Pentax have announced the introduction of the Optio S60, the latest addition to their range of Optio digital compact cameras. The Optio S60 features 6.0 effective megapixels and 3x optical zoom.

The Optio S60's 6.0 effective megapixels allow the user to produce superior quality images, while its smc Pentax lens delivers clear, high-contrast images while minimising flare and ghosting. The Optio S60 also features a 12-bit A/D converter for accurate reproduction of dark to light gradations as well as a noise reduction function that produces better results when photographing in low light conditions.

The camera's 3x optical zoom lens has a focal range which covers angles of
view equivalent to those of a 35-106mm lens in 35mm format. This capability
makes it easy for the photographer to zoom in for tight portraits, or zoom out to capture attractive landscapes. The Optio S60 also features a large, 2.5 inch LCD monitor for simple shooting and playback of your digital images.

Users of the Optio S60 can use its convenient mode dial to choose the Auto Select mode. This will automatically select the most suitable shooting mode for whatever scene you are shooting, from a range including Programme, Portrait and Night Scene. As well as Auto select, the mode dial also offers a choice of six still-image shooting modes, movie shooting, voice recording and even fun digital effects, making it easy to take digital photos, whatever your level of experience.

For added ease of use the Optio S60 is compatible with widely available AA batteries, so wherever you are in the world you will be able to recharge the camera. Offering the user further choice, the Optio S60 can also run on a single CR-V3 lithium battery.

Besides all these features, the Optio S60 has a stylish and elegant appearance. High-quality aluminum alloy has been used extensively for the exterior and a unique blast process has been used to achieve an understated texture which contrasts beautifully with the lustrous plated parts around the camera lens. The camera not only looks good but is also comfortable to use - a sense of depth on both sides of the body works in combination with the design of the right-hand grip to create an overall sense of confident shooting comfort.

The Optio S60 can be connected to a TV using the standard AV cable, enabling users to enjoy image playback on a TV with recorded audio. A remote control unit, available as an option, allows playback to be controlled from anywhere within range.

Other features of the Optio S60
1) Magnification function enlarges text on the menu screen
2) SD memory card compatibility, 11Mb (approx.) built-in memory
3) Standard image viewer, ACDSee for Pentax software
4) Function customisation allows frequently used functions to be assigned to
the left and right positions of the four-way controller for swift, shortcut access
5) Up to 2.6x (approx.) digital zoom
6) Super macro mode lets the user shoot as close as 6cm from the subject
7) A selection of digital filters can be applied to recorded images in-camera
8) Movie with audio and voice recording function up to the available capacity
of memory card
9) PictBridge compatibility
10)World time function for 62 cities worldwide
11)DPOF function, Exif Print, and Print Image Matching III compatibility

Price and availibility
Retailing for less than £250, the Optio S60 is the ideal Christmas gift for budding photographers.