Olympus has released its C-7070 Wide Zoom with a super-wide-angle lens and high-resolution, 7.1-megapixel CCD. Two new autofocus modes enable photographers to shoot fast, sharp photos of subjects in motion.

The C-7070's high-quality glass lens was designed specifically for digital cameras. Its 4x optical zoom ultra-wide-angle is equivalent to 27-110mm, f/2.8-f/8.

For added versatility, photographers can select from three new conversion lenses. The WCON-17c is a 0.7x wide-angle converter that reduces the focal length by a factor of 0.7 (35mm conversion of 19mm). For even closer photography, the TCON-17C, a 1.7x teleconverter lens, increases the focal length by a factor of 1.7 (35mm conversion of 187mm), and the TCON-30C increases the focal length by a factor of 3 (35mm con-version of 330mm). A conversion lens adapter is required to attach the TCON-17C, TCON-30C or WCON-17C.

The camera also features a Super Macro mode that allows shooting from 1.18 inches. The 1.8-inch semi-transmissive swivel LCD makes it easy to take pictures at any angle, even 180 degrees. New LCD technology also provides excellent high-contrast visibility in any light condition.

The camera body is constructed of magnesium alloy with a rubberized grip. The camera measures 4.9 x 3.3 x 3.9 inches and weighs 15.3 ounces. The estimated retail price of the C-7070 Wide Zoom is $699.