Epson and Panasonic join forces to expand the 16:9 format to digital photography

While Panasonic has introduced its LUMIX LX2 digital camera to feature a 16:9 CCD sensor and LCD screen, Epson is launching Premium Glossy Photo Paper 16:9 (101.60mm x 180.60mm) that features a smooth, bright white resin-coated layer for a vibrant high-gloss finish. The photo paper is compatible with a range of Epson printers including the new Epson PictureMate PM 240 and PictureMate PM 280.

As an introductory offer Epson and Panasonic are joining together to provide a trial sample of the new 16:9 Premium Glossy Photo Paper with every purchase of the Panasonic DMC-LX2. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2, 10.2-megaixel advanced compact camera, is unique in that it incorporates triple-wide features of 28 mm wide angle Leica DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. The DMC-LX2 also features MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO control to compensate for any kind of blur caused by hand shake and subject movement. It is not only the DMC-LX2 but all other LUMIX cameras that can record 16:9 aspect photos to support this new photographic experience.

The Epson PictureMate PM 280 and PictureMate PM 240 are premium quality 10x15cm photo printers, incorporating Epson's latest printing technologies, PhotoEnhance and Advanced Variable-Sized Droplet technology. Both work in standalone mode, so users do not even need to connect to their computers. To print 16:9 ratio photos, simply insert the digital camera memory card into the printer, select the 16:9 Epson Premium Glossy Photo Paper option and print. Exclusive to the PictureMate PM 280, is an internal CD drive allowing users to print directly from a CD or save images from the digital memory card to CD. Both printers also provide direct printing from digital camera memory cards, USB DIRECT-PRINT™, PictBridge and an optional Bluetooth® adapter.

Yasuo Kimoto, Product Manager, Panasonic Marketing Middle East said, "Panasonic has established a new photo culture for the digital age with our LUMIX range. The 16:9 ratio is close to our natural way of seeing things, and is more in proportion with the way we view scenes. It is no surprise that customers are increasingly demanding it. Panasonic is meeting their needs through our wide range of products including High Definition plasma TVs, DVD recorders and digital cameras. We believe the 16:9 photography is a key function for digital imaging and Epson's new printers and 16:9 papers are also playing an important part."

Khalil El-Dalu, General Manager, Epson Middle East said,

"The growing global trend among consumers looking for the 16:9 ratio in digital photography has caught on in the Middle East as well, and Epson is responding to this demand aptly. Where Panasonic has provided the technology to ensure it is possible to shoot images in true 16:9, Epson has used its expertise to provide a premium quality photo paper and printer range. The result is that digital photographers can produce perfect 16:9 format photos without losing any part of the image or sacrificing quality."