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A sophisticated and keenly-priced DSLR camera with controls and functions for knowledgeable and creative photo enthusiasts.The K-5 replaces the K-7 (from which it has evolved) at the top of Pentax’s DLSR range. Little has changed as far as the camera’s body is concerned but beneath the surface lie some significant improvements. The most notable being a new 16.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, which supports a top burst speed of seven frames/second and the widest sensitivity range among current DSLRs.

The first enthusiast-level DSLR camera to support high-definition video recording.It was only a matter of time before one of the camera manufacturers figured out the Live View mode on a DSLR required a video image and then came up with some way to record it. Olympus was hinting at this potential back in January 2006, when the E-330 (the first camera with live viewing) was announced. But Nikon was first to the post with the D90 and Canon is following with the just-announced EOD 5D Mark II.

A new, easy-to-operate camera for those looking to enter or step ahead in the creative world of DSLR photographyCanon’s EOS 550D, which was announced overnight, combines an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor ( the highest resolution in its class) with an easy-to-operate user interface. Featuring advanced technologies to underpin creative stills photography, the new camera can also record Full HD movie clips at a range of different frame rates. At first glance, the EOS 550D looks and feels like a winner.

A DSLR for serious enthusiasts who require advanced creative controls, live view shooting and Full HD video recording.With the introduction of the EOS 7D, Canon has created a ‘pro-sumer’ DSLR that is a step up from the EOS 50D but has a smaller sensor than the EOS 5D Mark II. Offering 18-megapixel resolution, the 7D is the first EOS camera outside the EOS-1 series to be equipped with Dual DiG!C 4 processors. It also boasts a 3-inch LCD with VGA resolution and supports live view shooting as well as Full HD video recording at selectable frame rates.

A DSLR camera for photo enthusiasts who also want to be able to record Full HD video clips.Replacing the popular EOS 50D, Canon’s new EOS 60D sits between the EOS 550D and EOS 7D and appears to have the same sensor as its ‘siblings’. The company is clearly aiming this model at photo enthusiasts, adding some new features that will attract those upgrading from an entry-level DSLR or Advanced digicam, the most visible being a vari-angle LCD monitor.

An affordable DSLR for aspiring photographers who want ease-of-use in a high-resolution camera that includes Full HD video recording plus creative functions.The EOS 600D sits at the top of Canon’s entry-level range but includes several features from the ‘pro-sumer’ models. Positioned between the popular EOS 550D and EOS 60D, the keenly-priced 600D has the same 18 megapixel CMOS sensor as these cameras and the same DIGIC 4 image processor. It also supports a sensitivity range of ISO 100-6400, which can be expanded up to ISO 12800.

A high-performance DSLR with live viewing on a 3.0-inch LCD.Canon is obviously targeting photographers who wish to move into DSLR photography by its choice of SD and SDHC media for its new EOS 450D model. Although it may upset CF card devotees, it’s a smart move. Since SD cards have similar capacities, transfer speeds and prices to CF cards and digicam users can use the same memory cards in their new DSLR, there’s a lot to gain. Furthermore, it has also allowed Canon to produce a body that weighs 35 grams less than the EOS 400D.

A high-resolution DSLR with features and performance to suit serious enthusiasts.Canon’s new 15.1-megapixel EOS 50D is a ‘big brother’ model to the popular EOS 40D (which remains in the company’s line-up) and a ‘little brother’ to the coming EOS 5D Mark II. Offering higher resolution than the 40D, it has a new DIGIC 4 image processor, which supports 14-bit image processing, improved noise reduction and 30% faster processing times. It also delivers continuous shooting speeds of up to 6.3 frames/second with a UDMA CompactFlash card.

A sophisticated DSLR camera with controls and functions for knowledgeable photo enthusiasts.The K7 enters the Pentax range as a high-end model targeted at photo enthusiasts because its complexity makes it most suitable for experienced SLR photographers. Featuring a solid metal body, weatherproof sealing and a wide range of user-adjustable controls, it also supports high-speed continuous shooting at up to 5.2 frames/second and HD video recording at 30 frames/second. Pentax has also improved many of the components and functions that made earlier models attractive buys.

An affordable, ultra-compact camera that is ideal for newcomers to DSLR photography and provides above-average picture quality.Announced early in March, the Olympus E420 replaces the E-410 model at the entry level in the Olympus DSLR line-up, providing several worthwhile updates and a lower price tag. Like its predecessor, it’s claimed as the world’s smallest and thinnest interchangeable-lens DSLR camera and sports a 10-megapixel Live MOS sensor. As such, it will appeal to photographers who wish to upgrade from a compact digicam.