Nikon 5700 review...

8/27/2009

The Nikon Coolpix 5700's the first 5.0 effective megapixel digital camera to incorporate an 8x optical zoom lens. The 9-72mm Zoom-Nikkor (equivalent to 35-280mm in 35mm photography) is an completely glass optic that includes two glass-molded ED lens elements and Nikon Super Integrated Coating. The Coolpix 5700's advanced feature set combined with a solid, compact body made of durable Magnesium alloy and a fully articulating LCD screen, makes the Coolpix 5700 an excellent choice for the experienced photographer or for those that wish to be.This is the first Coolpix to include an Electronic Viewfinder (EVF), the ability to capture images in a RAW data recording mode for image control and manipulation after the picture is taken and Nikon's exclusive Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass for superior image quality. The Coolpix 5700 also records up to one minute of full-motion video with sound, for a complete digital package.

The 5.0 effective megapixel CCD captures images with multiple image quality settings at a maximum resolution of 2,560 x 1,920 pixels, which is capable of producing 16 x 20- inch prints and larger with outstanding quality. The exclusive Best Shot Selector able to automatically select the sharpest from a series of consecutive shots. The camera also has an overall improved response, with a 70-millisecond shutter release lag time. The camera features a Quick Review button to review images in one quarter or entire screen, right after the shot is taken.


Nikon Coolpix 5700. Photo (c) Nikon

The fully articulating, 270?, 1.5" LCD monitor swivels in any direction for easy subject framing even in crowded situations. Stop action with top shutter speed of 1/4,000 second and 3-frames per second shooting, up to 3 frames or 1.5 frames per second, up to 10 frames. White Balance Bracketing and Noise Reduction Mode for stunning color balance and removal of digital artifacts in 1/4 second or longer exposures. Clear Image Mode gives you highly accurate color, low noise, smooth edged and wide dynamic range images at resolutions of 1280 x 960 and below.

The Coolpix 5700 sports a full range of exposure options; Program AE, Flexible Program, Shutter speed priority, Aperture priority, Full Manual, AE Bracketing of both the exposure value and white balance and Best Shot Selector. Shutter speeds from 8 to 1/4000sec plus Bulb (max. 5 minutes) and aperture settings from F2.8 to F10.3. Drive modes include: Single, Continuous High Speed, Continuous Low Speed, Ultra High Speed Continuous, 16-Shot Multi and QVGA 320x240 Movie with audio. User selectable white balance with Auto, Fine, Cloudy, Incandescent, Fluorescent and Speedlight presets as well as a custom manual mode. The ISO sensitivity can be Auto or fixed at ISO 100, 200, 400 or 800. Metering options include 256-element matrix, center-weighted averaging, spot or spot AF that follows the exclusive 5-area Multi AF focusing system.


Nikon Coolpix 5700. Photo (c) 2002 by Steve's Digicams

The Coolpix 5700 features an automatic intelligent Speedlight pop-up flash that activates when additional light is needed. A standard accessory hot-shoe makes it easy to attach external Speedlights for greater creative lighting control.

The Coolpix 5700 captures images in standard JPEG compressed, TIFF uncompressed and Nikon's proprietary NEW raw mode to provide greater creative control even after the picture is taken. The camera comes complete with NikonView 5, an image browser software that makes it simple to organize, retrieve and print images, create a slideshow and share images via email, the Web or PDAs. Using the included Nikon Editor software found in NikonView 5, RAW mode image settings can be manipulated at the photographer's leisure once the images have been uploaded into the computer with the included standard USB interface.


Coolpix 5700 Features:

* 5-Megapixel CCD for images up to 2560 x 1920 pixels
* Nikkor 8x zoom (35-280mm in 35mm equivalent) with ED glass
* Macro focus with AF as close as 1.2"
* Fully articulating 270?, 1.5" color LCD monitor
* Electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 180,000 pixels
* CompactFlash Type II card slot (Microdrive compatible)
* Record images in TIFF-RGB (uncompressed), JPEG or NEF raw
* EN-EL1 rechargeable battery and charger included
* Quick Review feature for instant playback
* Programmed Auto (with Shift), Shutter-Priority, Aperture-Priority and Full Manual
* Drive modes: Single, Continuous H, Continuous L, Ultra High Speed Continuous, 16-Shot Multi and QVGA 320x240 Movie with audio @ 15fps up to 60 secs
* Coolpix-exclusive Best Shot Selector exposure mode
* Shutter speeds from 1/4000 sec. to 8 secs (Bulb to 5 minutes!)
* Aperture settings from F2.8 to F10.3 in 10 steps
* 7-bladed lens diaphram for true depth of field control
* Control of color saturation intensity
* Five-area multifocus system, user-selectable and Spot-AF
* 256-segment Matrix Metering, Center-weighted or Spot
* Noise Reduction for long exposures
* Clear Image Mode for highly accurate color, low noise, smooth edged and wide dynamic range images at resolutions of 1280 x 960 and below
* ISO sensitivity of Auto, 100, 200, 400 or 800
* Matrix Auto White Balance plus Fine, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Speedlight and Custom Preset.
* AE Bracketing with white balance and exposure value
* Built-in flash with auto, fill, slow sync, and red-eye reduction.
* Hotshoe for external Nikon Speedlights
* Epson PRINT Image Matching Technology compatible
* USB 1.1 port for image download
* Compatible with Nikon MC-EU1 wired remote control


The Coolpix 5700 features a suite of software from ArcSoft? with PhotoStudio^(TM) is an image manipulation package that allows users to edit, retouch or apply special effects to photos; VideoImpression^(TM) which lets users edit and share QuickTime^(TM) movies, Panorama Maker^(TM), which lets users easily stitch together some images to automatically create beautiful panoramic photographs ready to print or email, and ArcSoft PhotoBase^(TM) for viewing images on a PDA.

The camera is compatible with CompactFlash^(TM) cards Type I and II as well as IBM 512MB & 1 GB Microdrives. It comes with a 32MB Nikon Starter Memory Card, rechargeable Lithium-ion battery and charger that provides approximately 90 minutes of continuous operation when fully charged.

Camera digital Nikon d50 review...


Review based on a production Nikon D50, firmware 1.00

Digital SLR's are quickly becoming the fastest moving segment of the digital camera market, this means more new digital SLR's, more competition and lower prices. The Nikon D50's introduced as a more affordable and easier to use version of the D70 which was released just under fifteen months ago. Anyone who has seen or handled the D70 will immediately look a strong resemblance in the D50, it's only when you start to examine the camera in a little more detail that you notice the differences (we've detailed them below). Clearly the D50 is designed to compete with other affordable digital SLR's e.g. the Canon EOS 350D (Digital Rebel XT), Pentax *ist DS and Olympus E-300.
Differences between D50 and D70/D70s
Although quite similar in use and appearance there are several noteworthy differences between the D50 and D70, we have detailed all of the feature / specification differences in the table below. To summarize the most important; the D50 has improved auto focus especially in the area of motion tracking, it has a new auto AF mode (which automatically switches between single and continuous AF depending on the subject), it has a lower resolution metering sensor but that sensor is a newer generation than the one used in the D70 (and D70s) - spot metering circle is larger, the maximum shutter speed is 1/4000 sec, continuous shooting is 2.5 fps, it has a better viewfinder eyecup, the LCD monitor has increased to 2.0" in size, the D50 takes SD cards (not CF), it's slightly smaller and lighter than the D70 and several features have been removed or simplified to make the camera easier to use.

The only key difference between the D50 and D70 from an image pipeline point of view is that the image processing algorithm has now been tweaked to improve rendition of highlight detail (to clip less and have a softer roll-off to the highlight). It's also worth noting that the D50's default color space mode is IIIa which is still sRGB but is described as being optimized for nature and landscape photographs, you could see the difference in the sample on this page of your D70 review.


Nikon D50


Nikon D70/D70s
Body colors Black and Silver Black
Medium image size 2256 x 1496 pixels 2240 x 1488 pixels
RAW format Uncompressed NEF Compressed NEF
AF modes AF-S, AF-C, AF-A (Auto) AF-S, AF-C
AF algorithm Improved speed and accuracy, especially motion tracking n/a
Image processing Improved highlights rendition n/a
Scene modes Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-up, Night Portrait Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Landscape, Night Portrait
Default color space IIIa (sRGB nature & landscape) Ia (sRGB portrait & natural look)
Metering 3D Matrix Metering II 3D Matrix Metering
Metering sensor 420 segment RGB (2nd gen.) 1,005 segment RGB
Spot metering 3.5 mm circle (2.5%) 2.3 mm circle (1%)
AE Bracketing 3 frames 2 or 3 frames
Sensitivity steps 1 EV steps (ISO 200 - 1600) 1/3 EV steps (ISO 200 - 1600)
Auto ISO Yes, with min shutter speed selection Yes
Max shutter speed 1/4000 sec 1/8000 sec
Continuous shooting 2.5 fps 3.0 fps
WB fine tuning No Yes
Hide picture (Play) No Yes
Small picture (Play) Yes No
New Pictbridge menu Yes No
Custom functions 20 25
Flash coverage 18 mm 20 mm
Viewfinder eyecup DK-20 (larger) DK-16
LCD monitor 2.0", 130,000 pixels D70: 1.8", 130,000 pixels
D70s: 2.0" 130,000 pixels
Power EN-EL3 Lithium-Ion D70: EN-EL3 Lithium-Ion
D70s: EN-EL3a Lithium-Ion
Charger MH-18a (smaller) MH-18
Storage Secure Digital (SD) card Compact Flash card
USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) 1.1
Menu languages 13 10
Dimensions 133 x 102 x 76 mm
(5.2 x 4.0 x 3.0 in) 140 x 111 x 78 mm
(5.5 x 4.4 x 3.1 in)
Weight (no batt/card) 540 g (1.2 lb) 595 g (1.3 lb)
Command dials One rear One front, One rear
AE Lock button AE/AF Lock, AE Lock, AF Lock, AE Lock Hold, AF-ON, FV Lock AE/AF Lock, AE Lock, AF Lock, AE Lock Hold, AF-ON
Continuous / Self-Timer Separate buttons One button
Bracket button No Yes
Wireless flash No Yes (commander mode)
Viewfinder grid No Yes, optional
Control Panel lamp No Yes
Monitor cover No Yes
Lock switch No Yes
DOF preview button No Yes
4-way controller in play mode Up / Down = Display mode
Left / Right = Browse Up / Down = Browse
Left / Right = Display mode
Browse with command dial in play Yes No
Two new AF-S DX lenses

In addition to the D50 Nikon has also announced two new AF-S DX lenses, the 18-55 mm will become the 'Kit lens' (adding just $100 to the price of the camera) and the 55-200 mm offers a lightweight and affordable 'big zoom' addition which when combined with the Kit lens will provide a 27-300 mm equiv. FOV coverage. In comparison to the Canon equivalent lenses these two both feature Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology which means faster focusing and near silent operation. Click there for an image of the D50 with the 18-55 mm lens mounted. (Canon do a version of the EF-S 18-55 mm with a USM motor but only standard in Asia).

AF-S DX 18 - 55 mm F3.5 - F5.6G ED
(27 - 82.5 mm equiv. FOV, 3x zoom)
Also accessible in silver AF-S DX 55 - 200 mm F4.0 - F5.6G ED
(82.5 - 300 mm equiv. FOV, 3.6x zoom)
Also obtainable in silver


If you're new to digital photography you might wish to read the Digital Photography Glossary before diving into this article (it may help you understand many of the terms used).

Conclusion / Recommendation / Ratings are based on the opinion of the reviewer, you should read the ENTIRE review before coming to your own conclusions.

Images which can be viewed at a bigger size have a small magnifying glass icon in the bottom right corner of the image, clicking on the image will display a larger (typically VGA) image in a new window.

To navigate the review simply use the next / previous page buttons, to jump to a particular section either pick the section from the drop down or select it from the navigation bar at the top.

DPReview calibrate their monitors using Color Vision OptiCal at the (fairly well accepted) PC normal gamma 2.2, this means that on our monitors we can make out the difference between all of the (computer generated) grayscale blocks below. We recommend to make the most of this review you should be able to see the difference (at least) between X,Y and Z and ideally A,B and C.

d200 nikon review

8/20/2009

During my preview of the Nikon D200 I compared the D100 with the newborn baby D200 D-SLR. I am using the Nikon D100 on a daily basis for product shots, like I did for this preview. Comparing the two Nikon D-SLR's is just like comparing apples and oranges. In other words, forget it. The exclusively resemblance is the brand name Nikon,; there are just too many differences to mention. For example the Megapixel boost, from 6 to 10 and D2x features like color modes, white balance, 11 and 7-wide area AF and 3D-Color Matrix metering II. Other differences between the D200 and D100 are high speed shooting, 2.5-inch LCD display, responsiveness, body, flexibility, professional image processing, RGB histograms, in-camera image optimization, GPS support, USB 2 Hi-Speed, W-LAN support, etc. Think of a early generation with the latest innovative techniques inherited from its professional brother and you'll think of the Nikon D200. Although I could still get a very fine happen with my D100, the new Nikon D200 offers more versatility, far better responsiveness and a more direct way to be more creative.
Nikon D200 and Nikon D100 bodies
Nikon D200 and Nikon D100 bodies
Compared to the D100 the new Nikon D200 has a lot more to offer than just a Megapixel upgrade. It look and feel is totally different to that of the D100 D-SLR. The ergonomics are much more ideal and you are able to work in a more faster and instinctive way compared to the 'old way'. I have worked with the Nikon D200 for a short period, but after just a little of shots and navigation through the menu you experience immediate the benefits of the different menu set-up. It is a totally new generation, more accurate, and entire of innovative techniques that were just not there in the time of the D100. Just take the 2.5-inch display, it is so much comfortable than working with the D100. I cannot even imagine that I have worked in the field with just a 1.8-inch display, amazing? The wide AF feature gives me more freedom and more creativity during my daily shots, and the responsiveness impressive.

Nikon D200 3D-Color Matrix metering II Nikon D200 11-area AF
Nikon D200 D-SLR 3D-Color Matrix metering II Nikon D200 D-SLR 11-area AF
Nikon D200 D-SLR 3D-Color Matrix metering 2 Nikon D200 D-SLR 11-area AF
Another feature we have seen on the professional Nikon D2x is the 3D-Color Matrix metering II, which delivers optimized exposure using new technology developed for the Nikon, 1005 pixel RGB exposure/Color Matrix metering sensor. Each shot is evaluated using 7 parameters including brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area, and camera-to-subject distance. This evaluation refers to an on-board database of over 30,000 actual photographic scenes to instantly and accurately calculate the final value. The high speed image processing is inherited from the D2x D-SLR. For added control, saturation and highlights of a captured image can be controlled using the RGB histograms on the LCD monitor. Furthermore new image optimization modes enable you to optimize sharpening, tone and contrast, color, saturation and hue in choices including settings like Softer, Normal, More vivid, Portrait and Black and White.
The D200 incorporates a newly developed 11-area AF system. Used to work with a Nikon D100 for my product shots I look myself often confronted with insufficient focus points forcing myself to modify the composition to be able to focus. With the 11-area AF system the Nikon D200 packs the same number of focus areas that are accessible for, again, the Nikon D2x professional D-SLR camera. The new system enables you to select individual focus areas from 11-area wide and 7-wide area AF for Single Area AF, Dynamic AF (delivers precise Continuous servo AF mode operation for moving subjects), Closest Subject Priority Dynamic AF and also Group Dynamic AF. No less than 5 AF options are available offering great flexibility to the D200 user. All AF options are supported by refined lens-controlling algorithms that realize improved focus precision, better subject acquisition capability, keener subject tracking ability and overall improved system response.

Total Imaging System Color Space Depth-of-field preview



Nikon D200 Color Space




Nikon D200 Total Imaging System Nikon D200 Color Space Nikon D200 Depth-of-field preview
Like completely Nikon digital SLR cameras, the D200 supports the Nikon Total Imaging System, meaning: the Nikon D200 supports over 50 AF Nikkor lenses! Interesting to see is that it also supports non-CPU lenses. Activating the menu and entering the data of the non-CPU lens you are going to use (focal length and minimal aperture) the D200 is able to adjust the aperture if you set the aperture ring of the non-CPU lens to the desired value.
In the shooting menu you will find the color space feature. You might choose from sRGB or AdobeRGB. sRGB is recommended when you take pictures to be printed without modification. AdobeRGB is highly recommended for those who are shooting JPEG's and are taking advantage of the wider gamut of colors. This mode is the preferred choice for images that will be processed or retouched.
Next to the grip of the camera, between the lens and the grip to be more precise, you will find a depth-of-field preview button. This feature creates a preview of the effects of aperture. The lens will be stopped at the aperture value selected by the camera (modes P and S) or the value selected by the user (modes A and M), allowing depth of field to be previewed in the viewfinder.

Nikon D200 AF-Assist illuminator Nikon D200 CompactFlash back up
Nikon D200 SLR AF-Assist illuminator




Nikon D200 SLR AF-Assist illuminator Nikon D200 SLR CompactFlash support
It's bound to occur now and then that the environmental light condition is poor and the AF experiences some difficulties to focus. The Nikon D200 has a built-in AF assist illuminator which enables the D200 to focus even when the subject is poorly lit. The D200 D-SLR camera must be in focus mode S (single-servo auto focus), an AF-Nikkor lens must be attached, and the center focus area or focus area group must be selected or closest subject priority in effect. If these conditions are met and the subject is poorly lit, the illuminator will light automatically to assist the autofocus operation when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway. This feature is able to do the job whenever the following conditions are correct; the lens must have a focal length of 24--200 mm and the subject must be in range of the illuminator. It is best to remove the lens hood.
The Nikon D200 uses CompactFlash type I or II for storage. The support of this type of flash card and the FAT 32 support enable using 4GB and bigger capacity CompactFlash cards. The D200's CompactFlash compartment is set in the rear of the handgrip. To open the compartment you must first unlatch it by pushing a button upwards. (Left to the LCD display). The compartment door springs open and you will be able to insert the card. The way it opens and closes feels solid and the compartment is nicely integrated into the handgrip. To be able to use the fast shooting mode of the D200 it is wise to invest your money in a fast card like the Extreme III series of SanDisk. Shooting 37 JPEGs or 22 RAW format files in sequence takes quite some processing power of the camera, but also of the card. To remove the card, open the compartment door, push the Eject button and remove it. Of course make sure to turn off the camera before doing so.

nikon d70 review...


Nikon has now officially introduced the Nikon D70 Digital SLR camera, and a new companion AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED zoom lens. Although pre-announced about a month ago, entire specifications for the Nikon D70 and new DX lens have now been released.The initial expectation was that Nikon would be introducing an entry-level digital SLR competitor aimed at the Canon Digital Rebel, however, based on features and performance, the Nikon D70 seems destined to be a strong competitor even when compared to the higher end Nikon D100 and Canon EOS 10D.

Designed for a broad range of customers, from novices to important and experienced photo enthusiasts, the Nikon D70 digital SLR will allow photographers to easily adopt digital technology into their existing Nikon camera system, or to initiate building a system that will bring ongoing enjoyment in the future.

The D70 employs the Nikon DX Format sensor and Nikon F lens mount design. This maintains seamless compatibility with completely AF Nikkor lenses and allows photographers to take full advantage of DX Nikkor lenses designed for Nikon's D-series digital SLR cameras and which are optimized to achieve maximum center-to-edge-to-corner image quality.

Developed as an ideal match for daily use with the D70, while fully compatible with all Nikon D-Series SLR models, the new AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens looks attractive, and provides added durability with a metal lens mount design.


AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED

Nikon D70 Major Features

*
6.1 effective megapixels

*
New Nikon DX Format CCD imaging sensor features an improved signal to noise ratio and broader dynamic range that produces 3,008 x 2,000-pixel images with high resolution and sharp details.

*
New advanced digital image processor with new algorithms to handle all steps of digital image processing and optimize image quality, while controlling auto white balance, auto tone and color control, as well as real-time processes to diminish digital noise and produce better long exposure shots.

*
White balance achieved by Nikon's acclaimed 1005-segment 3D Color Matrix Meter (same type as Nikon D1 series, D2H) for precise control over white balance regardless of lighting conditions. Choose from auto TTL white balance, six different custom manual modes, or preset white balance. White balance bracketing's also available.

*
1.8 inch LCD (130,000 pixel) monitor with user-friendly menus located directly below the viewfinder displays larger menu fonts and icons that employ well-known keywords for intuitive operation. A protective clear LCD cover is also included with the D70.


*
Versatile LCD playback options include Single frame, Thumbnail (4 or 9 segments), Zoom playback (up to 4.7x), Slide show, Histogram indication, and Highlight point displays with automatic image rotation for vertical shots.

*
Continuous shooting at 3 images per second for a continuous burst of up to 144 pictures (using JPEG NORMAL - Large settings, and a SanDisk 256MB CompactFlash^(TM) card) thanks to improved buffer memory handling, faster image processing, increased memory card access speed and greater system bus bandwidth. The number of continuous shots possible in a single burst might be fewer depending on the type of CF card used.

*
Ultra-short shutter time lag (is hardly noticeable), and fast power up.

*
Vastly improved recording times for compressed NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) files, the inclusion of a simultaneous NEF + JPEG file save setting, and real-time processes that diminish digital noise in long exposure shots.

*
High-speed, precision 5-area AF system with predictive focus tracking and Lock-on^(TM) ensures quick response and accurate focus, while an AF-assist illuminator helps assure focus in dark situations.

*
Fast shutter speed with a range from 30 to 1/8,000 sec. for full creative control.

*
Fast flash sync shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec. available for great fill-effects under brighter light conditions.

*
Fast recording that supports FAT 16 and FAT 32 formats, along with Lexar WA (Write Acceleration) technology for greater speed and larger storage options.


Looking to purchase the Nikon D70s ? Check out the great deals at B&H Photo

*
Seven New Automated Digital Vari-Program selections easily accessed from the new Mode Dial deliver automatic operation that optimizes white balance, sharpening, tone, color, saturation and hue for crisp and vivid results that match the intended shot. Selections include Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, and Night Landscape.

*
Image enhancement options optimize sharpening, contrast, tone, color, saturation and hue while using Auto Multi Program [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S], [Aperture-Priority Auto A], or [Manual M] exposure modes to best match the scene or intended use for the picture. The easy to set choices include Normal, Vivid, Sharp, Soft, Direct Print, Portrait, Landscape or Custom optimization

*
Flexible sensitivity control from ISO 200 to 1600 to match most lighting conditions; could be set manually or be controlled automatically by the D70. Auto ISO on the D70 functions even when using the built-in Speedlight, or the SB-800 or SB-600, to automatically control the sensitivity to match the amount of light from the flash.

*
Optimized exposure with a choice of three TTL exposure modes, such as 3D area matrix (based on 3D Color Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor), variable Center-Weighted Meter and choice of Spot Meters.


*
Nikon's built-in iTTL automatic balanced Fill-Flash can shoot at synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects when shooting in brighter lighting conditions.

*
Supports the Creative Lighting System for the wireless control over remote Speedlights of the Advanced Wireless Lighting System (Nikon SB-800 and new SB-600 speedlights)

*
Flash exposure compensation (with built-in and external flash).

*
New Generation Color Reproduction System offers a choice of three color modes to ensure the best match for the shot when operating the camera manually.

Mode Ia: Renders natural-looking skin tones out of the camera. (sRGB)
Mode II: Realizes a wider color range suited for processing or retouching. (Adobe RGB)
Mode IIIa: Renders vivid landscape and flora colors out of the camera. (sRGB)

*
Proven lithium-ion battery system (same as D100) delivers the power to shoot up to 2,000 images* on a single charge. The supplied rechargeable 1400 mAH EN-EL3 lithium-ion battery combines light weight with high energy capacity, and can be recharged at any time (must not be depleted before recharging).

* 2,000 images per charge achieved under following test conditions:
Fully charged EN-EL3 battery; temperature of 20?C (68?F); Zoom-Nikkor AF-S DX 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G SG IF ED lens; continuous shooting mode; continuous-servo autofocus; image quality set to JPEG BASIC; image size set to Medium; shutter speed 1/250 sec.; shutter release pressed halfway for three seconds and focus cycled from infinity to minimum range three times with each shot; monitor turned on for five seconds after six shots and then turned off; cycle repeated once exposure meters have turned off.

*
Compatible with disposable batteries for added flexibility, the D70 ships with a battery holder that allows it to be powered by three disposable CR2 batteries.

*
25 Custom Settings allows the user to personalize operation of the D70 to match their shooting style or the demands of different shooting conditions

*
Wireless remote control operation made available with optional ML-L3 (IR) remote control.

*
Direct printing from the D70 to any PictBridge compatible printer using the supplied USB cable

Refurbished digital camera...

8/19/2009

Buying a refurbished digital camera, also cognize as a manufacturer's recertified digital camera, could possibly save you a little of money over a label new one. Typically a refurbished camera is one that was returned to a retailer as defective. In most cases, if the unit is under warranty, or the customer purchased an extended service plan, the retailer provides the customer with a new camera and the defective one is send back to the manufacturer for credit. The manufacturer repairs the camera and sells it through resellers who specialize in refurbished products.When you venture out to purchase a Canon digital camera, you're looking for the quality that Canon delivers. However, today's digital cameras are expensive, especially the models that come with all the bells and whistles. Instead of buying a brand new model, however, why not try a refurbished Canon digital camera? A refurbished Canon digital camera is a camera that was once used but has been refurbished to be like new. The best part is that you aren't paying entire retail price for it. So, you get the quality you're looking for without spending loads of money.

Just Like Brand New Models

Refurbished Canon digital cameras are refurbished for some reasons. Usually, for whatever reason, they were sent back to the manufacturer for an exchange. Maybe the camera at one time didn't work or maybe it was returned because it wasn't what the consumer wanted. However, the refurbished Canon digital cameras are rebuilt so that you can't really tell they've been used at all. You get a great refurbished Canon digital camera that does everything a brand new model costs but you could end up spending less than half price for it. What could be better than that?

To find a refurbished Canon digital camera, you can search the Canon website directly or call one of their representatives. Most likely, they won't advertise refurbished Canon digital cameras but they have them obtainable upon special request. It's just that not everyone knows that they can purchase a refurbished Canon digital camera, they almost always shop for brand new ones. So, if you're looking for a Canon digital camera but do not want to spend a fortune, call up Canon and consult them about their refurbished models.

Most individuals don't want refurbished Canon digital cameras because they feel that they may not last as long or that they may be defective. However, the people who sell refurbished Canon digital cameras inspect the cameras thoroughly. They make sure that the camera is worth selling. So, rest assured, you'll get the camera you're looking for at a great bargain.

Or, you can search the various net auction sites, e.g. Ebay, to look if anyone is selling a refurbished Canon digital camera. Sometimes, bidding on some things, especially refurbished models, can get you what you're looking for at a price you won't believe. So, begin searching for your camera today and remember that just because it's refurbished does not mean that you won't love it as if it were brand new.

Canon Powershot A620 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom


There are 7 wonders in the world. Here's another. You've never seen anything quite like the PowerShot A620. Loaded with features, this high-performance camera has a 7.1 Megapixel CCD to give you magnificent pictures at a price that will amaze you. And it's well-to-do to use. Everything about this superb camera has been designed for your picture-taking pleasure. And that makes it fun! It uses AA batteries so you could use this camera completely around the world because the AA battery is accessible virtually anywhere. PictBridge and DirectPrint mean you can print images without using a computer. If you do have a computer, it transfers images via USB to Windows PC and Macintosh computer models. Another nice feature gives you the ability of taking still pictures as well as movies. They can be viewed directly from the camera to a TV. Easy to use, the A620 is truly wonderful. Built-in Multimode Electronic-Flash Self Timer PictBridge and DirectPrint modes 2 VariAngle LCD screen with menu show in up to 22 selectable languages / Real-image optical viewfinder Flexible playback and erase modes Compression modes - Still Image - Exif 2.2 (JPEG) / Movie - AVI (Image - Motion JPEG; Audio - WAVE (Monaural)) Unit Dimensions - 4.13 x 2.60 x 1.93 inch /104.8 x 66.0 x 49.1mm / Weight - 8.29 oz./235g (camera body only) Uses 4 AA batteries (alkaline included). We suggest buying optional rechargeable batteries

My camera is the A620, but the A610, except for lower pixel CCD, is the same. The first priority for a snapshot camera is SPEED. This one has it in spades. Very fast shot-to-shot and negligible shutter lag. The first priority for a hobbyist camera is manual control. The A6x0 has Auto, program and many preset scene modes. It also has shutter priority, aperture priority and entire manual mode. Computer imaging enthusiasts will be disappointed that the A6x0 cameras do not provide RAW picture format, but it does produce excellent detail in Fine JPEG mode, and I think many in even that group would be satisfied. The lens is excellent for such a small camera. It is fast at f4.1 on the telephoto end of the zoom, very important for family photographs outdoors (fewer blurred photos of kids or pets at play). Really great ISO400 happens for even more speed. Color and white balance is excellent, right out of the camera. Photos are vivid and life-like. The flash is small, so if you use that a great deal I recommend something like the Sony slave flash which attaches to the tripod fitting on the camera. The zoom works fast. The controls are well laid out, and the camera is easy to handle (my hands are fairly long, I'm 6-2). The menus are easy to use and quick to find. I have not needed to open the manuals, so I can't comment on those. The LCD is bright, and preview mode is fast (the swiveling LCD is fantastic). The optical viewfinder is adequate and bright enough (about 80% coverage, I think). The camera fits in my shirt pocket, but with quite a bulge. Buy a bigger SD card because the 32mb card with the camera exclusively holds 9 photos at best quality. AA batteries are convenient. Get a good set of rechargeable batteries with a set of cheap alkaline for backup, and you are ready to go (good battery life here). I have not used movie mode and I might never do so, though I hear it is very good; there is a printer output that I do not use; the camera comes with software that I do not use, so I cannot comment on those three things.
The door for cable connections is flimsy. I opened it once and had hurt closing it. Had to force the top clip to engage. Buy a card reader ($10 or $20) and forget about the cables. Overall, great camera and great photos.

canon powershot sd700 is Review...

8/17/2009

Compared to its siblings in Canon's SD line of compact point-and-shoot cameras, the top-end SD700 IS packs more features into its small frame than higher resolution. It shares the same 6-megapixel sensor as its peers, the PowerShot SD600 and SD630 but has a longer zoom lens and image stabilization to curb blurry photos.
The Canon PowerShot SD700 IS is compact, though slightly larger than the other two models. Still, it's the right size to slip into a jacket or a loose pants pocket. At 6.8 ounces, it's a bit heavy for its small size, giving it a nice, solid feel.

The camera's intelligently laid-out controls are comfortable to operate, though with a few minor annoyances. Most of the controls are located on the back panel, leaving only the shutter release and zoom rocker on the top edge of the camera. I'm not crazy about the zoom rocker, which encircles the shutter release. Though its small nub makes it easy to find and responsive to use, I'd have preferred it to be slightly larger. You select among the shooting and playback modes via a half-covered, View-Master-like wheel on the right side of the camera.

The main camera controls rest in a four-way-plus-OK pad, while menu, print, and display buttons sit next to the LCD screen. You change the flash, timer, macro, and ISO sensitivity settings directly through the control pad, while more technical settings such as exposure compensation, white balance, and color adjustment are accessed via the operate menu. The buttons are round and responsive, and they feel comfortable even under large thumbs. My only real quibble with the SD700's control layout is the tiny, finicky power button, which is wedged in an uncomfortable position just above the LCD screen and to the right of the viewfinder.
Canon PowerShot SD700 IS
Canon PowerShot SD700 IS
Canon PowerShot SD700 IS
The Canon PowerShot SD700 IS's small but efficient controls.

The Canon PowerShot SD700 IS is packed with handy features. Its 6-megapixel sensor works with its image-stabilized f/2.8-to-f/5.5 35mm-to-140mm lens (35mm equivalent) and could hit sensitivity settings as high as ISO 800. Its 2.5-inch LCD screen is nice and bright, and it leaves just enough room for an optical viewfinder. Unfortunately, the viewfinder is just above the center of the LCD screen, forcing you to turn your head uncomfortably or polish the LCD with your nose.

Beyond the standard automatic and manual-ish settings--it lacks shutter- and aperture-priority exposure modes--the camera offers a nice handful of scene presets. Included are standard shooting modes such as nighttime, portrait, and kids and pets. It also includes Canon's Color Accent and Color Swap modes, gimmicky but fun options that let you switch colors in photos or take artsy, everything-is-black-and-white-except-for-a-toy shots. The SD700 IS can also shoot video at a standard 30fps in VGA resolution or at 60fps in QVGA (320x240) for effects such as slow motion. The camera offers Canon's thorough color-adjustment settings. If manual and preset white-balance options aren't enough, you can tweak individual colors until they look just right.

The SD700 IS's quick and responsive performance hits the right note. A shutter lag of 0.5 second in bright light and 0.8 second in dim light are about average for an ultracompact, but its 1.5-second time to first shot and 1.6-second shot-to-shot time definitely rise above the crowd. Even with the onboard flash enabled, shot-to-shot time rose to only 1.9 seconds. And it keeps up the pace in continuous-shooting mode--about 2.1fps in burst mode for an effectively unlimited number of shots.

Though it's the first SD-series Digital Elph to use Canon's optical image stabilization system, the SD700 IS does a very good job of minimizing blur. Zoomed-in photos look crisp and clean with image stabilization, and wide-angle, low-light photos suffer less blur than usual.

Image quality, much like performance, rates as excellent. The SD700 IS reproduces color very well, and images are clean with few processing flaws. Photos remain consistent and noise-free at low-to-moderate ISO speeds and are acceptable even at ISO 400. At ISO 800, we noticed many distinct noise in our photos, but it was a clean, grainlike noise that left the images very usable. Furthermore, lens sharpness remains relatively consistent around the edges, unlike with some similar cameras. This helps keep fringing to a minimum.

The Canon PowerShot SD700 IS is a very strong, compact digital camera that produces great pictures. Its price is a bit high compared to that of its little brothers, the SD600 and SD630, but its great image stabilization and subsequent blur-free photos are worth the extra few quid.

Canon Powershot SD630 Review...


The PowerShot SD630 camera maintains the classic trim, thin, linear design aesthetic that's the line's hallmark. Despite a body thickness of less than an inch, the PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH camera accommodates a retractable 3x optical zoom with an equivalent focal length of 35-105mm.The 2006 lineup of six-megapixel Digital ELPH cameras includes the PowerShot SD700 IS, PowerShot SD630 as well as PowerShot SD600. These cameras maintain the petite profile that has characterized the line since its inception while adding big new features designed to make these the easiest to use Digital ELPH cameras to date.

The PowerShot SD630 camera maintains the classic trim, thin, linear design aesthetic that's the line's hallmark. Despite a body thickness of less than an inch, the PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH camera accommodates a retractable 3x optical zoom with an equivalent focal length of 35-105mm.

The PowerShot SD630 features an ultra large 3.0-inch broad viewing angle type 173,000-pixel LCD screen with adjustments for 15 levels of brightness. What's more, the camera also features an innovative new touch control dial - similar to those found on numerous popular MP3 players - that allows users to easily scroll through captured images or replace the camera's menu settings. In order to accommodate the bigger LCD screen, the PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH camera does not include a real-image optical viewfinder, which Canon offers on most different Digital ELPH models.

The new Digital ELPH cameras have many of the latest advances in Canon technology with the proprietary DIGIC II imaging processor. The processor enhances picture definition, vibrancy, and quality, while helping increase the speed of the cameras' startup, autofocus, shutter response, playback, and image processing speed while reducing power consumption by 35 percent compared to the first DIGIC chip. Consumers profit from accelerated image transfer speed of a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 port.

All of the new models offer a new widescreen 16:9 ratio resolution setting that facilitates creating panoramic-style prints. Additionally, all new PowerShot models support 23 languages (now including Thai and Arabic). The new cameras have an improved direct printing operate that permits greater flexibility in print settings, including a face brightener setting for backlit photos.

Canon also enhanced the 'My Colors' mode found in the new PowerShot line. Where previously, users could only enable 'My Colors' while shooting, the current iteration permits captured images to be retouched as well, without the need for special software applications or tools. Available My Color playback modes include Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, and Vivid Red; lighter and darker skin tones, as well as options for creating black & white, sepia, neutral and positive film effects. A color accent setting turns all colors but the one selected by the user to monochrome and the color swap mode enables users to alter certain colors in an image by sampling another color from the same image or any other image on the camera's memory card. So, 'My Colors' give s PowerShot users with an incredible range of creative photo effects that able to be accessed directly in the camera with no need for post-processing in a computer.

For those who consider the ocean depths part of the Digital Elph camera line's "go anywhere" promise, Canon offers individual optional waterproof housing systems. With a depth rating of 40m/130 feet for the PowerShot SD700 IS Digital ELPH, the PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH and the PowerShot SD600 Digital ELPH cameras, these models are a natural choice for underwater photo enthusiasts, SCUBA divers and even snorkelers.

Like all PowerShot digital cameras, these new Digital ELPHs work seamlessly with Canon's petite SELPHY Compact Photo Printers - an essential PowerShot accessory. Consumers simply connect their PowerShot digital camera to a SELPHY printer - such as the SELPHY CP510 and CP710 models. Press the lighted Print/Share button, and within seconds , images emerge. Presto! It is that simple. Canon's SELPHY Compact Photo Printers are PictBridge compatible. They work with PictBridge enabled digital cameras and offer excellent image quality and ease-of-use, especially when paired with a Canon digital camera. At 28 cents-per-print, printing photos directly from a digital camera is both easy and affordable.


Powershot SD630 Features:

* 6 Megapixel CCD sensor for up to 2816x2112 pixel images
* 3x optical 35-105mm f/2.8-4.9 zoom w/digital Macro
* Super large 3.0" color LCD with Night Display function
* New Widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio for HDTV display
* Ultra-compact and durable stainless steel body (3.39 x 2.11 x 0.85 in.)
* Advanced TTL AiAF 9-point autofocus system with focus-assist lamp
* Program AE automatic and Manual exposure modes
* Continuous 2fps shooting until memory is full
* Movie mode w/sound 30/15fps 640x480/320x240 unlimited length
* Fast Frame Rate Movie recording, 320x240 at 60fps
* Evaluative metering on focus point or Spot
* Exposure compensation: +/-2EV in 1/3-step increments
* White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
* Photo Effects: Vivid, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Custom Color
* Shutter speeds of 15 seconds to 1/2000 second
* Auto noise reduction with 1.3 sec or longer shutter speeds
* Selectable ISO settings from 80 to 800
* Voice memo (up to 60 secs) can be attached to images
* Built-in microphone and speaker
* Lithium rechargeable battery and charger included
* Direct print and PictBridge Compliant
* High-speed USB 2.0 connectivity for PC and Mac
* Secure Digital (SD) card storage, 16MB supplied



The PowerShot SD630 Digital ELPH camera will be accessible in April for an estimated selling price of $399.99.





Physical Views


Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH





Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

The SD630 compared to a standard CD disc.




Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

Canon Powershot SD630 Digital ELPH

The Powershot SD630 and the Fujifilm F470




Continue on to
Features & Controls




US visitors Powershot A630 Silver Digital Camera (8MP, 4x Opt, MMC/SD/SDHC Slot)
$ 299.00 at Buydig.com
$ 275.92 at Y2incusa








PowerShot SD630 Specifications
Camera Effective Pixels Approx. 6.0 million
Image Sensor 1/2.5-inch CCD (Total number of pixels: Approx.6.2 million)
Lens 5.8 (W)-17.4 (T) mm (35mm film equivalent: 35 (W)-105 (T) mm) f/2.8 (W)-f/4.9 (T)
Digital Zoom Approx. 4.0x (Up to approx. 12x in combination with the optical zoom)
Optical Viewfinder Real-image zoom viewfinder
LCD Monitor 3.0-inch, low-temperature polycrystalline silicon TFT color LCD, approx. 173,000 pixels (Picture coverage 100%)
AF System TTL autofocus
Focusing frame: 9-point AiAF/1-point AF (fixed to center)
Shooting Distance
(From the front of the lens) Normal: 30 cm (1.0 ft.)-infinity
Macro: 3-50 cm (W)/30-50 cm (T) (1.2 in.-1.6 ft. (W)/1.0-1.6 ft. (T))
Infinity: 3 m (9.8 ft.)-infinity
Shutter Mechanical shutter + electronic shutter
Shutter Speeds 15-1/1500 sec. The shutter speed varies according to the shooting mode. Slow shutter speeds of 1.3 sec. or slower operate with noise reduction.
Metering System Evaluative, Center-weighted average or Spot (fixed to center)
Exposure Compensation ? 2 stops in 1/3-stop increments
ISO Speed Auto, High ISO Auto, 80/100/200/400/800 equivalent
White Balance TTL auto, pre-set (available settings: Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent or Fluorescent H) or custom
Built-in Flash Auto, auto with red-eye reduction, flash on with red-eye reduction, flash on, flash off, slow synchro
Flash Range Normal: 50 cm-3.5 m (1.6-11 ft.) (W), 50 cm-2.0 m (1.6-6.6 ft.) (T)
Macro: 30 cm-50 cm (1.0-1.6 ft.) (W/T) (When ISO speed is set to AUTO.)
Shooting Modes Auto, Camera M, Portrait, Special Scene (Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Underwater, Indoor, Kids & Pets, Color Accent, Color Swap), Night Snapshot, Digital Macro, My Colors, Stitch Assist, Movie
Color Effects Vivid, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Custom Color
Continuous Shooting Approx. 2.1 shots/sec. (Large/Fine mode)
Self-timer Activates shutter after an approx. 10-sec./approx. 2-sec. delay, Custom Timer
Recording Media SD memory card/MultiMediaCard. This camera has been tested with SD memory cards through 2GB. All memory card functions cannot be guaranteed.
File Format Design rule for camera file system and DPOF compliant
Data Type Still images: Exif 2.2 (JPEG)
Movie: AVI (Image data: Motion JPEG; Audio data: WAVE (monaural))
This digital camera supports Exif 2.2 (also called "Exif Print"). Exif Print is a standard for enhancing the communication between digital cameras and printers. By connecting to an Exif Print-compliant printer, the camera's image data at the time of shooting is used and optimized, yielding extremely high quality prints.
Compression Superfine, Fine, Normal
Number of Recording Pixels (Still Images) Large: 2816?2112 pixels
Medium 1: 2272?1704 pixels
Medium 2: 1600?1200 pixels
Small: 640?480 pixels
Wide: 2816?1584 pixels
Number of Recording Pixels (Movies) Standard, My Colors:
640?480 pixels (30 frames/sec., 15 frames/sec.)
320?240 pixels (30 frames/sec., 15 frames/sec.)
Recording can continue until the memory card is full
(can record up to a maximum of 1 GB at one time).
Fast Frame Rate: (can record for 1 min.)
320?240 pixels (60 frames/sec.)
Compact: (can record for 3 min.)
160?120 pixels (15 frames/sec.)
Using super high-speed SD cards (SDC-512MSH recommended).
Playback Modes Single (histogram displayable), Index (9 thumbnail images), Magnified (approx. 10x (max.) in LCD monitor, advance or reverse through magnified images possible), Jump (jumps to every tenth or hundredth image, to the first image of those sharing a definite shooting date, to movies, or to the first image in a folder. In index playback mode, it displays 9 images at once.), Sound memos (up to 60 sec.), Slide show or Movie (edit/slow motion play back possible).
Direct Print PictBridge compliant, and Canon Direct Print and Bubble Jet Direct compatible
My Camera Settings Start-up image, start-up sound, operation sound, Self-timer sound, and shutter sound.
Interface USB 2.0 Hi-Speed (mini-B), PTP (Picture Transfer Protocol) Audio/Video output (NTSC or PAL selectable, monaural audio)
Power Source Battery Pack NB-4L (Lithium-ion Rechargeable battery)
160 shots / 210 min. playback time (CIPA)
AC Adapter Kit ACK-DC10
Operating Temperature 0-40?C (32-104?F)
Operating Humidity 10-90 %
Dimensions 3.39 x 2.11 x 0.85 in. / 86.0 x 53.5 x 21.7mm
Weight Approx. 140 g (4.94 oz.) (camera body only)

Review Digital Cameras...

If you're focusing on a new camera to capture those holiday memories, you may want to go digital: Digital cameras let you view pictures instantly on an LCD screen, they allow a variety of print techniques, and they don't require film.
To support you wade through the myriad models on the shelves and in online store bins, we've prepared an informal review of some of the hottest digital cameras on the market. In general, the more money you spend, the better the camera and software that goes with it are going to be.

A Primer Before taking the pixel plunge, though, you will probably want to assess your camera needs and priorities. If you are primarily using the camera to post pictures on the Internet, then one with a maximum resolution of 640 x 480 dots per inch will probably do the trick. If you want to print your pictures, or alter them in any sort of way, then you probably want to go for a camera that can shoot 1,280 by 1,024 pictures.

Basically, the overall quality of a digital picture's related to the number of pixels it contains and/or its resolution in dots per inch. The more pixels a camera has, the more not cheap the camera and the higher the image resolution. Top performers, like the Nikon Coolpix 990, can produce pictures that have more than 3 million pixels, or three megapixels, and resolutions of 1,024 to 1,280 dpi and greater.

It's also wise to familiarize yourself with your computer specs and go armed with that knowledge on your digital quest. Doublecheck how much hard-drive space and RAM you have available to make sure you can run the software. Find out if your computer has a SCSI port, a serial or parallel port or a more versatile (and faster) universal serial bus (USB).

There are currently two digital imaging technologies used in cameras: charge coupled device, or CCD, sensors tend to make higher quality images at the moment than complementary metal-oxide semiconductor, or CMOS, sensors do. But the CMOS technology holds a lot of potential, and as it improves, costs will drop --- a slow-moving trend that promises to pick up over the next many months. (See related story at right.)

We are going to concentrate on mid- to high-end CCD cameras here, so the prices will be on the high side.

Depending on how much functionality you want, and how good your pictures have to be, you can spend anywhere from $250 to upwards of $1000 for a good camera.

Thanks for the Memory

While you don't have to worry about film with digital cameras, you do need to cognize a bit about memory: how much comes with each and how it is stored? Camera capacity is measured in megabytes, usually starting with as few as 2-MB and going through 16-MB and upwards. The more megs a camera has, the more pictures you can take. Translating megabytes to the number of pictures the camera can store is difficult because the number depends on the quality of the image you choose. For a very, rough rule of thumb, think 12 JPEGs --- a commonly used format for digital picture files --- at standard quality per megabyte. If you take high-resolution images, this number, of course, shrinks. We found a minimum of 8-megs was a good place to start.

The Best & Worst Digital Camera Telephoto Lenses of 2009...

8/16/2009
Before showering praise or criticism on any certain telephoto lens, it might be worthwhile to expel a couple of words on exactly what a camera telephoto lens is, and what it does.

In a nutshell, a telephoto lens brings the subject targeted by the photographer, closer to that said photographer. And as a result, produces a still photograph or video for any subsequent viewers that's larger, more detailed and exhibits greater clarity then could have been achieved without the benefit of an additional lens. A somewhat more technical definition would be a lens that is built from a rather long focal length lens, but where the actual tangible length of this lens is less than the desired focal length. That is not to suggest, that every lens with a longer focal length than normal is a true telephoto lens. A true telephoto lens will contain a combination of rear lenses ofter referred to as the telephoto group.There are a few points to consider when purchaseing a digital camera telephoto lens.

It's essential to know what camera or cameras, you intend to use the lens with. Different makes, models, and manufacturers often have their own lens mounting systems. Some maybe simple screw lenses, while others may have more elaborate mounting mechanisms.

Consider the subject environment you will be shooting in. While telephoto lens lend themselves to specific types of subjects, such as sporting events, wildlife photography, surveillance work and landscape vistas, that's not to suggest that they aren't used for fashion or wedding photography.

If you never used a zoom lens much in the past, then sales staff can be an invaluable resource. They handle this type of equipment on a daily basis, are often more than will to share their opinions. They may be somewhat biased, especially if their working on commission, so be sure to take what they say with a grain of salt. A good document of unbiased information can be found online. The more reputable online sites like Amazon, contain tons of real users who often share their product experience in online reviews.

Reading manuals for the specific models can be helpful as well. Most manufacturers these days, place their product manuals online in PDF form. If you Google around a bit online, you should be able to find the manual of the product your looking for.

Now speaking of the better lens I and a number of happy customers would recommend are:

Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
This lens is great for anyone who wants to try out a L-series lens in the 10-200 mm focal length range, and not spend a whole ton of money. At the time of writing this, I'm finding this lens for under $600. Additionally, if your tired of hauling around the much heavier 70-200mm f/2.8L IS, this may be a better lens for you. Remember, this lens doesn't include IS, so that may or may not be a deal breaker for you.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

If money is less important than the quality of your photographs, then it may be time to step up to this lens. It goes for around $1700 new, or a couple hundred less used. It does however include image stabilization, which is important if a tripod is not an option for your photo shoots.

Canon EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6L IS USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

Some of the things to really like about this lens, include the remarkable sharpness and clarity. An auto focus that is both darn near silent, and fast. Also included is a dual image stabilization system. It is on the downside of course a heavy lens, which I'm sure your well aware of, if you've been doing your research with different telephoto lenses in this category.

Getting the perfect telephoto lens, is never an well-to-do thing, due to the constantly changing technology. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the lens with all the features important to you.

The Best SLR Digital Cameras For Under $1000...

So, you've decided to make the brave leap into the realm of digital SLR photography. You're probably one of the thousands of digital photography enthusiasts who have been using simple point-and-shoot cameras for years. One of the reasons people are so reluctant to move into the world of digital SLR photography,'s an aversion to spending a lot of money for a camera. Well, if that's the case with you then you should be pleasantly surprised to find that you do not have to spend a lot of money to get a good digital SLR camera these days.
As with all things digital, digital cameras have rapidly dropped in price over the last few years. With that means basically is that you able to get a camera now with SLR technology that's probably as inexpensive as you would have paid for simple point-and-shoot digital just a couple of years ago. One of the first digital cameras I purchased, going back every five or six years now was nothing more than a simple point-and-shoot Canon, but ended up costing me close to $1000. When I look what I can get today for thousand dollars in digital SLR cameras, it's ridiculous.

Two of the better brands take a look at when you're considering a digital SLR camera, would be Canon and Nikon. The Canon Digital rebel line of cameras has been one of the most popular for entry-level SLR enthusiasts in the past few years. It started with the XT, then the XTi, followed by the Xsi, the XS, and now the T1i. these cameras can generally be had for between 600 and $1100.

Nikon makes a few good SLR cameras. If you're looking to stay in the sub $100 price range, and the D40 and the D60 from Nikon would be good cameras look at.

Getting the perfect camera, is never an well-to-do 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 essential to you.

The Best Digital Compact Camera Buying Guide...

Those constant questions that we always seem to get from people is what digital camera they need to purchase and which one is the best, plus the one about the best camera in the budget of the buyer. Below is your small guide to the best digital compact camera, offering you some options that you can select from, if your budget exclusively allows for this type of digital camera.
Canon PowerShot A2000 IS

This model is one of the update to be launched by Canon in the PowerShot digital camera series. This compact digital camera comes with a price that most can afford and a number of features that makes the camera worth buying. Size wise, the A2000 IS is smaller than the A720 IS model by 25%, though the features are the same, like a 36-216 mm focal length, the optical image stabilizer or the optical zoom of 6X. This model comes with a resolution of 10 megapixels, a processing engine DIGIC III, seventeen shooting modes, an LCD screen that has 3 inches and numerous more. Some of the technologies included in this camera are Motion Detection, Face Detection and Auto Correction of Red Eye.

Fujifilm Finepix F60fd

This is the latest of the F60fd models offered by Fujifilm and the extra options that come with it are face recognition at bigger angles (Face Detection 3), a bigger LCD screen (now at 3 inches), plus a metal body with 23mm thickness. If you're a beginner, the camera comes with an auto mode called Scene Recognition, but it has manual controls if you're experienced enough to use them. The digital camera has an optical zoom of 3X, 12 megapixels, a 100-6400 ISO range and a stabilization system for images. The price is smaller than $300, which should appeal to many. Because of the manual controls, which can't be found on most compact cameras, this model may have a shot at getting the eye of professional photographers.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W300

The DSC-W300 is the best model from the Cyber-shot series of models that belong to the premium category of the compact cameras. It has a resolution of 13.6 megapixels, an LCD screen that has 2.7 inches and an optical zoom of 3X. Something that a lot of cameras don't have anymore, but this model does, is an optical viewfinder. Some of the features that come with this camera are features to decrease the amount of camera shake, Intelligent Scene Recognition, technologies that help with face detection, and HD output.

Getting the best compact camera, is never an well-to-do thing, especially with the way digital technology is constantly changing. Fortunately, here are many helpful websites online, that can narrow down your search and help you find the compact camera with completely the features essential to you.

The Best Zoom Digital Camera For 2009

8/14/2009
Somewhere, someone decided that here was a gap between the fairly inexpensive point as well as shoot automatic digital cameras, and the somewhat more sophisticated digital SLR cameras used by many professional photographers. That biggest feature separating the two cameras was lens zoom. Hence, was born the ultra zoom, or extended zoom digital cameras. They're a little larger to carry around, but usually sport significantly improved lenses over the compact and ultra compact point and shoots. In addition, they do not require lugging around a case of supporting gear around, like many of the SLR cameras do.Featuring upwards of 20X optical zoom, these are impressive cameras, and could be the perfect camera for certain situations. Like when you show up late for the wedding, and get stuck in the back pews. With these cameras you'll be able to still get great shots of the bride and grooms big kiss, without being mistaken for the official wedding photographer. As a general note for completely these cameras, image stabilization's a gotta-have, unless you happen to have the rock steady hands of a surgeon.

Panasonic Lumix FZ28

This Panasonic model features an 18X zoom lens, and goes for around $350 or less. the IA (intelligent auto) setting works quite well. The auto settings are important for many photographers this camera targets as manual tweaking is generally not something a lot of casual photographers do. Of course, for those who like to make adjustments, the option is there. The LCD is a nice sized 2.7 inches. The zoom control seems to be opposite of what I would have expected, but after spending a little time with it, I'm sure most people get used to it.

Canon Powershot SX10 IS

Canon is one of my personal favorite brands, and this camera is one of the reasons why. This Canon is comparable in price (around $350) to the antecedently reviewed Panasonic Lumix, but with 20X zoom, instead of just 18. Even a couple of die hard SLR owners I've hear from, swear from this camera. A lens range of 28-560mm is nothing to sneeze at. Especially with the clarity, and noise free pictures produced by this camera, even at higher ISO settings. You can of course, get better clarity and image sharpness with a good SLR, but your going to spend at least double the price to get there. Not to mention haul a lot more gear around for a SLR. The different nice thing about this camera, is the efficacy to capture video files, even if they are in the somewhat more obscure .mov Apple format.

Olympus SP-565 UZ

You should be able to find this Olympus for under $300 these days. Which is pretty good, when you consider the quality of the 20X zoom lens that comes with it. Some would argue, that is the successor to the somewhat botched Olympus SP565UZ. It's a much better camera, a little bit lighter, and includes both an auto zoom and auto focus feature. The zoom is a joy to work with, and the somewhat advance features of face recognition, and shadow adjustments work as advertised. It's got a cool feature call pre-capture, that I suppose, is the poor mans answer to burst mode offered by many high priced SLRs. It basically allows you to capture up to 10 photos in rapid succession, and then select the ones you want to keep.

What is the Best Digital Camera Brand For 2009?

Picking the best camera brand is hard, and is something that varies greatly. Some may say Canon, while others might say Kodak. It completely depends on what the camera is being used for.
Technically, there is no best camera brand, and it very just comes down to individual preference. Nonetheless, there are quite a few brands that really do dominate in many ways. These brands include Olympus, Leica, Panasonic, Minolta, Fuji, Pentax, and Sony. As you able to see, it is hard to pick just one brand, as there are many brands that are right up there as "the best camera brand".

As for quality, this may be a bit easier to rank. At the top would be Leica, followed by Panasonic, Minolta, Olympus, Yashica, Practika, Pentacon, Fuji, and Zeiss. There are many other brands, and just because they are not on this record does not mean they are bad brands. In fact, in this time there is really no such thing as "bad camera brand", but there are just certain brands that really shine.

Overall, many would say that the Leica could be the best if it was smaller. Many people do not like it because it is not one you could fit in your pocket. Though, it is said to be a great film and digital camera nonetheless. Olympus is probably one of the best digital SLR, and if you are willing top pay big bucks for lenses, then this is your best bet.

One thing that should be considered closely is what category camera you want as well. Some brands do not have good SLR cameras, while others may not have good ultra compact cameras. There are five categories, and before picking a specific brand you should definitely cognize which of these you will likely want. The categories include ultra compact (very small), compact (small), creative compact (a bit bigger than the compact cameras), SLR-like (larger), and the SLR (the largest). Some brands will not have good SLR cameras, so if you want a good SLR camera, a little of brands may not be an option for you. Generally, Sony caries ultra compact cameras, while Olympus is better known for SLR cameras. Picking a brand is not always something that someone can support you with. Often times people pick a camera on what they find is appealing. Try out some different cameras; see how you like their look, and their interface. It really comes down to individual preference over anything.

Best SLR Digital Camera For 2009

Of each reflex digital reflex digital, the name, because the mirror behind the lens of the camera and sends the light to the viewfinder.
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Unable to perform Translation:invalid textDigital SLR with interchangeable lenses
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Unable to perform Translation:invalid textThe best SLR never easy, because of evolving technology. Fortunately, there are many useful sites online, you can refine your search and help you find the digital SLR of all important functions for you.

Consumer Reports Best Digital Cameras For 2009

Consumer Reports is a major consumer company that provides daily Shopper. They are well known and respected for their neutrality and objectivity of the reviews for the advantages and disadvantages of all the products that control. AFN is such a product, it's all year.Unable to perform Translation:invalid textAmong the many digital cameras for the choice of modern shopping, it \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ 's understandable, it can be difficult to know that its value for money. The reliability and neutrality of the comments may be hard to find, which is why many customers to companies such as Consumer Reports.
Unable to perform Translation:invalid textHis favorite recent ranking popular as cameras Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W200 Olympus EVOLT E-410 and Canon PowerShot A720 IS. Cameras in the form of simple point and shoots DSLR (Digital Single Reflex) cameras. Not only the position of cameras, but to give the reader an explanation for the many cameras. This is especially a great help to educate the consumers to decide which camera is right for you. The answer is often difficult to explain what is the best Camara.
Unable to perform Translation:invalid textA good set of tests show the characteristics common to certain types of cameras. Types of camera sub-compact cameras and point automatic track cameras and digital SLR cameras. Automatic number and shoots of wheat tend to images, and tend to fight the dark. This is generally less expensive because the quality of lens. A problem for many SLR, even the cheapest cameras DSLR beginners. SLR target are interchangeable and can be more expensive, but with greater flexibility for the photographer.
Unable to perform Translation:invalid textAnother common theme found in the subcompact and compact models, is a speed and a long delay time before allowing the users to the latest images. But they are better. Once again, the reflection, as expected, the best in speed and low delay times. A common criticism of the SLR in the past was the lack of automated features, difficult to learn, no video function, and the inability to use the LCD screen, the frame of the picture. The situation is changing, and some reflex models have learned to draw and their brothers and sisters, and most of these functions. One of the most popular is the Canon Rebel XSi.
Unable to perform Translation:invalid textSome other cameras high in the reports the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W200, Exilm Casio EX-S10, and Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS. Digital camera information between buyers and advice on the best SLR, compact and sub-compact cameras available, Consumer Reports, is much guarantees a good device to buy. Armed with this information, consumers really think, as the use of their digital camera, and how much money to spend.