescent light sources are detected with the Auto Color-Balancing Flash system. This system ensures the best flash is used in more difficult lighting situations. Additionally, a bonus Super FP flash system delivers flash synchronization at shutter speeds up to 1/2000 seconds. The IS-50’s flash system is smart and offers the user peace of mind.

Whether the situation poses landscapes, night scenes, portraits or action photos, the IS-50 can accommodate whatever is presented with the Program AE setting. A range of five modes, with easy to interpret icons, include Full Auto, Stop Action, Portrait, Night Scene and Landscape are available to the user who can choose what mode is best prescribed for the situation. The Direct Mode Select feature allows the user, with the press of a button, to secure maximum SLR performance and the best results possible. The five modes incorporate the appropriate flash system, including Red-Eye Reduction and Fill-in (forced activation), shutter speed, aperture and focus capabilities for the best photo possible.

Thanks to the large LCD panel on the back of the camera, photographers always known what mode the camera is in and what settings are active. Users of the IS-50 will find that the camera is easy to use despite its advanced features. In addition to the LCD panel, there is a real-image zoom viewfinder complete with LCD indicators for autofocus, exposure +/- and flash charge.

Many consumers welcome the Dioptric Adjustment feature on this camera. Photographers can adjust the viewfinder eyepiece according to individual preference and eyesight. Continuous shooting is offered at a speed of up to 1.2 frames per second enabling users to secure fast action photos and results. An auto-focus system using a CMOS sensor line ensures that even in the lowest light situation, accurate and crisp photos are produced. Additional features on the IS-50 include date/time imprinting, spot metering, optional infrared remote control and exposure compensation.

Clearly, the IS-50 is a welcome addition to the industry-leading SLR family from Olympus. All IS-50 specifications are outlined below. For more information on this camera and other innovative products from Olympus, check out www.olympusamerica.com. IS- 50 MSRP: $349.00

SOURCE Olympus