* Under ideal conditions using the included CR-V3 battery pack

Scratch that creative itch with the Olympus SP-350 and SP-310

Ambitious photographers can now really let their imagination go wild. The 8.0 million pixel SP-350 and 7.1 million pixel SP-310 from Olympus facilitate experimentation and support the realisation of creative ideas. The first touch of their ergonomically-designed bodies gives an immediate impression of professional quality. Wide-ranging photo opportunities abound from as close as 2cm in Super Macro mode or by bringing distant subjects in from afar using the precision 3x zoom lens. Besides automatic shooting and 24 scene modes, users can choose to employ Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority modes – or for complete flexibility the full manual option. Yet despite their compact size, both models feature a large 6.4cm LCD. This lets results be viewed with ease and provides for comfortable framing to help photographers concentrate more on transforming their inspiration into stunning compositions.

With 8.0 and 7.1 million pixels respectively, the SP-350 and SP-310 have ample power to provide highest image definition. And ensuring all details are faithfully captured, they are equipped with precision 3x zoom lenses (1:2.8-4.9), covering a 38-114mm focal range (35mm camera equivalent).

Whether taking shots of a romantic candle-lit dinner, a breathtaking sunset over a lake or the action on the sports field, 24 scene modes are on hand to make life easy in standard situations. But as every serious photographer knows, the difference between taking a mere snapshot and creating a personalised composition often lies in the ability to make individual camera adjustments. That’s why the SP-350 and SP-310 both offer Aperture and Shutter Priority modes as well as full manual control over the exposure parameters.

A whole host of accessories add extra versatility to extend the possibilities. These include lens converters and an underwater case that protects the cameras up to a depth of 40m. In addition, external flash units may be attached to the SP-350’s hot-shoe mount.

Both cameras incorporate a movie recording function with sound. The action is captured at 30fps and in VGA quality, with recording length only limited by the available memory capacity. As with photos, the results can be conveniently viewed on the large 6.4cm LCD.

Being exceptionally energy-efficient, these models allow shooting to keep going and going. Over 500 shots are possible on a single set of the included CR-V3 batteries. Furthermore, compatibility with readily-available AA-sized batteries means you never need to be caught short of power.

Compact, versatile and of professional pedigree, the 8.0 million pixel Olympus SP-350 and 7.1 million pixel SP-310 separate the snap-shooters from the ambitious photographers. Both cameras are shipped with the Olympus Master software and will be available from autumn 2005.