Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z450, EX-Z90 released

Casio announces today the Exilim Zoom EX-Z450 and Exilim Zoom EX-Z90, a pair of cameras equipped with a new Intelligent AF system and 720p HD video recording. Both 12 megapixel shooters feature a slim, compact form factor and an enhanced version of Casio's existing Dynamic Photo function.

Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z450

Both the Z450 and Z90 will use a new auto focus system Casio calls Intelligent AF. This function adds automatic detection of objects and pets to the existing face detection technology. In their words, it "automatically detects the photo subject even if it is not a human face," and should automatically adjust exposure and focus to best capture the non-human (or human) subject.

Casio has also tweaked their Dynamic Photo function for the Z450 and Z90. Previous Exilim cameras use a version of this technology that allows the user to separate a moving subject from the background of a photograph. The cut-out image can then be combined with a different background. Previous models required the user to capture two images - one with the subject and one without. Now, users will be able to record just one image to achieve the same effect. The catch, however, is that your subject will need to be in front of a flat background of a single color.

Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z450
The Exilim Zoom EX-Z450 will couple a 12.1 megapixel sensor with Casio's Exilim Engine 4.0 image processor. It offers a step up in baseline specs from the EX-Z90 with sensor-shift image stabilization, a 28mm wide angle 4x optical zoom lens and a slightly larger 3.0 inch LCD. It's also capable of high-speed burst shooting at up to 10 fps at a reduced resolution.

Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z90
The Exilim Zoom EX-Z90 picks up some style points with a sleek, slim body and three color options. It sports a 3x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 35-105mm) and a 2.7 inch LCD with 230K resolution.

Pricing and availability
Look for both cameras to hit store shelves in early October. The Casio Exilim Zoom EX-Z450 will start at $199.99 and the Exilim Zoom EX-Z90 at $149.99.