The best imaging products of 2009 were voted on at the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) General Assembly held from 2-4 April 2009 in Budapest. Every year, TIPA editors vote for the best photo & imaging products introduced in Europe during the previous 12 months. TIPA editors take into account innovation, the use of leading-edge technology, design and ergonomics, ease-of-use, as well as price/performance ratio.
All TIPA editors usually have the opportunity to test most of the products launched during the previous year. However, those manufacturers who want to ensure that their new products are considered in the annual voting session are invited to send a sample directly to the TIPA magazines so that they can be evaluated and tested in detail. All items are returned after testing.
Best Compact Digital Camera
Fuji Finepix F200EXR
Fujifilm's FinePix F200EXR digital camera introduces the world to Super CCD EXR technology. Combining the 12-megapixel, Super CCD EXR with a powerful Fujinon 5.0x wide angle optical zoom lens and a large 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD, the FinePix F200EXR is Fujifilm's most advanced compact digital camera yet.
As with previous award-winning F-series models such as the FinePix F10, F31fd, F50fd and F100fd, the F200EXR is a powerful, feature-packed compact digital camera ideal for those looking for the most sophisticated in feature-rich point and shoots.
Best Expert Compact Digital Camera
Canon Powershot G10
The third-generation PowerShot G10 is a stunning successor, loaded with uncompromising specs like 14.7 megapixels, a 28mm wide-angle lens, and Canon’s new DIGIC 4 Image Processor for notably improved face and motion detection. This is a camera that supports and nurtures creativity, with a full range of shooting and recording modes and compatibility with exciting accessories including Speedlite flashes.
Best Superzoom Digital Camera
Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 with its 20x zoom lens f/2.8 can take 224-degree panorama shots in one easy press-and-sweep motion. It is also the company’s first compact camera to use the Exmor CMOS sensor technology. This technology allows it to achieve burst speeds of 10 frames per second at full 9.1 megapixel resolution in continuous burst mode. It can also record movies in 1080p HD.
Best Rugged Compact Digital Camera
Olympus Stylus Tough 8000
The Olympus Stylus TOUGH 8000 is perfect for those who want to push things to their limits. It’s waterproof to 10m, shockproof to falls from up to 2m, freeze-proof down to temperatures as low as -10°C and crushproof to weights of up to 100kg. Being tough doesn’t mean that the camera doesn’t have advanced photographic options however. The camera incorporates the latest technology with features such as face detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology.
Best Digital SLR Camera Entry Level
Olympus Evolt E-620
The world's smallest and lightest D-SLR with built-in Image Stabilization and a portable creative studio! The new Olympus E-620 combines the technical sophistication required by Pros, with easy-to-use functions desired by hobbyists. As a result, ambitious photographers everywhere can now take creativity to a whole new level. Shoot outside the box with the world's smallest and lightest image-stabilized digital SLR. The DSLR that puts creative freedom in the palm of your hands. Six creative in-camera art filters, Multiple Exposure shooting and a swivel Live View 2.7" HyperCrystal III LCD offer artistic freedom and endless creative possibilities. The 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor and TruePic III+ processor provide exceptional picture quality.
Best Digital SLR Camera Advanced
Nikon D90 In its compact body the Nikon D90 offers a true concentrate of technology with a great innovation for a D-SLR: the possibility of making HD videos. Its CMOS sensor offers the definition and quality of the successful D300 for a much lower price. A true sturdy and all-terrain D-SLR.
Best Professional Digital SLR Camera
Nikon D3X Designed on the D3, the Nikon D3x with a 24.4 MP 24x36mm sensor is dedicated to true skilled pro photographers. Beautifully built, with a super 100% viewfinder and a reassuring grip, the D3x combines very high resolution and sensitivity. A first great feature for high-end photography.
Best Digital SLR Camera Expert
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Replacing the very popular EOS 5D, the Mark II multiplies its pixels to reach a definition of 21.1 MP allowing shooting at an expanded sensitivity from 50 up to 25,600 ISO. It comes with a full HD video mode driven by a DIGIC IV processor. Fast, reliable and discreet, this "expert" D-SLR challenges in quality the best pro models.
