At a special event in New York, Google announced new flagship smartphones Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL. The screens of both devices have become larger thanks to more thin frames, and at the back there is at least one, but higher-quality camera with AI functions.

Theverge.com

The display size of the Pixel 3 has grown from 5 to 5.5 inches, and the Pixel 3 XL from 6 to 6.3 inches. The second one from the top has a notch for sensors.

On the back, both smartphones have one 12.2-megapixel camera, which can select the most successful shot from a series and improve the quality of photos taken with zoom. But there are now two cameras in front: thanks to the wide viewing angle, one of them can fit quite a large number of people.

theverge.com

Inside, the phones have a Snapdragon 845 processor and 4 GB random access memory, as well as a Titan M chip to protect data, logins and passwords. There are stereo speakers at the front. There is support for Bluetooth 5.0.

Thanks to the all glass back cover The new Pixels support up to 10W wireless charging—including the new Pixel Stand, which was also unveiled at the event and can be purchased separately for $79. When the phone is connected to the latter, its screen displays helpful information- for example, data from Google Assistant. If you place the gadget in a horizontal position, it works like a photo frame.

google.com

The devices run Android 9 Pie and are equipped with software features to support “digital wellbeing” - that is, those that prevent you from being stuck on your phone all day. Also, Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL got rid of three virtual buttons at the bottom of the screen - gesture navigation is now used.

Google Assistant can monitor spam calls. You can either block them or ask the assistant to remind you to call back later.

google.com

The smartphones can be pre-ordered today, and the launch is scheduled for October 18. The Pixel 3 with 64 GB of memory will cost $799, and the Pixel 3 XL with the same capacity will cost $899. For 128 GB in each case you will have to pay an additional $100.

The AVALON company presents a traditional review of new equipment for organizing video surveillance. This issue presents three models of IP cameras for indoor installation. The cameras are united by the presence of CMOS matrices manufactured by Sony, which form a video stream with Full HD resolution (1920x1080). Dome cameras are equipped with IR illumination.

The Amicom company has updated its line of MicroDigital brand equipment. Two video cameras with AHD technology have been added to it. They are designed for indoor use, are equipped with IR illumination and, if necessary, switch to the CVBS 960H format.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of new multi-format video cameras AltCam 4CF21IR and 4DF21IR.




TD "Leader-SB" begins selling new IP video cameras Expert EN2-77Z4NI-DH and ENS3-77Z30N.

Amicom's product range includes analog equipment operating using HD-CVI technology. It is represented by video cameras in cylindrical and dome housings, as well as recorders for various numbers of channels.

The AVALON company, supplier of Smartec brand equipment, announces the availability of Russian market an updated range of megapixel cameras for use in outdoor conditions.




TD "Leader-SB" presents new IP video cameras Samsung Security SNZ-6320P and SNO-E5011RP.

TB-Project Company, a distributor of Samsung in Russia, announces the arrival of new network street cameras of the series on the Russian market WiseNet Lite budget price range with a set of functions that are inherent in models of the WiseNetIII series.




TB Project Company, a distributor of the TVhelp brand, a domestic developer and manufacturer of video surveillance equipment, presents a series of outdoor vandal-proof cameras with a resolution of 1.3 MP and 2 MP. The range includes models with ceiling and wall mounting.





TD "Leader-SB" began selling new IP video cameras Dahua IPC-K200A and IPC-HFW5200P-IRA-0722A.

TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of a new cylindrical IP video camera DIVITEC DT-IP2011BVF-I4P.




The AVALON company, the official dealer of Polyvision, has expanded its product range with new network video cameras PD21-M2-B2.8A-IP and PD21-M1-B2.8A-IP. These are new mini box dome cameras for indoor use.

Panasonic has released a new series of box cameras for outdoor video surveillance, WV-SPW631L and WV-SPW631LT. Trading house "TB-Project" announces the appearance of new products in Russia.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of new IP video cameras BEWARD B89R-3270Z18 and BD3270Z18.

The Amikom trading house offers a new RVi brand solution for organizing perimeter video surveillance or monitoring large areas.




The TB-Project company, the official partner of Samsung in Russia, presents a new product in the line of outdoor dome cameras.




TD "Leader-SB" announces new IP video cameras eVidence Apix - MiniDome / M2 36 and Apix - Box / 4K.




The range of dome network video cameras has been expanded with a new model AiP-Z24N-45N0B from Acumen. The new product is capable of operating at extremely low and high temperatures, is equipped with IR illumination with a long range and supports 4-stream video to optimize outgoing traffic.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of new IP video cameras PROvision PVD-IR305IPC and ARS-2014.




The Amicom company has included in its product range a new network video camera N520 with expanded security functionality.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of a new IP video camera BEWARD B2720DVZ with a resolution of 2 MP.

TD "Leader-SB" presents to your attention a new IP video camera BEWARD B2250 with a resolution of 2 MP (1920x1080).




Every year, the Russian security systems market is growing with brands from the Asian region. The All-over-IP forum is clear evidence of this.




Hikvision expands its DarkFighter range of ultra-low sensitivity surveillance cameras. This is a new product in the segment PTZ cameras: DS-2DF8223I-AEL.

TH "Leader-SB" announces the availability of a new professional IP video camera BEWARD B2720RVZ.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of new IP video cameras eVidence Apix - Bullet / E2 36 and Apix - Dome / M3 LED AF 309 with resolution 2 MP And 3 MP, respectively. At the same time, in resolution Full HD both video cameras broadcast video in real time. The new items are equipped with infrared illumination with a range of up to 25 meters.




The 7th International All-over-IP Forum 2014 traditionally brought together well-known world brands and bright technology premieres, eminent industry experts and promising business newcomers under one roof.

At this event, connections are established and contracts are concluded, new technologies are presented and the vector of development for the near future is determined.




The TANTOS line of IP cameras presented by Satro-Paladin has been expanded with three professional models.

TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of a new compact dome IP video camera Infinity SRD-2000AS 28 in a durable vandal-proof housing. It can be used both indoors and outdoors: the video camera remains operational at temperatures up to -40ºС.




TD "Leader-SB" announces the availability of a new miniature IP video camera Microdigital MDC-i3290F resolution 2 Megapixels, intended for indoor use. The camera broadcasts video in maximum resolution 1920x1080 points in real time (frequency 30 fps).




The lineup network cameras for indoor video surveillance has been replenished with a new modification of the IP camera RVi-IPC32MS - now with a lens 6 mm. The video camera is the optimal solution for video monitoring of extended areas, for example, aisles between shelves in supermarkets, warehouses, and corridors.

"TB Project Company", the official dealer of Panasonic equipment, offers to use it at facilities with high requirements for security, new box-mounted network cameras - HD models WV-SPN611 and WV-SPN631 with Full HD resolution. Both new products have a built-in motion detector, support 4-stream data transmission, and, if necessary, are equipped with additional modules.




TD "Leader-SB" presents to your attention the new IP video cameras Microdigital MDC-i8290VTD-H and MDC-i6290VTD-24H. New dome and box cameras broadcast video over the network in high resolution 1920x1080. The high resolution of video cameras allows you to get a clear image on the monitors of a video surveillance system. At the same time, network cameras cover a space several times larger than analog cameras.




TD "Leader-SB" presents to your attention the new IP video cameras Sunkwang SK-NM20 and Sunkwang SK-NU20. New items are 2 Megapixel cameras, in dome and miniature cylindrical housings, respectively. Resolution image 1920x1080 points is broadcast over the network in real time.




Arecont Vision has made several significant improvements to its popular all-in-one MegaDome 2 series of megapixel day/night cameras equipped with Stellar(Spatio Temporal Low Light Architecture), used in low light conditions, offline memory option up to 32 GB using SDHC cards; function Corridorview, allowing you to rotate the image 90 degrees to better review in halls and corridors; as well as advanced image scaling capabilities across multiple resolutions to better match system throughput and storage requirements.




The Amicom company presents a new IP camera Beward B2710DM, designed for security video surveillance at facilities equipped with external lighting. She performs simultaneous H.264/MJPEG encoding, generates and transmits streams over the network in maximum resolution 1920x1080 with frame rate up to 25 fps. The image is distinguished by natural color rendition, high quality and detail at any lighting level.

TB Project Company, an official partner of Samsung, announces the start of sales of new 2-megapixel high-speed PTZ cameras SNP-6201P and SNP-6201HP, which generate a video stream with a maximum resolution of 2010x1108. Both new products support multi-streaming with a maximum frame rate of 30 fps, use an analytical motion detector and have a rotation speed of 500°/sec.

TD "Leader-SB" presents to your attention the new IP video cameras HikVision DS-2CD4012FWD-A, DS-2CD4024F-A and DS-2CD4032FWD-A. Each box camera is a modern device with a set of effective and extremely useful and convenient functions. They not only transmit data in three streams, but also provide high quality images in the dark.




“TB Project Company”, as an official dealer of TM Panasonic, announces the release of two new models of vandal-proof IP video cameras - WV-SFV631L and WV-SFV611L, which are capable of high-quality video surveillance in HD format even at night (IR illumination).




The new Dinion IP 4000 and Dinion IP 5000 cameras from Bosch Security Systems are designed to meet different customer requirements. Under the beautiful aesthetic design of network video cameras are embodied Newest technologies video surveillance.

TB Project Company, as an official dealer for the sale and installation of EverFocus brand equipment in Russia, presents four new PoE switch. The new products ES0812-31, ES0802-4, ES1625-31 and ES2426-31 are intended for building IP video surveillance with 4 or more IP cameras. Each model supports Power over Ethernet IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) technology and is housed in a metal case.

Vandal-proof 2-megapixel Full HD camera SNV-6012M based on the WiseNetIII chipset is a new development by Samsung Techwin. The camera is great for use on trains, buses and other forms of public transport.

Vivotek, one of the 2013 GIT Security Award winners, beat out the other 10 candidates to take 2nd place in category C video surveillance. Vivotek was also the only award-winning supplier developing unique technology– panoramic PTZ function in cameras.




Specialists from TD "Leader-SB" present a small-sized IP dome camera eVidence Apix - MiniDome / M2 Lite 28, among the advantages of which are excellent resolution, quality of detail and high clarity.




TD "Leader-SB" presents a 2 MP Smartec STC-IPMX3693A/1 video camera based on a 1/2.7" OmniVision CMOS sensor. The new generation of Smartec IP video cameras based on the DaVinci processor supports a range of video analytics algorithms from VCA Technology (UK). Streaming The video is recognized directly in the camera using special software.




Hikvision is launching a new series of network cameras with Super low-light technology, increasing sensitivity in very dark conditions.

The convenience and reliability of Stand-Alone recording devices has made them especially popular among installers and users. They are easy to install, housed in a standard case, and the underlying Linux OS is extremely stable. And the new Expert IP video recorders are just one of them. It is represented by four models at once: a 4-channel device ERD-N0404-L, an 8-channel device ERD-N0808-L, as well as two 16-channel recorders ERD-N1616 and ERD-N1616-L.




The official distributor of Hikvision in Russia, TB Project Company, continues its review of high-quality new products of the 72 series, which have a shock-resistant and waterproof IP66 class housing. Now the 2-megapixel IP cameras DS-2CD7253F and DS-2CD7255F have come under close attention, each of which has three variations, differing in the range of operating temperatures, the specifics of working in low-light conditions (IR illumination) and the type of power supply. The new products differ from each other mainly in resolution - while the DS-2CD7253F models produce an HD 720p stream, the DS-2CD7255F is available in Full HD recording.




A new product of a non-standard appearance was presented by Polyvision - the outdoor PN7-M2-V12IR has a unique design, is equipped with IR illumination with a long illumination range, but, more importantly, it uses advanced HD-SDI technology, which allows the new product to broadcast high-quality uncompressed Full HD images over coaxial cable standard RG-59, RG-6 and RG-11.




EverFocus has released compact network fixed dome cameras designed for installation even in railway transport.




Asoni has launched a new series of Full HD IP cameras with superior features that provide high image quality and 30 fps recording in Full HD 1080P resolution.




Under the GANZ brand, which is a trademark of the CBC Group, they released a compact 2-megapixel Full HD IP camera with compact dimensions coupled with a high level of picture quality - ZN-M2AF. The new product, presented by IP Dealer, uses dual-variable power supply - PoE or via an adapter direct current 48 V, and also meets the requirements of the ONVIF specification, which allows it to be easily integrated into software for video surveillance systems from various manufacturers.

Aver Information Inc has released two rugged 2-megapixel full HD bullet IP cameras, the SF2121H-BHR-50 and SF2121H-BHR-30, designed for use in harsh outdoor environments in regions with long, dark winters.




Schneider Electric has announced the release of its new Spectra 1080 high-definition (HD) positioning dome system, which delivers clear, high-resolution images even in low-light or programmable performance conditions. The Spectra line has delivered unparalleled reliability, technology control and image quality for nearly 20 years.




Airlive has introduced the new FE-200CU IP camera, which comes with a fisheye lens with an additional wide viewing angle. Designed for ceiling mounting, this camera is capable of providing a 360-degree field of view, making it ideal for installation in large spaces such as halls, offices, and public garages. The company believes that one FE-200CU can replace three conventional IP cameras, so the new product is a very convenient and flexible solution for the user.




At the Essen show, Grundig recently showcased its expanded range of network, analog and HD-SDI video surveillance products, including 22 and 24-inch 16:9 LED monitors.




The IPD-2220ES is a 2MP 1080P HD IP camera with iMEGAPRO II band, designed for indoor installation. The device is equipped with a lens with a focal length of 4.3 mm, and the camera itself generates and transmits HD video at a frequency of up to 30 frames per second. Its size is only 105 mm in diameter, so the camera is suitable for small and compact HD network solutions.

HD-SDI solutions from Expert have become even more attractive, thanks to the start of deliveries of three 2 MP cameras in the price category of 10 thousand rubles. Reducing the cost of the product was made possible by using bodies already on the market and equipping the cameras with lenses with a fixed focal length of 3.6 mm.




California-based ISD, a renowned supplier of IP video surveillance products, has announced the release of its new network cameras that provide flexibility and secure storage video data




Megapixel solutions provider Surveon recently announced three new 2MP cameras, completing its 15-model HD professional series, which includes economic, professional and advanced cameras for all applications.




Airlive has launched its latest FE-200DM 2MP PoE fisheye IP camera, offering a versatile wide panoramic surveillance solution for many applications.

Compro Technology has released its NC2200 mini dome network camera with a wide viewing angle of 105 degrees. This functional camera is ideal for home, office and small shops.




Official distributors of professional equipment for video surveillance systems DiGiVi present new products in their range - four high-definition HD-SDI video cameras with a 2 MP matrix and highly efficient DSP NextChip: CM3-M2-VFA10 DNR (box camera with built-in vari-lens), CN-M2-VFA10IR DNR ( frost-resistant IR camera), as well as dome CD-M2-VFA10IR DNR and CD1-M2-VFA10 DNR for indoor installation.

The line of bullet cameras is represented by two 2MP models: GCI-K0589T and GCI-K1526T. Visually and in terms of characteristics, the new products are identical, with the exception of the ability of the second camera to transmit a double video stream in real time with resolutions of 1920 x 1080p + 720 x 576.




Everfocus presents its latest product developments, including the new NevioHD series 1.3, 2.0 and 3.0 megapixel cameras.




The Toshiba IK-WB80A IP Camera is a vandal-resistant camera that can withstand adverse weather conditions and vandalism. The metal body of the camera meets the requirements of the international standard IP66. The new product can be used for installation outdoors in any weather.

Beward continues to expand its range of IP cameras. This time the highlight was the 2 MP dome camera B2.920DX for internal systems surveillance and frost-resistant B1076FRV with third generation IR illumination. IP cameras are completely different from each other and have different “fillings”, but they are optimal solution for your surveillance environment.




The AVALON company announces the addition of five dome-type video cameras to the Corum IP camera range. The new products are represented by the CS-310, CS-320 and CS-390 series.




Compro Technology has released its latest 2 megapixel network camera, the Compro CS80.

Axis Communications introduces a series of indoor fixed mini dome cameras with HDTV video for covert video surveillance in stores, hotels, schools, banks and offices. The series includes cameras M3004 and M3005 measuring 10 cm x 5 cm. The megapixel M3004 transmits high-quality video with HD resolution (720p), and the 2-megapixel M3005 with Full HD resolution (1080p).




The IP Dealer company announces the release of a completely new line of Grundig IP cameras, including a fixed dome camera, a box model, and an outdoor camera. Key features include: progressive scanning and image processing using a CMOS sensor, dual, triple and quad stream video and intelligent alarms.




Samsung has introduced Full HD PTZ cameras SNP-6200P and SNP-6200HP, designed for use at airports, train stations, stadiums, ports, garages, schools, shops, offices and other sites requiring surveillance. A review of new products was provided by the distributor of Samsung products, TB Project.




Under the DiGiVi brand, represented in all segments of the video surveillance market, there is a line of megapixel high-speed cameras CNSW2-M1-Z28 and CNSW2-M2-Z20, which provide round-the-clock surveillance with a 360° view in any weather.




Considering the increased interest in HD-SDI technology, a new product from the Polyvision brand, specializing in analogue video surveillance, is quite an expected pattern. DEAN and POLISET companies present a case-mounted PM-M2-Z3 with a built-in lens and a resolution of 2 megapixels.




If it is necessary to build an inconspicuous surveillance system, or in limited space, customers first of all pay attention to miniature video cameras- they are universal, convenient and easy to install. The scope of application of mini cameras is multifaceted - apartments or private houses, office premises, shops and boutiques, shopping centers, supermarkets, etc.




CORUM, one of the leading manufacturers of IP video cameras, presented its next new product - the CS-270-Ix model. The company's constant desire to satisfy the needs of potential customers, respond to their requests and expectations, did not let it down this time either.

IQinVision, the manufacturer of IQeye IP cameras, announces an update to its line of megapixel video cameras. The new products use effective H.264 and MJPEG compression algorithms, a remote focusing system, and data storage has become available in both local and remote storage.




TPG COMCOM announces the start of sales of a new line of professional IP cameras high resolution- NeoVizusIP. The NeoVizusIP model range is represented by 6 models of various designs (case, street and dome) with a resolution of 2 MP and 3 MP, as well as a universal thermal housing NVH-5120HB with support for PoE power supply.

Beward's range of IP cameras continues to expand. AVALON presents three new products, housed in frost-resistant cases: the fixed N6602 with support for the CamDrive surveillance service, the cylindrical BD4330RV with Full HD resolution, and the vandal-resistant dome BD4370DV with support for real-time mode in Full HD. Support for various image correction modes (WDR, BLC, 3DNR) allows you to install IP cameras in objects with complex and uneven lighting.




The AVALON company announces the expansion of the Beward IP camera range. Two new dome cameras, the BD4330D and BD4370D, as well as the BD4330 body type, were released. Wide functionality and a highly sensitive matrix provide high-quality and clear video images even in conditions of uneven and insufficient lighting. The temperature range of these models provides for indoor installation, with the exception of the BD4330 provided that a thermal casing is used.




TB Project company presents an overview of four new products - professional high-speed PTZ IP cameras Hikvision trademark from the DS-2DF1-5xx and DS-2DF1-7xx lines, equipped with a highly sensitive sensor with high resolution (from 1.3 to 3 MP). The new products are of the “Day/Night” type, and representatives of the DS-2DF1-7xx, among other things, are equipped with an IR illuminator for 80 meters.

Artem Kashkanov, 2016

Since the advent of digital photography between by different manufacturers there is a kind of “megapixel race” when new model The camera invariably receives a matrix of higher and higher resolution. The pace of this race changes from year to year - for quite a long time the “vertical” limit for cropped DSLRs was 16-18 megapixels, but then once again some innovations were introduced into production and the resolution of cropped cameras approaches the 25 megapixel mark.

To begin with, let us remember that pixel- this is a basic element, a point, one of those from which a digital image is formed. This element is discrete and indivisible - there are no such concepts as “millipixel” or 0.5 pixels :) But there is a concept megapixel, which means an array of pixels in the amount of 1,000,000 pieces. For example, an image measuring 1000*1000 pixels has a resolution of exactly 1 megapixel. The resolution of the matrices of most cameras has long exceeded the 15 megapixel mark. What did it give? When the resolution of digital cameras was 2-3 megapixels, every extra megapixel was a really serious advantage. Now we are observing a paradoxical situation - the declared resolution of the matrices of amateur DSLRs has become such that it makes it possible to make prints of acceptable quality in almost A1 format! While most amateur photographers rarely print photos larger than 20 by 30 cm, 3-4 megapixels are enough for this.

Is it worth replacing an old camera with one of the same functionality, but with “more megapixels?”

Let's take two cameras as an example - the “simple” amateur Canon EOS 1100D and the “advanced” Canon EOS 700D. The first has a matrix resolution of “only” 12 megapixels, the second has “as much as” 18 megapixels. The difference is 1.5 times. The first thought that many amateur photographers have is something like this - “By changing the 1100D to 700D, I will get 1.5 times better detail! Now absolutely all the nuances will be visible in the photographs - I missed this so much with my old camera!” This installation is actively supported by advertisers. An amateur photographer who has convinced himself that he absolutely needs a new camera breaks his piggy bank and goes to the store.

Let's take a calculator and calculate what the actual increase in photo resolution will be when moving from 12 to 18 megapixels. The 18-megapixel sensor of the same 700D produces an image width of 5184 pixels, while the maximum image width of the 12-megapixel 1100D is 4272 pixels (data taken from technical characteristics camera). Divide 5184 by 4272 and get a difference of only 21%. That is, with an increase in matrix resolution by 1.5 times, the photograph increases in size by only 1.21 times. If you depict this graphically, you get the following comparison.

The difference is surprisingly small! It turns out that the differences between 12 and 18 megapixels are not so significant. Conclusion - rumors about the significance of megapixel growth are greatly exaggerated. Going from a 12- to 18-megapixel device (or from 18 to 24-megapixel) only in the hope of getting a significant increase in detail in photos is falling into the trap of marketers.

An increase in megapixels in some cases reduces sharpness even when using good optics!

It would seem that this generally looks like nonsense! However, let’s not rush to conclusions... It is logical that as megapixels increase while maintaining the size of the sensor, the area of ​​each individual pixel decreases. You may know that reducing the pixel area leads to a decrease in its real sensitivity, and, consequently, to an increase in the noise level (purely theoretically). However, thanks to the constant improvement of technologies and signal processing algorithms, new matrices, even despite a noticeable reduction in pixel area, have a very low noise level. But danger may lurk on a completely different side...

I have already talked about such a thing as diffraction. Without going into details, let me remind you that this is the property of a wave to bend around an obstacle, slightly changing its direction. When a beam of light passes through a narrow hole, this beam has the property of being sprayed, as it were, like a spray (may physicists forgive me for such a comparison:)

In our case, the aperture (diaphragm hole) acts as a hole. The tighter the diaphragm is clamped, the greater the angle at which the spray is “sprayed.” As a result, the “perfectly clear” point after passing through the aperture turns into a blurry speck. The smaller the aperture diameter, the greater the blur. Now let’s add a small piece of the matrix with pixels to this picture and try to roughly imagine what this “perfectly clear” point in the photograph will look like...

Naturally, the illustrations given do not pretend to be absolutely accurate; many nuances are not taken into account - for example, the fact that when an image is formed, neighboring pixels are interpolated and much more. The point is to show that as the pixel area decreases, the working range of aperture numbers decreases. If the matrix has a very high resolution, you should not clamp the lens aperture too hard, as this will lead to the appearance of diffraction blur. Matrices with a small number of megapixels allow you to clamp the aperture almost to f/22 and there is no significant blurring.

Did you buy a modern carcass? Make sure you have good optics!

The matrix resolution of most modern amateur cameras with interchangeable lenses is between 16 and 24 megapixels. Over time, this range will inevitably shift towards larger values. As a rule, the optics that come with the camera are also improved. Modern kit lenses, although they have significantly improved quality, are still “compromise” options. Most often, they are not able to draw a picture in all the nuances to capture it on a 24-megapixel matrix (or they are capable, but in a very narrow range of settings, for example, only in the range of 28-35 mm with aperture 8). If you are looking for an uncompromising option, you will need high-quality and therefore expensive optics. The cost of a lens that is similar to a kit lens in functionality, but has better resolution, is several times higher than the cost of a kit lens:

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By the way, it is not a fact that the “advanced” version will be guaranteed to “draw” the picture - perhaps the lens was designed at a time when matrices with such resolutions were not known. For the same reason, it is not recommended to use kit lenses from very old cameras. I had experience using an old kit lens from Canon EOS 300D (6 megapixels) on a 550D (18 megapixels) - I once borrowed it from a friend to play with for the evening. The old 18-55 did not shine with picture quality at 300D, but at 550D it simply killed it on the spot! It seemed like there was no sharpness anywhere.

By the way...

Fixes(i.e. fixed focal length lenses) are an excellent alternative to budget zooms. They will be very useful if a kit lens does not provide the desired detail, but there is no extra $1000-1500 to buy a “cool” lens. The most popular primes are “fifty kopecks” (50 mm), or rather their younger versions with f/1.8 aperture. At a cost comparable to a kit lens, they significantly surpass it in image quality, but have less versatility - you have to pay for everything.

A pocket point-and-shoot camera with 20 megapixels is beyond insanity!

As sad as it is, there will soon be no other choice. Most compact cameras have a matrix measuring 1/2.3", that is, approximately 6 * 4.5 mm - 4 times smaller than that of a “cropped” camera and 6 times smaller than that of a full-frame camera. The resolution is, as a rule, no less 20 megapixels It's easy to imagine how absurdly small each pixel is. The miniature point-and-shoot lens has a very small aperture, which increases diffraction blur. As a result, the picture looks very "soft" when viewed at 100% zoom.

On the left is a 100% crop taken with a 16-megapixel Sony TX10 point-and-shoot camera with a 1/2.3" matrix. On the right for comparison is a similar view taken on a DSLR. Please note that the picture from the point-and-shoot camera looks very dirty - there is no real detail, there is only software an attempt to emphasize the contours. And this is in the center of the frame! At the edges of the frame, detail decreases even more and often looks like a misunderstanding:

And this is how most modern compact point-and-shoot cameras shoot. For example, here, which shows 100% crops from a Panasonic DMC-SZ1 camera (closer to the end of the article). The question arises: why install matrices with such a high resolution in such devices? These megapixels have no practical value, but from a marketing point of view they sound very convincing - in a camera the size of a matchbox there are as many as 20 megapixels.

So how many megapixels should a camera have?

Let's return to the main issue that the article is devoted to. It all depends on the type of camera, the size of the matrix and the capabilities of the optics. Personally, I think a reasonable number of megapixels is:

• For devices with interchangeable optics with a kit lens - about 12 megapixels. With a higher matrix resolution, the “working” range of focal lengths and apertures narrows. If you want to get the most detailed image, try not to shoot at “extreme” focal lengths, set the aperture to 8.
• For devices with interchangeable lenses with primes or professional zooms, there is no such obvious limitation, the main thing is that the lens can draw all these megapixels. The absence of a low-pass filter provides a certain advantage, but there are a number of disadvantages - we’ll talk about them below. and even as megapixels increase, the maximum “working” aperture number decreases. Try not to shoot under normal conditions with an aperture larger than 11-13 - there will be a noticeable decrease in sharpness due to diffraction blur.
• For soap dishes with a matrix of 1/1.7" and smaller, a reasonable limit is 10-12 megapixels. Anything more is a marketing ploy that has nothing to do with detail.

What matrix characteristics are more important than the number of megapixels?

Firstly, physical size matrices. As already written above, 20 megapixels on a 1/2.3" matrix and 20 megapixels APS-C or FF are completely different things. Large matrices Always provide better color reproduction, wider dynamic range and richer hues than smaller ones.

Secondly, the structure of the matrix plays a role. The vast majority of modern cameras have a Bayer matrix with an anti-aliasing low-pass filter. One image pixel is formed by interpolating a group of 2*2 matrix pixels (2 green, 1 red, 1 blue). The low-pass filter slightly blurs the image, but prevents the appearance of moire on objects with a regular repeating pattern (for example, fabric). IN Lately There is a tendency to abandon the low-pass filter in Bayer matrices. Moire is suppressed by the camera's built-in software.

It is also worth noting X-Trans matrices (used in Fujifilm cameras), which, compared to the buyer, have a more “chaotic” structure of the arrangement of RGB color sensors; they use groups of 6 * 6 pixels of the matrix for interpolation - this eliminates the formation of moire and allows you to do without a low-pass filter, which, as mentioned above, improves image detail.

In the end, the novelty of the technology and its class play a role. No matter how perfect the camera’s matrix is, an equally important role is played by the processor and in-camera software that processes the signal received from the matrix. As a rule, expensive high-end equipment with the same hardware (matrix-processor) as amateur cameras provides better picture quality - a slightly larger dynamic range, a slightly higher operating ISO. The manufacturer does not disclose the reasons for these differences, but it is easy to guess that the main reason is intracameral software. It often happens that the younger and older models have the same matrices, but the picture quality is different. This is explained by the fact that cheap models process the signal using a more stripped-down algorithm, so they are inferior in picture quality to older models. But this loss is really noticeable only in difficult lighting conditions, for example, when shooting at ultra-high ISO.

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It is noteworthy that even a slight increase in linear resolution is accompanied by a significant increase in the number of megapixels. This is similar to calculating area. To double the number of megapixels, it is enough to increase the linear resolution by 41%, and doubling the linear resolution leads to a fourfold increase in the number of megapixels. It is for this insidious property that megapixels are so dearly loved by marketers, since it allows them to present very moderate progress as something revolutionary.

In fact, a twofold increase in the number of megapixels is not a revolution at all, it is just the minimum after which the increase in detail becomes noticeable for most people, and only if the detail was limited solely by the number of pixels, and not at all by lens aberrations or misses focusing, camera vibration and poor editing. Moreover, the contribution of the matrix resolution to the overall sharpness of the image rapidly decreases as the number of megapixels increases. Up to 10 megapixels, this contribution is very significant, from 10 to 20 megapixels it is no longer so significant, and with a resolution above 20 megapixels, the quality of the optics and the skill of the photographer unconditionally come to the fore.

Is excess megapixels harmful?

In general - no, it is not harmful. I just consider it necessary to emphasize that there is not much benefit from it. In my opinion, the only truly negative effect associated with an increase in resolution is a proportional increase in the volume of files, which rapidly fills memory cards, devours disk space and slows down the computer during post-processing.

It may be objected that cameras with higher resolutions are also noisier at high ISO values. This is true, but only when comparing images pixel-by-pixel, i.e. at 100% magnification. With an equal scale, the noise level will be approximately the same (other things being equal, of course). For example, if a picture taken with a 36-megapixel camera is reduced to 16 megapixels in Photoshop, then in terms of noise level it will practically not differ from a similar picture originally taken with a 16-megapixel camera. In this case, the reduced image may even look somewhat sharper, since reducing the image (decimation) to a certain extent neutralizes the loss of sharpness that is inevitable with Bayer interpolation.

Thus, high resolution actually allows the camera sensor to collect more information about the scene being photographed and potentially provide better detail in the photo. Another question is, will you be able to take advantage of this potential, or will it only translate into extra gigabytes occupying your hard drive?

To understand what number of megapixels will be necessary and sufficient for you, you just need to remember what end use you find for your photos? Do you view them on a computer monitor or perhaps using a digital projector? Do you print your photos, and if so, what maximum size fingerprints? Do you share your pictures online? Do you subject your pictures to any processing, or are you content with what comes out of the camera?

Viewing photos on a computer monitor

The most common screen resolution among visitors to my site is 1920x1080 (Full HD), which roughly corresponds to two megapixels. For laptops, the most popular resolution is 1366x768 (WXGA), i.e. one megapixel. Rare visitors use monitors with a resolution of 2560×1440 (WQXGA), which is less than four megapixels. There are so few iMacs with Retina displays that they can be ignored.

The conclusion, it seems to me, is obvious: to view photos on the monitor personal computer in most cases, 2-4 MP is enough. And this is if the picture is expanded to full screen, and not huddled in a small window.

Projectors

Mass models of modern digital projectors have a resolution of 1920x1080 (Full HD) or even less, which means trying to demonstrate to the public anything more than a couple of megapixels with their help is pointless. Projectors with a resolution of 4096x2160 (4K) are simply not affordable for most photographers, but even less than nine megapixels is not that much by modern standards.

Printing photos

The resolution of a print, regardless of its size, is usually measured in dots per inch (dpi). For example, when printing at 300 dpi, there will be 300 dots per linear inch (2.54 cm), which corresponds to 118 dots per linear centimeter.

A resolution of less than 150 dpi is considered low, from 150 to 300 dpi is acceptable, and from 300 dpi and more is high. High resolution means that the individual points that make up the image are virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye. Typically, moderate-sized prints (up to A3 inclusive) are made with a resolution of exactly 300 dpi. For larger prints it is acceptable to use a lower resolution.

Much depends on the distance from which you are going to view the photo. Small cards are viewed closely and their resolution should be as high as possible. Large canvases are hung on the wall and admired while standing at some distance, and therefore even a relatively low resolution will not hurt the eye. This also applies to photo wallpapers. Huge billboards that people look at from tens of meters away can be printed at 32 dpi and they will still look good.

The table below shows how many megapixels are required to take and then print photographs at both 150 and 300 dpi resolution at various print sizes.

When was the last time you printed your photos on A3? Let me remind you that the most popular print size among amateur photographers is A6, i.e. 10×15 cm.

Internet

The Internet doesn't like big photos. Firstly, large photos take a long time to load, and secondly, most people are simply not interested in looking at the microscopic details of other people's photos. The only exception is specialized photographic forums. As for social networks, then your multi-megapixel images will in any case be reduced when uploaded to the server, regardless of your consent, and the quality of decimation will not be the highest.

If you send photos to relatives and friends via e-mail, then it is necessary to reduce them at least for reasons of basic decency. Who wants to wait for huge files with flowers and kittens to download?

In a word, here, too, literally a couple of megapixels will be enough for you.

Of course, all this applies exclusively to amateur photography and does not apply to images intended for commercial use. It all depends on the specific situation. If the customer demands 20 megapixels at all costs – so what? – we’ll send him exactly 20 megapixels, but whether he really needs them is no longer our concern.

Image processing

When editing photos in Adobe Photoshop or other graphic editor some excess resolution is not only tolerable, but highly desirable. Firstly, many SIM cards need cropping, i.e. in trimming edges, and it’s good when you have the opportunity not to save pixels. Secondly, competent image reduction - The best way hide or at least, minimize image defects such as noise, chromatic aberrations, moderate motion, interpolation artifacts, etc. In other words, a photo taken at high resolution and then downsized almost always looks better than one originally taken at low resolution.

However, it should be noted that the resolution of modern cameras is so high that there is almost always a supply of megapixels that can be sacrificed when editing.

Conclusion

You and I have talked for too long about something that shouldn’t be talked about at all. Let us finally sum up the results.

To satisfy the needs of the vast majority of amateur photographers, ten megapixels will be enough, although even this number seems somewhat excessive. It's rare that an enthusiast will be able to fully realize the potential of twenty megapixels, but such people usually know what they want. Those photographers who may objectively need higher resolution, and who know how to handle it, are unlikely to read this article.

Considering the fact that the resolution of more or less serious cameras today averages about two dozen megapixels and continues to grow, I consider further discussions on this topic simply unnecessary. The number of megapixels is no longer a parameter that you should seriously pay attention to when choosing a camera.

Thank you for your attention!

Vasily A.

Post scriptum

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