Samsung unveils its first digital SLR camera

Samsung is partnering with Pentax to bring its first digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera to the market. The GX-1S camera is modestly specced and will shoot 6.1 megapixel pictures at 2.8 frames per second. Both JPG and RAW formats are supported.

The camera body is similar to the casing of the Canon Digital Rebel. Features come in between the Rebel and Nikon’s D50 DSLR. The GX-1S shoots slightly faster than the D50’s 2.5 frames per second, but slower than the Rebel’s 3 frames a second. Samsung hasn’t announced the maximum number of shots the GX-1S will be able to take before the buffer fills up.

However, there are two interesting features set the GX-1S apart from its competition. The camera’s ISO range tops out at 3200, which allows users to take faster photos at the cost of higher grain or fuzziness. In addition, the camera will use four AA batteries as opposed to proprietary lithium-ion batteries.

The camera will come with a Schneider Kreuznach D-Xenon 18mm-55mm lens, which offers an f-stop range of f/3.3 to f/5.6. In addition, the camera supports Pentax DSLR lenses.

According to Samsung, the GX-1S camera will be available next month. Pricing has not been announced.