A foretaste of fall 2015 cameras

Price: $800 (kit)

Availability: September 2015

The outlook: Olympus brings some novel-for-its-class features to its next-generation version of this mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera targeted at first-dSLR buyers or folks looking for something smaller than their current entry-level dSLR. In addition to a bigger, better viewfinder and more streamlined design, it adds focus-stacking-like focus bracketing, the ability to use the LCD like a touchpad to control autofocus area when looking through the viewfinder, and its live-preview modes for low-light shooting.

Price: $1,700

Availability: October 2015

The outlook: Fujifilm removed the infrared cut filter from its popular X-T1 to turn it into an interchangeable-lens camera that can photograph beyond the human visible spectrum, down to 380nm (nanometers) in the ultraviolet range up to 1,000nm in the infrared range. True, it's intended for commercial applications, but it's inexpensive enough to make enthusiasts want to try it out.

Price: $1,200 (body)

Availability: August 2015

The outlook: This model incorporates the highest-resolution sensor in a Micro Four Thirds camera to date with specs that promise action-capable shooting as well as 4K video.

Price: $200

Availability: February 2016

The outlook: Need to feed your inner -- or not-so-buried -- hipster? This Kickstarter-funded case will turn your iPhone 6 or 6 Plus into a Super 8-style video camera while providing a more solid grip, viewfinder, physical record button and a mount for 58mm lenses. We'll have to wait till next year to figure out if it's really cool or really silly.

Price: $600

Availability: October

The outlook: This is the long-awaited update to the FZ200, one of the best megazoom cameras around for the past three years. This update retains its Leica-made f2.8 25-600mm lens, but gains 4K-resolution video and photo capture, an improved viewfinder and a dust- and splashproof body.  For those who love their zoom lenses, this promises to be a top choice.

Price: $150

Availability: September

The outlook: The original Cube got a lot of attention because of its supersmall design, easy one-button operation, and low price. A major complaint, though, was the inability to preview your video before you hit record. That gets fixed with the Cube+ with the addition of Wi-Fi and a new mobile app.