By PHOTOgraphic Staff

April 26, 2004 — Konica Minolta continues to push the limits with its DiMage line of digital cameras. The new DiMage Z2, introduced in February at the Photo Marketing Association convention in Las Vegas, combines a Konica Minolta GT 10x optical zoom lens and 4-megapixel image sensor with rapid autofocus (AF) and high-quality VGA/SVGA movie capability.

Functional refinements to the camera include "super macro" mode, built-in flash, manual focus, and proprietary "progressive capture and CxProcess II," plus manual focus and built-in flash. The camera's AF function is enhanced by a predictive focus control, enabling great shots during fast action sporting events or wildlife outings.

The Z2 is said to have some of the best optics ever offered by the camera's maker. It's the first Konica Minolta digital camera to be equipped with the new "mega-zoom" featuring the all-glass apochromatic (APO) lens.

"The 10x mega-zoom is a fast f2.8-f3.5 lens allowing fast shutter speeds for sports or natural-light photography. With a focal range of 5.8mm to 58mm, it is equivalent to a 38 - 380mm 35mm camera lens . . . combined with the seamless 4x digital zoom, it has an amazing 40x zoom range, equivalent to a 38 -1520mm lens," states a company new product announcement.

In super macro mode, the Z2 can focus as close as 1.6" from the subject. For more creative possibilities, Konica Minolta makes available an optional 0.75x wide-converter.

The camera also captures good quality VGA video clips (640x480) at 30fps, and offers the option of SGVA (800x600) at 15fps - said to be an industry first.

"The new DiMage Z2 . . . is the ideal imaging tool for photographers who need to capture images in virtually any situation," said Konica Minolta marketing v.p. Jon Sienkiewicz.. "The DiMage Z2's ease of operation makes it simple for photographers of all levels to record precious photographic moments. And, with its 4-megapixel resolution, the DiMAGE Z2 appeals to photographers that appreciate high-quality high-resolution digital photography."