Digital Camera's Guide

canon ixus digital camera

2009-04-30T01:57:00.000+07:00

Canon IXUS 970 IS Review
The Canon IXUS 970 IS is a 10 megapixel digital camera with a 5x optical zoom lens. It has a metal body and is a step up in overall quality compared to most point and shoot digital cameras.

The Canon IXUS digital camera range has always been impressive when it comes to picture quality. Extra features such as image stabilisation have also become the norm. The IXUS 970 IS upholds the tradition of good picture quality, stylish design and impressive build quality. This model also has a slight increase in the length of the zoom lens over its predecessors. It also has a top quality LCD screen.

Outdoor 1 (Medium Zoom)
The most striking feature of this shot is the amount of detail you can see in the lighter areas of the photo. The resolution is outstanding. This helps to make the shots appear sharply focused. Some of that sharp focusing is lost at the edges of the shot and if I was being picky I would also say that in where the sun cannot quite reach the IXUS 970 IS is unable to match the definition managed by the Panasonic DMC FS5 I reviewed recently. These are minor points though and this is a good start.

Outdoor 2 (No Zoom)
With the lens zoomed right out my test shot is about average in terms of focusing. There is also a small amount of purple fringing showing on the boat towards the left hand side of the picture.

Outdoor 3 (Maximum Zoom)
This is the best outdoor shot. Again the definition in the shot is highly impressive. The IXUS 970 IS is certainly able to bring out more detail than I am used to seeing. I also like the brightness of the shot. It helps add more life to the picture.

Outdoor 4 (Building)
This is another sharp shot and highlights the fact you should be able to take good quality snapshots in most situations with this Canon digital cameras.

Outdoor Portrait
This is quite a natural looking portrait shot. You will find other brands such as Panasonic digital cameras produce more colour in this test shot on a regular basis than Canon digital cameras manage.

Indoor Portrait with Flash
This photo is near to perfection for an indoor shot with flash. The camera handles the amount of light output by the flash unit expertly. This leads to a photo where the lighting is just right, leaving the colours to stand out.

Indoor Portrait without Flash
I like this photo. Here the IXUS 970 IS has used the natural light available very well. Again there is an impressive level of detail in the shot.

Colours
produce more colour in this test shot on a regular basis than Canon digital cameras tend to be somewhere in the middle rank when it comes to colour strength. In most cases I think the combination of the brightness of the photos and the colours they use creates great photos.

Macro
I have mentioned in other reviews that a really good macro shot suggests a high quality lens. The macro shot produced by the IXUS 970 IS shows great clarity and plenty of details.

ISO 400 and ISO 1600
Increasing the ISO setting on any compact digital camera will lead to noise appearing in the picture. At ISO 400 noise is controlled quite well and is inline with levels produced by most digital cameras. By the time ISO 1600 is reached picture quality really has broken down.

Overall
Based on picture quality I would be happy to own this camera. The way the lighting and colours combine works really well.

Underwater Camera

2009-04-27T01:46:00.000+07:00

Intova Underwater Digital Camera 6Mp

Product Description

The new standard in affordable Sports Photography. This full featured 6 MP camera, with a rugged and compact housing, fills all your photographic needs. Use the camera by itself for safe, protected environments or put it in the housing for Wet and Wild photo occasions. The polycarbonite housing has full button feature controls and is waterproof to 180 feet (54 meters). Other features include a 2.4" color LCD display, 12 X zoom (3x optical, 4x digital) and SD card capacity up to 2 gig.

In this modern day & age, we are sometimes sufficiently graced to "get what we pay for". I am happy to convey this boffo little dynamo gives your steady hand way more bang than expected. As an avid diver & photographer I did a lot of research, wedged between some mecha-$1000s set up with strobes out to the sides like insect eyes - and the stoopid $20 disposable film jobbies I'd hobbled by with for years.

Lucky to have found this camera; their (Intova) newer, more mega-pixeled versions could be better - I would not be surprised, given the overall workmanship, quality of build & performance I got. Caveat: 90% of my opinion is based on scuba pix in warm & clear tropical environments; however, the responsive convenience of the digital itself - sans housing - should not be overlooked. For a suave dinky 6MP point & shoot, the built-in flash functioned admirably, if sometimes pawn to close range (~<5>100 ft, & my IC600 negotiated >30 dives without so much as a hiccup. I did also attentively maintain my housing, well rinsed & clean, with good quality fresh silicone grease on my o-rings when I changed the batteries. By the way, the red filter accessory is too much (overtones) & not worth it.

Two other tips - some may ponder ordinary "alkaline" vs rechargable batteries here; follow me & many other reviewers & use rechargeables ONLY. I got a sony 4-pk w/ wall charger & easily kept them going in&out by 2's ~every other day with zero performance lapse (eg, 50-75 HQ photos per day +some videos, over 600 files in total; didn't barely fill half my card). To that end, I also added a better-quality "fast" 2GB SD card. Very curious if the processor reads an SDHC (since the specs don't say), but haven't tried.

For what this camera costs versus what it delivers, it's 5-star, frankly. It is though an "entry level" option, and not meant to compete with those huge multi-eyed 12MP rigs fellows tote around. As at the start, sometimes we're lucky to get what we pay for, and MY IC600 to me is "worth" way more than I paid here on Amazon, that's for sure.

Polaroid Camera

2009-04-25T18:35:00.004+07:00

Polaroid PhotoMAX PDC 2300Z Digital Camera

Long a household word in film-based photography, Polaroid started out as a strong contender in the digital marketplace, introducing one of the first high-quality digicams -- the PDC-2000 -- in 1996. At a retail price of $2,500, it fell squarely between the low-end digital point-and-shoots and the expensive high-end portable digital cameras, making it a popular choice for studio-based photographers. Since then, Polaroid has introduced a number of digital imaging products, including the PDC-3000 (another professional quality camera), several high-quality desktop film scanners, a line of complete digital studio systems, and the PhotoMAX series of low-end consumer digicams. The PhotoMAX 2300Z is the first in that series to offer 2-megapixel resolution with a robust imaging software package. As we'll see though, the 2300Z really doesn't live up to the Polaroid tradition of imaging excellence.

Overview
The PhotoMAX 2300Z is marketed as a complete Digital Camera Creative Kit, providing all the tools you need to capture and download your images to a Windows-based computer (including e-mail capabilities). The camera design and operation are very basic, with only one Record mode and a handful of controls to adjust image resolution, flash setting, exposure compensation (brightness), and white balance (color). It's targeted at the novice or amateur photographer who doesn't want to make a lot of exposure decisions -- just point the camera and shoot. The 2.3x optical zoom lens has a focal range equivalent to a 38-90mm on a 35mm camera, providing just enough flexibility to shoot indoors in cramped interiors or outdoors where your subject can be distant or close-up. (Note: a 90mm zoom is adequate for location portraiture but not great for capturing sports action from a distance.) Image resolution is 2.3 megapixels, high enough to make 8 x 10-inch prints or very sharp 5 x 7's.

The 2300Z comes equipped with a built-in flash, 8MB CompactFlash memory card, AC adapter, video cable (for hooking up to a TV), two computer connection cables (Serial port and USB), camera case, wrist strap, and Arcsoft's PhotoMAX Pro Software. The software supports Windows computers only, with image acquisition, photo manipulation (by ArcSoft), special effects, printing setups, optional frames and titles, e-mail, and Internet access to the PolaroidDigital website, where you have 50MB of free storage space provided with the purchase of a camera. While we appreciated the nice complement of supplied accessories (including the all-important AC adapter, which is usually sold as an option), we were disappointed with the difficulty we had in performing simple operations, such as turning the Mode dial or removing the CompactFlash card or AA batteries from their compartments. Latches tended to stick and the Mode dial was very difficult to turn -- with only small plastic nubs around the edges to provide a grip for your fingers.

The 2300Z's Mode dial sets the camera's main operation modes, including Record, Play, Setup, Erase, and PC connection. Each mode has a very short on-screen menu, activated by the Menu button and navigated with the Zoom lever on top of the camera (see Camera Operation). Selections are made with the OK button, which is located directly underneath the Menu button on the back panel. The LCD monitor is activated by the LCD button (also on the back panel) or by engaging the Macro and Digital Zoom modes. (Unfortunately, once you turn the LCD monitor on, you can't turn it off again without switching off the camera.) To our eye, the LCD image display is very poor, with dark muted colors that are difficult to see (impossible in sunlight). In fact, we found it necessary to adjust the monitor to its brightest setting (+5) just to lighten it up enough so we could see what we were shooting indoors.

On the positive side, the optical viewfinder is very clear, and it zooms along with the 2.3x lens, so you have a pretty accurate view of your scene without having to turn on the LCD menu at all. (Framing was also pretty good as far as optical viewfinders go.) In general, the control buttons were well placed, with the four non-menu adjustments lined up along the Status Display panel on top of the camera (Quality / Resolution, Macro, Self-Timer, and Flash). Adjustments for these buttons are reported as black icons in the Status display window, making it very easy to follow along as you make changes. The shutter button was relatively slow, with a long delay between the time you press down all the way to the moment it actually fires the shutter.

Basic Features

* 2.3-megapixel CCD with six image quality modes
* Optical viewfinder
* 1.8-inch color LCD display
* 1.3-inch black-and-white Status display
* All glass 2.3x zoom lens (equivalent to 38-90mm)
* 2x Digital zoom
* Built-in flash
* CompactFlash removable storage, 8MB CF card included
* USB or Serial computer connection
* Four Alkaline, Li-Ion, NiMH, or NiCd AA batteries (4 Alkaline batteries included)
* AC adapter included
* Polaroid PhotoMAX Pro Software CDs (Windows only)

Special Features

* Macro (close-up) lens adjustment
* White balance (color) adjustment
* Exposure compensation (lighten / darken) control
* Self-timer option for delayed shutter release
* Slide show playback feature
* NTSC video cable for viewing images on a TV

Recommendation
The PhotoMAX 2300Z is simple to operate and provides a fairly robust hardware and software package (if you're a Windows user!). However, we'd like to see some design improvements before we put it on our recommended buyers list. At $399, we would expect better quality parts and smoother operation, especially with functions like the Mode dial, CF card eject, and camera battery installation. The camera is pretty bulky, which appeals to some users, but for our tastes we prefer a more streamlined model. We also felt that image quality could be better, particularly in the current market: At $299 with a zoom lens, this would be a marginally OK deal, but at $399, you can do a lot better these days. If you want a complete digital imaging package, and don't mind the minor inadequacies, this just may fulfill your needs. However, we recommend trying it out in the store before you take it home.

Olympus Digital Cameras

2009-04-23T18:25:00.000+07:00

Olympus E-3 Hands-On Preview

by Shawn Barnett

Look and feel. Aimed squarely at the Nikon D300 and Canon 40D, it's no surprise that the Olympus E-3 is big and teeming with buttons and controls. Its overall feel is very tight, solid, hefty, and well-thought-out. It is easily the finest experience I've had with an Olympus SLR, and probably the best Live View experience I've had with any SLR to date.

The Olympus E-3's large pentaprism protrudes proudly above its sloping shoulders, just a bit higher than its competitors. Inside is a real glass pentaprism that's bigger and brighter than any Olympus has offered on its Four-thirds cameras. Its 1.15x viewfinder is big and bright, appearing just slightly larger than the Canon 40D, despite the E-3's smaller sensor size.

The Olympus E-3's viewfinder status display runs along the bottom, not off to the right as on the E-410 and E-510. It's still a little tight to see all of the frame plus the status display with my glasses on, but there's a nice big rubber eyepiece protector to prevent my glasses from scratching.

The Olympus E-3's grip is very comfortable, shaped a little differently from the E-510, a little less aggressive on the forward curve, which gives the middle finger a more confident grip overall. It's also a little fatter and contoured, with a nice, tacky rubber surface for excellent traction.

Though it looks a little high in pictures, the Olympus E-3's shutter button is in just the right position when I grip the camera, with a nice finger well to guide me to the button. On the rear, the thumb grip is so comfortable it's easy to forget it's a grip at all. Function and AF-point selection buttons are nearby, but not easy to press accidentally.

Olympus has moved the Olympus E-3's Main Dial on the back relative to the more recent models, but this is indeed where it's located on the Olympus E-1, so they stuck with what upgrading E-1 owners will be used to. Also, both the E-410 and E-510 had no monochrome status display on the top deck, so there was room for a top-mounted Main Dial. The Olympus E-3's dial does not have as good a feel as the metallic dial on the E-510, but it does have good, firm detents. The same goes for the Sub-dial on the front of the Olympus E-3's grip.

Speaking of dials, there's no Mode Dial on the Olympus E-3, instead you press a button on the top deck, left of the pentaprism, and roll the Main or Sub-dial, while changes appear on the Status display.

The E-3's four-way navigator, which Olympus calls an Arrow pad, is well-positioned for easy access, and it's even angled a bit toward the right to accommodate the thumb's angle of attack. Other buttons on the back and top are clearly marked for easy comprehension. The Olympus E-3's rear LCD also serves as a Status display whose settings are accessible via a press of the center OK button.

The Olympus E-3's Power switch is located in a familiar place for Canon prosumer SLR owners, just off the lower right corner of the LCD display.

Opening the Olympus E-3's Card cover is awkward at first, but if you just rock the camera to the left and hold it in your left hand, a simple upward flip of the right thumb moves the release lever and the door pops open to reveal not only a CF card slot, but an xD-Picture Card slot as well.

Build. The Olympus E-3's body is a die-cast magnesium alloy whose two shells pretty well completely enclose the E-3 for a very solid feel. Olympus says they use a Thixomold process to make these shells, a method that promises greater durability, with less potential for bubbles or seams in the magnesium alloy shell structures. We don't know whether other manufacturers do the same, but this low-temperature technique is one of three major methods to cast this increasingly popular metal, and is supposed to give better crystalline structure to the material than the more common hot die-cast method.

Digital Camera Memory Cards

2009-04-20T18:10:00.002+07:00

How to Choose the Correct Memory Card for Your Digital Camera

Gone are the days when snapping a picture meant hours of tedious work both for the photographer and the subject. The advent of the digital cameras has made shooting as well as posing for pictures a pleasurable experience.

One of the major advantages of a digital camera is the fact that there is no need for you to shop around for good quality film. Memory cards have replaced the ubiquitous photographic film in the digital camera.

These removable memory cards are necessary for storing the images. These days’ digital cameras are equipped with memory cards that are standardized in sizes of either 16 MB or 32 MB.

More often than not, a professional or even an active photographer finds that this memory is simply not enough. That is why choosing the correct memory card for your digital camera is a necessary evil. An extra memory card with a greater capacity will provide additional space to store more images.

An additional advantage is that users can simply upgrade to a number of memory cards without having to purchase new hardware in the form of different cameras. By using memory card readers, users can also transfer images to their computers; erase them from the card and reuse it seamlessly.

Most digital camera manufacturers do not reveal the exact number of pictures that can be taken using in-built memory cards. Hence the user needs to be aware that these in-built cards do not have optimal storage capacities thus increasing the need to have an additional memory card to store data.

Memory cards are a pre-requisite if you are on vacation and need plenty of images to preserve the memories. Running out of memory in your digital camera is not a good idea at this stage, so stock on memory cards. Extra memory cards are a photographer’s inseparable companion. Therefore it is vital to have plenty of space for that memorable picture.

The capacity of a memory card determines how many pictures can be stored on it. Greater the capacity, more the number of pictures that can be saved on the card. The capacity of a memory card is usually measured in MB (Mega Bytes) or GB (Giga Bytes). The latter is equivalent to 1,000 mega bytes and can store enormous number pictures.

There are several types of memory cards that can be used in a digital camera. These include CompactFlash , Secure Digital, Memory Stick, SmartMedia, MultiMedia Card (MMC), and xD Picture Card. Although these memory cards are compatible with several digital cameras, SmartMedia and CompactFlash continue to be the most widely used cards. Compact Flash cards have the biggest storage capacity and are extensively used in high-resolution digital cameras because of their increased storage capacity.

These cards are of two types; type I that is 3.0 mm thick, and type II which is 5.0 mm thick. Professional photographers often go for type II memory cards as they have bigger storage capacity than the type I cards. That need not be the case for an average consumer.

These cards also have a controller chip, which allows for greater transfer rates. However only digital SLRs can use this chip comfortably because the average digital camera does not have the internal buffer required to use this chip. CompactFlash cards are the cheapest of the memory cards available for a digital camera and are quite popular among camera owners.

MicroDrives are much cheaper than CompactFlash memory cards and may interest a less active photographer. However these cards are slower than CompactFlash cards and can also undergo shock damage wiping out all saved data. These cards are delicate and any rough handling can damage them completely. Secure Digital and MultiMediaCard memory are the smallest available memory cards, but are not ideal for digital cameras and are very rarely used here. Recently companies like Fuji and Olympus have shifted the emphasis on xD cards, thus taking away the importance of SmartMedia cards in cameras.

The xD Picture Card can be used in small cameras as well as in CompactFlash compatible cameras. Memory Stick cards were developed by Sony for use in the Cybershot series of digital cameras. Memory Stick is compatible exclusively with Sony digital cameras and is of no use in other brands. It is of vital importance that you choose non-exclusive Memory card formats for your digital cameras. This is because some companies have designed cards that work only on their branded cameras. One of the things to be kept in mind while choosing any memory card for your digital camera is the time required to transfer the images or files to your PC. Often times the bigger cards require a lot of time to transfer the data to a PC and consumers are left twiddling their thumbs.

An additional criterion in choosing the right memory card for your digital camera is speed. High speed memory cards can record data more quickly and also allow rapid data transfer thus saving time. However you need to be aware of the fact that a large memory card does not necessarily mean a fast one. One large memory card could simply be more costly than a number of smaller ones, which could suit your requirements. Older digital cameras are also not designed to hold large cards. So opting for large memory cards may not be the wisest move.

First of all, determine what format and size is supported by your digital camera. If the support is only for 16x, it makes no sense to buy a 32x card. Another point to note is that an external card reader can easily help you transfer files to your computer.

Memory card readers allow users to connect to their PC without the need to connect their digital camera as well. If you have a laptop, then the operation becomes much easier as you can simply slide the memory card reader into a designated PC slot.

source:memorybits.co.uk

Digital Camera Lens

2009-04-17T17:56:00.001+07:00

What lenses for my digital SLR (Canon)

Many people eager for a high end digital camera buy a digital SLR body and then ask the question of what lens to put on it. If, after reading that, you think a DSLR + lenses is the right choice, you can come back here.)

(There are also full-frame cameras like the 5D, for those, the lens choice question is effectively identical to that for film bodies.)

When you take a picture, the lens does most of the work. I've bought camera gear from Amazon and been satisfied. So you could, if you are wealthy and don't mind a big heavy camera, get an digital SLR with just one lens and get some benefit from it.

If you buy just one lens to "start" you're wasting a lot of the value of your camera while that value depreciates.

Why is changing lenses so useful?

Lens design is hard. The more range you try to put in a zoom lens, the more compromises you must make. Shorter range zooms have fewer compromises than long-range ones. Trust me, if we could get a decent lens like this we would buy it. So you want short-range zooms and most of all you want prime lenses. If you can change lenses, you can put the right lens on the camera for the job, with less compromise. The 70-200mm range zooms costing $700 to $1200 are very well made. If you don't want to change lenses, P&S cameras have many major advantages. The good ones (Canon G series for example) have fast lenses. Why do I want fast lenses?

Fast lenses are lenses of large aperture (width), or low f-stop. Fast lenses are big and heavy, but you need them. Fast lenses let you do shallow depth of field. Small digital P&S can't do this very well, even though their lenses are sometimes quite fast, because shorter lenses don't have as narrow a depth of field.

Fast lenses can be stopped down to be like slow lenses, and get more depth of field when you want it. However, usually a stopped down big fast lens is better than a wide-open smaller, slower lens. Most lens problems occur at the edges of a lens, and if you stop down, you cover the edges.

Fast lenses can shoot in less light. Canon "L" series lenses are generally agreed to be the best out there. Some 3rd party lenses are also quite good for half the money. So be ready to exchange a lens if you get one of the duds. Comparing lenses

Two great sites will help you compare your lenses. The first is PhotoZone's lens performance survey. Large numbers of people have given their opinion on quality of various lenses. This site has done actual lab tests on the performance of various lenses. Canon 50mm prime lens

Every Canon owner should buy the Canon 50mm prime lens or one of its fancier cousins. It is one of the sharpest lenses out there. It's called a "normal" lens in the 35mm market, which is good because normal lenses are the easiest to make, and that's why this lens is such a bargain. Even if you want only one starter long-range zoom lens, get this one also. Even though your zoom lens has 50mm in its range, still get this lens. Tele-zoom

You can also get a very good 24mm lens from Canon or Sigma. The Canon 24mm is considered superb. If you have big money to spend, look at shorter lenses, like one of the 14mm lenses. Be prepared to test your lens and return it if it's not good. For the "x0D" and Rebel XT/XTi, consider seriously the Canon 10-22mm EF-S lens. This lens only works on the newer digital SLRs. I have this lens, and it gets me shots I could not get other ways, but it is pricey for a non-L lens, and is not as sharp as that range of lenses.

Digital Camera Cards

2009-04-15T06:39:00.003+07:00

Top 5 Digital Camera Memory Cards

Your digital camera memory card is easily the most crucial camera accessory. Without it, you can store very few pictures or none at all. If you have a high-megapixel camera, you also need a high-capacity, high-speed memory card. Otherwise, you will run out of picture space quickly and wait too long for pictures to save between shots. Here is a list of the top digital camera memory cards.

1. Lexar 4 GB Professional Series 133X CompactFlash Card with Write Acceleration
Both the storage and the speed impress with this card, which features a 133x write speed. With 4GB of storage, it's also sure to hold plenty of pictures, even for digital SLR users.

2. U.S. Modular Secure Digital 4GB Extra High Speed 120X Secure Digital Card
For such a little thing, it's amazing what this card does. For digital camera owners with cameras that use Secure Digital, the cards have come a long way on storage capacity. This 4GB card stashes lots of pictures, while writing at a swift 120x speed.

3. Sony 2GB Memory Stick High Speed PRO Media
With 2GB of storage, this memory card by Sony can write up to 80 megabits per second. For Memory Stick users, this is a great choice.

4. Hitachi 6 GB Microdrive High-Capacity Ultra-Miniature Hard Drive
Wow! With 6GB of storage, this is the big mama of all memory cards on the market today. It can store pictures at a rate of 9.4 megabits per second, and it is compatible with CompactFlash drives on digital cameras.

5. FujiFilm 1 GB xD Memory Card
This is one of the smallest memory cards, yet you can still store a heavy picture load with this high-capacity, high-speed xD memory card.

Canon Rebel XT

2009-04-14T06:03:00.000+07:00

Overview
Simple, Limitless Performance
For convenience, ease of use and no-compromise SLR performance, look no further than the EOS Digital Rebel XT. Featuring Canon's Digital Trinity - an 8.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor, Canon's own DIGIC II Image Processor and compatibility with over 50 EF Lenses - the new Digital Rebel XT has an all new lightweight and compact body, improved performance across the board and the easiest operation in its class, simplifying complex tasks and ensuring the perfect shot every time. With intuitive simplicity, powerful performance and unprecedented affordability, the Rebel XT is the EOS digital camera for everyone.

Features
High-performance digital SLR with 8.0 Megapixel CMOS Sensor and DIGIC II Image Processor
8.0 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
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The EOS Digital Rebel XT features Canon's 8.0 Megapixel CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, which captures images of exceptional clarity and tonal range and offers the most pixels in its class. This APS-C size sensor (22.2 x 14.8mm) has the same 3:2 ratio as film cameras, creating an effective angle of view that is 1.6x the normal EF Lens focal length. Featuring an on-chip Noise Reduction Circuit with an expanded ISO range, the Digital Rebel XT's sensor offers professional sophistication in a consumer package.

Digic II Image Processor
The EOS Digital Rebel XT's sensor is driven by the DIGIC II Image Processor, which has been enhanced across the board with improvements in speed and image quality. Information captured by the sensor is processed and assembled into images of exceptional clarity and resolution. Consuming very little energy, DIGIC II works with the sensor to ensure natural colors, accurate white balance and speedy write times, letting you focus on taking pictures.

Specifications
Type
Digital AF/AE SLR
Recording Media
CF card Type I and II
Image Sensor Size
0.87 x 0.58 in./22.2 x 14.8mm
Compatible Lenses
Canon EF Lenses including EF-S Lenses (Focal length conversion factor: Equivalent to approx. 1.6x indicated focal length compared to 35mm format)
Lens Mount
Canon EF mount
Image Sensor
Type
High-sensitivity, high-resolution, single-plate color CMOS sensor
Pixels
Approx. 8.0 Megapixels
Total Pixels
Approx. 8.2 Megapixels
Aspect Ratio
2:3 (Vertical:Horizontal)
Color Filter System
RGB primary color filter
Low-pass Filter
Fixed position in front of the image sensor
Recording System
Recording Format
Design rule for Camera File System 2.0
Image Type
JPEG, RAW (12bit)
Simultaneous Recording: Possible
File Size
JPEG: (1) Large/Fine: Approx. 3.3 MB (3456 x 2304), (2) Large/Normal: Approx. 1.7 MB (3456 x 2304), (3) Medium/Fine: Approx. 2.0 MB (2496 x 1664), (4) Medium/Normal Approx. 1.0 MB (2496 x 1664), (5) Small/Fine: Approx. 1.2 MB (1728 x 1152), (6) Small/Normal: Approx. 0.6 MB (1728 x 1152); RAW: Approx. 8.3 MB (3456 x 2304)
Folder Setting
Automatic setting
File Numbering
(1) Continuous numbering, (2) Auto reset

Standard parameters plus up to three custom processing parameter sets and monochrome can be set
Interface
USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
Image Processing
Type
Auto, Preset (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy/Twilight/Sunset, Tungsten light, White fluorescent light, Flash), Manual (Custom: read off photo quality gray card or white subject)
Viewfinder
Type
Eye-level SLR (with fixed pentamirror)
Coverage
Approx. 95% vertically and horizontally (against JPEG Large)
Magnification
0.8x (-1 diopter with 50mm lens at infinity)
Eyepoint
21mm
Built-in Dioptric Adjustment
-3.0 - +1.0 diopters
Focusing Screen
Fixed
Mirror
Quick-return half mirror (Transmittance: reflection ratio of 40:60, no mirror cut-off with lenses up to EF 600mm f/4)
Viewfinder Information
AF points, AE lock, FE lock, AEB in progress, Flash ready, Improper FE lock warning, High-speed Sync, Flash exposure compensation, Red-Eye reduction, Shutter speed, Bulb, FE lock, Processing data, Built-in flash recycling, Aperture, Exposure level display (Exposure compensation, Manual exposure level, AEB level, Flash exposure compensation, Red-Eye Reduction lamp on time display), Max burst during continuous shooting, AF/MF focus confirmation, CF card full, CF card error, no CF card
Depth-of-Field Preview
Enabled with depth-of-field preview button
Eyepiece Shutter
None (provided on strap)
Autofocus
Type
TTL-CT-SIR with AF-dedicated CMOS sensor
AF Points
7
Metering Range
EV 0.5 - 18 (at ISO 100)
Focusing Modes
One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF (Automatically selects One-Shot AF or AI Servo AF selected according to shooting mode), Manual Focusing (MF)
AF Point Selection
Automatic selection, manual selection
Selected AF Point Display
Superimposed in viewfinder and indicated on LCD panel
AF-assist Beam
Intermittent firing of built-in flash, effective range: approx. 13.1 ft./4m at center, approx. 11.5 ft./3.5m at periphery
Exposure Control
Metering Modes
Max. aperture TTL metering with 35-zone SPC. (1) Evaluative metering, (2) Partial metering at center (approx. 9% of viewfinder), (3) Center-weighted average metering
Metering Range
EV 1-20 (at 68° F/20° C with 50mm f/1.4 lens at ISO 100)
Exposure Control
Program AE (shiftable), Shutter-priority AE, Aperture-priority AE, Automatic Depth-of Field AE, Full Auto, Programmed Image Control modes (Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Flash Off), E-TTL II Autoflash Program AE, and Manual
ISO Speed (Recommended Exposure Index)
Equivalent to ISO 100-1600
Exposure Compensation
Up to +/-2 stops in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments (1) Manual exposure compensation (2) AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing)
AE Lock
Auto: Operates in One-Shot AF mode evaluative metering when focus is achieved; Manual: Enabled with AE lock button (No AE lock in Basic Zone modes)
Shutter
Type
Vertical-travel, mechanical, focal-plane shutter with all speeds electronically-controlled
Shutter Speeds
1/4000 to 30 sec. in 1/2- or 1/3-stop increments, bulb, X-Sync at 1/200 sec.
Shutter Release
Soft-touch electromagnetic release

Set with C. Fn-02
Self-timer
10-sec. delay
Remote Control
Remote control with RS-60E3 Terminal or Wireless remote controllers RC-1/RC-5
Built-in Flash
Type
Auto pop-up, retractable, built-in flash in the pentaprism
Guide Number
13 (at ISO 100 in meters)
Recycling Time
Approx. 3 sec.
Flash-ready Indicator
Flash-ready indicator lights on in viewfinder
Flash Coverage
Up to 17mm focal length (equivalent to 27mm in 35mm format)
External Speedlite
EOS Dedicated Speedlite
E-TTL II autoflash
Drive System
Drive Modes
(1) Single, (2) Continuous, (3) Self-timer/Remote Control
Continuous Shooting Speed
Approx. 3.0 fps (with Battery Pack NB-2LH, at Tv=1/250 sec. for all recording qualities)
Maximum Burst
14 shots (Large/Fine)
LCD Monitor
Type
TFT color LCD monitor
Monitor Size
1.8 inches
Dots
Approx. 115,000 pixels (Displayed pixels)
Coverage
Approx. 100% (for JPEG images)
Brightness Adjustment
5 levels (settable with menu's "LCD brightness")
Image Playback
Display Format
(1) Single image, (2) 9-image Index, (3) Magnified Zoom, (4) Auto Play, (5) Auto Play right after shooting
Highlight Warning
In the single image with information display mode, the highlighted portions containing no image information with blink
Image Protection and Erase
Protect
A single image can be protected or unprotected
Erase
A single image or all images stored in a CompactFlash card can be erased if they are unprotected
Menus
Menu Categories
(1) Shooting 1 [6 items], (2) Shooting 2 [7 items], (3) Playback [5 items], (4) Setup 1 [7 items], (5) Setup 2 [7 items]
LCD Monitor Language
Any of the following 15 languages can be selected: English, German, French, Dutch, Danish, Italian, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish, Spanish, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Japanese
Firmware Update
Enabled by the user
Power Source
Battery
Battery Pack NB-2LH (x1)
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (WxHxD)
4.98 x 3.71 x 2.63 in./126.5 x 94.2 x 64mm
Weight
17.1 oz./485g
Operating Environment
Working Temperature Range
32-104° F/0-40° C
Working Humidity Range
85% or less

Pentax Camera

2009-04-12T05:43:00.001+07:00

K20D Digital SLR

14.6 megapixels, the highest in its class
14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor offers superior image resolution with maximum control over noise.

PENTAX-developed body-based Shake Reduction
With body-based Shake Reduction, the PENTAX SLR system will stabilize your shots, providing maximum flexibility with no compromise in optical quality. It increases your handheld shooting shutter speed range by 2.5 to 4 stops for blur-free pictures, and is compatible with every PENTAX lens ever produced.

Live View function on a 2.7 inch LCD monitor
A 2.7 inch high resolution, wide-view LCD monitor with a 160 degree field of view gives a Live View of your subject and allows for more precise composition.

Dustproof, weather-resistant body
The PENTAX K20D body has 72 seals to reliably protect the inner components against humidity, moisture and dust particles. Add the durability of a fiber-reinforced polycarbonate body and a stainless steel chassis, and you can keep shooting even in harsh conditions.

Pentax Real IMage Engine (PRIME)
The PRIME image processing engine maximizes image properties and allows custom adjustment of image parameters, such as truer color tones, a wider dynamic range, and natural-looking high ISO images. PRIME provides beautiful, natural results similar to those shot with film.

Custom Image modes
Custom Image modes, with six preset options, offer superior control of how the PRIME processor develops images, and can be further modified to meet your needs. Get beautifully processed images in any shooting condition.

Advanced White Balance
In addition to a wide range of preset white balance options, take advantage of adjustable Kelvin temperature settings and full manual control. Also, every preset and manual white balance setting offers fine adjustment control, giving you powerful options to tune the white balance exactly as you need it.

Custom Functions
The K20D offers 36 custom functions with 93 individual settings, ensuring that you can fully customize the camera to suit your individual needs.

Increased control with Expanded Dynamic Range
Enhanced Dynamic Range mode gives 200 percent more dynamic range, which brings out detail in the highlighted portions of your image while maintaining detail in darker areas.

Dust Alert function
Dust Reduction and Dust Alert features eliminate the need for time-consuming retouching by minimizing dust and determining if and where any dust remains after the system is activated.

Full backward lens compatibility
PENTAX has manufactured over 25 million lenses in the last six decades; all DSLR bodies offer backward compatibility with every one.* Whichever lens is used, whether the most recent lenses or a classic screwmount, it will faithfully capture the image desired.
*With adapter for screwmount and 645/67 lenses.

Unique Exposure Modes
Expect the right exposures with the settings you want. Unique exposure modes, such as hyper-program, Sv and TAv, offer shooting versatility to instantly change the shutter speed or aperture on the fly.

Image Capture
Advanced 16-segment metering and 11-point AF, with 9 cross sensors, ensure perfectly exposed and focused images, even in the most difficult lighting conditions.

Smallest body size in its category
The PENTAX K20D offers the smallest body size in its category for easy portability.

source: pentaximaging.com

Fujifilm Digital camera

2009-04-10T16:53:00.004+07:00

Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP Press Release

The 10-Megapixel FinePix Z33WP is available in three striking colors - green, pink and black - and is ready for any adventure including underwater activity up to approximately 10 feet (3M)! A 2.7″, 230,000 dots resolution LCD screen - the largest of any Z-series camera yet - and Fujinon 3x Optical Zoom lens allows for a clearer view of those not-to-be-missed moments on the beach, on the ski slopes, hiking in the mountains or boating at the lake. It’s also perfect for everyday activities in the rain, the pool or any other place you might think twice about taking a conventional digital camera.

Intelligent Scene Recognition

Adding ease to outdoor navigation, the FinePix Z33WP is equipped with a new SR Auto (Automatic Scene Recognition) mode that enables the camera to intelligently recognize six types of scenes automatically. For each picture taken in this mode, the Z33WP will optimize the ideal exposure, focus, white balance and ISO for the scene to ensure the best quality picture is captured with ease. In addition, Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization is powered by high sensitivity for faster shutter and operational speeds to help reduce camera shake, keeping real life moments as true to form as possible.

Easy Sharing

The family-friendly Z33WP also features Fujifilm’s handy Blog Mode which allows for easier sharing with friends and family members. The Blog mode automatically resizes a photo to a standard 640×480 pixels (VGA) or 320×240 pixels (QVGA) image size and enables 12 in-camera editing features such as Zooming, Miniature effect, Illustration and Painting, cutting the need for extra time with home editing.

In addition to these innovations, the FinePix Z33WP is loaded with the following handy features:

- Face Detection Technology: Operating in tandem with automatic red-eye removal, the FinePix Z33WP identifies up to 10 human faces in a scene, and sets the correct focus and exposure, regardless of where subjects are located within the frame.

- Automatic Red Eye Removal accents the aforementioned features by lending an extra touch to that group shot. The Z33WP automatically checks for red eye and self-corrects it in each and every person in the photo, saving time on post-editing.

- Couple and Group Timer Modes: Working in conjunction with Face Detection technology, detects two faces in ‘Couple Timer Mode’ and up to four faces in ‘Group Timer Mode’ in a frame.

- One Touch MOVIE Button: Capture VGA quality movie clips at 30 frames per second with sound to capture all of those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

- Battery Life: The long-life rechargeable Li-ion battery (up to 200 shots) allows for extended use without worrying if the camera is going to last for the duration of the trip.

“With the success of the FinePix Z20fd for the Gen Y crowd, it is only a natural progression for Fujifilm to provide active, technology-savvy families with the unparalleled style and function that everyone demands in the 21st century,” said David Troy, marketing manager, Consumer Digital Cameras, Electronic Imaging Division, FUJIFILM U.S.A., Inc. “Today’s users not only want to experience everything life has to offer, but they also want their camera to be able to experience and capture it with them.”

The FinePix Z33WP will debut in late March at a retail price of $199.95.

Fuji Digital Camera

2009-04-09T16:30:00.001+07:00

Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR Review

We have received a preproduction sample right before the official introduction of the Fujifilm F200 EXR. However, due to the non-final status of the model, it is not yet possible to bring you a full Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR review. The new Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR has the Super CCD EXR sensor onboard. Fuji's primary aim with the Super CCD image sensor is to improve the image quality, which depends on a number of things. High quality pictures in badly lit circumstances require a high light sensitivity, while contrast-rich subjects need a large dynamic range and, detailed pictures will obtain the best results with the availability of high resolution. In short, quite a challenge for Fujifilm!

The Fujifilm F200EXR has a housing that feels quite solid and a weight of 175 grams to offer the camera a stable hand-fit. There's no handgrip on the F200EXR and the front is fairly smooth. The flash is positioned next to the shutter release, which presents a risk of accidentally blocking the flash light with a finger. A small edge on the front underneath the flash would perhaps prevent this.

It takes approximately one or two seconds for the 5x zoom lens to take its position after turning the camera on. The large 3” inch monitor offers a clear reproduction, thanks to the soft colors used for the menu. The large screen also provides an excellent wide viewing angle from all sides. The multi-control button allows you to quickly navigate through all the setting possibilities, and the command dial on the back of the camera offers direct access to the main programs of the Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR, among which the EXR.

The EXR program offers access to all of the possibilities offered by the new image sensor. It is possible to use the sensor in various ways, and it allows the photographer to dedicate priorities to it. For instance, if the circumstances are ideal, the highest resolution of 12 Megapixels can be used.

And in case a high ISO setting is required, which should of course not affect the signal/noise ratio, the resolution will be halved and two pixels will be combined to obtain a larger photo diode. This adds positively to the pixel sensitivity without it causing more noticeable noise. Furthermore, a mode is available to obtain the widest dynamic range possible by taking two pictures, each of which will be made with 6 Megapixels of resolution.

When it comes to operation, the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR is straightforward. Despite the camera's popular design, a large amount of possibilities are available. Many automated functions and manual functions for the creative photographer through the P/M modes, at which the M mode offers the possibility to set the shutter speed as well as the aperture manually. The aperture range is slightly restricted and offers just minimum or maximum aperture. In addition, the Fujifilm F200EXR camera offers various preset scenes to obtain the best possible setting.

The Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR even includes some nostalgia. If you are familiar with a 35mm Fujifilm, you can continue this experience with the F200EXR. Specific features such as the Velvia, Provia and Astia are included in the menu, each of which offers the typical image of ancient times.

As for its video functions, Fujifilm have renewed hardly anything; if even anything at all. It's clear that photography is the first priority of the Fujifilm FinePix F200 EXR, also when looking at the video resolution of 640 x 480 pixels.

Fujifililm seems to have bid farewell to the xD Picture card with the introduction of the new FinePix digital camera series. In addition to the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR, two other new FinePix cameras also feature an SD / SDHC card slot offering an optional memory capacity of 32GB at the maximum. Fujifilm makes a statement with this gesture, which is important in these turbulent times for the camera market. Question remains how long Olympus, Fujifilm's former companion of the xD card, will keep supporting this medium type. I can't image they will carry on forever. Unless there are other interests involved.

The new Fuji FinePix F200EXR is a typical compact camera of the Fujifilm brand. Fujifilm continues on the path they have walked on for the last decennium. The corporation continues to focus on image and quality while cameras such as the FinePix F200EXR, in combination with innovative sensor solutions, e.g. the Super CCD EXR, are able to continuously bring the compact camera to a higher level. The final test result will still take a while.

Introduction to Digital Camera Memory

2009-04-07T16:15:00.003+07:00

Digital camera memory is an essential and often overlooked piece of digital photography equipment. There are many types of memory and it's a good idea to consider what type of memory a camera uses before you buy your first digital camera. It's also important to make sure you have enough memory before you take pictures of an important event or leave for vacation. Although memory cards are reusable, they don't have a limitless capacity and it's always good to have more than you actually need.

Most digital cameras come with very low capacity memory cards. If you're shopping for your first digital camera make sure to budget for an additional card. It's a safe bet that the card that comes with your camera is woefully inadequate. And as camera megapixel counts grow, higher capacity memory cards become necessary. I started out with two 64 meg cards and now I have two 1 gigabyte and three 256 megabyte cards.

Most camera manufacturers publish tables on their Web sites to show how many images you can save on their included memory card. There is no fixed rule for the number of photos you can put on one card because different image file types, different amounts of compression, and image content all affect the size of each file. But the manufacturer's site is a good place to start when you decide how much memory you want. As a general rule, I'd recommend at least a 256 megabyte or two 128 megabyte cards if you're buying a 3-5 megapixel compact digital camera. If you want to shoot lots of high resolution TIFF or RAW files, then you'll probably want to look at 512 megabyte and 1 gigabyte cards. It's also a good idea to not save all of your photos on one card. There's always the possibility that cards can get corrupted, lost, or stolen. Using more than one and switching during a shoot protects your valuable photographic data.

Casio Digital Camera

2009-04-05T01:46:00.000+07:00

Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1

Casio Exilim Pro F1 an innovative Megazoom camera
We have to admit that Casio do not lack courage. Courage to be different and to introduce interesting innovations in a time where the competition is severe. Quite rightly do they deserve the receiving of awards from various international organizations such as the DIWA Innovation Award. The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 may be considered a camera that is able to build bridges between a camera and a camcorder, an astounding achievement. The difference with a digital Full HD camcorder is (still) obvious; nevertheless, the Casio F1 should be considered the first product with such a speedy sensor and processor. Hopefully, it is not the last and Casio will be challenged to further develop and improve things.

Image quality of the Casio Exilim Pro EX-F1
This brings us to the marginal comments we have on Casio's innovative product. In addition to the superb performance on speed and video capture, the Casio EXILIM Pro F1 is also used as photo camera. You'd think the 12x optical zoom lens, stabilization technique and 6 Megapixels of image resolution form a strong combination. However, Casio have to work on the quality of the lens and the signal / noise ratio, in our opinion.

Casio Exilim F1 shows chromatic aberration
The tests carried out in our DIWA Lab, and the additional sample pictures taken in practice, show a considerable suffering of chromatic aberration of the lens. This is rather conspicuous while the last generation of 12x zoom lenses shows improvements. Casio really dropped some stitches here and this should not be the case considering the substantial price tag dangling from this camera. The image resolution of 6 Megapixels raises hopes for the quality of the pixel. Or at least the expectations are higher than is the case with its congener equipped with 12-20x optical zoom lens and a resolution of at least 10 Megapixels. This makes it rather disappointing to find out that the signal / noise ratio is showing visible noise at a value of ISO 400. Even ISO 200 has difficulties keeping its channels clean. That's why we decide to leave ISO values higher than 400 for what they are. A real disappointment!

Casio Exilim F1 offers many setting possibilities
The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is obviously a Megazoom camera with potential. The many setting possibilities, the large optical range including the remarkable speed and video performances should in theory guarantee a powerful combination that successfully claims a new segment. It is sad having to conclude that part of this powerful combination delivers a no more than average performance, and that only the innovation as such stands strongly; High-Speed shooting and Full HD recording.

Casio Exilim F1 unique for High Speed photo- / video photography
Casio are true pioneers; constantly breaking new ground. The Casio EXILIM Pro EX-F1 is the first model equipped with a 60fps specification and Full HD mode. Presuming there is work being done to a higher resolution sensor with at least the same capacities, and hoping for the necessary improvements to the signal / noise ratios and the performance of the lens; we can only anxiously look forward to the next generation. It may be clear; if you’ve always wanted to shoot and film on High-Speed, you will have a unique and innovative product at your disposal with specifications that have become affordable. If we remove these unique specifications, what's left is an (expensive) Megazoom camera performing averagely.

Canon Powershot Digital Cameras

2009-04-04T01:33:00.000+07:00

Canon PowerShot S400 Digital ELPH Camera

Ask a photographer, either professional or amateur, to name the a couple of camera manufacturers and chances are one would be Canon. In the digital arena, Canon's continued their history of innovation, with a broad line of products ranging from entry-level models all the way to no-holds-barred digital SLRs for professional photographers. In the consumer arena, their products are distinguished by superb design, sharp lenses, and excellent color.

In both the film and digital worlds, Canon is known for their high-style, diminutive "ELPH" cameras. Long a popular APS film camera design, Canon brought the ELPH size and styling to the digital world with the original S100. The S400 launches the fourth generation of the design, with a larger, 4.0-megapixel CCD. Other improvements include a Center-Weighted metering mode option, faster maximum shutter speed (1/2,000 second), and improved macro capabilities. Add an improved user interface, easy point-and-shoot operation, a sharp lens, and great image quality, and the S400 is sure to please a host of consumers. Read on for all the details, this one looks like another winner from Canon.

Camera Overview

The latest in Canon's digital ELPH series, the S400 continues the line's tiny dimensions and stylish looks. Portable and quick on the draw (thanks to its smooth retractable lens design), the S400 offers point-and-shoot control with a handful of extra exposure features. Its flat front panel (with lens retracted) makes the camera pocket friendly, while the aluminum body panels keep it rugged yet lightweight. Equipped with a 4.0-megapixel CCD and a sharp lens, the S400 captures high quality images, suitable for printing photos as large as 8x10 inches with nice detail, even with some cropping. Smaller resolutions are also available for email transmission, and a movie mode captures short videos with sound.

The S400 features a 3x, 7.4-22.2mm glass zoom lens, equivalent to a 36-108mm zoom on a 35mm camera. Aperture is automatically controlled, but the maximum setting ranges from f/2.8 at full wide angle to f/4.9 at full telephoto. A maximum 3.6x digital zoom option increases the S400's zoom capabilities to 11x, but keep in mind that digital zoom decreases the overall image quality in direct proportion to the magnification achieved, as it simply crops out and enlarges the center pixels of the CCD image. Image noise is likely to be more prominent with digital zoom, and details softer. Focus ranges from 1.5 feet (46 centimeters) to infinity in normal AF mode, and from 2.0 inches to 1.5 feet (5 to 46 centimeters) in Macro mode. An Infinity fixed-focus mode is also available. The S400 uses Canon's sophisticated, nine-point AiAF (Artificial Intelligence Autofocus) system to determine focus, which examines a broad active area in the center of the image to calculate the focal distance. Also built into the S400 is a bright AF assist light, which aids the focus mechanism in low lighting. For composing images, the S400 has a real-image optical viewfinder, as well as a 1.5-inch color LCD monitor. (In my testing, the S400's optical viewfinder was rather tight, but the LCD monitor showed almost exactly 100% of the final image area.) The LCD reports a fair amount of camera information, but excludes exposure information such as aperture and shutter speed. In Playback mode, a histogram display reports the tonal distribution of a captured image, useful in determining any over and underexposure.

Like the rest of the ELPH line, exposure control is automatic. The S400 does provide some manual adjustments, however, as well as a range of exposure modes for specific shooting situations. The Mode dial on the rear panel controls the main operating mode, offering Auto, Manual, Stitch-Assist, and Movie modes. A Mode switch on the back panel offers Record and Playback settings. Shutter speeds range from 1/2,000 to 15 seconds, with the 1.3- to 15-second end of the range only available in Long Shutter mode (which also automatically invokes a Noise Reduction system to reduce image noise in longer exposures). In straight Auto mode, the camera essentially controls everything about the exposure except for file size, flash, etc. Manual mode provides more hands-on control, with White Balance, Exposure Compensation, ISO, and a host of creative effects. Camera operation is straightforward and simple, as you literally just point and shoot most of the time. Pressing the Shutter button halfway sets focus and exposure, and the small LEDs next to the optical viewfinder let you know when the camera is ready to take the picture.

The S400 uses an Evaluative metering system, which means that the camera divides the image area into zones and evaluates contrast and brightness across the entire image to determine the best overall exposure. A Spot metering option ties the exposure to the very center of the frame, and is useful for off-center or high contrast subjects, as you can shift the metering region to pinpoint the exact area of the frame to base the exposure on. There's also a Center-Weighted metering option, which bases the exposure on a large area in the center of the frame. Exposure Compensation brightens or darkens the overall exposure from -2 to +2 exposure equivalents (EV) in one-third step increments. A White Balance option offers Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, and Custom (manual) settings. The S400 also offers a creative Photo Effects menu, which adjusts sharpening, color, and saturation. Sensitivity equivalents include 50, 100, 200, and 400 ISO settings, as well as an Auto adjustment. The S400's built-in flash operates in Auto, Forced On, Suppressed, Red-Eye Reduction, and Slow-Synchro modes. You can also lock the flash exposure in a similar manner to locking normal exposure. Pressing the Shutter button halfway and keeping it pressed initiates the exposure lock, signaled by two beeps. Pressing the metering-pattern button (the up-arrow button) while you're still holding down the shutter button fires the flash, locking the flash exposure as well. When this is done, an "FEL" icon appears in the LCD monitor until the Shutter button is released or fully pressed.

A two- or 10-second self-timer option counts down by flashing a small LED on the front of the camera before firing the shutter, giving you time to duck around the camera and get into the shot. Stitch-Assist mode is the S400's panoramic shooting mode, which lets you shoot as many as 26 consecutive images with the same exposure and white balance. The series of images can then be "stitched" together into one panoramic frame with the accompanying software. The S400 also has a Movie Record mode, which records moving images with sound for up to three minutes per clip, depending on the resolution setting and amount of memory card space. (Movies are recorded at either 320 x 240, or 160 x 120 pixels.) Finally, a Continuous Shooting mode captures a series of consecutive images (much like a motor drive on a traditional camera), at approximately 1.5 frames per second, for as long as the Shutter button is held down. The actual frame rate will vary with the resolution setting, and the total number of images will depend on the amount of memory card space and file size. Through the Record menu, a High Speed Continuous Shooting mode is also available, capturing images as fast as 2.5 frames per second. (See my "picky details" page for detailed timing of these modes, along with information on buffer-memory capacity, etc.)

The My Camera settings menu lets you customize camera settings to a specific theme. Everything from the startup image to operating sounds can be assigned to a theme, either one of the preprogrammed themes or one downloaded via the host software. The S400 also lets you record short sound clips to accompany captured images, via the Sound Memo option, great for lively captions to vacation photos or party shots.

The S400 stores images to CompactFlash Type I memory cards. A 32MB card accompanies the camera, but I strongly recommend picking up a larger capacity card so you won't limit your shooting due to insufficient card space (CompactFlash cards are available as large as one gigabyte). The camera uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack for power, which accompanies the camera, along with the necessary battery charger. Because the S400 does not accommodate AA-type or other readily available batteries, I advise picking up an additional battery pack and keeping it freshly charged. The optional AC adapter is useful for preserving battery power when reviewing and downloading images, and actually has a "dummy" battery that inserts into the camera's battery compartment to couple the power adapter to the power contacts. (Most users would find a second rechargeable battery more useful though, at least in my opinion.) A USB cable and interface software are also packaged with the camera, for downloading images to a computer and performing minor organization and corrections. Two software CDs provide the necessary drivers and editing software, both compatible with Windows and Macintosh platforms, but no added driver software is required with Windows XP or Macintosh OS X. One CD holds Canon's Digital Camera Solution Disk version 12.0 and the other features ArcSoft's Camera Suite version 1.2. Finally, an A/V cable connects the S400 to a television set, for reviewing and composing images. The S400 is DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) compatible, with detailed print settings in the Playback menu. Canon offers a selection of direct-connect printers as well, which simplify printing even more. (Read my review of Canon's excellent little CP-100 photo printer for an example of one of these.)

Basic Features

* 4.0-megapixel CCD.
* Real-image optical viewfinder.
* 1.5-inch color TFT LCD monitor.
* Glass, 3x, 7.4-22.2mm lens, equivalent to a 36-108mm lens on a 35mm camera.
* Maximum 3.6x digital zoom.
* Automatic exposure control, with Long Shutter mode for longer exposures.
* Shutter speeds from 1/2,000 to 15 seconds.
* Maximum aperture f/2.8 to f/4.9, depending on lens zoom position.
* Built-in flash with five modes.
* CompactFlash Type I memory card storage, 32MB card included.
* Power supplied by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack (charger included) or optional AC adapter.
* ArcSoft Camera Suite 1.2, Canon Digital Camera software, and USB drivers included for both Windows and Mac platforms.

Special Features

* Movie mode with sound.
* Standard and High Speed Continuous Shooting modes.
* Stitch-Assist panorama mode.
* Infinity and Macro focus modes.
* Customizable "My Camera" settings.
* Two- or 10-second Self-Timer for delayed shutter release.
* Sound Memo option for recording captions.
* Spot, Center-Weighted, and Evaluative exposure metering.
* White balance (color) adjustment with seven modes, including a Custom setting.
* Photo Effect menu for color adjustment.
* Adjustable ISO setting.
* DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) compatibility.
* USB cable for connection to a computer (driver software included).
* A/V cable for connection to a television set.

Recommendation

Canon's "Digital ELPH" cameras have proven popular with consumers, thanks to their tiny size and reputation for quality, both in construction and in the images they deliver. The PowerShot S400 Digital ELPH updates and extends the line with a 4.0-megapixel CCD for higher resolution images. The increased resolution lets you print images as large as 8x10 inches with good detail, even with some cropping, and lower resolution settings are good for printing snapshots or sending to family and friends via email. Although exposure control is mainly automatic, the availability of exposures up to 15 seconds, adjustable ISO, and flexible white balance and color saturation options increases the camera's exposure versatility. The uncomplicated user interface is comfortable for novices and more advanced users alike, with simple operation for the novices, and enough variable exposure control to keep the advanced folks happy. All in all, an excellent "all around" digicam that just happens to live inside a super-compact case.

Design

Practically identical to the PowerShot S300 and S330 before it, the S400 maintains the small dimensions that made the ELPH line so popular. The compact size is perfect for quickly stashing in a pocket or purse without worrying damaging delicate camera mechanisms. The retracting lens is a smart design that keeps the front of the case completely flat when the camera is off, underscoring the camera's pocket friendly design, while an automatic lens cover means you don't have to worry about smudging the lens or losing the lens cap. Measuring 3.4 x 2.2 x 1.1 inches (87 x 57 x 28 millimeters), the S400 is actually a hair smaller than the S330 model. The camera weighs a mere 7.96 ounces (226 grams) with battery and memory card.

source:imaging-resource.com

Camera Minolta

2009-04-03T01:20:00.000+07:00

The meteoric rise of the electronic, super-compact SLRs such as the Olympus OM-2n, Pentax ME forced many camera manufacturers into a game of catch-up. But Minolta chose to set its own standards with the XD-7/11. Among other innovations, the XD-7/11 settled the debate over aperture-preferred vs. shutter-speed-preferred automation because it was a both - it gives you a choice between either mode.

The universal XD-7 shares essentially the same configuration with the XD-11, which is a US designed model. Although competition was keen from the later Canon A-1, Nikon FE, Olympus OM2n or even from Fuji with their Fujica AX-5 but it was the Minolta XD-7 that has kicked started the full and sophisticated automation in camera design in 1976.

The chapters followed here are to help someone that are hungry for such information to have a basic knowledge of this very much under-rated camera produced by Minolta, Japan - the company that brought you many fine cameras like the XK-1, the X-700 and the revolutionary Maxmum class AF cameras in the eighties and eye-start AF in the Dynax series cameras.

But since the older Rokkor MC/MD lenses are not compatible anymore with the new autofocus Maxxum or Dynax class AF bodies. Your possible investment could lack a migration path should there is a necessity to upgrade into an Minolta's autofocus camera in the future. Anyway, this is a extremely well made SLR camera, if your primarily interest is not on autofocus or modern fancy metering, this can be a very attractive used entry camera model to be seriously take into consideration. Of cause, other than compatibility issues with the new AF mount design, the biggest advantage for such older series of manual focus Minolta cameras is because it is more economical if you have a tight waist belt to spend. This could have answered most photographic request if you got hooked or getting a little serious about photography later. In the used market, the is a great pool of cheap, used lenses, accessories for you to look into.

source:mir.com.my

2009-04-02T01:17:00.002+07:00

The Best Camera Brand Rants, Ramblings, and Opinions

by Chris Campbell

Looking for the best camera brand that offers you everything in terms of photo quality, high ISO with low noise, great lenses, popular and the best cameras overall?

In this article I'll try comparing some brands that I tested at one time or another or simply would've loved to buy. I'll talk a bit about Leica/Minolta, Pentax, Olympus, Sony, Fuji, Leica/Panasonic, Minolta.

Quality of the photos. Great lenses are produced by a lot of manufacturers, including Leica/Minolta, Practika, Contax, Leica, Fuji, Pentax, Leica/Minolta, Yashica, Zeiss, Leica/Panasonic, Pentacon, Olympus and Exakta. I've tried a number of different lenses from these manufacturers and photos have been great each time. When I wanted something that had ground glass screen I chose a 55mm Zenit lens and I paid less for it than I did for a MF SLR lens (which I used only for a few photos).

If we're talking about high ISO with low noise, this isn't an area where I'm comfortable talking.

If you want to know which one has the best lenses, check the photo quality that I wrote about above.

If you're looking for the manufacturer with the biggest market share, look around the Internet and you will probably find this data.

Best camera brand overall. Now, there isn't an easy way to differentiate here. They can be the best in size, photo quality and in many other factors, but the overall best depends on what the customer needs. One example would be my Leica digital camera, which could be the best point and shoot camera if its size was a bit smaller. This is true for many other point and shoot cameras, which would be the best if one of their features was better, like having manual controls, smaller CCD's and many others. When you talk about the best camera, it's more like choosing one that will do everything you need in 9 out of 10 cases. Other than that, you can choose an Olympus DSLR and spend a lot of money on lenses, and the end result would be a great camera.

This article might confuse you even more, but this is the ultimate truth. If you want the manufacturer that offers the most innovation in their products, then you should go with Panasonic/Leica or Olympus, which is close behind. So if you want to buy a digital camera from the best camera brand, you should look at either Leica/Panasonic or Olympus and don't choose something less. If you want the best, look at only these two major brands.

Getting the perfect camera brand, is never an easy thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the camera with all the features important to you

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Campbell

Bag Camera

2009-04-01T01:58:00.000+07:00

Camera Bags

by Philip Greenspun

The great thing about camera bags is that no matter how much you spend, you will never be at peace with one camera bag. It will always be too big, too small, not padded enough to check through, not slim enough to carry on, ... . You may be sure only of the following:

* you will eventually have a closet full of camera bags
* you will never regret having spent big bucks for quality

Ideal Shopping Procedure

The best way to shop for a camera bag is to gather up all of the gear that you think you'll be likely to use on a typical project and walk into a well-stocked camera store. Budget at least an hour to find the bag that best fits the gear collection.
The holster

A holster-style bag is sized precisely for one camera body attached to a particular lens. The ThinkTank web site is a good illustration of the possibilities. Tamrac is an alternative high quality supplier and publishes a useful fit chart. The holster is not used in between photographs; the camera needs to be kept out and ready. The holster is used to protect the camera/lens between projects and when the camera/lens is tossed into a standard backpack or duffel bag.
The small bag

A small bag holds a camera body, three lenses, and maybe a flash. Typically these are rectangular bags with a shoulder strap. Perhaps the classic example is Domke, the perennial favorite of photojournalists. I find this kind of bag good for leaving under a table at a wedding reception, but not great for access to gear while I'm in motion.

A minor improvement on the standard design is the addition of a waist belt that can be tucked back away when not in use. The waist belt, pioneered with the venerable Tamrac 709, stabilizes the bag on a long walk.

Some designs worth investigation:

* LowePro, especially the AW versions that are rain-proof
* ThinkTank Urban Disguise (shoulder bags) and Change Up (waist belt, backpack straps, chest harness); the ThinkTank bags include an integrated rain cover that can be spread over the bag

Photo.net reviews of small bags:

* Lowepro Photo Runner
* Lowepro Off Road
* Lowepro Slingshot 300 AW
* Lowepro Compudaypack
* Bags for small Rangefinder or DSLR cameras (Crumpler, Lowepro, Domke, Mclassics, & Billingham)

Once a shoulder bag becomes large enough to hold enough equipment to cover a wedding or an entire medium format system, it becomes awkward to carry and difficult to dig through. Consider a backpack. The best big camera bags that the author has used is the LowePro SuperTrekker AW backpack.

The SuperTrekker is a big frameless backpack divided up with foam. It has only one level so you don't have to figure out what goes on top of what, as with big shoulder bags. I've stuffed this one bag with two Canon EOS bodies, five EOS lenses (including a big telephoto L zoom), plus a Fuji 617 monster, lots of accessories, a tripod and film (it was that long ago!). The bag was not quite full. You can configure the case to hold a 600/4, a 300/2.8, a folding view camera, or maybe even all three.

Back before I got old/wise enough to hire assistants, I found the SuperTrekker very comfortable to wear and it had thoughtful and clever design features that took years to appreciate fully. The SuperTrekker can be a little tight for putting in an airline overhead bin, though a couple of times I checked it with no ill results.

The tripod case on the back is worth mentioning. It separates from the backpack if you wish to carry it separately, is big enough for a Manfrotto/Bogen 3021 and ballhead, and is well padded with foam.

If you are caught in the rain with the bag, unfurl the built-in rain fly.
The photo backpack

The SuperTrekker is too big and heavy to carry while taking pictures and, even if you force an assistant to wear it, getting lenses out while the backpack is in a vertical position is not easy. LowePro makes some smaller backpacks that are worth investigating. The Rotation 360 from ThinkTank is perhaps the most interesting idea in photo backpacks. The lower part of the pack can be swiveled around to your front temporarily. It opens at the top so that you can conveniently change lenses while standing and wearing the rest of the pack on your back.

source:photo.net

Samsung Digital Camera

2009-03-31T01:32:00.000+07:00

Samsung NX Series

The new Samsung NX Series takes the hybrid cameras (read: no mirror box) to a new level. This is something that we’ve seen coming for a while. The new NX series will feature the larger, APS-C sensors which are prominent in consumer-grade DSLRs. However, the NX series loses the mirror box and offers an electronic viewfinder, much like the Olympus E-series cameras.

Note, however, that APS-C sensors, presumably the same as the 1.5x crop sensors in current Samsung DSLRs, are larger than the 2x crop sensors in Olympus cameras. Samsung has been aiming high for the past couple years, but has yet to wow us with a killer product. Samsung is now banking on these hybrid cameras to put its stamp on the industry. Details are slim at this point; however, I will be stopping by Samsung’s booth at PMA 2009 tomorrow to try and get more info.

PRESS RELEASE

SEOUL, KOREA - March 2, 2009 - Samsung Digital Imaging Co., Ltd. used PMA 2009 as the global launching pad for the NX Series, the company’s revolutionary new family of hybrid digital cameras. A new concept digital camera, the NX Series offers the performance and image quality of a DSLR and the portability and convenience of a compact point-and-shoot. With the NX Series, Samsung will become a global leader in the new hybrid market.

Samsung’s new NX Series bridges the gap between a DSLR and compact point-and-shoot digital camera by combining the benefits of both in one new model. Like conventional DSLRs, the NX Series utilizes an APS‑C sized image sensor providing a much larger surface area to gather light and produce higher-quality images than comparable digital camera systems. Unlike a DSLR, the NX Series does not feature a mirror box and employs an ultra-precise Electronic Viewfinder (EVF). The use of an EVF has allowed Samsung engineers to significantly reduce the size and weight of the new camera system by decreasing the distance between the lens and image sensor (flange back) by approximately 60% compared to traditional DSLRs. In addition to utilizing the EVF, consumers can also take advantage of the camera’s Live View functionality to frame their shots on the NX Series’ high‑resolution screen.

Samsung has recently intensified its focus on the digital imaging market and established a separate company dedicated exclusively to digital imaging in Samsung Digital Imaging Company. The new company was formed to focus on the development of its digital still cameras around world’s first and best in class features, design, and easy-to-use interfaces, and will work towards achieving the company’s stated goal of becoming the world’s leading digital imaging company.

“We estimate that the hybrid digital camera market will be over 20% of the global digital still camera market by 2012,” said Sang-jin Park, CEO of Samsung Digital Imaging Company. “With the release of the NX Series, a digital camera that combines the strengths of a DSLR and compact digital camera, Samsung Digital Imaging will become a global leader in the new hybrid digital camera market and achieve the company’s goal to become the global leader in the digital camera market by 2012.”

Samsung Digital Imaging Company also creates a much more efficient vertical alignment between related Samsung affiliate business units including semiconductor, LCD panel and consumer electronics. This new vertical alignment will create competitive advantages for Samsung by fostering greater collaboration between Samsung affiliate business units and allowing the company to develop and deliver highly-innovative digital imaging products that set the standard for the industry, including the newly unveiled NX Series.

The first model of NX Series will be available in the second-half of 2009.

source:photographybay.com

Olympus Cameras

2009-03-30T01:12:00.000+07:00

Olympus Stylus Tough-8000 Camera Review

The Olympus Stylus Tough-8000 looks like a tank – especially with its stainless-steel case (appropriately enough, black and blue bodies are also available). The camera looks strong, with metal edges and screws that look like bolts scattered on the front, and feel just as sturdy thanks to some nice heft. It camera measures 3.7 x 2.4 x .85 (W x H x D, in inches), and weighs 7.4 ounces with battery and card in place.

The lens, which is a nice wide-angle 3.6x zoom rated 28-102mm, does not extend from the body when you power up. A metal lens cover slides up or down so the camera can confront the elements. And, boy, can it do just that. The Tough-8000 can handle a drop of 6.6 feet, go 33 feet underwater, withstand 220 pounds of pressure, and operate down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (more on these in the performance section). Also on the front is the flash, an LED illuminator for focus, and a two-pinhole microphone. The logos and nomenclature were very subdued in our stainless version. It looks rugged and definitely stands apart from the competition. Just have a cloth handy, since fingerprints really stand out.

On the top you’ll find the shutter, a power button, and an underwater sensor, which will tell you how deep or high you are when engaged. On the right side is a compartment with a sturdy lock for the multi-use connector (for charging the battery, watching images on a TV or transferring photos and videos to a PC). Below it is a small speaker.

The back also has a rugged look, with sturdy metal keys and a quality 2.7-inch LCD screen rated 230K pixels. The monitor worked well in a variety of lighting situations, including direct sunshine. The controls are similar to those found on almost every point-and-shoot digicam. On the top right are the wide/tele keys and below them is a mode dial. In keeping with a big trend for 2009, there’s an intelligent auto option, where the camera decides the proper settings for the subject it believes is in front of it (sports, portrait, landscape and so on). Strangely, the camera icon, which typically means auto, is actually P for program automatic exposure. Here you can change the ISO, white balance and shadow adjustment; in iAuto, you can’t adjust anything, it’s totally aim-and-forget. You cannot change shutter speed or aperture in any setting, so if you’re looking for these controls pass this one by. Other dial options include SCN for scene modes, which include several for underwater shots, movies (only 640 x 480 at 30 fps), playback and beauty. This is a strange one: The camera picks a face, and smoothes that countenance, creating a 2MP still. Forgive us but something got lost with this one in translation during the trip from Japan to the States.

Below the mode dial is the classic four-way controller with center set button. We don’t know why Olympus duplicated playback here as well, but there’s delete, menu and display (no grid lines, unfortunately). On the bottom of the made-in-China camera is a tripod mount and a compartment for the battery and xD picture card slot.

Along with these controls, the camera also features something called tap control, which allows users to touch parts of the 8000 to engage select commands. It’s nothing like an iPhone touch-screen (more in the performance section).

The Tough-8000 comes with everything you need other than the memory card – body, battery, wrist strap, A/V and USB cable plus an AC adaptor for recharging the battery in-camera. You also get an 86-page printed owner’s manual and Olympus Master 2 software for handling files on CD-ROM along with a microSD card adaptor if you want to use that media instead of xD.

Once the battery was charged and date set, it was time to give the Tough-8000 some punishment – within the limits of our geography.

source:i4u.digitaltrends.com

Fujifilm Camera

2009-03-29T01:42:00.000+07:00

Fujifilm FinePix S100FS Review

Review based on a production Fujifilm FinePix S100FS

For many years, consumers wanting more control and range than a compact but lower weight and cost than a DSLR have been able to buy 'bridge' cameras, which look a lot like DSLRs but do away with the bulky, expensive mirror assembly that defines an SLR. They have traditionally had smaller sensors which allow long zoom lenses to be created in a relatively smaller space.

However, in recent years, more manufacturers have started to compete at the bottom end of the DSLR market with slimmed-down offerings at ever-more aggressive prices. This has left the bridge camera in a tight spot - why buy a DSLR-like camera if you can nab the real thing for around the same money? Until recently, it appeared to be a question with no answer: most bridge cameras shrank from the challenge and began to look and feel more like compacts with an absurd zoom on the front. Fujifilm's fully-featured S9100, launched back in August 2006 disappeared from the market without any sign of a replacement.

Until the announcement of the Fujifilm S100FS, that is. And it's an interesting package: one of the largest sensors we've seen in a non-DSLR for many years, a lens covering a 14.3x zoom range (that, importantly, starts at a usefully wide-angle 28mm equivalent), and the eighth generation of Fujifilm's Super CCD sensor technology. There's some photography-related features that have been added too, such as presets designed to mimic the behavior of specific Fuji films and a dynamic range expansion mode.
Headline features

* 14.3X optical zoom (28-400mm equivalent)
* 2/3" sensor with 11.1 million effective pixels
* Eighth generation Super CCD HR sensor
* 2.5" tiltable LCD screen
* Film simulation modes (imitate the behavior of Fuji films)
* Dynamic range expansion mode
* Exposure, dynamic range and film simulation bracketing

Fuji Camera

2009-03-28T01:07:00.000+07:00

Fujifilm FinePix F60fd Overview

by Andrew Alexander and Mike Tomkins

The Fujifilm FinePix F60fd is based around a seventh generation 1/1.6-inch Super CCD HR image sensor with twelve megapixel resolution coupled to a Fujinon-branded 3x optical zoom lens that offers a range from a rather tight 35mm wide angle to a 105mm telephoto. The image sensor is mounted on a movable platter, allowing for sensor-shift type image stabilization. ISO sensitivity ranges up to a maximum of ISO 1,600 equivalent at full resolution (3,200 at a reduced five megapixel resolution, or 6,400 at three megapixels or below). The Fuji FinePix F60fd's rear panel offers no optical viewfinder, instead opting solely for a large 3-inch LCD display with 230,000 dots of resolution.

Following in the footsteps of the past F50fd model, the Fujifilm F60fd features face detection as its "fd" designation might imply. The Fuji F60fd has a third-generation implementation of this feature, capable of detecting up to ten faces in a scene in just 0.036 seconds. The angle at which the camera can detect a face has been further improved, with the company stating that the F60fd can now handle faces even at a 90 degree side profile, and even when the face is turned on its side or completely upside down. The face detection system is linked to both the autofocus and autoexposure systems, and to post-exposure red-eye removal.

The Fujifilm F60fd offers a new Scene Recognition Auto mode which is capable of automatically detecting one of four different scene types, and then selecting the scene mode as appropriate: Portrait, Landscape, Macro, or Night. Focusing modes in the Fuji F60fd include both Multi or Center as well as the aforementioned Face Detection. Shutter speeds range from 8 seconds to 1/2,000 second, and apertures from f/2.8 at wide angle or a rather dim f/5.1 at telephoto to f/8.0 when stopped down.

Perhaps unusually for a compact camera these days, the Fujifilm F60fd offers a fair range of manual controls, including the ability to shoot in aperture or shutter-priority modes, as well as manual control of white balance and ISO sensitivity. Thirteen scene modes give some control over the look of images without the need to understand shutter speeds, apertures and the like, and a high-speed burst shooting mode offers five frames per second for up to twelve frames, the tradeoff being that this is achieved at a reduced three-megapixel resolution. The Fuji F60fd is also capable of recording VGA or QVGA videos with sound, using the QuickTime Motion JPEG format.

The Fujifilm FinePix F60fd stores its images on SD or SDHC cards, xD-Picture Cards, or in 25MB of built-in memory, and draws power from an NP-50 lithium-ion rechargeable battery. Available from September 2008 with pricing of about $300, the Fuji FinePix F60fd comes in silver and black body colors.

source:imaging-resource.com

Digital Camera Lenses

2009-03-27T01:35:00.000+07:00

There are several types of digital camera lenses and terminology associated with them. The focal lengths of lenses are described in terms of 35mm equivalent.

Fixed focal length lens
The camera lens does not change at all. With a fixed focal lens the only way you can get a close up is to move closer to your subject. But don’t get too close ot your subject’s features are likely to become distorted.

Types of zoom Lenses
Just because your camera is digital doesn’t mean your zoom lens should be!

Optical zoom lens
An optical zoom is a true zoom. Its focal length changes and the zoom mechanism itself extends and retracts so an image is magnified by the lens itself. An optical zoom produces the best quality images.

Digital zoom lens
A digital zoom is not a true zoom. It is a simulated zoom that enlarges the central portion of an image in the camera. The actual length of the lens does not change. Digital zoom produce images with reduced visual quality.
Interchangeable and converter lenses

Single Lens Reflex digital (dSLR) cameras accept a wide range of interchangeable lenses. Some lenses used with a 35mm film SLR may be compatible with the same brand dSLR, though features such as auto-focus may not work if the lens in old. You can get decent consumer level lenses for reasonable prices, however high quality professional lens can cost $1000 or more.

Add-on converter lenses are available for many compact digital cameras. Converter lens are relatively inexpensive and extend the flexibility and capability of a built-in lens.

source:digicamhelp.com

2009-03-26T01:26:00.000+07:00

Casio EXILIM CARD EX-S10

Promoted as the world's smallest and thinnest 10 megapixel digital camera, the Casio S10 has a 3x optical zoom lens with a 36 to 108mm equivalent focal length coupled to a 1/2.3 inch CCD. The S10's stylish body, measuring just 94.2mm wide, 54.6mm high and 15.0mm thin (13.8mm at the thinnest part) is the product of Casio's relentless pursuit of thinness.

The S10 incorporates Casio's newly developed 2.7-inch Super Clear LCD. This displays extremely sharp and vivid images, thanks to its high contrast ratio and its 230,160 dot high resolution. According to the company, the S10's display can be viewed easily from above, below, left or right thanks to its wide viewing angle, and it is extremely bright, making it easy to see even in daylight.

The Casio EX-S10's Auto Shutter function automatically records the moment of a smile or the instant when hand shake ceases, using motion blur detection technology. The camera also offers iTunes-compatible H.264 video which utilizes the AAC audio codec widely enjoyed in Apple's iPod, etc., and it's possible to record movies in an appealing wide format. The S10 also features a Movie Button which makes movie recording easy. Images are stored on SD, SDHC, or MMC cards, plus 11.8MB of built-in memory, and the S10 derives its power from a custom lithium-ion battery pack.

The Casio EXILIM Card EX-S10 digital camera lists at U.S.$249.99, ships February 2008, and comes in four colors -- red, blue, silver, and black.

source:imaging-resource.com

Canon G9

2009-03-25T01:16:00.000+07:00

RAW power – Canon raises the bar with PowerShot G9

Canon in 2007 has launched its new flagship compact for advanced photographers – the 12.1 Megapixel PowerShot G9. The successor to the PowerShot G7 – recently named EISA European Advanced Compact Camera 2007-2008 – the PowerShot G9 incorporates improvements driven by market feedback with a range of user-oriented enhancements, including RAW image capture* and a redesigned grip and thumb rest for improved handling. Other advancements include a high resolution 3.0” PureColor LCD II, enhanced Face Detection Technology and Red-Eye Correction in playback². A wide range of accessories – including optional lenses and Speedlite flash units – now also features Canon’s Speedlite ST-E2 wireless flash transmitter.

“A combination of advanced features, precision Canon optics and user-centric design made the PowerShot G7 our most successful G-series camera yet,” explained Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging, Europe. “By incorporating user requests and adding further enhancements, our engineers have made a great camera even better.”

The PowerShot G9 features:

* 12.1 Megapixels (1/1.7” sensor) with RAW mode for maximum image control
* 6x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer and SR coating*
* DIGIC III and iSAPS for lightning fast response, superb image quality and advanced Noise Reduction*
* Face Detection AF/AE/FE and Red-Eye Correction in playback
* 3.0” high-resolution, PureColor LCD II with extra wide viewing angle
* ISO 1600 and Auto ISO Shift
* Compact body with dedicated ISO and Multi Control dials
* 25 shooting modes including full manual control and 2 custom settings
* Extra telephoto reach with Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom*
* Hot shoe support for Canon Speedlite flashes and optional lens accessories

Total image control

With an enlarged 12.1 Megapixel (1/1.7”) sensor, the PowerShot G9 gives photographers the flexibility to crop images and produce high quality prints up to A2 size. The addition of RAW image recording and simultaneous RAW+JPEG recording offers advanced users complete control over image processing. The supplied ZoomBrowser software includes RAW Image Task for fine adjustment of settings such as exposure compensation, white balance, tonal curve and colour temperature. RAW images can then be converted into either JPEG or TIFF format.

Canon precision optics for ultimate clarity

Exceptional optical performance is assured by the fast f/2.8 (W) – f/4.8 (T) Canon 6x optical zoom lens (35-210mm focal length, 35mm equivalent), which includes a double-sided aspherical lens element to counteract lens distortions. The addition of SR coating significantly reduces ghosting and chromatic aberration, while Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer technology counteracts the effects of camera shake. The risk of image blur is further reduced by ISO Shift, which allows an instant ISO boost whenever camera shake threatens to affect image quality. Benefiting from the large pixel count, Safety Zoom allows extra digital zoom with no interpolation – images can be captured at up to 15x zoom with enough resolution for lab-quality postcard (10 x 15cm) prints. Digital Tele-Converter adds extra telephoto reach to every shot (1.5x or 2.0x), without any reduction in aperture.

Improved Face Detection and Red-Eye Correction

The PowerShot G9 offers high speed operation and accurate image rendering through Canon’s DIGIC III processor, which also powers Face Detection Technology. In addition to focus and exposure control, Face Detection Technology has been improved on the PowerShot G9 to adjust for flash exposure – particularly helpful when using the flash close to a subject. A new Face Select and Track function enables the user to manually select and track an individual face from up to 35 faces detected in frame. Photographers will also benefit from Red-Eye Correction in playback, allowing in-camera removal of red-eye from captured images.

Designed for photographers

Built for photo-enthusiasts, the PowerShot G9 provides external controls that include a dedicated ISO dial, multi-control dial and customisable shortcut button. The analogue-inspired design of the PowerShot G9 has been updated on this model with a textured coating and a black alumite lens ring. A larger grip and pronounced thumb rest ensure secure and comfortable handling. On the back of the camera, a 3.0” PureColor LCD II offers several benefits. With 230,000 pixels resolution, the high contrast screen provides vastly improved colour reproduction and better visibility at wider angles of view. An anti-reflective coating helps in sunny conditions, while a protective layer guards against knocks and scrapes. The PowerShot G9 retains its optical viewfinder for extra framing flexibility.

Creativity unlimited

Advanced photographers will benefit from a selection of 25 shooting modes that includes full Manual, Av and Tv, along with two custom modes for user-defined settings. Shooting modes are complemented by a variety of features that assist creative shooting. Safety MF performs fine adjustments to aid manual focusing, while Safety FE reduces the risk of blown highlights when using the flash. Photographers can now choose a smaller AF frame size for finer focusing control – particularly helpful when using the camera’s 1cm Macro mode. Other useful features include an in-built ND (Neutral Density) filter, AEB (auto exposure bracketing), focus bracketing and a live histogram display. A new Image Resize function lets users downsize full-resolution images to 1600x1200, 640x480 and 320x240 sizes. This is equally useful for conserving storage space or preparing images for email or the Web.

Powerful movie functions

The photographic features of the PowerShot G9 are matched by a powerful array of movie capabilities. In addition to VGA (30fps) and high resolution XGA (15fps) movie recording, the PowerShot G9 introduces LP (Long Play) mode. This mode offers movies of half the file size without compromising on resolution or frame rate. The new Time Lapse Movie function allows the extended capture of changing scenes – such as a blooming flower, or bustling city streets - for accelerated playback as smooth VGA-quality movie clips.

No boundaries: Speedlite flash units and system accessories

With hot shoe support for Canon Speedlite EX series flash units, the PowerShot G9 is ideal for existing EOS digital SLR users or those seeking to experiment with creative flash photography. The camera supports the Speedlite ST-E2 wireless file transmitter for multi-flash setups. Additionally, the camera’s menu can be used to control flash settings for the recently launched Speedlite 580EX II.

The PowerShot G9 is compatible with a range of optional lens accessories, including wide (0.75x) and tele (2.0x) converter lenses. A waterproof case allows for shooting at depths of up to 40 metres. Offering a level of flexibility typically only found on digital SLRs, the PowerShot G9 provides photo enthusiasts with a camera that’s fully equipped to lift the limits of their creative potential.

source:dpreview.com

Canon ELP Digital Camera

2009-03-24T01:06:00.001+07:00

Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera

10MP, 3x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilizer, 3.0" LCD, Motion Detection 2554B001 Product Info

The Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is a powerful Digital Camera with high-end features and an attractive sculptural design. The PowerShot SD790 IS Digital ELPH Camera by Canon features impressive core technologies such as a 10.0 megapixel CCD, a 3x Optical Zoom, and an Optical Image Stabilizer. The Canon Power Shot SD 790 IS Digital Camera 's 10 MP CCD captures a fine level of detail and resolution for extraordinary flexibility in cropping and enlarging an image. The Canon Digital Camera 's 3x Optical Zoom can easily handle the challenges of everyday shooting. Canon 's exclusive Optical Image Stabilizer automatically detects and cancels camera shake, ensuring that images are crisp and blur-free thoughout the zoom range. Motion Detection and Face Detection Technology are also added to maximize quality and performance, allowing for greater freedom shooting an image. Canon 's Face Detection Technology ensures natural hues for both faces and background areas. This technology also detects and automatically removes red eye. Motion Detection Technology automatically senses subject movement and optimizes exposure control and ISO settings to keep faces and other subjects free of blur. Complementing the Camera 's high-end technology is its large 3.0 inch PureColor LCD II screen. This LCD produces a sharp and clear image, accurate color, and a wide viewing angle. The screen is highly durable and easy to see in any light with a scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coating. The Canon Power-Shot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is controlled by a DIGIC III Image Processor that operates the camera at top efficiency and battery life, giving images superior quality. Equally attractive as the high-end specifications is the Canon Digital ELPH Camera 's sculptural design. The sculpted edges and futuristic flat buttons stand out in a crowd, and also improve handling and operability. The Canon PowerShot SD790IS Digital ELPH Camera is a stylish, high quality Digital Camera that performs just as well as it looks.

Features of Canon Power Shot SD 790IS Digital ELPH Camera 2554B001:

* Advanced 10.0 Megapixel Digital ELPH with 3x Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer.
* View your crisp clear images on a large 3.0-inch PureColor LCD II screen for bright, accurate color with great viewing from a wide range of angles.
* Improved Face Detection Technology sets the focus, exposure, flash and white balance automatically, allowing greater freedom of shooting.
* Stand out in a crowd with an edgy, stylish design combined with a cool new button configuration for great operability.
* Motion Detection Technology automatically detects subject movement and optimizes exposure control and ISO settings to reduce image blur.
* DIGIC III Image Processor for superior image quality and improved functionality.
* Print/Share Button for easy direct printing and downloading, plus ID Photo Print and Movie Print with select PIXMA Photo Printers and SELPHY Compact Photo Printers.

source:opticsplanet.net

Camera Casio

2009-03-23T01:46:00.001+07:00

CASIO INTRODUCES STYLISH NEW 10.1 MEGAPIXEL DIGITAL CAMERA

Casio America, Inc. and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., introduced the latest addition to its stylish series of EXILIM digital cameras today, the EXILIM Zoom EX-Z29. This newest member of the EXILIM line features a stylish, slim and compact design to increase portability, and provides an improved 10.1 megapixels of image resolution with 3X optical zoom. The EX-Z29 will be on display at Casio’s booth at the Photo Marketing Association International Convention and Tradeshow.

This new model stays true to the user-friendly features that have become standard to the EXILIM Zoom series. The 2.7-inch wide LCD display enables users to easily navigate camera operations and enhance the review of images, while the 23 Best Shot Modes and face detection technology help users take high quality photos without having to adjust camera settings.

“Casio is dedicated to creating digital cameras that feature superior technology while maintaining an ease of use for the consumer,” said Bill Heuer, Vice President of Sales for Digital Imaging Division at Casio America, Inc. “We continue to be a leader in the digital camera industry, providing fun and convenient ways to capture quality photographs.”

The EX-Z29 comes loaded with other useful features including Anti-Shake DSP which reduces photo blur from shaky hands or moving subjects, allowing users to shoot images with ease and confidence. Easy Mode simplifies the camera settings to three easy menus (image size, flash and self timer). With Easy Mode, the camera is set to take great photos in every situation without having to check presets or accidentally making a wrong adjustment. Casio’s Face Detection Technology maintains a sharp focus and the correct exposure for the human face.

Available at retail in April, the EX-Z29 will be available in black, pink, blue, silver and purple with an MSRP of $149.99.

source: casio.com

SLR Digital Cameras

2009-03-22T12:12:00.001+07:00

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III Digital SLR Camera Review

It is always exciting to hear that your most-used piece of photography kit is being replaced with a new and improved model - as was the case for me with the announcement of the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III. The 1Ds III is Canon's ultra-high-end DSLR, delivering top-of-the-line image quality from a top-of-the-line shooting system matched to a top-of-the-line physical structure.

If you read the Canon EOS 1D Mark III Review (Canon's other current-at-this-time 1-Series DSLR), you are going to think that much of the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III review sounds familiar. And for a good reason. These two redesigned-from-the-ground-up cameras are mostly identical with the exception of a few significant differences - including the sensor size/resolution (and associated parts including the viewfinder) and the max frame rate/buffer depth. Here is how they and the other current Canon DSLRs compare in these and other regards

Each of Canon's 1Ds bodies to date have been introduced with a new sensor having the highest resolution available at that time (the prior-model 1Ds Mark II is still the second highest resolution DSLR). And as usual, the new sensor gets a significant amount of the fanfare in this latest 1Ds iteration. No current DSLR compares to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III in regards to its ultra high 21.1 megapixel full frame resolution.

Going from the 1Ds II's 16.6 MP to the 1Ds III's 21.1 MP sensor is not a huge resolution jump, but it makes a nice difference - more than I expected. I think the ISO 12233 resolution chart tool shows this difference the best. Here you can use the mouseover feature to compare the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III resolution with the ...

Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II and the Canon EOS 5D using a Canon EF 200mm f/2.8 L II USM Lens *

* What you need to know about the above comparisons (aside from how to use the tool's mouse-over feature) ... Canon specifies the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III viewfinder as having an "approx." 100 percent horizontal and vertical view. In reality - and like the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, it is somewhat less than 100% (maybe 98%?) - this makes precisely framing a test chart hard as I must rely completely on the zoomed LCD review. But, the LCD does not show a 100% view of the final image - cutting about 5 pixels off each side. For most real world uses, these are non-issues for this camera, but for these comparisons, the 1Ds III has an approximately .4% disadvantage to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark II and the Canon EOS 5D (which also doesn't mean much in the real world). Full disclosure finished.

Another resolution comparison - use the mouseover feature on the links below the following image to compare the 1Ds III to the 1Ds II and 5D.

Expect the additional resolution to help most with the tiny details in your pictures - and with large prints or 100% zoom computer viewing. More headroom is available for cropping as well. If your subject does not have small details in it, the difference from 16.6 MP will not be as apparent.

Noise is a DSLR image attribute that gets a lot of attention. As pixel density on the sensor is increased and individual pixel size is decreased to accommodate this, there is less light reaching each pixel well. The result we often see with increased pixel density is increased high ISO noise in our images. In other words, without a technology improvement, the 1Ds III should produce noisier images than the 1Ds II. Thanks at least in part to an improved sensor design, increased noise is not the case in this comparison.

I shot a lot of comparisons between these two bodies (and the 5D with its much less-pixel-dense sensor). In the end, I could show you examples to make either of the two 1-series bodies appear to be slightly better than the other. If you plan for the 1Ds III and 1Ds II to have a similar amount of noise, you will not be disappointed. Up to and including ISO 400, they are about the same. Above ISO 400, the 1Ds III more frequently begins taking a very slight lead (less noise) and this lead increases to slight at ISO 3200. Of course, uprezzing the 1Ds II to the 1Ds III's pixel dimensions gives it a slightly increased disadvantage. Canon has always given us excellent low noise performance in their cameras - and unlike in the 1D II N to 1D III upgrade decision, noise performance is not a good reason alone to upgrade from the 1Ds II to the 1Ds III.

I mentioned that I compared the 1Ds III to the 5D, Canon's other current full frame DSLR, as well. With its larger individual pixel wells able to capture more light, it is expected that the 5D would be able to deliver better high ISO performance. Even with the disadvantage of being introduced over two years ago - a lifetime in digital SLR years - the 5D still turns in slightly better low noise performance at ISO 1600 and even slightly better performance at ISO 3200. Of course, as you can see with your own eyes in the above comparison links, the 5D does not come close to the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III in resolution. Uprezzing the 5D image to the pixel dimensions of the 1Ds III results in a softer image with similar amounts of noise.

Noise reduction anywhere in the imaging process can be used to virtually eliminate any amount of noise, but image detail is sacrificed in this process. I did all my testing with noise reduction off - you can turn it on in-camera or add it during post-processing for noise-reduce to your personal taste. I would rather have this option than to have the camera over-reduce noise and destroy image detail in the process.

You can compare the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III ISO noise at full stop settings from ISO 100 through 3200 by moving your mouse over the ISO labels. This composition shows several smooth color tones/shades including those that show noise most readily. These images were taken from a long distance (slight atmospheric distortion is visible) and sharpening was set to 1 (very low). Increasing the sharpness setting increases the visible noise in the higher ISO shots. Notice how the small rivets in the door remain very identifiable even at ISO 3200.

source:the-digital-picture.com

Panasonic Lumix Digital Camera

2009-03-21T01:21:00.000+07:00

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 Digital Camera

The 7.2 megapixel, 10x optical zoom, compact Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 is the successor to the TZ1. Improvements from its predecessor include a bump in resolution, a new imaging processor, the Venus Engine III processor, and Intelligent ISO control. These new features get added to the image stabilization system that exists on every Panasonic camera. The Panasonic TZ3 is a good option for someone looking for a compact ultrazoom camera, with quick performance and a nice feature set.

Image Sensor

The TZ3 has a 1/2.35” CCD that captures an effective 7.2 megapixels. The images have a maximum size of 3216x2144 pixels. There are two quality settings at each resolution setting on the camera. At full resolution and highest quality, you can get approximately 280 shots on a 1GB memory card.

LCD

The TZ3 sports a huge 3 inch LCD with 230K pixels of resolution. It’s not great outdoors, but there are a couple LCD modes that let you boost the brightness (power LCD) and optimize the display for high angle shooting. The LCD shows colors well and it gains up and down, depending on lighting conditions. Refresh rates on the large screen are not completely fluid, but still acceptable.

Lens/Zoom

One of the biggest selling points of the TZ3 is its 10x optical zoom (in the compact body). Not only is the lens capable of 10x zoom, it’s also capable of 28mm wide angle (35mm equivalent). The lens also has a maximum aperture of f3.3. Unlike the lens cap on its predecessor, the TZ1, this camera has a built-in lens cover to protect the lens.

As with every Panasonic digital camera, the TZ3 has their MEGA O.I.S. image stabilization system. There are two stabilization modes or it can be disabled completely. The first mode provides constant image stabilization so that you can see the effects of stabilization on the screen. However, this mode also drains battery faster and is less effective than the second mode, which provides stabilization only at the moment that the shutter is pressed.

Focus Modes and Focus Ranges

In normal focus mode, you can focus as close as 1.64 feet at wide angle and 6.56 feet at telephoto. If you need to get close, the macro mode lets you focus as close as 0.16 feet at wide angle and 3.28 feet at telephoto.

As far as focus areas, you can use 9 area focusing, 3 area focusing (high speed), 1 area focusing (high speed), regular speed one area focusing, and spot focus.

Flash

The built-in flash has an on-paper range of 1.97 feet to 13.8 feet at wide angle and Auto ISO. You can choose from the following modes: auto, auto with red eye reduction, flash always on, flash always on, slow synch/red eye reduction, and forced off.

Memory Media

The TZ3 accepts SD, SDHC, and MMC media cards. There is approximately 12.7MB of internal memory.

Image/Movie File Format(s)

All images are stored as JPEG files and movies are recorded as Quicktime Motion JPEGs.

Connectivity

USB 2.0 Full Speed, A/V out, and DC in

Power

The TZ3 is powered by a 1000 mAh lithium-ion battery pack. The included charger can charge the battery in about 120 minutes. According to the manual, the battery life, according to CIPA standards is 270 shots per charge. In real life, you won’t get this many – during my review which I consider to be pretty heavy use, I got right around 200 shots.

EXPOSURE

Auto/Program Auto Mode

The primary shooting mode on the TZ3 is the automatic mode, which is essentially a program auto mode since you can change the white balance, ISO, etc during image capture. If you want *really* automatic, there is a simple mode that minimizes the options as far as flash modes, menu options, and so on.

The camera also has a bracketing mode which can be a very useful feature when you want to make sure you don't miss the correct exposure. If you press the up direction on the control pad twice, you can set the bracketing interval (1/3, 2/3, or full stop of exposure). In this mode, the camera will take 3 shots: one with default exposure, one that is underexposed by the interval you specified and one that is overexposed by the interval you specified.

The high speed burst mode on the TZ3 takes 3 frames per second (fps), low speed is 2 fps and the “unlimited” mode lets you take as many shots as you want at 2 fps.

Scene Modes

There are plenty of scene modes to choose from on the TZ3. There are actually two options on the mode dial (SCN1 and SCN2) that access the same set of scene modes. By having two entries, it’s easy to access two of your favorite scene modes, just by turning the mode dial since the last scene mode that you used is remembered. Otherwise, you just need to use the menu system to pick which one you want. Here’s what you can choose from: Portrait, Soft Skin, Self Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candlelight, Baby, Pet, Sunset, High Sensitivity, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial Photo, and Underwater. The manual that comes with the camera has some of the best descriptions that I’ve seen about what each scene mode does.

Intelligent ISO Mode

Intelligent ISO mode is another option on the shooting dial and a new feature that is on all of the latest Panasonic digital cameras. This shooting mode detects subject movement and boosts ISO so that the shutter speed is fast enough to capture the subject. With just standard optical image stabilization, shutter speeds can remain slow while the image stabilization handles any camera shake. However, IS does not account for subject movement - a higher ISO allows a faster shutter speed. You can set the ISO limit in this mode via the camera menu system.

Movie Mode

The TZ3 can capture movies in a 4:3 aspect ratio (640x480, 320x240) and a 16:9 aspect ratio (848x480). At each resolution, you can capture movies at both 30fps and 10fps. Unfortunately, the optical zoom is not available during movie capture.

Metering

The TZ3 is capable of multiple area metering, center weighted metering, and spot metering.

White Balance

White balance can bet set to auto, daylight, cloudy, shade, halogen, or a custom setting that the user can set. In all white balance modes, excluding auto, you can also tweak the white balance towards red or blue, whichever is needed.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the imaging sensor (ISO) can be set to auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1250.

In-Camera Image Adjustment

During image capture, you can adjust white balance, sensitivity, and color settings (standard, natural, vivid, cool, warm). During image playback, you can rotate, resize, or trim images.

source: digitalcamerareview.com

Nikon Coolpix Digital Camera

2009-03-20T06:30:00.003+07:00

Nikon Coolpix S710 Reviews - great replacement of your DSLR

The Nikon Coolpix S710 is great camera that will make you stop using your DSLR. The S710 boasts of incredible collection of manual controls, 14.5-megapixel sensor, and a 28mm wide-angle lens. The digital camera is capable of capturing full resolution images with sensitivity of ISO 3,200 and 3-megapixel shots at ISO 12,800.

Measuring 3.6 inches wide, 2.3 inches high and 1 inch thick, the Coolpix S710 weighs just 6.5-ounces. The S710 boasts of an optically stabilized wide angle lens with focal range of 28-101mm. The overall design is pretty attractive and the camera is available in three color schemes- deep red, brilliant silver and graphite black.

Nikon S710 boasts of a 3-inch LCD screen but the large size of the screen resulted in the small space left for the camera controls. So, the camera controls are cramped into small space. Nikon has tried to make the controls easily accessible and minimize the accidental pressing of button. To serve this purpose, the controls are slightly raised above the surface of the camera. The camera controls include a directional pad/scroll wheel which acts as directional controls as well as allows you to access flash, timer, macro mode, and exposure compensation. The scroll wheel works with the virtual Mode dial and allows you to go through various menus and manipulate various settings which include setup menus, aperture settings, adjust ISO sensitivity, shutter speed, and skim through captured images in Playback mode.

The S710 provides options to choose from a number of modes which are present on many Nikon Coolpix P-series and dSLR models. These modes include aperture priority, Program, manual modes, and shutter-priority. The manual modes allow you to fiddle with settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO sensitivity. Other settings such as, white balance, color options, metering, auto focus, drive modes, and AF area modes can be adjusted through main menu.

The S710 boasts of 14-megapixel sensor and provides pretty decent performance. The S710 has 0.6 second shutter lag in bright conditions and 0.8 second in low light conditions. It takes a little longer to capture first shot from switch off with average time of 3.7 seconds and 4 seconds between two consecutive shots. If you use the flash, the S71o takes 4.1 seconds on an average to capture two consecutive shots. In the burst speed mode, the S710 can capture 1.1 frames per second. In movie capture mode, the S710 can record videos with resolution of 640×480 pixels.

source: technotalks.com

Nikon Coolpix Camera

2009-03-19T05:27:00.001+07:00

Nikon Coolpix P80
10.1MP | 27-486mm (18X) ZOOM

The Coolpix P80 is Nikon's first attempt at a DSLR-like compact camera since the Coolpix 8800 back in 2004, since when the lenses have got a lot bigger, the cameras a lot smaller and - crucially - the prices a lot lower. The camera slots into the premium series of Nikon's Coolpix range (the 'P' denotes Professional, apparently), and offers the 18x zoom range that has very quickly gone from being unthinkable to almost an entry requirement for membership of this segment. Thankfully, it follows the competition by starting that enormous zoom range at a really useful 27mm and, with a relatively bright F2.8-4.5 maximum aperture range, it's still pretty useable at the long end of things. Overall there's little in the specifications to help distinguish it in this fiercely-fought market, but there's still the possibility that Nikon's processing and metering know-how will allow the P80 to stand out.

* 10.1 effective Megapixels
* 27-486mm equiv lens with 18x optical zoom
* 2.7 inch LCD with 230,000 dots resolution
* Electronic Viewfinder with 97% Field of View
* Optical Image Stabilizer
* ISO sensitivity up to 6400
* Face Detection AF, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix and D-Lighting
* 11 scene modes including Sports Continuous Scene Mode
* Program, Shutter-Priority, Aperture-Priority and Manual Exposure Modes
* Expeed processing
* Optional accessories available
* Battery life: 250 shots

Overview

The P80 is a good looking little camera that, understandably for a manufacturer renowned for its DSLRs, resembles a DSLR very closely indeed. It's an almost all-black affair with just the outside lip of the lens featuring a subtle silver ring. The lens itself very closely resembles the 18x zooms fitted to the Fujifilm S8100, S8000 and Olympus SP 560-UZ, and we'd be surprised if the lenses didn't all come from the same factory. Unlike those cameras, however, the Nikon P80 uses a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery (as do the Panasonic and Sony in this group); this helps keep the weight down but, in this instance, has a devastating impact on battery life.

It's a camera that fits in the hand well and certainly looks the part. That low-key black design with restrained silver flourishes looks smart and stylish in a low-key way. The P80 is the only camera in this test to feature a DSLR-like control dial, which helps to make it one of the easiest cameras to use in its manual and semi-manual modes. However, it retains the frustrating Coolpix quirk by which some menus can be navigated using the four-way controller or the dial but others respond only to the dial. The setup menu is accessed via the mode dial - a clever way of de-cluttering the main menu by removing the options you only change occasionally.

Image quality and performance

The Nikon P80 is by no means a sluggish camera, but in this comparison it is placed towards the slower end of the spectrum. Start-up is rather slow; it takes 3.3 sec before you can your first shot after switching the camera on. Shot-to-shot time is 2.6 sec, this increases to 2.9 sec with flash use and, due to the pre-flash, to 6.2 sec when anti-red-eye is activated as well. The shutter lag is very short though.

With approximately 0.6 sec at wide angle and almost 1.0 sec focus time at the tele end of the zoom the P80's AF can't keep up with the quickest competitors in this test. I can mostly find a lock in relatively low light levels but when it gets too dark it simply gives up. In review mode the speed of image browsing and magnification is about average. When you flick between images the camera shows a slightly pixilated preview before the high-res version is displayed.

The Nikon's metering is some of the best we've seen in this test, with it doing a good job of rendering the scenes accurately. This is fortunate since the small chip has fairly limited dynamic range, meaning that bright regions and features tend to be represented as featureless white. The P80 does about as well as can be expected in this respect, though the small sensors in this class of camera mean it there are limitations to what it can achieve. The fine detail rendition is aggressively smoothed-over by noise reduction at all ISO settings, meaning the images are not as sharp or detailed as those from a DSLR would be (the P80's sensor is less than a tenth the size of Nikon's consumer-level DSLRs). The only thing that detracts from images in a way that would be visible in prints is rather unreliable focusing at the long end of the zoom (this didn't seem to be a problem at shorter focal lengths).

The video capabilities of the P80, both in terms of specifications and output quality are fairly unexciting. It can record VGA movies at 30fps in the Motion JPEG format, taking up around 1.1MB/sec. The videos themselves are fairly smooth but not particularly detailed. The camera can only use its digital zoom while recording movies and is also limited to electronic image stabilization, which frankly isn't up to the job of stabilizing a 386mm equivalent lens.

Summary

Unlike its hugely successful digital SLR division, Nikon's Coolpix range has little to distinguish itself from the mass of competing models in the market, and seems to survive purely on the cachet that the Nikon brand carries in the photographic world. The P80 is a typical Coolpix: it offers much, looks pretty and boasts an enticing feature set, but ultimately falls down when you actually come to use it. As with the other 'mid ground' cameras in this group the P80 isn't a terrible camera, it's just not that good. It's slow, the focus at the long end of the zoom is unreliable, the image stabilization unimpressive and the output distinctly average.

The P80 does, of course, have a few saving graces: the presence of a control dial makes it work a lot more like an SLR, and it is capable of good results as long as you avoid the long end of the zoom and higher ISO settings, but ultimately that's not enough to lift it above the competition.

* We like: Solid feature set, small and lightweight body, control dial, excellent metering and appealing color

* We don't like: Unreliable focus at long end of zoom, poor battery life, slightly soft output, poor high ISO performance

source: dpreview.com

Finepix Digital Camera

2009-03-18T05:46:00.003+07:00

FujiFilm Finepix A920 Digital Camera Review

The FinePix A920 is equipped with simple, user-friendly operation but enables an even greater variety of people to enjoy photography at the high resolution of 9 megapixels. With this amazing level of detail, photos print crisp and clear even in larger sizes or when cropped to show just one part of the image. The FinePix A920 also supports a 4x zoom, which lets users take great close-ups from far away. The Fujifilm Finepix A920 features high ISO setting up to 800, which offers clear, blur-free detail even in difficult shooting conditions such as indoor or moving subjects. In specific shooting situations, selectable scene positions help eliminate the annoying settings and give users great photos in even tricky situation.

The bright, 2.7-inch LCD displays an icon-based Graphic User Interface (GUI) that explains and confirms camera settings at a glance, letting users shoot with ease and confidence. When users switch shooting modes, scene positions or control settings, a brief explanation of the setting is momentarily displayed on the LCD screen, taking much of the guess work out of digital camera operation. Additionally, the camera sports a conveniently placed mode dial that provides easy access to the most commonly used shooting modes, including Auto, Picture Stabilization and Movie mode and allows one-touch access to other pre-programmed scene modes.

Coolpix Digital Camera

2009-03-17T01:23:00.000+07:00

Nikon Coolpix S510 Digital Camera Review

by Karen M. Cheung

The Nikon Coolpix S510 competes with many similar digital cameras currently on the market. It has standard features, including 8.1 megapixels and a 3x optical zoom lens, but, according to Nikon, is faster and produces less noise than competing cameras. Introduced in August 2007, the Nikon camera has face detection and optical vibration reduction image stabilization.

Physical Tour
Front (7.5)
The front of the Coolpix S510 has a flat, smooth surface and features an extending, three-tiered lens. On the inner ring is the text “Nikkor 3x Optical Zoom VR” on the top, with “5.7-17.1mm” focal length and “1:2.8-4.7” aperture information on the bottom rim. Beneath the lens are three built-in microphone holes. Above the lens is the long, built-in capsule-shaped flash and a circular assist illuminator for autofocus and the self-timer.

The right side of the front leaves plenty of space for the right hand to grab onto. A gray Nikon logo sits in the corner, along with an engraved Coolpix logo.

Back (6.75)
The 2.5-inch LCD, which sits on a slightly elevated platform, takes up most of the camera's back. Underneath the monitor is a dark gray Nikon logo. To the right of the screen are the majority of the camera's controls. On the top of the miniature-sized control panel is a sliver of a zoom toggle with black icon labels, indicating its various functions. Underneath the zoom toggle is a flash indicator lamp and five raised squares, a small attempt at thumb rest support.

Halfway down the back is the rotating dial, which acts as a four-way controller for menu navigation and functions for Self-timer, Flash, Focus, and EV compensation. Surrounding the rotary multi-selector are four identical rectangular buttons for Mode, Playback, Menu, and Trash.

Right Side (4.0)
The right side of the Nikon Coolpix S510 contains the A/V-out terminal with ports for audio, video, and USB connection hidden under a door. There is also an eyelet for a wrist strap.

Left Side (7.0)
The left side of the Nikon S510 doesn’t have any key features. There are three tiny screws that hold the exterior plates together.

Top (7.0)
The top of the Nikon Coolpix S510 is fairly bare. A flash operation lamp separates the shutter release from the triangular on/off power button.

Bottom (4.25)
The bottom of the camera features the dual battery and memory card compartment on the right side of the body, housed under a plastic hinged, locking door. To the left side is the battery serial number, an off-axis tripod socket, and three tiny screws.

Camera Sale

2009-03-16T01:01:00.001+07:00

Digital Camera on Sale – be Cautious While Buying One

by Kris Saelen

Nowadays, you can find different kinds of digital cameras on sale. But all you need to choose is the right one as per your requirement and budget. Digital cameras that are available in the market come in different prices to enable you to select the best one as far as your budget is concerned.

An electronic machine that can convert images into electronic data is widely known as a digital camera. Before cameras were used for taking photographs only. These days’ multifunctional digital cameras can take photographs along with video and sound recordings. Digital cameras are generally categorized under three basic categories - Video cameras, still cameras and professional modular digital camera system. Professional modular digital camera systems are the latest formats for digital cameras. These three categories have certainly raised the quality level for all the digital cameras on sale.

Usually a digital camera consists of a memory to store any kind of data in digital format. Some camera phones or cheap digital cameras can utilize onboard memory to store the necessary data. Nowadays, in the market you to can find digital cameras on sale that are of removable memory card. These removable memory cards are basically meant to store the data temporarily. Secure digital cards, XD cards and memory stick cards are prime resource for a latest digital camera to store the memory.

Nowadays, you can find different kinds of digital cameras on sale. But all you need to choose is the right one as per your requirement and budget. Digital cameras that are available in the market come in different prices to enable you to select the best one as far as your budget is concerned. Before buying a digital camera your first decision is to make about is its resolution. This is to ensure that you are not going to loose the way for your requirements of a digital camera after buying a high resolution one. This can cost you more with money, storage and processing power.

A hue number of pixels do not mean to offer you a better image. So, this is your duty to be cautious while purchasing. If your work is to post images to the web, email files or view images on your computer then you may go for a lower resolution digital camera. Keep in mind that whether it’s a high capacity memory card or a small one, both are there in the market to give you the best result on use. But as previously mentioned, it depends on your needs and budget.

source: articlesbase.com

Camera Canon Digital Rebel

2009-03-15T01:43:00.001+07:00

Canon Digital Rebel XTi

If you're looking for an SLR digital camera, you already know you're going to have to spend a large chunk of money on the camera body, not to mention the add-on lenses and flashes. The good news is you'll usually receive a lot of great features for that high price, and Canon lives up to that standard with its Digital Rebel XTi, which we've awarded with a Best Buy designation.

The Rebel XTi offers a 10.1-megapixel resolution, which allows for near-film-quality prints up to 13x19 inches. It will provide plenty of resolution for beginner and intermediate photographers.

You can shoot your first photo less than one-half second after pressing the power button; you will find very few SLR digital cameras that can match that kind of start-up speed. The Rebel XTi's shutter lag is not noticeable. In continuous-shot mode, you can capture three photos per second for about 9 seconds, which is very impressive for a high-end digital camera. Shot-to-shot delays are a little slow and can approach 3 seconds when using a flash, but this unit's overall performance times are very good.

The Rebel XTi has an interesting feature to preserve battery life. Whenever you lift the digital camera to your eye to frame the shot with the viewfinder, this model senses the movement and automatically turns off the LCD. Not that you'll want to turn off this 2.5-inch LCD very often; it's extremely bright and sharp, and you can view it from almost any angle. You even can select from seven brightness levels with the Rebel XTi's display unit. It's one of the better LCDs we've seen in a digital camera at any price point. Another benefit: The Rebel XTi makes use of a standard optical viewfinder that can show about 95 percent of the actual photo, which is a good result. Many high-end cameras use EVFs (electronic viewfinders), which sometimes cause problems with framing photos.

If you have used high-end Canon cameras in the past and have extra lenses available, you'll appreciate that the Rebel XTi can make use of all Canon EF lenses. However, the Rebel XTi does not automatically ship with a lens. The Rebel XTi kit discussed here only includes the digital camera body (in black or silver) and battery. (Some Rebel XTi kits include an 18-55 mm lens for an additional cost.) For an SLR digital camera, the Rebel XTi is surprisingly small and lightweight, and it feels sturdy.

One great new feature on the Rebel XTi is Canon's decision to include an Integrated Cleaning System (ICS). Because of their design, SLR digital cameras often suffer from dust reaching the image sensor; Canon's ICS eliminates the dust problem.

The Rebel XTi is the third entry in Canon's family of EOS Digital Rebel cameras, which aim at providing digital SLR cameras for less than $1,000. The Rebel XTi's feature list greatly improves on the two previous models -- the Rebel and the Rebel XT. This model compares favorably to others in this category and carries a lower price than most in this category. Finally, if you already have Canon lenses available, it's an amazingly good value.

Pros: Good value for SLR digital, great response times, high-end resolution, LCD quality is outstanding
Cons: Shot-to-shot delays with flash could be better, model could be easier to use

source: howstuffworks.com

35mm Camera

2009-03-14T23:19:00.003+07:00

35mm Camera Buying Guide
The Basics: 35mm Cameras

For many people, a film camera is the only way to take a picture. They balk at using the digital camera. And while it is more and more uncommon, you can still purchase a point-and-shoot film camera. A trip to the camera store can be bewildering to someone unfamiliar with cameras. Row upon row of gleaming chrome and shiny black cameras, of all different sizes and prices--how do you choose? The process isn't hard if you first determine exactly what you want to do with the camera.

Before buying a camera, first determine the types of photos you'll be taking and the degree of personal involvement you want to have in the process. Shop for a camera that will best suit your needs. Even some less expensive cameras provide sophisticated systems to automate your photography.

Single Lens Reflex (SLR) Cameras

With this type of camera, you are looking through the same lens that will form the image on the film; this is the most precise viewing method available. Most SLR cameras feature interchangeable lenses, and this is one of the reasons to consider an SLR. Lens choices range from wide angle and telephoto to a wide variety of zooms and close-up or "macro" lenses. The major brands of SLR cameras also have extensive accessory systems that let you tackle almost any photographic task. Whether it's special lenses and flash units for close-ups of tiny insects, an intervalometer for recording a time-lapse series of a flower opening up, or a high-speed motor drive that permits taking up to ten pictures per second for fast-action series, the SLR is the most versatile and adaptable form of camera. Another variation, the ZLR (zoom lens reflex), has a permanently attached zoom lens. While slightly less versatile, it is a good choice for traveling because it avoids a lot of separate components that might get lost or stolen.

35mm Compact Cameras

Nearly all 35mm compact cameras have just a single focal length lens and fixed (or focus-free) lenses that are capable of producing sharp pictures of subjects about 4 to 5 feet away to infinity. Most models include auto exposure and a built-in automatic flash so they may be used anywhere. However, they are generally limited to one or two basic shutter speeds and can just be used outdoors in good weather or indoors with the flash within a rather limited flash range of usually 4 to 10 feet.

24mm APS Cameras

The 24mm camera format was introduced a few years ago. The cassette holding APS film looks very similar to a 35mm cassette, but they are not compatible. APS is far more user friendly and features simple drop-in loading without contending with a leader as is necessary on 35mm film. The small APS film cassette is simply dropped into the camera body (it only fits the correct way) and after the loading door is closed, the film is automatically extracted and moved to the first frame. The camera cannot be accidentally opened while loaded. After the film is exposed and processed, it is returned stored (uncut) in the original cassette.

Instant-print Cameras

Polaroid makes the only instant-print cameras available in the U.S. They use only Polaroid film, which is more costly per print than 35mm or APS film. However, there's no denying the appeal of having a fully developed color or black-and-white print in hand in a matter of seconds or minutes after taking the photo. Polaroid cameras have been popular with partygoers for decades, and probably will be for the foreseeable future.

How to Shop

If you are looking for a point-and-shoot film camera, some of the features to look for are autoexposure, built-in flash, and auto film advance and rewind. If a camera that is featured here appeals to you but is a bit too expensive, or perhaps lacks a particular feature you're looking for, keep in mind that there is often a companion model just above or below the one reviewed. You might save money by deleting an unnecessary feature.

source: howstuffworks.com

Samsung Camera

2009-03-13T01:07:00.000+07:00

Samsung Digimax i6

Samsung Digimax i6 digital camera - Multimedia character
Increasingly, Samsung is making its presence felt in the digital camera market as it reacts to all the latest developments. The Korean manufacturer surprised us earlier with innovative models, and now there is the Samsung Digimax i6 PMP. As well as being a user friendly digital compact camera, the Samsung i6 is also a video camera and can be used as a MP3 player. The camera's design also contributes to the modern vibe it exudes from both without and within. The Samsung Digimax i6 has an all-round character thanks to its various possibilities and multi-functionality that will attract a varied group of users. In the area of photography, it will not please the demanding photographer, but trend followers and new generation of photographers may very well fall for this multimedia appliance.

Samsung i6 PMP - User friendly & 2.5 inch LCD display
The Samsung Digimax i6 has many functions concealed in a compact camera and it can sometimes be difficult to have a clear overview of everything. The buttons are well arranged, but the menu could use a little facelift. The multiple options and the fact they can be used simultaneously makes it rather difficult to understand at times. After I had used the camera for hours, regularly referring to the instruction manual, the structure became clear to me, so it's basically just a question of getting used to it. The attractive 2.5 inch format screen displays all of the functionalities clearly and despite the large format, the Samsung i6 is the sort of camera that really should try for a 3 inch screen. Maybe Samsung could bear this in mind if a Samsung Digimax i7 is on the cards?

Samsung Digimax i6 - Good picture quality
The Samsung Digimax i6's picture quality is good and will please the average user. The colour reproduction is nice and strong and gives good print results. There is room for improvement in the ISO quality. The quality of the low ISO values is fine, but the 200 and 400 ISO have relatively too much noise. Considering what is technically possible nowadays, it must be possible to improve the pixel quality and extend the ISO series.

Samsung Digimax i6 PMP - Digital image stabiliser
Although the Samsung Digimax i6 has an image stabiliser, I would prefer it to be replaced with an optical version. The digital image stabiliser in the Samsung i6 works well in good light conditions, but the moment you need to increase the ISO value artificially, the negative effects show up in the picture. Actually, manufacturers should only use the digital version is they are sure that the ISO is of high quality; if not, then an optical image stabiliser is the only solution.

Samsung i6 digital camera - Popular trend setter
I can imagine that the Samsung i6 PMP will go down well with trendy consumers. If people want a pocket-sized piece of equipment with better photo quality than the popular mobile phones with built-in cameras that plays your favourite numbers, then the Samsung Digimax i6 could maybe become a popular trend setter. I can certainly see something in the concept, if only because manufacturers should be very well prepared for new trends. If you market this multimedia appliance as a sort mother of all gadgets, you will be mercilessly taken to task by trendy critics if it doesn't meet high standards. By marketing it, as Samsung has done, as a camera with multimedia extras, you will cultivate the right expectation patterns.

Samsung Digimax i6 PMP - Perfectly good camera
Samsung NV is also active on the MP3 player market and is gaining more experience. I foresee that Samsung will at some point really be able to draw on its experience to make a super gadget, a real high quality multimedia appliance, with for example a touch screen and high quality video applications. Until that time, we will have to make do with the Samsung Digimax i6, a perfectly good camera that allows you to listen to your favourite MP3 numbers while taking photographs or that can be used just in the MP3 mode. Trendy users and the Samsung Digimax i6 is a match made in heaven.

source: letsgodigital.org

Photography Digital Camera

2009-03-12T01:50:00.002+07:00

If Only I Had A Better Camera

by Andrew Goodall

"If only I had a better camera, I could take great photos like these!" That is something I hear every day in my gallery, and I am sure many photographers hear the same thing. People walk around a display of professional photography, and think that it is the camera, not the photographer, who is responsible for the great photos.

Pride makes it hard to admit that we are just not very good at something. Photography is no exception: much easier to blame the camera. The trouble is, if we want to take better photos, will buying a better camera make that happen?

Of course not.

The truth is, you can take better photos no matter what sort of camera you have. Digital cameras have become so advanced that almost all cameras now have aperture and shutter speed settings, not to mention amazingly powerful optical zoom lenses. These are features that, until very recently, were only available on SLR cameras. So if you want to take better photos, the features are right there in front of you. All you have to do is take the time to learn how to use them.

To take better photos, start with the manual that came with your camera. It will tell you how to operate the major settings, although it may not be so good at explaining what they are for. Then find the information you need to understand how those settings will help you take better photos. There are courses, workshops, books and ebooks that will tell you what you need to know.

Make sure the course or ebook you choose is about how to take better photos. These days, a lot of the information out there is about fixing your photos on a computer, and not about taking better photos.

A lot of what you can learn has nothing to do with the camera. That's right; you can improve your photography without changing one thing about your camera. My experience in nature photography has taught me that the way you use the light to capture your subject makes a huge difference. The weather and the time of day can affect the light, so your timing and patience can be the difference between a snapshot and a great photo.

Developing a good eye for visual balance and composition is another aspect to taking better photos that has nothing to do with what sort of camera you have. You can go a long way towards better photography by learning to think like an artist, not like a tourist. A good guide to photography should teach you this important element of photography as well.

Here are a few simple examples. If you are photographing a waterfall, try looking at the scene creatively. Perhaps you can stand back and take a photo that follows the flow of water upstream, with the waterfall in the background. Or you could try looking through the branches of a tree, to frame the subject, rather than just snapping the first and most obvious angle.

When photographing people and animals, think about the best way to position them to make a stronger composition. Instead of putting them in the middle of the photo looking straight at the camera, try positioning them to one side, looking in towards the centre of the picture.

These are just a couple of simple ideas to get you thinking. The point is this: you can take great strides to becoming a better photographer by concentrating on the artistic aspects of the craft, rather than just the technical.

Of course, many things you can do with a compact camera, you can do even better if you have an SLR camera. However, buying a better camera is not going to help you take better photos if you just switch it to automatic and keep taking snapshots. So here's my tip. Buy the camera you can afford, then learn how to use it. It's as simple as that. No matter which camera you have, you can take better photos with a bit of knowledge, and a bit of practice. If you decide to upgrade later, so be it, but learning the basics of good photography will get you a lot further than succumbing to the "If only I had a better camera" mindset.

Now, if only I had better golf clubs...

Optical Zoom Digital Camera

2009-03-11T07:28:00.003+07:00

Optical vs. Digital Zoom

More and more camera manufacturers are choosing to label their digital cameras with the total (optical x digital) zoom. This is an unfortunate development and only serves to confuse consumers.

Most people who have used a 35mm camera or an APS camera are aware of only optical zoom. Optical zoom uses the optics (lens) of the camera to bring the subject closer. Digital zoom is an invention of digital video cameras. It is not uncommon to see digital videocams with 300x digital zoom.

For our purpose, digital zoom is not really zoom, in the strictest definition of the term. What digital zoom does is enlarge a portion of the image, thus 'simulating' optical zoom. In other words, the camera crops a portion of the image and then enlarges it back to size. In so doing, you lose image quality. If you've been regularly using digital zoom and wondered why your pictures did not look that great, now you know.

Is digital zoom therefore all bad? No, not at all. It's a feature that you might want in your digital camera (in fact, all digital cameras include some digital zoom, so you can't really avoid it), especially if you don't care about using (or don't know how to use) an image editing software. So, as far as digital zoom is concerned, you can do it in camera or you can do it afterwards in an image editing software. Any cropping and enlarging can be done in an image editing software, such as Photoshop.

So, when a digital camera is advertised with 3x digital zoom, no big deal. You can achieve the same 3x (and in fact as much as you want) digital zoom effect in an image editing software. The advantage of doing it later is that you can then decide exactly which portion to crop and how much to enlarge (3x, 4x, ...). If you do it in camera, image quality is irreversibly lost.

Someone in a digital camera forum once mentioned that he uses digital zoom because it might mean the difference between capturing a great shot or not at all. Umm, let's think about this a bit. True, if by zooming digitally in camera you get to see what your subject is doing and thus can capture the shot at the right moment. Not quite true, if it's something like a landscape shot, and the mountains ain't going nowhere fast, because you can achieve the same cropping and enlarging effect after the fact in your image editing software. So, it's really up to you, if you know what you're doing.

What, therefore is the rule of thumb, when it comes to using zoom? Here it is: Always use optical zoom. When buying a camera, choose one that warns you that you are about to use digital zoom or that allows you to disable digital zoom (most do). If you do use digital zoom, use it only if it does not appreciably impact your image quality. If you rarely print past 4x6 in. photos, digital zoom may not adversely affect you.

When comparing cameras, you should always use optical zoom. There is no point in comparing digital zoom with digital zoom or optical zoom with total zoom. Always compare optical zoom with optical zoom.

Optical Zoom vs. Resolution

What about optical zoom vs. resolution? Sigh! Now y'all know that we cannot and should not be comparing apples 'n oranges, but we still try. The question I often read about goes something like this: "Which is better: 2 megapixels resolution with 3x optical zoom or 3 megapixels resolution with 2x optical zoom?"

The megapixels resolution of a digital camera can be thought of as the number of pixels available to capture an image. With a 2 megapixels camera, you have 2 million pixels to record an image. With a 3 megapixels camera, you have 1 million extra pixels to record the same image -- in other words, you are able to capture the image in more detail.

Whether you zoom or not does not affect how many pixels are used to capture the image. So, zoomed at its maximum, a 2 megapixels 3x optical zoom digital camera will still have captured a 2 million pixels image. Likewise, a 3 megapixels 2x optical zoom digital camera will always capture a 3 million pixels image.

The real question behind the question is, "So now if I use digital zoom to zoom in with the 3 megapixels camera and simulate a total zoom of 3x, will the resultant image quality be less, the same, or still better than the one I captured with the 2 megapixels 3x optical zoom camera?" You follow so far?

With a 2 megapixels digital camera, you can make good 4x6 in. prints, and maybe even 5x7 in. prints. With a 3 megapixels digital camera, you can make good 8x10 in. prints. So, as far as image quality is concerned, the 3 megapixels camera is better. Unless you are always going to take pictures at max. zoom, the 3MP camera is better because at 2x optical zoom and less, it is always capturing images with more detail than the 2MP camera.

What we are really trying to say is this: do not compare. You've got to decide what is more important to you: resolution or optical zoom? If the answer is both, then find a digital camera that has both. It's that simple. If it's outside your pocketbook range, then choose a digital camera for what is more important to you.

To repeat, we do not compare optical zoom with megapixel resolution because optical zoom is not megapixel resolution-dependent. That is, the resolution of your final image does not change no matter how much you zoom in. If your digital camera is 5MP and has a 12x optical zoom lens with focal length of, say, 30-360mm, then at 30mm, your image is 5MP and at 360mm, it is still 5MP. With digital zoom/enlargement, the megapixel resolution decreases as you "zoom" in digitally (the premise behind Smart Zoom from Sony and Safe Zoom from Canon, see below); if you try to bring the cropped image back to the same 5MP size, then there is pixels interpolation and the resulting image suffers in quality.

We always disable digital zoom in camera, choosing to do our own cropping and enlarging in an image editing software.

Optical vs. digital zoom? There is no contest. Only optical zoom matters when selecting a digital camera.

Smart Zoom

Recently, a new type of digital zoom has appeared on the market, pioneered by Sony, called "Smart Zoom." Smart Zoom can be viewed as an "ethical" digital zoom which avoids interpolating the image and so avoid degrading image quality. Smart Zoom works only if you select an image size smaller than the full available image size. So, for example, if your digital camera is capable of producing a 5MP image, Smart Zoom is available only if you select to save your images as 4MP or less. In other words, with this particular type of digital zoom, the MP resolution decreases as you 'zoom' -- in other words you are just cropping the center of the image (without interpolating back to the original resolution).

Say, your digital camera is 5MP and you select to save your images as 3MP. So, in effect, you are forfeiting 2MP of image data (extracted from all over the image area) that the digital camera's sensor has captured and now has to throw away [you hope the camera makes the right decision and does not throw away important image data]. Enter Smart Zoom that says, "Hey, instead of throwing away 2MP of good data from all over the image area, why don't I crop out all the pixels starting from the outside perimeter? When I've cropped out 2MP of image data all around, I have 3MP left over and that's what you want, right?" Notice, the 3MP image does not have to be interpolated and enlarged back to 5MP as traditional digital zoom does (because you elected to save it as 3MP, remember?). So, in effect, you've basically more or less retained the same image quality but you have to save your resulting simulated zoomed image in a smaller image size. Of course, if now you turn around and enlarge it in post-processing, you will be limited to what a 3MP image can be enlarged up to without image degradation.

I call Smart Zoom "ethical digital zoom" because it is not made available at full image size -- this would cause image degradation. The smaller you elect to save your image, the more smart zoom power you have available (folks, you're basically just cropping the image without re-enlarging, which you can also do at any time in post-processing). I would personally not recommend cropping down below 3MP, which means that Smart Zoom is useful only in digital cameras with 4MP and above.

So, our recommendation still holds. If you want zoom power, only optical zoom matters! Smart Zoom is the better form of digital zoom, but what you gain in simulated zoom power (again, you're just cropping), you lose in image size. There's no free lunch.

Again, don't buy a digital camera based on digital (traditional or smart) zoom. Always compare optical zoom with optical zoom. If you are comparing 2 digital cameras with the same optical zoom, but one has smart digital zoom and the other has traditional digital zoom, then the smart zoom has a slight advantage. But personally, I wouldn't even look at that because there are a lot more important features to differentiate the cameras.

source: photoxels.com

Finepix Camera

2009-03-10T01:12:00.002+07:00

Fujifilm Releases FinePix J20 Entry-level Compact Camera

Fujifilm has released the FinePix J20 entry-level digital compact camera. This 10 megapixel camera with a 2.7 inch LCD and 3x Optical zoom has a compact 17.4mm body and includes features such as Auto Scene Recognition, Face Detection and 15 Scene Modes.

Fujifilm today announced a new entry-level compact cameras, succeeding the hugely popular FinePix J10 and J15. The FinePix J20 is the latest in the line-up and offers consumers an affordable, but highly-stylish compact camera with point-and-shoot appeal.

With a core specification of 10 Megapixels, a quality Fujinon 3x zoom, Scene Recognition AUTO (SR AUTO), Face Detection and Picture Stabilisation, the FinePix J20 will deliver great images time after time. The FinePix J20 has a 2.7” LCD, both with 230k dots, for crisp, bright images time after time.

Previously only featured on Fujifilm’s award-winning FinePix F60fd, both models feature SR AUTO technology, allowing users to get the best possible results from their camera. All users have to do is frame the shot and SR AUTO intelligently recognises the scene – Landscape, Night, Macro, Night Portrait, Portrait, Backlit Portrait – and selects the ideal setting. There’s also software-based Face Detection technology with auto red-eye removal which identifies faces and optimises focus and exposure to reveal perfect people pictures.

In addition, Picture Stabilisation increases the camera’s ISO setting and associated shutter speed, so that the shutter can open and close much more quickly, thereby freezing moving action without blur - perfect for school sports fields and action shots.

All this technology is packed in to a super-slim and super-stylish 17.4mm body. Its tiny size means you can easily slip it in to your pocket or bag so you’ll always have your camera with you wherever you go.

Features at a glance

* Small and stylish
* 10 Megapixels
* Fujinon 3x zoom lens
* Scene Recognition AUTO
* Picture Stabilisation
* Face Detection technology – software based
* 15 pre-programmed scene modes
* ISO up to 1600
* 2.7” LCD screen – FinePix J2

Availability & pricing
The FinePix J20 will be available from April. Pricing will be announced nearer to the date of the launch.

source: dpreview.com

Digital Photography Camera

2009-03-09T20:49:00.004+07:00

Digital Photography Camera Requirements

by Jim Zurbrugg

If you are taking the plunge into digital photography, you are going to need a camera. Speed is the key consideration in choosing a digital camera. Because digital cameras need time to transfer the image to your storage media, it is an important issue. This is referred to as 'shutter lag' by the photography pros. With candid photography, a three-second shutter lag can mean the difference between taking a blah, ordinary photo, or capturing your child with the perfect grin.

Because digital cameras eat up a lot of batteries, you'll also want startup speed. If you are taking photos intermittently, you'll want to be able to turn off your camera to preserve battery life. Then you'll need it to start right up again when the perfect photography moment arises.

Autofocus is another speed requirement in digital photography. You don't want to wait for your autofocus to resolve your photo after you aim your camera, only to find that your target has wandered off!

Through the lens (TTL) composition is another consideration. TTL refers to the fact that some digital cameras require photographers to compose their photos on an image screen. To allow for the battery-sucking screen to be shut off most of the time, a digital camera with TTL has a viewfinder like a film camera.

You will want manual controls if you are the least bit interested in using digital photography to produce quality photos as a hobby. Someday you may want to compose a photo without using the presets built into your digital camera even if you do not know what those controls do.

Another important element of digital photography is megapixels. Generally, the more megapixels your digital camera can take, the larger your end photographs can be without distorting them. However, the more megapixels, the slower your camera responds. Even just three megapixels will produce large, quality photos.

Camera Digital Nikon SLR

2009-03-08T20:18:00.003+07:00

Nikon D60 key features

* 10 megapixel DX format CCD (1.5x FOV crop)
* Nikon EXPEED processing 'concept' (as per D300, D3)
* 3D Color Matrix Metering II, 420 pixel sensor
* Multi-CAM530 three area AF sensor
* New Image sensor cleaning system
* Eye sensor (turns off LCD display)
* ISO sensitivity range 100 - 1600 plus HI 1 (3200 equiv.)
* 3.0 fps continuous shooting*, unlimited in JPEG
* No status LCD, LCD monitor based status / settings screens (now rotates)
* Help suggestions on LCD monitor (eg. scene too dark, try using flash)
* Large 2.5" 230,000 pixel LCD monitor
* Short shutter lag and viewfinder blackout
* Support for SDHC (SD cards over 2 GB in capacity)
* In-camera retouching
o Quick Retouch
o D-Lighting (shadow / highlight enhancement)
o Red-eye reduction
o Trimming
o Monochrome
o Filter effects
o Small picture
o Image overlay
o Raw processing
o Stop-motion movie
* USB 2.0 with PTP and Mass Storage device support
* Very compact, light body
* Improved menu user interface
* EN-EL9 Lithium-Ion battery (7.2V, 1000 mAh)
* New stabilized AF-S DX 18-55 mm kit lens

Differences compared to the D40X

* EXPEED processing
* Image sensor cleaning system with Airflow control system
* Automatically rotating user interface (for using camera vertically orientated)
* Stop motion movie function
* New stabilized kit lens (AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR)
* Eye sensor
* Electronic 'rangefinder' for manual focus
* Active D-Lighting with dedicated button
* In-camera Raw processing
* New JPEG retouch effects (Cross Star and Color Intensifier)

The D60 is the third incarnation of Nikon's compact, user-friendly entry-level SLR line that started back in 2006 with the D40 (which replaced the first Nikon 'starter' model, the D50). The original D40 was a hugely important camera for Nikon and can be given a lot of the credit for the resurgence in Nikon's fortunes at the volume end of the SLR market (which had been totally dominated by Canon since the launch of the EOS 300D / Digital Rebel). The D40's success (which continued long after the D40X made its swift appearance only 6 months later) isn't hard to explain; it was keenly priced, nicely designed and built and capable of excellent results. It was also a camera that proved cameras do not sell on megapixels alone (even at launch its 6MP resolution was far from 'class leading').

The D40X, which was positioned as a premium alternative to the D40 rather than its replacement, didn't mess around with the formula much at all; a new sensor with more (ten) megapixels and a lower base ISO, plus a slightly higher continuous shooting rate. The D60 is a direct replacement for the D40X (the D40 will stay around for a while as Nikon's budget option), and once again it's not a major upgrade; the sensor remains the same (though now has a dust reduction system) and the external design is almost identical. There's a few new features, including the same Expeed processing 'concept' seen in the D3 / D300, Active D-Lighting, an eye sensor (to control the screen display), and some tweaks to the interface, but perhaps the most significant change isn't to the camera at all; the move to an optically stabilized version of the kit lens.
Auto Focus only for AF-S or AF-I lenses

As with the D40 and D40X, the new D60 doesn't have an built-in focus drive motor which means it can auto focus only with lenses which have their own drive motor (AF-S and AF-I lenses). The lack of a drive motor can be seen by the missing mechanical focus drive pin on the lens mount (see images below). One of the D60's new features is an electronic rangefinder to help manual focus on non AF-S / AF-I lenses.

source: dpreview.com

Panasonic Digital Camera

2009-03-07T12:13:00.004+07:00

Using The Panasonic Lumix Dmc Tz3k 7 2mp To Take Inventory Photos Of Your House

By Jacob Georgeson

Having an updated inventory of your house is important. For example in case of disaster or burglary insurance claims are much easier when you can write down exactly what was in the house and also provide visual proof for that list.

Taking inventory photos of your house using the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP for example is easy if you follow a few simple steps. The first thing to do is to write down the list of what is in your house and what you would like to take digital photos of. If you have a lot of stuff in your house you should also figure our a way to catalog the photos. You can for example sort the photos by the object alphabetic order or you could sort them by the room where the objects are. Another option is to sort them by object type, for example photos of all your books, all tables, all clothes and so on.

The next step would be to use your Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP to take the inventory photos. There are basic rules you should follow when taking those photos in order to achieve a better catalog.

As always the simplest and most basic rule to follow is just basic good digital photography rule. Make sure that the lighting is good and the composition is good. Inventory photos are most likely indoor photos as lighting might be limited. It is always better to try and get natural daylight by for example opening windows. If not possible use flash when needed or slow photography by positioning the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ3K 7 2MP on a tripod.

Inventory photos are intended to document and emphasize specific objects. As such the background on which the objects photos are taken should be simple. The background should also have good contrast against the object. For example do not use a white background to take photos of white objects and do not use noisy and busy backgrounds at all.

Try to take photos of objects in their original place. This is especially important for future insurance claims as those photos look more authentic. If you have to move an object in order to take its photo then try to take two photos one of the misplaced object and one of the place where the object is usually placed.

If some objects are unique or have special details that are important then take zoom photos of those details. Remember that digital photos are literally free if you feel you need a few objects to document one objects then take and store those photos. For example when taking a photo of your television always take another photo that zooms into the sticker on the television detailing the exact television model.

Taking digital photos of some objects is not obvious. For example if you have receipts of products that you bought take photos of those receipts. Use good photography practices and zoom into the receipt. Having this photo next to the product photo will provide valuable information when needed in the future.

And last but not least always backup the inventory photos. It is better to have an extra copy of those photos outside of your home after all if there is a disaster you would not want to lose those photos too which might happen if they are placed in your house. Give a CD with a copy of your photos to a friend or someone else that you trust.

Nikon Digital Cameras

2009-03-06T13:28:00.003+07:00

Nikon Digital Cameras D700 Review

Executive Summary about Nikon Digital Cameras by Mike Lowe

The D700 leans towards the higher end of the market, and - considering the full frame Nikon FX sensor - may well be the most viable pro-spec DSLR at a price point to undercut the bigger contenders.

Body
Nikon has been kicking up a storm of late with some exceptional DSLR cameras. The top-end pro spec Nikon D3, and mid-to-high-end prosumer Nikon D300 are both renowned for low-noise, high quality images that kick previous quality to the kerb (in DSLR terms at least) and positively shake a leg at it. Most notably the D700 has Nikon's full frame FX CMOS sensor - the very same 12.1 megapixel as found in the D3. Full-frame essentially means the sensor is the same size as a traditional frame of 35mm film. Attach a DX lens and this wont be possible - though, thankfully, the clever bods at Nikon have added an auto-crop mode that outputs 5 megapixel images.

Features & Operation
The Nikon D700 employs the much touted Multi-CAM3500FX system, which boasts 51 autofocus points in all. That may almost sound on the side of excessive, but the intelligent 3D tracking system can utilise these AF points to lock on and track a subject through the frame, ensuring sharp autofocus. The camera body itself is near identical to little brother Nikon D300, plumping for an 'environmentally sealed' (that's splash and dust proof to you and me) magnesium alloy body. If quality's your bag then there's nothing quite like having the option of shooting jpeg, NEF raw (or jpeg & raw simultaneously), or even TIFF straight to your compact flash card. Opting for a bunch of saleable features, the D700 also dabbles in the world of anti dust - employing a fairly standard sensor-shake system.

Picture Quality
Image quality, the D700 offers an unrivalled ISO range - when extended it spans from ISO 100 to a jaw dropping ISO 25,600. Nikon's EXPEED system - as found in all Nikon releases of late - also promises to optimize image quality, and is Nikon's assurance of optimum quality throughout.

Digital Camera Panasonic

2009-03-05T07:55:00.001+07:00

Panasonic Unveils Hi-tech Digital Camera

Panasonic has launched DMC-LX3, the long-awaited addition to the popular Lumix LX series of high-end, compact digital still cameras.

Designed for easy, creative shooting, the new LX3 comes two years after its predecessor, the LX2, earned an enthusiastic following among both professional photographers and serious amateurs for its exquisite image rendering, superior operating ease, and unique triple-wide system comprising wide-angle lens, said an official.

“Simply put, the LX3 smashes all previous perceptions about the limitations of a digital compact camera, setting a lofty new standard in performance, quality and creative capabilities,” said Panasonic Marketing Middle East product manager Hitesh Ojha.

The stylish LX3 is packed with features that enhance photo-shooting fun, ease and creativity.
“The LX3 is the ideal model for both amateur photographers who want to start shooting at a higher level and professionals alike. Its full set of functions draws a distinct line between the LX3 and ordinary compact cameras; it stands alone as a compact camera whose image-creating capabilities rival even digital SLRs.”

It includes Panasonic’s IA (intelligent auto) mode, which makes it easy for anyone to take beautiful photos, that has been further enhanced with AF tracking.

The newly added AF Tracking function automatically tracks the subject once the AF has been set even if the subject moves around, making it easier to capture sharp, well-focused photos at decisive moments, said an official.

Source: TradeArabia News Service

Camera Digital Panasonic

2009-03-04T06:39:00.003+07:00

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Reviews

Panasonic's Lumix DMC-G1 is the first camera to be based on the micro four thirds system, a joint initiative between Panasonic and Olympus.

Unlike any other digital camera that has come before, the G1 has been designed without the legacy of 35mm film in mind. It's an SLR in terms of looks and interchangeable lenses, but has been designed first and foremost as a purely digital camera.

There's the usual mode dial, which is surrounded by the power switch and the shooting burst rate switch. That said, there are a myriad of scene modes and preset functions to keep anyone busy, plus the usual manual/shutter/aperture/program priority modes.

Features
Sitting high on the feature list of the G1 is the 12-megapixel Live MOS sensor, which is the same size as used in other four thirds cameras (18x13.5mm). Due to the nature of the G1's construction, live view is always active on the camera; think of it as a trait carried over from compact digital cameras.

Next on the list is the rotating 3-inch LCD screen that can flip and rotate on an axis to sit facing inwards or outwards on the back of the camera, or face the body if you choose to use the viewfinder exclusively.

Panasonic has stated that as of this year there will be several more additions to the micro four thirds lenses, including a 20mm f/1.7, 14-140mm f/4-5.6 and 7-14mm f/4.

Adapters are also being made available that allow four thirds lenses to be mounted on the G1, though given the small stature of the camera, any lens not specifically designed for micro four thirds is likely to dwarf the unit. Also, autofocus will only work if the lens supports contrast AF.

Shot-to-shot time was similarly impressive; on the RAW+JPEG combination, we found there was about a one-second gap between pictures.

It may seem intuitive on a dSLR style camera to immediately head straight for the viewfinder, but the G1 has always-on live view which means that using the LCD screen to shoot is just as easy. Furthermore, the EVF may seem almost identical to shooting with an optical viewfinder in most situations, but in darker environments it struggled and a fair amount of noise was visible.

Source: cnet.com.au

Panasonic Camera

2009-03-03T04:20:00.001+07:00

Panasonic DMC-FX150 Camera Review

Executive Summary about Panasonic Camera by. Mark Peters

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX150 does not mind a few extra Megapixels. We don't even find a resolution this high standard on most digital SLR cameras, exceptional!

Panasonic DMC-FX150 digital camera
In addition to the 14.7 Megapixels, Panasonic's famous image stabilizer has been integrated; MEGA O.I.S.

Panasonic LUMIX camera features
In addition, the compact Panasonic DMC-FX150 digital camera features many handy, fully automatic settings. Activating the auto mode (iA mode) lets the camera act fully by itself, however, Panasonic takes this one step further with the Intelligent Scene selector, at which the camera selects the correct preset scenes based on what the camera is actually detecting.

High resolution Panasonic Lumix FX150 digital camera
Now what is the surplus value of the high resolution on a compact camera such as the Panasonic LUMIX FX150? Take the new Panasonic LUMIX G1 for example, a system camera of the house, that offers a standard resolution of 12 Megapixels. What's left is a nicely designed compact camera with an extremely user-friendly operation.

Panasonic Lumix FX150 : easy and straightforward
I enjoyed working with the Panasonic LUMIX FX150 in practice. A camera to carry with you at all times.

ISO sensitivity of the Panasonic Lumix FX150
Technical tests show some points of improvement for the Panasonic FX150. The effective image stabilisation system helps the camera to shoot without having to use high ISO values in well-lit circumstances.

Panasonic DMC-FX150 a interesting Lumix camera
Panasonic proves with the LUMIX DMC-FX150 that they are able to deliver compact cameras in a wide array. Whether it's an absolute entry-level model, a high-end compact like the Panasonic LX3, a Megazoom or a high resolution FX150, the LUMIX series leaves nothing more to desire. There are more interesting LUMIX cameras with a better resolution/quality ratio and equipped with features just as smart.

Digital Camera Zoom

2009-03-02T04:00:00.002+07:00

Digital Camera Lenses

Point-and-shoot zoom lenses
Most point-and-shoots today have zoom lenses, which are labeled in a couple of different ways. Sometimes you’ll see them both: For example, “3x optical” and “28mm-84mm film equivalent.” Both mean essentially the same thing, except that the latter figure is telling you what the zoom range would look like if you were looking through a film SLR camera. The technical reason is that the numbers on the zoom lens might actually be something like 8mm-27mm. But most people are more accustomed to understanding how lenses look on an old film SLR camera. So, we know that a 50mm lens on a film camera is more or less our normal field of vision. Anything higher, such as a 200mm lens, is considered a telephoto lens. And anything lower, such as a 24mm lens, is considered a wide-angle lens. So most manufacturers will include the terms “film SLR equivalent zoom” or “35mm equivalent.”

You might also sometimes see the term “digital zoom” in a point-and-shoot camera. Digital zoom works by cropping in on a portion of the image from the camera’s image sensor and magnifying it, or sometimes, interpolating it. When you use digital zoom, it always degrades the quality of the image. CR’s Take: Whenever you buy a digital camera, be sure to turn off the digital zoom in your camera’s menu.

SLR lenses
In our tests of SLR lenses, performance varied widely and bore no relation to price. Here are some considerations before you buy:

Assess your existing lens. If you already own an SLR, one of the rated zooms might be a step up from your lens. Among lower-priced zoom lenses, wide-angle models might offer better image quality than those that are more oriented toward telephoto (i.e. 200mm or 300mm).

Consider a wider zoom range. Most SLRs are bundled with a wide-angle zoom kit lens similar to those in the Ratings. But you can buy the body alone or together with a different, more versatile lens. If you think you might someday need a greater range than the standard kit lens offers, and your budget permits, buy the camera body bundled with a full-range zoom instead. You’ll dramatically expand your shooting options and what you save on the kit lens will partly offset the bigger lens’s higher cost.

Investigate camera compatibility. Different lenses mount to different brands of camera. Some utilize the four-thirds system, a universal mount used on some Olympus and Panasonic models, instead.

Look for non-zoom lenses. Those with a fixed focal length generally have higher image quality and light sensitivity than comparably priced zooms.

source: consumerreports.org

Canon Digital EOS

2009-03-02T03:22:00.002+07:00

Canon EOS 50D Digital SLR

Canon EOS 50D: Modes and features
As a replacement to the 40D, it's good to see a camera with some upgrades worth talking about. Changes available are the flash options, background, exposure, picture style, resolution, image quality and drive.

A vignette correction feature has been fitted which Canon have called Peripheral Illumination Correction. Noise can be generated by pixels heating up and if you're performing long exposures then this can become a problem. The picture styles can also be altered by registering on Canon's Image Gateway on their website.

To get your camera and chosen lens to perform to its optimum level, the Canon EOS 50D has an AF micro adjustment feature to calibrate lenses if they're having a problem with front and back focus.

As well as a higher resolution screen which is a carbon copy of the D300 and higher, the EOS 50D also has equivalent ISO settings available. The higher ISO settings are not defaulted to on such as you'd find on the Nikon models which sport a similar function.

Canon EOS 50D: Build quality
The Canon EOS 50D can bask in its own glory being being built from magnesium alloy. As with all Canon cameras, image stabilisation is in the lens and the 17-85mm f/4-5.6 comes with IS fitted. The kit lens is also the EF-S version and is noticeable by the white square indicating where the lens and body should align to fit together. This lens won't fit on a body that doesn't support EF-S fit but regular EF lenses will fit the EOS 50D.

Canon EOS 50D: Performance
The sensor is larger by 0.1mm which only serves to aid in the quest to abolish noise. The colour chart shows boosts to the primary colours and nicely settled earthy colours. I took two versions of the landscape image using the 50mm f/1.4 lens and one using the standard 17-85mm lens that comes in the kit. I originally took the shot just on the kit lens and thought it looked soft so took it with the 50mm lens too.

On the Canon EOS 50D, live view is activated by pressing the button to the left of the viewfinder with the camera screen icon above it. Three focusing modes are available in live view which are quick AF, live AF and face detection AF. Focusing is nice and fast thanks to the Ultra Sonic Motors (USM) fitted to the lens. The EOS 50D comes with four metering options of Evaluative, partial, spot and centre-weighted. Spot metering does the opposite of centre-weighted and takes a reading from the very centre of the image only using around 3.8% of the image. Evaluative metering is Canon's version of Nikon's Matrix or Minolta's Honeycomb metering.

Canon EOS 50D: Noise test
The Canon EOS 50D has 16 sensitivity settings before the two equivalent settings are added. I'm impressed with noise control at the low ISO ratings. ISO100 shows no noise at all in any area of the image, especially the black square which shows it up first. ISO6400 has coloured banding and white spots across the whole image although it's more prominent on the darker squares.
It's worth remembering that the two settings with the most problems aren't true ISO settings.

Canon EOS 50D: Plus points
-New DiG!C IV processor
-Good noise handling
-Nice colour rendition
-Nice new menu system
-Better screen
-Typical Canon ease of use

Canon EOS 50D: Minus points
-Bad fringing on supplied lens
-New CA mode for the ultra lazy (no I didn't use it)

source: ephotozine.com

Camera Digital Zoom

2009-03-01T08:35:00.000+07:00

Is it better to use in-camera digital zoom or crop and resample with software?
By. Sue Chastain

Question: Is it better to use in-camera digital zoom or crop and resample with software?

Answer: Do me a favor. If your digital camera offers a digital zoom option, go get your camera right now and turn this option off! Don't use it... ever!

Digital zoom does not capture any additional detail than the maximum optical zoom of your camera. Instead it uses interpolation to make a portion of the image larger by adding extra pixels. Just as your photo-editing software does when you resample, the camera has to "guess" at how the new pixels should be added to give the illusion of increased detail. But detail that was never there to begin with cannot be recreated.

Now you may be thinking, "If it's the same as using software to resample, I'll save myself the extra step and go ahead and use digital zoom."

Not so fast!

Whether you are using optical or digital zoom, the closer you zoom in on a subject, the harder it is to get correct focus and exposure. Also, problems created by camera shake are intensified. So an image that is captured with digital zoom is more likely to turn out worse than one captured at maximum optical zoom then cropped and resampled in your photo editing software. If you still don't believe me, go take some test shots and compare.

Another advantage of using photo editing software to resample is that many software programs have a variety of resampling algorithms to choose from. Some methods can give better results than others depending on the subject matter of the photo.

A higher megapixel camera will give you more freedom to crop and still get good quality prints, but if you really like to shoot close-ups, you should invest in higher optical zoom or a telephoto add-on lens.

Photography Camera

2009-03-01T08:08:00.001+07:00

How To Click It Right With The Best Digital Photography Camera
by. Connie Fillmore

The digital photography camera has ushered in an absolute revolution in the world of photography. With its excess of futuristic features, the digital photography camera has also brought in considerable cost reduction of photography. No wonder, people are flocking to digital camera stores.

To elaborate, digital cameras make for easy storage and editing of pictures on the PC, you cut back on film costs with the reusable memory cards and innovative features like sound and video recording. Photography just had quite an interesting makeover.

Delving into the intricacies of the entire digital camera mechanism is worthwhile so that the salesman doesn't lead you up the garden path with tall claims. And being well up on the features of your digital camera will also give you food to brag.

The first thing to know about your digital camera is the kind of CCD (Charged Couple Device) you have. This fancy-sounding device is actually the be-all and end-all of your photography unit and the pixel count in them is what that determines how good your snap is going to be.

It is also vital to know what pixels count to opt for. Anything upwards of 3-Megapixels is good for prints of 8 x 10 inches or larger, of course, the more the merrier. But if your requirement is minute 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 photos for the Web, then 1 or 2-megapixel camera will suffice admirably. On the other hand, nothing less than 5-megapixels should be on your minds if you plan to have prints of your digital stuff.

The Zoom feature is closer to your digital camera than any other feature. Optical zoom refers to the camera's capacity to magnify a subject. This zooming in or zooming out takes place within the lens itself and it is visible from the lens advancing and retracting just like the conventional film camera. This is one feature, which is best when you have it in plenty.

There are many who would swoop on a digital camera lured by its pixel count and optical zoom capacities. But the power consumption of a camera is also worth taking a peek into, for there are cameras with voracious appetites for batteries and you could well end up spending a fortune on them. So when you are buying a digital camera, ensure that it works on rechargeable batteries. A charger included in the package is a great buying option.

Stacking up on the memory card is a good idea if you are the traveling kind. A CompactFlash memory card, offering a lot of storage sizes ranging from 16MB to 1GB and greater compatibility with a large number of makes, is definitely a popular choice.

LCD monitors come in a variety of sizes and resolutions, besides the captivating ones that bend and twist at impossible angles. What you will go for of course depends on the kind of work you will be doing with the camera. If you are involved in on-site architectural work and it is shooting around angles that you are aiming at, then a moveable LCD is the one to go for. But the primary thing to take care of is that you don't have to peer too hard to make out what is on the screen.

These are the basic things that you look out for when purchasing a digital photography camera. Things when gone awry will virtually render your camera quite inefficient. There are certain other features of a digital photography camera that when present in the right dosage, make for some excellent photography sessions.

Scene modes, for instance. Having a choice helps, especially when you have not yet familiarized yourself with the intricacies of exposure, focus and shutter speeds.

A Red-eye reduction feature is quite a handy mechanism to have around when you shoot a lot of portraits. If red-eye is much of a bother, then opt for a camera with a hot-shoe connection, that is one that facilitates the installation of an external flash. A flash that is away from the lens reduces the incidence of red-eyes.

Be well up on the internal mechanism of a digital photography camera and enjoy your tryst with it.

Connie Fillmore is a successful writer and publisher of photography related issues, for more informative articles go to www.digitalphotographyguy.com

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Summary : The basic things that you look out for when purchasing a digital photography camera. There are certain features of a digital photography camera that when present in the right dosage, make for some excellent photography sessions.

olympus camera

2009-03-01T07:29:00.000+07:00

Review : Olympus E-520 DSLR
$1300 (two-lens kit)
Light and sweet

The low-down: This 10-megapixel camera has a Four Thirds sensor as used also by Panasonic/Leica. The sensor is smaller in area than the conventional APS-sized unit used by other makers. It has an aspect ratio of 4:3 rather than 3:2. Olympus has been refining "live view" since the E-330 and it now works reasonably well - there is at least auto focusing, albeit slow and noisy. The stand-out feature of the E-520 is the highly effective in-camera image stabilisation. The wireless flash capability is excellent and unexpected at this price. Camera construction is rugged, while being small and light. The dust removal system is reassuring. The two kit lenses are among the best of the type and provide a focal length range (35mm equivalent) of 28-300mm. Storage is by Compact Flash or xD card and continuous shooting speed is 3.5fps. There is no body-top camera status LCD.

Like: There is nothing cut-down about this camera. It has all the functions a serious photographer expects, in a small and light system of body and lenses. Focus, exposure and white balance are good. Ergonomics - the placing of external controls around the body - are good.

Dislike: The lenses are optically very good for the price but they are mechanically a tad rough. The zoom is stiff and gritty but the manual focus is smooth and well damped. The dynamic range is restricted compared with the competition and the viewfinder is small and dim.

Verdict: This two-lens kit is excellent value for the traveller because it is so light and compact. Having spent a couple of days walking around with the full kit in a small bag, it was a shock to the system to come back to the heavy Nikon and Canon DSLRs. Do they really need to be that big? Of course the Olympus can be small because its sensor is small and that is not always a good thing. At ISO speeds above 100, the image quality is not quite up to the standards of the competition. Still, a fine camera/lens combination for the price.

source: smh.com.au

Nikon Cameras

2009-02-28T05:21:00.000+07:00

Nikon Professional Digital Camera

Executvie summary about Nikon Cameras by. Roland Jefferson

When it comes to professional-grade photography equipment, Nikon has been the top choice for many professional photographers. The choice of a Nikon professional digital camera

The first Nikon cameras, made during the early days of film photography, depended on optics from Zeiss, a German optical maker that produced some of the absolute best camera lenses. Around the middle of the 20th century, Zeiss-Nikon lenses were the standard for professional quality lenses throughout the world. Nikon’s reputation in the camera market quickly reached the top and their line of Nikon professional digital cameras is equally as good, if not better.

As market forces changed, Nikon also tries to give amateur photographers the opportunity to have the quality professional use in a Nikon professional digital camera.

Similar to the company’s Nikon professional digital camera less expensive units have made their way into the hands of serious amateurs and those that buy by brand name only. Nikon’s reputation as a top camera makers is unparalleled in the photography world.

The Nikon D80, at about $1,000 is not considered to be a Nikon professional digital camera, but shares many of the features. The Nikon professional digital camera D2X has more features than most amateurs will use in a lifetime.

You may want to read my other guide on camera digital canon

Camera Zoom

2009-02-27T04:54:00.000+07:00

Zoom Lenses for Digital Cameras

You should be aware though that one 3x zoom digital camera can offer a different amount of zoom to another camera that is also described as having 3x zoom.

All cameras have something called a focal length. This is true even for a camera without a zoom lens. The focal length is the distance from the optical center of the lens to the camera's focal point. For digital cameras the focal point is located on the camera's sensor. For a camera without a zoom lens the focal length is said to be fixed as the lens never changes position. When using a zoom lens the position of the lens changes as you zoom in and out. As you zoom in the focal length increases. As you zoom out the focal length decreases. Therefore the focal length of a camera with a zoom lens is given as a range of two figures. The 105mm is the focal length when the zoom is fully extended.

By dividing the longer focal length (105mm) by the shorter one (35mm) we can work out that this camera has a 3x zoom lens.

Cameras offering a wider picture angles are said to have a wide angle lens. The camera with the focal length mentioned earlier of 35 - 105mm can zoom in closer even though both cameras have a 3x zoom lens.

The Nikon Coolpix 5400 is considered a wide angle digital camera. Its focal length ranges from 28-116mm. It is normal to see two zoom ratios quoted for a camera. One is for optical zoom already discussed the second is for digital zoom. Digital zoom is completely different to optical zoom. Rather than using the lens to zoom, digital zoom is carried out by software inside the camera. For example a camera with 10x optical zoom and a 4x digital zoom can give a combined total of 40x zoom.

Check out my other guide on nikon digital camera
summarized from cameras.co.uk

Nikon Digital Camera

2009-02-26T03:50:00.003+07:00

Easy to Use Nikon Digital Camera

Executive Summary about Nikon Digital Camera by. Article Manager of Articlesbase.com

Camera is an option of capturing the beautiful moments of life. Continue improvements of camera have changed methods of capturing.

There are many camera manufacturers available in the photography market, but Nikon digital camera has occupied a special place in the photography market as well as in the heart of users.

All digital cameras are good for something, but users want clear and detailed image captured by the camera. For that Nikon digital cameras are suitable for you. Nikon produced less expensive units of their professional cameras. Nikon houses a top camera manufacturer reputation in the photography world.

Digital cameras are loaded with hi-speed USB card reader, memory card, lenses and LCD Screens.

This newly launched digital camera equipped with 12.1 mega-pixel FX-format sensors. Nikon P4 houses 8 mega-pixels with 2.5 inch viewing screen with auto mode. Nikon S50C offers 7.2mega-pixels and houses a wireless interface. This camera is impressive with 3 inch viewing screen, three times optical and four times digital zoom.

Digital Nikon Camera

2009-02-25T02:24:00.000+07:00

Digital Nikon Camera Reviews

Nikon have always had an excellent reputation for the quality of their lenses. Their name has been built on the quality of the equipment they have delivered to professional photographers over a great number of years.

Their range of compact digital camera covers a variety of different types of cameras. This ranges from their simple and easy to use L range up to the digital SLR D range aimed at professional photographers and serious amateurs.

Some of Products of Digital Nikon Camera:

Simple and Easy Cameras
Coolpix L18 Megapixels: 8 Zoom: 3
The Coolpix L18 is a simple, straightforward digital camera. It is suitable for anyone on a limited budget who is looking for a no fuss starter camera. It has a good sized, 3 inch LCD screen, plus automatic red eye fix.

Pocket Sized Cameras
Coolpix S210 Megapixels: 8 Zoom: 3
The Coolpix S210 at just 18mm wide is one of the slimmest digital cameras you are likely to find. There should be no problem slipping it into a pocket. It is available in four colours, blue, bronze, plum and black.

Stylish Cameras
Coolpix S560 Megapixels: 10 Zoom: 5
The Nikon Coolpix S560 is a small, compact, pocket sized digital camera. It has 10 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom lens. Other helpful features include automatic red eye removal, image stabilisation and time lapse movies. The camera also has a 2.7 inch LCD screen.

Super Zoom Cameras
Coolpix L100 Megapixels: 10 Zoom: 15
The Coolpix L100 retains a great deal of ease of use for a camera with such a long zoom lens. There is also images stabilisation and a 3 inch LCD screen. Power is supplied by four AA batteries. In macro mode the camera can focus from 1cm away from the subject.

You may want to check out my other guide : buy digital cameras

Canon Digital Cameras

2009-02-24T20:21:00.004+07:00

For Those Who Prefer the New Breed of Canon Digital Cameras

Executive Summary about Canon Digital Cameras by. Muna wa Wanjiru

Since Canon is a worldwide name, the quality and excellence of these cameras is undisputed. That’s why, when you buy any one of the Canon digital cameras, you’re assured of getting the best possible camera for your money.

This also means that with Canon digital cameras, you can choose the right camera to suit your level of expertise as Canon digital cameras range from the easy to handle point-and-shoot varieties, to the more complex SLR cameras which gives you the option of taking full control of the whole picture.

And with a number of features to be found on just about all of the Canon digital cameras, be they the simple family-fun type of cameras or the more professional-photographer type of cameras, you can be sure to find many options available to make the process of photography a fun and easy thing.

This being one more reason amongst the many others, which leads the world to buy Canon digital cameras.

Canon Digital Camera: the Better Way to Move in Past

Executive Summary about Canon Digital Cameras by. Jayson Pablo

From camera obscure to the modern analog cameras, the history of cameras is itself a legend. From the year 1991, various companies such as Kodak, Fuji, Sony and others started manufacturing the High-end Digital cameras on very large scale. Their attractive products ranged from Simply Digital to the Professional Digital SLRs.

Nowadays, having a digital camera is a non-stop passion for every one. Canon Digital Cameras are one of the most significant products that are currently available in the market. These cameras employ high-quality features and tools to make them more efficient in the terms of quality and performance. Canon has mind-blowing categories of digital cameras in its shelf. These categories hold the range of all way simple cameras to the superbly effective professional ones. These categories are- Digital Compact Cameras and Digital SLR Cameras. The Digital Compact Camera Category is consisting of two superb series named as IXUS and the PowerShot. Both of these series offers the cameras of astounding styles and great performances. Digital IXUS860, Digital IXUS950, Digital IXUS960, PowerShot G9, PowerShot S5, and PowerShot SX100 are some of the highlights of the IXUS and PowerShot Series.

Whereas, the EOS Series of Digital SLR Cameras are the most widespread approach Digital SLRs. These digital cameras provide sparkling and snappish images with every shot. These cameras are admired and appraised by the photographers worldwide.

Please check out my other guide : buy digital cameras

Canon Powershot Digital Camera

2009-02-23T11:20:00.000+07:00

Canon Powershot Sd750 Digital Camera

Executive Summary about Canon Powershot Digital Camera by. Monty Alexander

Keen amateur photographers are constantly in search of high end digital cameras. It has many features that make operating Canon Powershot SD750 an easy job. The best quality of Canon Power Shot SD 750 is the class of images discerned. Canon Power Shot SD 750 camera is enhanced with several modes. Microsoft Windows and Mac. Canon Powershot SD750 also offers features like a host of color enhancements and scene modes, exposure compensation, and choice of three metering modes.

User friendly aspects This digital camera has a unique face detection AF mode, which automatically detects a face and focuses on it to give a better picture. This feature works with the standard AiAF automatic focus-point selector and center focus. The white balance, exposure and saturation features work tolerably well. Retrieving and sharing data with the help of Canon Powershot SD750 is also very easy. Performance Canon Powershot SD750 camera performs well under all light conditions. Canon Powershot SD750 camera delivers a high quality photos and movie footage. Conclusion Although, Canon Powershot SD750 digital camera lacks image stabilization, it has an elegant design, large LCD and more importantly very good picture and movie quality.

Please check out my other guide : canon powershot camera and powershot digital camera

Camera Digital Canon Powershot

2009-02-22T13:09:00.005+07:00

New Canon PowerShot D10 Waterproof Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot D10 Waterproof Digital CameraCanon is wading into the waterproof digital camera market with the new12-megapixel PowerShot D10. The new D10 is waterproof to 33 feet, can withstand a 4-foot drop and is freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. But what really sets it apart from other waterproof and shockproof cameras is the 3x image stabilized zoom lens. Panasonic just introduced a 12-megapixel waterproof camera with optical image stabilization, but it can only handle depths of about 10 feet. Olympus’ top-of-the-line waterproof camera can be submerged to 33 feet but it doesn’t have any mechanical image stabilization. The real-world performance of Canon’s new PowerShot D10 remains to be seen. But right now it’s got the best basic specs of all the current waterproof and shockproof point-and-shoot digital cameras.
The Canon PowerShot D10 will debut at the annual PMA tradeshow at the beginning of March. It’s scheduled to be in stores in May at an estimated cost of $329.99.

Review from photographyreview.com and also you can compare with this product:

Canon PowerShot A640 Digital Camera

Canon's popular A Series cameras have always stood out from the competition, but PowerShot A640 takes that concept to a whole new level. Experience breathtaking 10.0 megapixel resolution-a first for an A-Series camera - and the power of a 4x optical zoom lens. You'll have more fun shooting, and make your finished images even more rewarding, with the camera's exciting array of easy-to-use, high-performance features including 21 shooting modes and ISO800/High ISO Auto settings for much greater ability to shoot in low light.

Powershot Digital Camera

2009-02-21T08:34:00.003+07:00

Canon Powershot Digital Camera

Executive summary about Powershot Digital Camera by Dora Wysocki

The PowerShot digital camera series last year helped push Canon into second place, behind Kodak and ahead of Sony, in the US digital camera market. Canon cameras were first introduced in Japan in 1936. In 2004, the Canon PowerShot digital camera series was named "America's Choice" by sources within the industry.

Why a PowerShot?

The PowerShot digital camera line starts with the "flagship" model, PowerShot Pro 1, and continues through to the very affordable PowerShot A410. One of the most popular in the line of Canon's PowerShot digital cameras.

Canon Powershot Digital Camera is a Superior Pro-sumer Product

Executive Summary about Powershot Digital Camera by Muna wa Wanjiru

The Canon digital cameras are suited for these many events. In the Canon range the Canon PowerShot Digital camera has the ability to fulfill this role quite well.

The many Canon PowerShot Digital cameras are about the size of a credit card. The Canon PowerShot Digital camera is considered to be among the smallest digital cameras that have been produced. The Canon PowerShot Digital camera case is made from steel. The exterior appearance of the digital camera is flat fronted. To protect the lens of the camera you will find that this digital camera comes equipped with an automatic lens cover. The various Canon PowerShot Digital cameras all belong to the Canon Digital Elph family. The Canon PowerShot Digital camera is however given other names in a variety of countries. In Japan this camera is called the Ixy Digital camera.

The many experts who have reviewed this camera state that the Canon PowerShot Digital camera is a good buy for the average consumer.

Please check out the other guide: digital nikon

Digital Nikon

2009-02-20T09:55:00.004+07:00

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Digital SLR Camera

Executive Summary about Digital Nikon by. Bob Atkins

In the case of Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony (Minolta), their DSLRs are fully compatible with lenses used on their autofocus film based SLRs. The Olympus 4/3 system is new and earlier Olympus lenses require an adapter to mount on Olympus Four-Thirds DSLRs.

Most Nikon manual focus lenses will mount on most Nikon DSLRs and most Pentax bayonet mount lenses will mount on Pentax DSLRs, so for those systems there is good compatibility with older lenses. You can also mount many older manual focus lenses on Canon DLSRs with mechanical adapters, including Nikon, Pentax screw mount, Leica R, Contax and Olympus OM lenses.

Just about all such 3rd party lenses are available in mounts for Nikon and Canon DLSRs, but not all are available in Sony and Pentax mounts and few are available in the Olympus Four-Thirds mount. So, for example, if you really like the Tamron SP AF200-500/5-6.3 Di lens, you should be aware of the fact that it’s not currently available in a Pentax (or Olympus) lens mount, but it is available for Canon, Nikon and Sony DSLRs.

For example, both have 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4 and 600mm f/4 lenses (with stabilization), while Sony, Pentax and Olympus do not. Right now Canon, Nikon, and Sony offer a line of full frame DSLRs.

Also see our other guide : buy cameras

Digital Cameras Online

2009-02-19T20:05:00.004+07:00

How to Buy a Digital Camera Online

When shopping for a digital camera, sometimes it’s most cost effective and convenient to purchase your digital camera online. For those unfamiliar with the Internet, there are some basic rules to follow when shopping online for your digital camera needs.

Step by step

Step 1
Begin with a basic search. Go to a search engine of your choice and search for digital camera dealers online.

Step 2
Check the reputation of the merchants. Review online feedback from past customers.

Step 3
Decide upon camera features that you definitely want. Features of digitals cameras to consider include number of mega pixels, optical/digital zoom, amount of memory, easy usage, size and price of the camera.

Step 4
Know what comes with the digital camera. Check for accessories included with your camera to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Step 5
Compare digital cameras. It’s in your best interest to go to various sites and compare their digital camera options with those of other websites. This will give you wider camera and price options.

Step 6
Choose your camera. Taking everything into consideration, including budget, decide which camera best suits your needs.

Step 7
Purchase your camera and wait for its arrival. Depending upon how you shipped your camera, you may be in for a wait.

Other post you may be interested in reading: buy cameras

Source: eHow Internet Editor

Canon Powershot Camera

2009-02-18T09:16:00.007+07:00

PSRemote: The leading application for controlling Canon PowerShot cameras from a Windows PC

Features

> Take control of your Canon PowerShot camera from your PC.

> Photos automatically downloaded to the PC and displayed in a large preview window.

> Fullscreen mode for large, uncluttered display of images.

> Optional cropping of images by defining the crop area in the live viewfinder window.

> Motion detection using the live viewfinder display - ideal for wildlife photography and security cameras (requires separate purchase of Webcam Zone Trigger).

> Grid overlay display for accurate alignment of studio shots. Choose to take photos from the camera or from the PC.

> ‘Onion skinning’ option in live viewfinder display. Remembers camera settings and restores them when the camera is next used with PSRemote.

PowerShot cameras supported

Current PowerShot models that can be used with PSRemote: Canon PowerShot G10, G9, SX110 IS, SX100 IS and S5 IS
Please note: The Canon PowerShot G9 and Canon PowerShot G10 do not support shooting in raw mode when connected to a PC.

Windows Vista Support: Now supported by PSRemote for recent PowerShot models. Older PowerShot models are not supported on Windows Vista.

The following Canon PowerShot cameras do not support remote capture operation and therefore will not work with PSRemote:
A series: A410, A420, A430, A450, A460, A470, A530, A540, A550, A560, A570 IS, A580, A590 IS, A610, A630, A650 IS, A700, A710 IS, A720 IS, A1000 IS, A2000 IS
Digital ELPH/IXUS: SD30, SD40, SD400 (Digital IXUS 50), SD430, SD450 (Digital IXUS 55), SD500 (Digital IXUS 700), SD550 (Digital IXUS 750), SD600, SD630, SD700 IS, SD750, SD770 IS, SD790 IS, SD800 IS, SD850 IS, SD870 IS, SD880 IS, SD890 IS, SD900, SD950 IS, SD990 IS, SD1000, SD1100 IS
SX series: SX10 IS, SX1 IS
Other: TX1, E1

Summarized from breezesys.com.

Buy Digital Cameras (Part 2)

2009-02-17T14:58:00.003+07:00

Executive Summary about Buy Digital Cameras from PCWorld.com

Stating the number of megapixels is another way of expressing a camera's resolution; the higher the megapixel number, the higher the resolution. In general, higher-resolution cameras let you produce larger, higher-quality prints. Even a 5-megapixel camera (which is rare these days) can produce images of high enough resolution to produce crisp 11-by-14 prints.

Important: Battery Life
Some digital cameras quickly drain batteries--especially alkaline batteries--which can be expensive and annoying. With more megapixels, you can print larger photos with better image quality. Some models offer aperture and shutter priority modes, as well as full manual control. Cameras with greater focal range can zoom out to fit more into a shot or zoom in to fill the frame with the subject. Optical zoom produces sharper images than digital zoom. All new point-and-shoot and advanced cameras offer at least a 3X zoom, and some offer up to 20X zoom (the zoom of a single-lens reflex camera depends on the lens). If you want a camera with a powerful optical zoom, look for one that also offers optical image stabilization.

Somewhat Important: Manual Focus Override
Focusing the camera yourself can be more accurate than using automatic focus in some situations. Most compact point-and-shoot cameras, however, require that you use a button to adjust manual focus (if they offer manual focus at all).

Digital Camera Shopping Tips

Ready to buy a digital camera?
Match megapixels to your use: Most point-and-shoot cameras offer at least 5 megapixels, which is plenty for producing 11-by-14-inch prints. Some cameras can use AA batteries of any type--disposable or rechargeable.

Disregard digital zoom: Most cameras offer at least 3X optical zoom--and some boast an optical zoom as high as 20X.

Look for a low-light focusing aid: Some cameras have auxiliary lights that help them focus in dim settings.

Consider investing in a memory card reader or a camera dock: A memory card reader acts like an external hard drive attached to your PC or laptop, allowing you to download pictures directly from your camera's storage media. If you have a second memory card, you can keep shooting while the images download, rather than having to keep the camera hooked up to your PC. A dock also charges the camera's battery.

Also check out our other guide on Buy Cameras

Buy Digital Cameras (Part 1)

2009-02-17T14:40:00.004+07:00

How to Buy a Digital Camera

Executive Summary about Buy Digital Cameras from PCWorld.com

Higher-resolution images, sophisticated but easy-to-use controls, higher optical zoom levels, and better technology all make taking great pictures--and shooting video with the same camera--easier than ever.

The Big Picture
A camera with no manual controls may take fabulous shots in bright sunlight, but lousy ones in more challenging situations.

Key Features
Megapixel count/resolution: If you intend to take pictures only to e-mail them to distant friends or to print at snapshot size, a camera of most any resolution will do. Small cameras are convenient, but they frequently have tiny dials and few buttons, which make changing settings somewhat trying. Smaller cameras usually don't have many manual controls, either.

Zoom lens: Inexpensive cameras often lack a powerful optical zoom lens. Cameras now offer zoom ratings of up to 20X. You should try a camera's autofocus at full zoom: We've tested some models that were slow to focus at full zoom in low light.

Optical zoom gives you all the benefit of the camera's maximum resolution, combined with the ability to focus in tight on faraway action.

Low-end cameras often omit manual focusing or allow only stepped focusing, which forces you to choose from a few preset distances.

Storage: At its highest resolution, a typical 5-megapixel camera can store six to eight images on a 16MB "starter" memory card. Make sure that the camera you choose supports SDHC cards if you plan on buying one of them.

If you're torn between a digital SLR camera and an advanced point-and-shoot model, keep in mind that digital SLRs don't shoot video.

Exposure settings: All digital cameras let you shoot in fully automatic mode--just press the shutter release and you get a picture. Most cameras also offer aperture- and shutter-priority modes, in which you adjust the size of the lens opening or how long the shutter stays open, and the camera automatically controls the other variable to give you the proper exposure.
Usually, cameras that offer priority modes also provide full-manual exposure control, in which you set both variables. These modes make a camera adaptable to almost any situation.

Menus: When evaluating a camera, consider how easily you can reach common settings--resolution, macro mode, flash, and exposure adjustments--and how easily you can play back just-taken images. Some single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras offer multiple positions on their control dial for storing customized settings. Some point-and-shoots allow you to store customized settings as a mode within the scene modes menu.

One potentially helpful feature offered by many point-and-shoot cameras is facial recognition. In detecting people's faces, the camera aims to optimize both focus and exposure for the subjects, presumably to better effect than the more traditional portrait mode that almost every camera offers. White balance: Almost all digital cameras allow you to choose a white-balance setting via presets. LCD and viewfinder: All digital cameras have an LCD screen; these vary in size from 1.8 to 3.5 inches. The smaller size limits your ability to review just-taken images on the camera. If you're thinking about getting a camera with a touch-screen LCD, make sure you account for the screen-smudge factor.

If you can, try a camera outside before you buy it. Image stabilization/antishake: Some cameras offer antishake (also called image stabilization) as a shooting mode or as a feature that can be turned on and off. Most point-and-shoot cameras use software to sharpen the resulting images. You don't have to buy a Wi-Fi-enabled camera to send photos directly from your camera, however. The Eye-Fi card (2GB, $100) enables any camera with an SD Card slot to send photos wirelessly to your computer and to photo-sharing sites.

Buy Cameras

2009-02-16T08:49:00.002+07:00

Before You Buy a Digital Camera

Executive Summary about Buy Cameras by. Michael Carr
It can be difficult to buy a digital camera, especially if this is the first time you've purchased digital. Find out all the basics, learn the terminology, and find out which features are crucial for a new camera.

Know the Basics. Before you buy your digital camera, be sure you know the lingo. You also want to be certain digital is the way you want to go. If this is your first digital camera, you may or may not be ready to make the leap.

Know the Important Features. You don't to buy a camera for great close-ups, then get home and realize the zoom is awful. You don't want to buy a camera to make nice 8x10 prints, and realize even small prints have a horrible quality. Be sure you know which features are important to you.

Know the Cameras. There is an almost endless selection of digital cameras in stores. It is important to choose the right camera for your purposes. There is no point dropping $1,000 if all you need is 4x6 prints, for instance.

Know Who You Are Buying it For. If your camera purchase will be a gift, be sure you know which cameras are perfect for the recipient. Teens like cameras that are cool and funky, for instance, while moms are usually most interested in cameras that will take good family photos and allow for easy image sharing.

Know Where to Get the Best Deal. Even if you've chosen your camera, it is still important to shop around for the best deal. Sometimes that's at your local discount store, and sometimes eBay is the best choice. Other times, the manufacturers themselves have the units on sale. Check around before you write that check.

Know What to Do When You Get the Camera Home. You have that great new camera! Now what? Learn about the basics of operating that new camera, how to share your images with family and friends, and what to do if the camera stops working properly.

How to Buy Camera Parts

Executive Summary about Buy Cameras by. D. Porter

Step 1. Visit the camera manufacturer's website to determine which camera parts are recommended for your model as well as to obtain their contact information.

Step 2. Contact a local camera repair shop if your camera needs servicing from a professional or if you need assistance in ascertaining which camera parts to buy.

Step 3. Find some of the best deals on new digital camera parts with comparison shopping search engines, using more than one to obtain the best results.

Step 4. Explore online auctions as a resource to buy camera parts for both vintage cameras and newer models. When shopping for hard to find vintage parts make note of the vendors who specialize in your brand and model for future reference.

Step 5. Visit camera and photography forums such as Dpreview for additional advice on where to buy specific camera parts, accessories and lenses.

Step 6. Consider Craigslist or pawn shops for pre-owned camera parts and accessories.

Check out my other guide on Camera Digital Canon

Camera Digital Canon

2009-02-15T08:38:00.000+07:00

Digital Camera Market May Shrink in 2009

Executive Summary about Camera Digital Canon by. Kiyoshi Takenaka and Noriyuki Hirata

The global digital camera market may contract next year, the president of industry leader Canon Inc (7751.T) warned, as sluggish economic conditions dampen consumer demand.

The economic slowdown has started to hit sales of digital single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras -- high-end models that use interchangeable lenses -- but overall Canon's camera sales are solid ahead of the year-end shopping season, Uchida said.

Global digital camera demand grew 24 percent to 130.7 million units in 2007, according to research firm IDC, and Canon and its top rivals, which include Sony Corp (6758.T) and Nikon Corp (7731.T), are still forecasting sales growth this year.

Canon last month cut its 2008 compact digital camera sales forecast by 6 percent to 23.5 million units, though that would still mark a year-on-year jump of 10 percent. That has meant big profits for Canon and Nikon, which dominate the high-margin segment of the market.

Uchida said SLR demand was starting to show signs of "stagnation" but that it was not enough to knock its overall camera sales forecasts off track.

Uchida said the system will cost about 20 billion yen to implement but will generate cost savings of about 100 billion yen. Canon's office machine business suffered a setback in late August when Ricoh agreed to buy U.S. office equipment distributor Ikon Office Solutions for $1.6 billion, placing a key sales channel for Canon products into rival hands.

Shares of Canon have tumbled 47 percent since the Ikon deal was announced, underperforming a 38 percent drop in the benchmark Nikkei average, as analysts warned the loss of Ikon could mean a significant fall in Canon's market share in the United States.

"Some people ask us why Canon does not get more aggressive in M&As with all this cash," Uchida said.

Canon Q4 Profit Tumbles, Predicts Further Slide

Executive Summary about Camera Digital Canon by. Kiyoshi Takenaka

Japan's Canon Inc (7751.T), the world's largest digital camera maker, reported an 81 percent fall in quarterly profit and predicted a further slide in annual profit to a 14-year low this year, hit by slumping demand for cameras and office equipment and a stronger yen.

While most Japanese companies close their books on March 31, Canon's business year ends on Dec. 31.

Canon, which makes EOS and IXY brand digital cameras, expects its operating profit to fall 68 percent to 160 billion yen ($1.80 billion) in 2009, the lowest in 14 years, after posting its first annual operating profit decline in nine years in 2008.

FROZEN DEMAND

Without the negative effect of a firmer yen, its operating profit would have been 677.1 billion yen in 2008, instead of an actual 496.1 billion yen, Canon said.
For October-December, Canon's operating profit totalled 35.8 billion yen, the smallest quarterly profit since it started reporting quarterly earnings in 2001. Net profit fell 91 percent to 11.6 billion yen.

Before the acquisition, Canon machines accounted for 60 percent of the products Ikon handled. Shares of Canon closed up 0.4 percent at 2,590 yen before the announcement, compared with a 0.9 percent rise in the Tokyo market's electrical machinery index.

Privacy Policy

2008-03-07T06:27:00.000+07:00

Privacy Policy for www.digitalcamera-s.blogspot.com

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