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*Las Vegas, Nevada, January 3, 2006 – *Kodak announced today the release of 2 new C-series cameras: the C663, designed to enhance the quality of typical point-and-shoot images, and the simplistic C530 for first-time users. Kodak's C-series offers the manufacturer's easiest-to-use and most affordable cameras. Most notable is the first addition of Kodak Perfect Touch image enhancement software as a built-in camera feature. The 6.1 megapixel C663 is scheduled for availability this March, at an initial MSRP of $299.95, while the 5.0 megapixel Kodak C530 should be available in February, at an MSRP of $139.95.
The C663 offers a high-quality Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon 3x optical zoom lens and a generous 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor. A large monitor will help users to see the impact of Kodak Perfect Touch on their pictures. Kodak Perfect Touch was previously only available in Kodak printers, viewers, and photo service labs. Kodak’s Perfect Touch feature brightens and sharpens detail in shadow areas of the image without affecting lighter parts of the picture. Other image-improvement features on the EasyShare C663 include cropping, auto picture rotation, and digital red-eye reduction.
A total of 17 scene modes are available for the shooter to choose from when taking a picture with the C663. The Kodak EasyShare C663 also uses the Kodak Color Science image processing chip that claims richer color and more accurate skin tones than competitors. There are also 5 color modes included: high, low, and natural color saturation; sepia; and black and white. The camera’s movie mode offers VGA video capture, playback, and video-to-still print action options.
The EasyShare C530 will also augment Kodak’s C-series, adding a more complete alternative to snapshooters. This 5.0 megapixel point-and-shoot does not have as many options as the C663, but will provide novice users with a more economical alternative. With 3 color settings and in-camera editing, point-and-shooters will still have video and still capabilities at their fingers for well under $150 (USD).