Product Description

12-megapixel effective recording * 2-11/16" LCD screen with 5-level brightness adjustment * 3.6X optical zoom (5X digital/18X total zoom) * 35mm equivalent lens focal length: 28-102mm * top JPEG resolution: 3968 x 2976 * optical image stabilization *

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #207 in Camera & Photo
• Color: Black
• Brand: Olympus
• Model: Stylus 8000 Black
• Dimensions: 2.40 pounds
• Display size: 2.7
• Included Software: Yes

Features

• 12-megapixel resolution for photo-quality, poster-size prints
• Waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, crushproof and shakeproof
• 3.6x wide-angle optical dual image stabilized zoom
• 2.7-inch Advanced HyperCrystal III LCD screen
• Compatible with xD Picture Cards and microSD memory cards (not included)

From the Manufacturer

There’s really only one word to describe the new shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof, crushproof and shakeproof Stylus 8000 camera from Olympus: Tough. Built to withstand some of the harshest environments on earth, the Stylus Tough series builds on the impressive specifications of the renowned Stylus SW Series by adding Dual Image Stabilization. Now, when the Stylus Tough-8000 arrives at the windy mountain peak or dive into choppy waves, it stays steady and ready to capture blur-free images in virtually any condition.

The Stylus Tough-8000, designed for active and adventurous people, features an impressive 12 million pixels of image resolution for poster-sized prints and can survive a 6.6-foot drop, venture 33 feet underwater, withstand 220 pounds of crushing pressure, and laugh at freezing temperatures. Tap Control makes it easy for skiers, divers and snowmen makers to control key settings without removing their gloves.

Olympus Stylus 8000 Highlights

Winning the Battle of the Blur with Dual Image Stabilization
For the first time, Dual Image Stabilization will be offered on Olympus’ cameras in the tough category. In the cold climates where the Olympus Stylus Tough-8000 thrives, you may shiver, but the camera performs sure and steady even in shaking hands. Dual Image Stabilization combines two technologies--mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization and Digital Image Stabilization--to provide one powerful anti-blur solution for capturing great images whether the photographer or the subject is moving. Olympus’ mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization keeps images sharp by adjusting the internal image sensor to compensate for camera movement, even in low-light conditions when shutter speeds are slower. Additionally, Digital Image Stabilization freezes the action with high ISO sensitivity and fast shutter speeds that prevent blurry images often caused by a moving subject.

Nothing Can Shock This Tough Camera
Afraid the mountain wind might sweep a camera out of your hands and dash it on the rocks below? Never fear, the Stylus Tough series’ shock-absorbing technology, which minimizes the impact on the lens and circuitry. The Stylus Tough-8000, available in stylish blue, black or silver, can withstand a 6.6-foot drop and features a crushproof body that can withstand up to 220 pounds of pressure.

Point-Dunk-and-Shoot Camera
Stylus Tough series cameras perform as well underwater as they do on land because their lightweight, stainless steel and aluminum exteriors are matched with interior rubber gaskets and O-rings to seal out the elements. The Stylus Tough-8000 can be fully submerged to capture beautiful images down to 33 feet (10 meters) underwater, and features a built-in manometer, making it ideal for more serious underwater adventurers who want to know the depth of where their images were taken. The inclusion of four preset underwater scene modes makes this camera perfect for taking photos while scuba diving, snorkeling or simply having worry-free fun in the pool. Additionally, movies can be captured and colors are more vibrant using the underwater movie mode on the Stylus Tough-8000. The camera also features a water-repellant lens coating to prevent water droplets from forming on the lens to get crystal-clear shots no matter how wet the shooting environment.

Freezeproof for Arctic Adventures
Whether you’re in the arctic tundra or building a snowman in your backyard, the Stylus Tough-8000 camera still performs when the temperature dips well below freezing (14 degrees Fahrenheit; -10 degrees Celsius). Stylus Tough series cameras continue to allow you to take great images in freezing situations where most traditional cameras would fail.

Olympus Recommended Button
The new "OR" button makes it easy to activate Olympus’ unique features, including In-Camera Panorama, Shadow Adjustment and Perfect Shot Preview. Simply press the new OR button to easily access these commonly used features.

New Beauty Mode: Supermodels Watch out!
Taking beautiful portraits in the pool or on the slopes is easy with the new Beauty Mode. It enables you to soften shadows and smooth wrinkles or blemishes on your subject’s face--all in the camera and as you capture the image! Additionally, subtle edits can be made post-capture using the Beauty Fix mode. Choose "Clear Skin" to smooth a person’s complexion, "Dramatic Eye" to slightly emphasize the eyes, and "Sparkle Eye" to brighten and enhance the contrast of the iris and pupils. You can also apply all three edits at once. Have fun customizing your brilliant images without a PC and costly image editing software.

Hit Them with Your Best Shot: Tap Control
The Stylus Tough series cameras can be controlled with a simple tap on their top, back or sides, which is made possible thanks to their internal 3D accelerometer that detects the direction of the force on the camera’s body. To turn on the flash or Shadow Adjustment Technology, all that is required is a couple of taps on the camera’s sides and top. In adverse climates Tap Control ensures fast adjustment of settings even if you are fighting frostbite wearing large gloves that make pressing traditional buttons nearly impossible.

Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Captures it All
The Stylus Tough-8000 features a 3.6x wide-angle optical zoom (28-102mm equivalent in 35mm photography, f3.5-5.0) so that even more of the subject makes it into each shot--perfect for underwater photography. The lens does not protrude from its body so it is further protected from harsh conditions.

Versatile Memory
All Olympus digital point-and-shoot cameras accept xD-Picture Card media. Starting with products available in August 2008, they also accept microSD memory cards to capture images. The new Stylus Tough cameras offer the flexibility to use either xD-Picture Card or microSD memory cards, which is just one more advantage of Olympus point-and-shoot cameras.

Advanced HyperCrystal III LCD
The next generation of Olympus’ LCD technology--HyperCrystal III--displays twice as bright as previous versions so that you can see the details more clearly, even in direct sunlight. The new technology is offered on the Stylus Tough-8000 in a 2.7-inch LCD.

Can’t Hide with Face Detection!
Portrait and group shots make family reunions live beyond the short event, and with Face Detection you’ll capture even the shyest relatives. The Stylus Tough-8000 detects up to three faces within the frame and automatically focuses and optimizes exposure to capture sharp, brilliant portraits and group shots. Thanks to the unrivaled durability of the Stylus Tough series cameras, you’ll capture amazing photos even if your next family reunion is at a National Park, a water park or a ski slope!

Intelligent Auto Thinks for You
Skating at night? You won’t be the last one on the ice thanks to Intelligent Auto Mode. It automatically identifies what you are shooting (i.e. Portrait, Night + Portrait, Landscape, Macro and Sports) and adjusts the camera’s settings to capture the best quality results. First-time users can jump into this quick and hassle-free feature that does the thinking for them and produces incredible images.

Broaden Your Horizons with In-Camera Panorama
The places you can take Stylus Tough series cameras--the Grand Canyon or the volcanic sand beaches of Hawaii--are locations where you want to capture as much of the scene as you can. In-Camera Panorama mode makes it possible by capturing three images and stitching them together to create one amazing panoramic picture. Simply press the shutter button and slowly pan across a panoramic scene. The second and third images will be captured automatically and stitched together with the first image--resulting in one seamless panorama-size picture. To create the ultimate panoramic picture, consumers can use the Olympus Master Software 2 to stitch up to 10 images together.

Shadow Adjustment Technology
Shooting outdoors in bright daylight can be tricky because of the extreme contrast between dark shadowed areas and bright sunlit areas. While the human eye is capable of detecting the nuances between dark and light and all the details in between, image sensors traditionally have not been quite as sensitive. The Stylus Tough series addresses this challenge head-on with Shadow Adjustment Technology, which compensates for extreme contrast where the shadow areas are underexposed and lack visible detail. With this technology, users can preview and capture images with the same contrast as the naked eye.

Perfect Shot Preview
The Stylus Tough series features a Perfect Shot Preview mode that enables users to preview and select various photographic effects on a live, multi-window screen before snapping the shot. Perfect Shot Preview enables users to see precisely what the image will look like when adjustments are made, ensuring users are capturing the exact image they want. It is an ideal way for novice users to learn about the effects of different photography techniques, such as zoom, exposure compensation, white balance and metering.

Perfect Fix In-Camera Editing
The Stylus Tough series offers Red-Eye Fix and Shadow Adjustment Edit, in-camera editing features such as resizing, and saturation adjustments, enabling users to edit photos right in the camera. With the Perfect Fix function, multiple editing features can be applied at once.

LED Illuminator
An LED Illuminator on the Stylus Tough series cameras works like a mini-flashlight on the front of the camera to enhance focus and exposure for macro shooting--great for underwater close-ups where light is scarce. The LED also works in conjunction with Bright Capture to help illuminate your subject when taking low-light portraits.

TruePic III Image Processor
Olympus’ enhanced TruePic III Image Processor produces crystal-clear photos using all the pixel information for each image to deliver superior picture quality with more accurate colors, true-to-life flesh tones and faster processing speeds. TruePic III captures sharp images at high ISO settings, minimizing image noise or grainy photos traditionally associated with shooting with high ISO.

Smart Charging for Active Lifestyles
For the first time, the new Stylus Tough-8000 offers internal charging. Using an AC adapter, the camera plugs directly into a power outlet and charges the battery like a traditional mobile phone. It minimizes the need to open the battery compartment door, and helps to maintain the watertight gaskets that keep your camera tough.

Fashionable and Practical Accessories
Olympus offers a number of optional accessories, specifically designed for the Stylus Tough series cameras. For users looking to capture their underwater adventures deeper than 33 feet (10 meters), Olympus offers the PT-045 underwater housing for the Stylus Tough-8000, which enables users to take pictures as deep as 130 feet (40 meters). A highly visible floating wrist strap frees users’ hands when swimming or chasing the next big wave. Stylish silicone skins protect the camera from scratches. Additionally, new carabineer straps available in blue and black attach directly to the camera and can be hooked to a bag, swimming suit or hiking shorts. Durable, sporty neoprene cases are also perfect for active or outdoor expeditions. Olympus Stylus Tough series cameras continue to make smooth transitions from outdoor adventures to cocktail parties. Rinse the camera and place it in an Olympus premium case for added sophistication. The premium cases are available in a variety of colors, including red, black and brown leather as well as various patterns.

Olympus Master 2 Software
Olympus Master 2 Software provides the ultimate in digital imaging management. An intuitive user interface makes downloading to your computer quick and simple, and images are easily organized by folders or albums and searchable by date in Calendar view. A direct link makes uploading your images and videos to YouTube easier than ever. Additionally, with one-click editing tools, such as red-eye removal, images can be touched up before printing or emailing. Online support, templates, firmware upgrades and other user services are just a mouse-click away. Use the optional muvee Theater Pack to create professional quality slide shows and DVDs from your pictures using any of several built-in templates. Additionally, create scrapbooks, greeting cards and other fun prints using the optional ArcSoft Print Creations plug-in.

What's in the Box
Wrist strap, camera WIN/Mac USB cable, audio/video cable, LI-50B Li-Ion rechargeable battery, F-1AC charger for the Stylus Tough-8000, MASD-1 (microSD Adapter), manual, warranty card and Olympus Master 2 software (CD-ROM).

Customer Reviews

Nice camera, but far from perfect
Let's be honest - I bought this camera specifically for the waterproof/dustproof/crushproof/freezeproof features. I anticipated that image quality and ease of operation might be sacrificed - and this is exactly what Olympus delivered. Additional questionable bonus is the "tap" feature, which allows to activate some of the functions by tapping the camera from the sides. This is a nice concept, but would be much more useful if it was reconfigurable and allowed the user to assign which functions are activated by tapping. The most important (at least for me) feature of this camera is that it's waterproof, and I can honestly admit that it works. I used this camera for a couple of hours while playing around in the swimming pool, and it worked beautifully. No leaks, no bubbles, and color correction for underwater photography is quite decent. The crushproof feature was also tested, since I dropped the camera couple of times, and it kept working. This camera is tough :) Unfortunately the image quality is far from perfect, in fact is merely average for a point-and-shooter.

The good:
- waterproof and crushproof (tested!)
- good color representation
- good automatic white balance (AWB)
- built-in panorama mode (only 3 frames)

The bad:
- images lack sharpness, appear very "soft"
- poor low light operation (focusing)
- occasional focusing issues (focuses in center even in "face detect" mode)
- some operation modes ("scenes") are inconsistent, e.g. "portrait" mode switches focusing to "point" instead of "face detect"
- flash is too strong and there doesn't seem to be a way to adjust it
- the image stabilization doesn't seem to help - consider it non-existent
- heavy (but this is kind of expected)
- tap control not reconfigurable

The ugly:
- weird "ghosting" and flaring effects appearing in photos on some occasions when the flash was used (poor or no antireflective coatings on lenses)
- very poor sound quality in movies

Bottom line - if not for the "tough" part, this would have been a pretty average, all-around, point-and-shooter. If you need a true waterproof (not just "splash proof") camera or something that you can carry in your pocket or a backpack in all weather conditions or any situation that could otherwise damage your camera - this is the one to get. If you don't need the "tough" part - get another camera with better image quality.

Not so fast...
One thing you'll notice w/other reviews is the "Haven't tried it in water yet, but I'll let you know" line.
I was totally in love with the Olympus 8000. Compact, sleek looking and had a nice heft to it. The different features & menu were fun and easy to use. It was awesome! Then, my vacation (the main reason I bought it)snorkeling in Aruba. The first in-water try out, off of the resorts beach (not much to see), seemed to go well. Then next day, I was psyched to take it to a "premiere" snorkeling spot. Long story short, It just kind of didn't work and upon further inspection I could see air bubbles coming from the lens. The incident most definitely "harshed on my mellow". I wasn't even angry, just kind of deflated.
So there you go. Water tested...and it took a giant dump.

Not bad
*update* here are the pictures from the vacation! http://travel.webshots.com/album/570827897OPnAfD?vhost=travel
all taken using the olympus tough 8000.

During this vacation I would say it got dropped and knocked around from about 5 feet to the ground on many handoffs and had a few rough spots but still worked wonderfully. As you can see some of the panoroma shots came out amazing! check the ones on top of the mountain from around pictures 100+. I did realize though that using the automated panorama mode did not work too well so alot of the time it had to be done manually using the second panorama option which lets you setup where the pictures end and start. Also I would HIGHLY recomend taking the time to learn how to use the little +/- button when you are in camera mode. Auto works alot but sometimes not how you would like it so that mode lets you decide what you want. Further while I did not use it underwater persay I did jump into a steam vent and the camera still shot amazing afterwards. Had to be around 110+ and the water just condensed on the screen but nothing inside thankfully. Also in terential downpours it took some nice shots, you can see the rain drops!
*end update*

I read the first review which seemed a bit off as I saw it on other sites (maybe they're registed on a few) so I wanted to post my own.

Well I am going on a vacation of a lifetime to hawaii and I figured why not pull out all the stops and buy a top of the line waterproof camera. Basically also a camera that I could put through the ringer without worrying about dropping it in sand, taking into a waterfall and one that could take some nice pictures.

First off I am using the M+ cards that olympus makes you buy. I read somewhere that to take videos that have a duration longer then 10 seconds or for panorama pictures you need one (can anyone prove me wrong?). Little dissapointed at that so no 5 stars.

Secondly the panorama mode is probally one of the nicest features I have ever had the pleasure of messing around with. I can literally take a picture of my whole backyard and look at it in one picture (three pictures stitched together). Does it all in camera and it is very nice.

I have not tested it in the ocean yet so I will get back to everyone on that. The camera has a beauty mode which I can actually say works very nice. It shows you what the picture looks like before it touches it up and then after the touchup which is quite a difference (and nice).

One problem that I have noticed are night shots which looks slightly grainy. Im taking the picture in 12m mode with fine resolution, so each shots is around 3900x2900 (off the top of my head I know thats not exact) checking in at about 4mb a shot. So it might be that on my 1600x1200 monitor it is zoomed in a bit too much, but still slightly dissapointing. So again no 5 stars.

The LCD screen really is quite nice. I was fiddling around with it outside in direct sunlight and I could see the screen very clearly. No fidgeting to cover it with my hand at all, it all showed up nicely. The auto mode works nice just like any other camera and the P mode works if you want to fiddle with some of the other options. I'll try tap control out sometime and let you know how that works. Also I do not know of any hosting sites so someone point me to one and I will setup some of the pictures I have taken for your own insights.

Overall I like the camera tremendously so far. Takes amazing panorama pictures, daytime pictures are fantastic. Night shots look a bit grainy but that might be from my ineptitude. Camera is also very nice to hold and just feels sturdy. 4 outta 5 without a doubt.