Hands-on with the new Lumia Camera from Lumia Denim update

The Microsoft Devices Group did not just announce new hardware and accessories today. They have also announced the Lumia Denim update, which brings extra features and enhancements to existing Lumia smartphones. One of those new features is Lumia Camera. We've searched the demo area after the press conference here in Berlin to bring you a hands-on demonstration. Go watch our video!

Following Lumia Cyan, the Lumia Denim update combines the latest Windows Phone 8.1 update with exclusive experiences for Lumia smartphones. The biggest feature that it brings is Lumia Camera. Check out what's new:

  • Fast camera startup and capture speeds. Take numerous photos with just milliseconds between shots.
  • Moment Capture, a long press of the camera button within the app automatically starts 4K-quality video recording at 24 frames per second. Each frame is of high image quality at 8.3 megapixels, allowing every single video frame to be selected and saved as a still image.
  • Rich Capture simplifies things with auto HDR and Dynamic Flash. Avoid the hassle of adjusting camera settings shooting first and edit and select the perfect shot later.
  • Updated imaging algorithms for better low-light performance.

We've been waiting for a built-in HDR functionality for Windows Phone, so we're really excited for Rich Capture. Not only does Microsoft bring this long-awaited feature, but they've also expanded on it by giving providing adjustment controls.

We're also excited about 4K recording. It will be an option available in the settings, but you can record 4K footage automatically by just pressing and holding the camera button.

Lumia Camera will initially roll out as an update with Lumia Denim for Lumia 930, Lumia Icon and Lumia 1520 and as an over-the-air update for Lumia 830 in the fourth quarter this year. Lumia Denim will roll out as an over-the-air update to all the other Lumia Windows Phone 8 smartphones, after partner testing and approvals.

Are you excited for the Lumia Denim update? Which Lumia Camera feature are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments!

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Mark Guim

Mark Guim is Video Editor at Windows Central. He switched to Windows because the MacBook Pro isn't Pro enough. You can follow him on Twitter at @markguim.