#CAMERA LOVER

Nikon 7216 Action 8x40mm Binoculars From Nikon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:36:00 +0000

Nikon 7216 Action 8x40mm Binoculars
From Nikon

Product Description

The Nikon® Action Series binoculars are crafted with precision-aligned, multi-coated optics for bright clear images and aspherical lenses to eliminate virtually all distortion. It offers you quick and smooth central focusing.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #1729 in Camera & Photo
Size: 8X40
Brand: Nikon
Model: 7216
Dimensions: 3.20" h x 8.20" w x 8.40" l, 1.67 pounds

Features

Aspherical eyepiece lenses with multi-coated prisms
Quick central focus system
420-foot field of view at 1,000 yards
Magnification: 8x
Objective lens: 40mm

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
Like the Actions with 50mm objective lenses, the 8x40 and 7x35 models in this ever-popular series have been updated with enhanced and ergonomic styling and a lower price structure. They also feature aspherical eyepiece lenses with multi-coated prisms and a quick central focus system so that there is never a delay in observation. With a field of view of over 420’ at 1,000 yards, these particular models of the Action Series are a true "wide-view" binocular. For the discriminating and value-conscious outdoorsman, there is no finer binocular than the Action.

Customer Reviews

ABSOLUTLY THE BEST BINOCULARS AT THIS PRICE RANGE
Nikon Action 8x40

Nikon's Action series has always been their entry level effort. The series has gone through some pretty radical changes over the years. Nikon seems to be much more adventuresome at this price point than they are in their top of the line products. The latest Action binoculars all feature aspheric lens technology.

The Action 8x40 is probably the glass of most interest to birders. It is a wide angle design, with 8.5° of field (that translates to 446 feet at 1000 yards), a close focus in the 12 foot range and eye relief of about 10mm. The limited eye relief means that spectacle wearers will not see the full field (what else is new?)...but the usable field for most people will still be relatively wide when compared to most 8x40s on the market (especially in this price range). The body is mat gray armored. The smooth armor is sufficiently tacky to provide a good grip, but some gripping aids (ridges or patterns) might have made it more secure in the hands. Body design is standard porroprism, and comfortable in the hands, with a large comfortable ribbed focus control. However the focus might be a stretch for those with real small hands.

Optically, the Nikon Action 8x40 gives the extra bright, extra sharp first impression that I have come to associate with Nikon's applications of aspheric technology. While the view is not the equal of that provided by glasses like the Swift Ultralite 8x42 glasses which cost over twice as much as the Nikon Action 8x40, it is certainly very close.

When compared to the current BVD Reference Standard for bargain binoculars, the Bushnell 8x42 NatureView, the Nikon Action 8x40 is slightly brighter, with a bit more snap (likely due to the lack of multi-coating on the NatureView). The NatureView, however, has much better eye relief and a bit more comfortable view. While the NatureView retains its Reference Standard designation for the moment, the Nikon Action 8x40 are certainly very fine binoculars in the same price range...a BVD Starred Product, highly recommended to anyone who wants bird-worthy binoculars on a budget. Really, if you start birding with the Egrets, it may be a long time before you feel the need to upgrade, and it will certainly spoil you for many a lesser glass that just happens to cost more.

The Nikon Action series binoculars utilize aspherical lenses, ergonomic chassis, and quick central focus to maximize long term viewing comfort. All models feature high light transmission, multicoated lenses and high index BaK-4 prisms for superior resolution and brightness.

Buy them!

Great price + great quality!
These are my first pair of binoculars (actually a gift for my husband who likes birding and hiking), so I didn't know much about buying such an item. I read a lot of reviews and did some looking, and these seemed to be the best quality at the best price. After using them for several months, we couldn't be more pleased. The lenses offer clear, crisp viewing, and are easy to adjust for comfortable viewing. I like that the eye cups are soft and won't scratch my glasses. It's brought a whole new dimension to our nature hikes!

Superb Value
The Nikon 8x40 provides a lot of value for the dollar spent. Although they are a traditional birder configuration they would serve extremely well as an all purpose instrument.
I've owned and used several makes and sizes of binoculars over the years ranging from discount store specials to much more expensive premium models. While these may not the best binoculars I've ever held to my eyes the quality of the optics and construction at this price point made them my best binocular bargain.

Sony Bloggie Touch (MHS-TS20/B) - 8 GB, 4 Hours NEWEST MODEL (Black) From Sony

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:27:00 +0000

Sony Bloggie Touch (MHS-TS20/B) - 8 GB, 4 Hours NEWEST MODEL (Black)
From Sony

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Product Description

The Bloggie Touch camera captures web-friendly HD MP4 video and 12.8MP images while featuring a capacitive touch-screen for simple touch & slide operation. Integrated software makes it easy to share videos and images on Facebook or YouTube. Record up to 4 hours of HD video on its 8GB of internal memory

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #564 in Camera & Photo
Color: Black
Brand: Sony
Model: MHS-TS20/B
Dimensions: 2.70" h x 4.90" w x 2.70" l, .61 pounds
Display size: 3

Features

Accessories - USB connection support cable, Wrist strapFeatures
1920x1080p MP4 HD video with 12.8MP still images
Capacitive touch-screen LCD with touch & slide operation
Full-screen vertical/horizontal record/playback on 3.0 LCD
Up to 4 hours HD video with 8GB of internal memory

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

BEHOLD SIMPLICITY
Tap into the action.

One beautiful 3.0" (diag.) touch screen, one giant record button. The all-new Bloggie Touch camera features a capacitive-touch screen for touching and sliding effortlessly through all of your photos and HD videos.

SHARE YOUR WORLD
Visually stunning.

It's hard to take your eyes off of the expansive screen. Sporting ultra-vivid colors and remarkable clarity, it makes framing your subjects and showcasing your shots a pleasure. The view even auto-rotates depending on how you're holding the camera.

UPLOAD YOUR LIFE
Become an internet sensation.

If you can shoot it, you can share it. Just tag your favorite photos and videos with software that's built into your Bloggie Touch and upload when you get home. It's perfect for posting to YouTube, Facebook, Picasa, Flickr and Sony's Personal Space.

Customer Reviews

Great quality video but focus lags
I've had this camera for about a week now and have been loving it ever since. I've used another "flip" camcorder and the Bloggie Touch puts it to shame.

Pros:
1. Love the quick on and record. Great for spontaneous videos of the little one.
2. The touch screen interface makes it both useful and fun to use the big screen.
3. The still pictures come out brilliant, when the lighting and focus is good.
4. The battery charges up super fast and stays with you for a whole day of shooting.
5. The image stabilization is good. You can take decent video while walking around and panning too. Note that it is not optical, but electronic SteadyShot stabilization.
6. The lens is very good quality and the pictures are crisp.
7. Really like the "snap picture while recording" feature. I find myself using that feature the most. The video doesn't stall while the picture (full 12M resolution) is being taken and since the focus and exposure are usually locked well while you're in the middle of the video, the pictures come out great.

Cons:
1. In low lighting, there is quite a bit of graininess and using the digital zoom makes it much worse.
2. While the lens is good quality, the auto-focus mechanism is really very slow. If you move around the camera too much before focus has locked on, the auto-focus will almost never lock.
3. What I really miss with this camera is a flash. Even a tiny one would help with low light pictures.
4. Minor annoyance: to preview a picture right after you take it, you have to go through at least two clicks. Sony could have designed it so that it always goes to the last picture taken by default, instead of the thumbnail list of all pictures/video on the device.

I decided to purchase this camera over a still camera that can do video because:
1. This one is dead simple. One button to turn on, one to take video and one to take stills. This makes it both easy and quick to use.
2. This one can do 1080p video and 720p at 60fps.
3. Its under $200 and is smaller than your phone.
4. Its got internal flash and USB connector - no more SD cards or cables. 8GB is enough to get you through the day before you can come back to your laptop to dump the pictures.

I decided to purchase this camera over other ones in the same category because:
1. Its got a big display and the touch screen is fun to use.
2. Its got a better lens system than the others.
3. Its got (some) image stabilization.

Terrible focus hunting problems and ergonomics
I wanted to like this camera, but it's been a complete disappointment. First and foremost, the automatic focusing is terrible. The image is often out of focus, and there's no way to tell the camera to try focusing again. (Why not add this and handle it like the iphone does? Just touch on the subject you want in focus.) Most portable video cameras like this (e.g. flip and kodak) have fixed focus, and I was looking forward to the Sony's ability to focus, since it helps get better macro shots. Instead, the camera is just constantly hunting for focus and often not getting it.

The ergonomics are also a problem. I often want to hold the camera vertically, because it's more comfortable, but still take the usual landscape wide angle footage (again, like my flip and kodak cameras handle it). Instead, the Sony switches to verticle orientation when you hold it vertically. So, you've got to hold it sideways all the time, which isn't wildly comfortable for any length of time.

Adding insult to injury, none of the useful tools for sharing footage online work with the mac (though it will import into imovie).

The touch screen is nice and responsive and the video quality is good when it's in focus (though with the Sony's typical slightly colder color/white balance). But the camera's downsides--particularly the terrible constant focus hunting & missing--far outweigh its pluses.

Wow, wow, 1080! And so easy to use with the touch controls (pc and now apple compatible)
Well it almost seems like everything is now like an iPad! Operating this little device is definately one touch and not multi touch. IT was fully charged when you switch on the device (that was a plus). The packaging was beautiful and I thought I was getting a nice of piece of jewelry!

This little camcorder/camera has a glass face that provides most of the functions with the exception of an one/off button, camera button and another button for start/stop video recording. There is an initial set up prompt menu when you first start the device and a demo video that gets you all excited that you immediately want to play with it!
Pros of this device
1) camera provides photo size of 12megap, 8m, or 2m
2) movie size 1080 (30p), 720 (60p), 720 (30p)
3) camera self timer (2 or 10 minutes)
4) zoom touch
5) camera has a single face recognition
6) delete and view of saved items very easy to navigate
7) mini hdmi to allow view to television
8) auto focus , not fastest response, but if panning slowly, it works great
9) a USB that is neatly stored in body of camera
10) allows for a mini tripod to be attached
11) for each of the saved photo/movie youncan tag it to you tube, facebook, flickr, and prelabeled email addresses.
12) the picture will rotate likemit is an iPhone/touch!
13) volume adjust on playback is great and picks up voices very well.
14) weighs less than iphone4

Con: you have to buy a separate pouch! Does get warm after using for half an hour continuously. This can only be used with windows and is not compatible to Mac! Hmm, not good.( update as of February 2011, software is now available to Mac users to allow download to a MAC! Yeah)
Also, wish there were some rubber gribs around the edge as it can get a little slippery to hold, but you do get use to it and adjust your grip to accomodate it.

Results: even in low lighting, both the camera and camcorder recorded pretty good results. The auto zoom will adjust from a moderate panning speed to avoid blurs. We were quite impressed with how well the auto focus adjusted.
Setting up the software was easy and detected the device immediately. The picture is a little grainy whe using less than 12 megapixel, and the playback on the hd1080 (I, which is what we suspect) was actually not bad on our 46 inch tv!
It is simple to use and I am usually the one that needs the manual and get over whelmed with the numerous functionalities. It was very intuitive and really simple to use for the market it is aimed at: shooting fun footages to share with family and friends.

Update: December 12th: in low light and indoor shoorting: the picture/video can come out with a tinge of yellow. This result will happen if you shoot too quickly without allowing the camera to 'accumulate' a little more light. The results are great for outdoors and very sharp finish (then again this is more for outdoor than indoor! We are still loving how light it is and that with the touch screen you can move the focus and hold the Touch with one hand!

Tiffen 46mm UV Protection Filter From Tiffen

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:22:00 +0000

Tiffen 46mm UV Protection Filter
From Tiffen

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Product Description

46mm UV Protector

Product Details

Brand: Tiffen
Model: 46UVP
Dimensions: .15 pounds

Features

Most popular protection filter
Provides basic reduction of ultraviolet light
46mm diameter
Helps eliminate bluish cast in images

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Protects lenses from dust, moisture, scratches, and other damage. These filters can be kept on the camera at all times.

Customer Reviews

Good quality product, but not what I wanted.
The product felt strong, solid, and well put together. The glass was clear with no visible tint or imperfections. Although this and another filter (same type different size) both arrived with smudges on the glass. The smudges were fairly easy to wipe off, but I suspect the items are either not cleaned before packaging, or I received someone's returned item. However, I had to return this item since they DON'T contain any anti-glare/reflective coating on them. When shooting towards a light source (light bulb, tv, sun, etc) a green reflection of the light source would appear on the recorded image. The green reflected image was caused by a reflection bouncing off of my lens's green tinted anti-glare coating which was bounced right back into the camera by this filter. If your lens isn't coated in an anti-glare coating the result will be even worse.
Instead I picked up Quantaray filters from a local Wolf Camera that were coated with the anti-glare. They only cost a little more, and the green reflection is now gone. Make sure you look for a filter with the anti-glare

Camera: Canon 20d, Lenses tested: 18-55, 28-135, 70-300

Far from perfect
I bought this filter for my Canon 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens. The price was right, and I thought it would be a good way to protect the lens, which this probably does well. And while I am shooting under normal lighting conditions (flash or natural) the filter stays out of the way, but as soon as the lights go down this filter will ruin more photos than I can bear, due to an abundance reflective artifacts. If you take a photo of Christmas lights for example you will see the lights again in a faint green glow on the opposite side of the photo... VERY ANNOYING.

Not multi-coated but does a job
The information section for this is a bit messed up and hard to read, but you'll see that other versions are available for this UV filter.

This one is not a multi-coated version at this price but does work to reduce the danger of damage to your camera lens.

Here is what they are TRYING to tell us about the various versions in the description area:

UV filter- Standard UV Most popular protection filter
UV MC - Multi coated for extra flare protection
UV Warm - Combines UV with Tiffen's '812' warming filter
Haze 1 - Absorbs 75% of UV light
Haze 2 -Absorbs 100% of UV light
Haze 15-Absorbs 81% of UV light
Haze 16-Absorbs 86.5% of UV light
Haze 17 - Absorbs almost all UV light
UV Wide Angle Thin - UV filter for use with wide angle lenses.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens From Canon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:18:00 +0000

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens
From Canon

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Product Description

Compact, lightweight with environmental protection, EOS 5D successor boasts a newly-designed Canon CMOS sensor, with ISO sensitivity up to 25,600 for shooting in near dark conditions. The new DIGIC 4 processor combines with the improved CMOS sensor to deliver medium format territory image quality at 3.9 frames per second, for up to 310 frames. Triggered from Live View Mode, HD video capture allows users to shoot uninterrupted at full 1080 resolution at 30fps -- for amazing quality footage with outstanding levels of detail and realism. The integration of HD movie capability into a high-end 21.1-megapixel camera opens a multitude of new possibilities for photojournalists and news photographers. With its full frame CMOS sensor and outstanding ISO performance, the EOS 5D Mark II will appeal to any photographer in search of the finest camera equipment available -- from studio and wedding to nature and travel photographers.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #2041 in Camera & Photo
Brand: Canon
Model: EOS 5D Mark II 24-105 IS
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.00" h x 4.50" w x 6.00" l, 1.79 pounds
Display size: 3

Features

21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 14-bit A/D conversion, wide range ISO setting 100-6400
Includes Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM lens
DIGIC 4 Image Processor; high-performance 3.9 fps continuous shooting; Live View Function for stills
Full HD video capture at 1920x1080 resolution for up to 4GB per clip ; HDMI output
Updated EOS Integrated Cleaning System specifically designed to work with a full-frame sensor

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Compact, lightweight with environmental protection, EOS 5D successor boasts a newly designed Canon CMOS sensor, with ISO sensitivity up to 25,600 for shooting in near dark conditions. The new DIGIC 4 processor combines with the improved CMOS sensor to deliver medium format territory image quality at 3.9 frames per second, for up to 310 frames.

Triggered from Live View Mode, HD video capture allows users to shoot uninterrupted at full 1080 resolution at 30fps -- for amazing quality footage with outstanding levels of detail and realism.

The integration of HD movie capability into a high-end 21.1-megapixel camera opens a multitude of new possibilities for photojournalists and news photographers. With its full-frame CMOS sensor and outstanding ISO performance, the EOS 5D Mark II will appeal to any photographer in search of the finest camera equipment available -- from studio and wedding to nature and travel photographers.

Other improvements to the EOS 5D include:

Addition of Canon’s EOS Integrated Cleaning System, with a new Fluorine coating on the low-pass filter
Larger 3.0-inch Clear View LCD with VGA resolution, a 170-degree angle of view and anti-reflective coatings
Improved menu system including Quick Control Screen for more direct access to common settings
Automatic peripheral illumination correction, utilizing detailed EF lens information to optimize JPEG images straight out of the camera
Magnesium alloy construction with additional environmental protection
UDMA memory card compatibility

EOS 5D Mark II Highlights

New CMOS sensor
The EOS 5D Mark II’s newly designed full-frame 21.1-megapixel CMOS sensor features ISO sensitivity from 100-6400, expandable to 50, 12,800 and 25,600. Large 6.4µm2 pixels have been redesigned to capture more light and yield a better signal to noise ratio to ensure lower noise images throughout the ISO range. The full frame sensor has the same dimensions as a frame of 35mm film. This means that wide-angle lenses stay wide, without the change in angle of view associated with smaller sensor cameras. As well as benefiting from finer control over depth of field, photographers moving up to the EOS 5D Mark II’s full frame format will find the newly designed wide, bright 98 percent coverage viewfinder on a joy to work with.

New DIGIC 4 processor
A new DIGIC 4 processor combined with 14-bit analogue to digital conversion provides smooth gradations in mono-tonal areas such as skies, and highly accurate color rendition. As well as HD movie shooting, DIGIC 4’s high speed provides for long uninterrupted continuous bursts of large JPEGs, near-instant start-up times and immediate and fast review after shooting. DIGIC 4 also provides for improved noise reduction algorithms, complementing the already low-noise images from the EOS 5D Mark II’s CMOS sensor.

HD video capture
The EOS 5D Mark II is Canon’s first DSLR to incorporate full HD 1920x1080 video capture. Once filming is started from Live View mode, photographers can fire off either single of continuous stills, with video capture continuing after the final frame is captured.

See everything
A new 3.0-inch VGA resolution LCD provides a wide 170 degree angle-of-view, providing plenty of clarity for accurate focus checks in playback. The screen brightness can automatically adjust to suit viewing conditions, extending battery life in low light and improving viewing in bright conditions. A new dedicated Live View button switches modes to display a real-time image on the LCD. This allows EOS 5D Mark II photographers to enjoy simplified shooting from awkward angles. Simple connection to a PC provides easy remote shooting.

Precision focus and metering
A 9-point auto focus system is supported by 6 additional invisible Assist AF points, located inside the spot-metering circle to optimise subject tracking performance in AI SERVO AF mode. For accurate exposure readings in tricky lighting conditions, the spot metering circle covers just 3.5 percent of the frame.

Control
The EOS 5D Mark II’s redesigned menu system includes a new Quick Control screen, for instant access to the most commonly changed settings. A new Creative Auto mode allows photographers to cede control of key settings to the camera, while retaining control over creative variables such background blur, drive mode and image brightness. Custom user settings allow photographers to switch between two completely different camera setups. This is ideal for changing quickly between two different environments, such as switching from working inside a church without flash to outdoors with fill-flash at a wedding.

Optional Accessories
Shooting flexibility is enhanced with a range of new accessories. Shooting capacity can be extended with either the high-capacity 1800mAh lithium-ion Battery Pack LP-E6, or Battery Grip BG-E6.

A new optional Wireless File Transmitter
The WFT-E4 offers external HDD and GPS compatibility along with ability to transmit images direct to computer or FTP server, or operate the camera wirelessly. Both the BG-E6 and WFT-E4 feature a vertical orientation shutter release and other key controls for comfortable portraiture work, with a substantial grip to help balance the camera when used with long lenses.

What's in the Box

EOS 5D Mark II Body
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM lens
Eyecup Eb
Wide Neck Strap EW-EOS5DMKII
Stereo Video Cable STV-250N
USB Interface Cable IFC-200U
Battery Charger LC-E6
Battery Pack LP-E6
EOS Digital Solution Disk
Software Instruction Manual

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR: Highly Recommended by dpreview.com

Back in August 2005 Canon 'defined a new DSLR category' (their words) with the EOS 5D. Unlike any previous 'full frame' sensor camera, the 5D was the first with a compact body (i.e. not having an integral vertical grip) and has since then proved to be very popular, perhaps because if you wanted a full frame DSLR to use with your Canon lenses and you didn't want the chunky EOS-1D style body then the EOS 5D has been your only choice. Three years on and two competitors have turned up in the shape of the Nikon D700 and Sony DSLR-A900, and Canon clearly believes it's time for a refresh.

So here is the 5D Mark II, which punches high in terms of both resolution and features, headlining: 21 megapixels, 1080p video, 3.0-inch VGA LCD, Live view, higher capacity battery. In other words, a camera that aims to leapfrog both its direct rivals, either in terms of resolution (in the case of the D700) or features (in the case of the DSLR-A900). Full detail below.

Key features / improvements

21 megapixel CMOS sensor (very similar to the sensor in the EOS-1Ds Mark III)
Sensor dust reduction by vibration of filter
ISO 100 - 6400 calibrated range, ISO 50 - 25600 expansion (1Ds Mark III & 5D max ISO 3200)
Auto ISO (100 - 3200) in all modes except manual
3.9 frames per second continuous shooting
DIGIC 4 processor, new menus / interface as per the EOS 50D
Image processing features: Highlight tone priority, Auto lighting optimizer (4 levels), High ISO noise reduction (4 levels), Lens peripheral illumination correction (vignetting correction)
RAW and SRAW1 (10 MP) / SRAW2 (5 MP)
RAW / JPEG selection made separately
Permanent display of ISO on both top plate and viewfinder displays
AF micro adjustment (up to 20 lenses individually)
Three custom modes on command dial, Creative Auto mode
Image copyright metadata support
98% coverage viewfinder (0.71x magnification)
3.0" 920,000 dot LCD monitor with 'Clear View' cover / coatings, 170° viewing angle
Automatic LCD brightness adjustment (ambient light sensor)
Live view with three mode auto-focus (including face detection)
No mirror-flip for exposures in Live View if contrast detect AF selected
Movie recording in live view (1080p H.264 up to 12 minutes, VGA H.264 up to 24 mins per clip)
Two mode silent shooting (in live view)
New jump options in play mode
HDMI and standard composite (AV) video out
Full audio support: built-in mic and speaker, mic-in socket, audio-out over AV (although not HDMI)
IrPort (supports IR remote shutter release using optional RC1 / RC5 controllers)
UDMA CompactFlash support
New 1800 mAh battery with improved battery information / logging
New optional WFT-E4 WiFi / LAN / USB vertical grip
Water resistance: 10 mm rain in 3 minutes

pictur8 � h n �/ p 0 and is at least at par with the 7D and T2i. Oh one more thing I really like in this new product line. They use the same LP-E6 batteries as 7D and 5Dmkii. YAY!!! I can share batteries with my friends. This is great because more commonality between these lines is not a burden, but a great plus.

D7000 vs 60D battle (not a war) is like a battle of pride with no substance.
Another BIG BIG argument in the world of DSLRs now is the whole D7000 vs 60D argument. Many people love this argument because it is time for Nikon fans (not going to say they are fanboys, because I know there are some Canon fanboys too) to really blow their horns and tout superiority by numbers. Once again, I'll repeat, superiority by numbers. Why do mention this? It is because people allow numbers, specs and math to determine why they like a camera or system. Some people will argue that because the D7000 is a better specced camera, therefore, by transitivity, the D7000 will take better pictures by a long shot. What do the results show? Marginally better, is the probably the common thing noticed if anything is ever noticed between the photos. The D7000 has everything the 60D doesn't have and improves on it is another one I have heard several times that have caused Canon users to think, "Oh Nikon has a wonderful D7000, I think it is time to jump boat". I won't prevent them from doing so. But this argument is similar to that of girlfriends almost. Oh, that girlfriend has better "specs" that my current one, I think I will just dump this "system" and go to the Nikon. The word I would use to describe this is "Brand" insecurity. It isn't wrong to change systems. But the reasoning behind it needs to be thought over. I am afraid that some people are just insecure about their purchase that they need to be able to walk around town, events or show others to match the level of pride they have.
Back to this D7000 and 60D battle. Who is going to win? I actually wouldn't look it in that way. I would say, the D7000 and the 60D are both wonderful systems and both have proven to take wonderful pictures, hold up to weather effects, is durable (mind you, D7000 has magnesium alloy, but it isn't the entire body, only partial, its marketing getting to your head.), great ergonomics, has video capability, etc. There isn't a battle at all actually. It is just a bunch nerd battles like D&D with their character sheets. My camera has more strength and dexterity while the Canon has more charisma and constitution. See how irrelevant this argument and so called battle is? It is down to numbers and pride. The seaweed is always greener, in somebody else's lake.

Oh. Let's also put it this way. As I had mentioned about the order of being released. If the order of release was like 7D, 60D and T2i (equivalent) for the Nikon camp, the story and arguments would be just like canon's. D400, then D7000 and lastly D5000. People would have said, why doesn't the D7000 act more like the D400. That is my point.

The actual review of the 60D without trying to compare too much.
I have had the 60D for 2.5 weeks and have taken some videos and pictures with it at some events and some portraits. Some at low ISO and some at high ISO (3200 and 6400). Compared to the XSi, the pictures were better, but not immensely better. What was more important was the technique in taking the photo that made more of a difference. The 60D, with its better size and ergonomics (compared to Rebel series) really helped me to keep my hands steady and to choose the properly settings to get the pictures looking really nice without any post processing. I have used the remote flash trigger with great results and I really really like the camera. The price point now is just amazing for the 60D. And when the camera is put with the 24-70mm f2.8 and 50mm f1.4, the images are loved by all who I take a photo for. Is it because the camera that made the huge difference? No. But it did help me as a photographer to take better pictures.
The better photos at high ISO is attributed to Canon's research in sensors that they have put into the 7D. The images continue to look great even at high ISO. The articulated screen helps me take ninja candid shots without people noticing and that is something I wouldn't be able to get in T2i or the 7D. Some clients love this type of photography even though they don't like to be taken pictures of. I don't have to worry too much about the high ISO when taking these shots now as I can trust the 60D to resolve good photos in the end as long as I did my part as a photographer to keep the camera steady.
The price point of the camera with such good features is actually great. At $999 at the time of posting, is the even cheaper than the 50D when it came out. So if you are in the area and are looking to get th 60D, buy it, because you won't be disappointed as long as you don't feel insecure. The camera takes absolutely wonderful pictures indoor and outdoor. Videos are good and the same as the 7D and T2i. It is rugged, as mentioned by digital rev. I can't say much more to praise the camera. Buy it, don't look back and take photos. You by a camera to shoot photos, not so you can bring it to a party and compare specs and see who is better? Canon 60D, 4 stars, 1 star left so they can improve.

Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only) From Canon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:14:00 +0000

Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Body Only)
From Canon

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Product Description

The EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera gives the photo enthusiast a powerful tool fostering creativity, with better image quality, more advanced features and automatic and in-camera technologies for ease-of-use. It features an improved APS-C sized 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor for tremendous images, a DIGIC 4 Image Processor for finer detail and excellent color reproduction, and improved ISO capabilities from 100 - 6400 (expandable to 12800) for uncompromised shooting even in the dimmest situations. The Multi-control Dial enables users to conveniently operate menus and enter settings with a simple touch. The EOS 60D also features an EOS first: A Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (1,040,000 dots) monitor for easy low- or high-angle viewing. An improved viewfinder, a number of new in-camera creative options and filters, plus HDMI output for viewing images on an HDTV all make the EOS 60D invaluable for the evolving photographer. With continuously curved surfaces, user-friendliness and exuding solidity and refinement, the EOS 60D is true digital inspiration!

FEATURES:

18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor for high image quality and speed - The EOS 60D features a new, Canon-designed 18.0 Megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor that captures such a high level of resolution, it's easy to crop images for enlargement without concern of losing detail. A major factor in reducing noise, the CMOS sensor assures that images shot at highest sensitivity will be remarkably smooth.
ISO 100 - 6400 (expandable to 12800) for shooting from bright to dim light - With a broad range of ISO settings, expandable up to 12800 with Custom functions, the EOS 60D enables shooting from sunrise to sunset and helps ensure capture of the finest detail. With enhanced high-sensitivity optimization, subjects can be captured clearly and easily at high shutter speeds without flash, with min

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #220 in Camera & Photo
Brand: Canon
Model: 60D Body
Dimensions: 3.10" h x 4.20" w x 5.70" l, 1.66 pounds
Display size: 3

Features

18.0-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor; ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800)
Body only; lenses sold separately
Improved EOS HD Video mode with manual exposure control; Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor
5.3 fps continuous shooting; enhanced iFCL 63-zone, Dual-layer metering system
Compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards (not included); please note that the EOS 60 is not compatible with CF memory cards

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

With the new EOS 60D DSLR, Canon gives the photo enthusiast a powerful tool fostering creativity, with better image quality, more advanced features and automatic and in-camera technologies for ease-of-use. It features an improved APS-C sized 18.0-megapixel CMOS sensor for tremendous images, a new DIGIC 4 Image Processor for finer detail and excellent color reproduction, and improved ISO capabilities from 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) for uncompromised shooting even in the dimmest situations. The new Multi-control Dial enables users to conveniently operate menus and enter settings with a simple touch.

The EOS 60D also features an EOS first: A Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD (1,040,000 dots) monitor for easy low- or high-angle viewing. An improved viewfinder, a number of new in-camera creative options and filters, plus HDMI output for viewing images on an HDTV all make the EOS 60D invaluable for the evolving photographer. With continuously curved surfaces, user-friendliness and exuding solidity and refinement, the EOS 60D is true digital inspiration!

EOS 60D Highlights

18.0-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor
The EOS 60D features a new, Canon-designed 18.0-megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor that captures such a high level of resolution, it's easy to crop images for enlargement without concern of losing detail. A major factor in reducing noise, the CMOS sensor assures that images shot at highest sensitivity will be remarkably smooth.

The improved DIGIC 4 Image Processor ensures that images are captured, processed and saved with remarkable speed. The EOS 60D DSLR's new 3:2 multiple aspect ratio, in-camera RAW image processing, creative filters, image resizing and provided S2 and S3 image-recording quality are all possible thanks to the DIGIC 4 Image Processor. With dazzling results, the new DIGIC 4 Image Processor also works to capture and process data of images shot at 18.0 megapixels at 5.3 fps, as well as 14-bit signal processing for excellent image gradation, enhanced Face Detection Live mode, Full HD video recording, Auto Lighting Optimizer and Lens Peripheral Optimization.

ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) for shooting from bright to dim light

With a broad range of ISO settings, expandable up to 6400 in the Auto Setting and 12800 with Custom function, the EOS 60D enables shooting from sunrise to sunset and helps ensure capture of the finest detail. With enhanced high-sensitivity optimization, subjects can be captured clearly and easily at high shutter speeds without flash, with minimized blur and noise. In bright scenes, especially long exposures in daylight, optimal exposure can be achieved with a fully open wide-diameter lens, no dark filter needed.

Improved EOS HD Video mode with manual exposure control
Designed for the evolving, tech-savvy user, the EOS 60D features HD Video capture technologies--manual exposure control for more creative control, for example--borrowed directly from professional Canon DSLRs to capture stellar video with all the benefits of shooting with a DSLR. By shooting video with the EOS 60D, photographers as well as filmmakers can take advantage of the creative features native to DSLR cameras. Along with its manual controls, the EOS 60D allows for full use of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, including Macro and Fisheye, providing a plethora of shooting options once reserved only for still photography. The resulting HD video is a standout in its beautiful depth-of-field characteristics and remarkable capture capability under poor lighting conditions. Additionally, a Movie Crop function is included: An SD-quality video (640 x 480) can be cropped to the equivalent of about 7x magnification of regular shooting.

The audio input level can be set to Auto or Manual, up to 64 levels, and a wind filter minimizes unwanted background noise. By pressing the Quick Control button, a simple graphic user interface for adjusting image quality, white balance, image creation and other settings appears on the LCD. The EOS 60D even lets users edit video in-camera: On-site or off, unnecessary scenes can be deleted and the start/end points of video footage can be designated via in-camera editing functions without the need of a separate computer.

Video can be captured at a number of resolutions and frame rates for numerous applications. It can capture 1920 x 1080 Full HD video at frame rates of 30 (29.97 fps), 24 (23.976 fps) and 25.0 frames per second, for up to 4GB per clip. Video footage is saved as MOV files and can be viewed in Full HD through the EOS 60D DSLR's HDMI output. Other recording sizes include HD at 1280 x 720 (50/60 fps) or SD/VGA at 640 x 480 (50/60 fps)--24/30 fps delivers cinema-like motion, while 60fps is perfect for footage being uploaded to video-sharing websites. The EOS 60D also has a built-in microphone for simple mono recording and stereo sound can be recorded through a self-powered external microphone.

Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor
A first for any EOS, the EOS 60D features a bright, high resolution, flip-out Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor for shooting at a variety of angles. By easily switching between low and high angles, the EOS 60D freely enables angle adjustments even if the camera is mounted on a tripod or has a battery grip attached.

With 1,040,000 (dots/VGA) pixels for spectacular detail, the advanced, smudge-resistant monitor includes high transparency materials plus anti-reflective and water-repellant coatings to provide clear and bright viewing. Superb for reviewing, editing and deleting photos or composing new images in Live View function, the Vari-angle Clear View LCD monitor is also the perfect means for accessing camera settings like ISO, metering modes, AF Point selection, the horizontal Electronic Level and flash options.

5.3fps continuous shooting up to approx. 58 Large/JPEGs and 16 RAW
The EOS 60D operates with such effortless speed that operation is nothing short of intuitive. With a 0.1 second start-up time, speedy autofocus and minimal shutter lag, the EOS 60D is made to capture even rapidly-occurring scenes with stunning precision. Able to shoot up to 5.3 frames per second (fps), capturing a maximum burst of approximately 58 Large/JPEGs and 16 RAW, the EOS 60D DSLR lets you catch even the briefest of moments, whether it's a faced-paced soccer game or the flicker of a candle flame.

96% viewfinder coverage allowing you to see more of your image in the viewfinder
The EOS 60D features a phenomenally redesigned viewfinder that not only offers an improved 96% coverage, 0.95x magnification, a 27.0° angle of view and user-controlled dioptric adjustment, it also features a newly designed transparent LCD display that enables a number of viewfinder displays. A six-level battery check indicator has been added on the left, and the exposure level indicator scale has been expanded to up to three stops, with arrows indicating greater exposure levels.

The 60D's Electronic Level.

The EOS 60D also features an advanced horizontal Electronic Level, that, when activated, is superimposed on the LCD monitor to aid in achieving evenly leveled shots by indicating the horizontal tilt up to approximately 9° in 1° increments.

Enhanced iFCL 63-zone, Dual-layer metering system; and 9-point AF system
The EOS 60D features a sophisticated, 63-zone Dual-layer sensor designed to complement the 9-point AF system. By taking into account the color and luminosity surrounding chosen AF points, this system delivers an advanced level of accuracy for better results even in difficult lighting situations. Since the metering sensor has a color measurement function, exposure errors and focus errors caused by different light sources are minimized; the EOS 60D gives stable exposure from shot to shot in situations where light changes, such as in a theater or concert hall. This makes the EOS 60D ideal for scenes with extreme difference in brightness such as brightly lit scenes or backlit scenes; the camera balances exposure of the main subject at the background, and exposures are not overly influenced by bright areas in the shot.

Since the EOS 60D provides high-speed X-sync ("X-sync" means the fastest shutter speed that can synchronize with a flash burst at the moment the shutter is fully released) up to 1/250 sec., the range of photographic expression is dramatically increased, allowing the EOS 60D to be used with confidence in bright scenes or dim.

Metering zones.

Convert RAW images into JPEGs in-camera and set the images to a 3:2 aspect ratio
The EOS 60D marks a highpoint in convenience for the photographer by being able to shoot an image as a RAW file and then process it entirely in-camera to produce a separate JPEG file without the need of an outside computer. The EOS 60D gives you 10 process variables--brightness adjustment, white balance, Picture Style, Auto Lighting Optimizer, noise reduction, JPEG image-recording quality, color space, lens peripheral illumination correction, distortion correction and chromatic aberrations correction--to create the image you envision, set to the 3:2 aspect ratio used in 35mm film.

Additionally, once you capture an image with the EOS 60D, you can digitally manipulate it in-camera with a number of creative filters for artistic and dramatic effect. Options include Soft Focus Effect to convey dreamy tableaus; Grainy Black-and-White Effect for a gritty, hard-bitten look; Toy Camera Effect--the deliberate vignetting and color shift technique popular in art photography--and Miniature Effect, which blurs the top and bottom edges of the image to emphasize perspective and conveys a miniaturized look of the scene.

Compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
The EOS 60D DSLR uses popular SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards. Compact, inexpensive and available in increasingly large capacities, SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards are a perfect complement to the EOS 60D DSLR's compact and lightweight body design.

Compatible with the full line of Canon EF and EF-S lenses
The EOS 60D is compatible with all Canon lenses in the EF and EF-S lineup, ranging from ultra-wide angle to super telephoto lenses. Canon lenses employ advanced optical expertise and micron-precision engineering to deliver unprecedented performance in all facets of the photographic process. Special optical technologies, such as aspherical, ultra-low dispersion, or fluorite elements are featured in the universally acclaimed L-series lenses. And Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer technology is featured in select lenses to minimize the effect of camera shake. Additionally, photographers can use for video the same lenses they do for still photography; Canon wide-angle, macro, super-telephoto, tilt-shift and fisheye lenses provide a wealth of focal lengths, depth-of-field and other creative shooting options once reserved for stills. Through Canon lenses, photographers can truly maximize the quality and liberating performance of the EOS 60D.

Flash Photography
With a flash sync speed of 1/250 of a second, the EOS 60D also features the acclaimed E-TTL II flash metering system. With any of the flashes in the EX Speedlite line (sold separately), E-TTL II provides reliable flash output whether shooting fill-in flash pictures in sunlight, or using flash in total darkness. With E-TTL II, the exact same 35-zone metering sensor used for measuring ambient light is also used for flash metering--giving even finer metering command of the image area. If you prefer a broader area for flash metering, there's a menu setting to change to "Average" flash metering--where the entire 35-zone area is measured evenly for flash exposure. Additionally, the EOS 60D has a Speedlite transmitter built-in for convenient, full-featured wireless control of EX-series Speedlite flashes set as slave units.

The Canon Speedlite 430EX II is the ideal step-up accessory for powerful flash shooting with the EOS 60D. It has excellent flash power (maximum guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100), and is the perfect way to get great flash pictures when you can't get right up to the subject. The 430EX II is also great for bounce flash, with its tilting and swiveling flash head. It automatically zooms the flash head to cover lenses ranging from 16mm up to 105mm or longer with the EOS 60D. Of course, it works with the camera to provide full E-TTL II automatic flash exposure. And the 430EX II has a powerful AF-assist beam, which allows the camera to autofocus even in total darkness on subjects as far as 32 ft. from the camera.

Included Software

Canon EOS Digital Solution Disk (Version 23.0) The EOS 60D comes bundled with an updated Canon EOS Digital Solution Disk, which features powerful software programs designed to extend the EOS experience to the computer. These include Canon's EOS Utility (Version 2.9.0), Digital Photo Professional (Version 3.9.1), ZoomBrowser EX for Windows® (Version 6.6.0), ImageBrowser for Macintosh® OS X (Version 6.6.0), the Picture Style Editor (Version 1.8.0), PhotoStitch (Version W: 3.1.22/M: 3.4.4), WFT Utility (version 3.5.1), Memory Card Utility (Version 1.4), WFT Utility (Version 3.5.1), Original Data Security Tools (Version 1.9.0). Each application is designed to perfect the captured images and streamline the digital workflow.

EOS Utility (Version 2.9.0) for Macintosh or Windows handles the connection between the camera and computer, whenever they're connected via USB. It allows remote controlled shooting from the computer, handles downloading of images from the camera to the computer, and allows seamless linking to either Canon's ZoomBrowser/ImageBrowser or Digital Photo Professional software once images have been copied to the hard drive. Furthermore, it's used to upload settings back into a USB-connected camera.

Digital Photo Professional (Version 3.9.1) is an image processing program that enables high-speed RAW image processing, high-speed previewing for real-time image adjustment and support for sRGB, Adobe RGB and Wide Gamut RGB color spaces. Because it's CMS (Color Management System) compatible, Digital Photo Professional allows for easy image layout and printing in Adobe RGB in conjunction with Easy-PhotoPrint and PictBridge printers. It also features the Dust Delete Data Detection tool for cleaner images.

ZoomBrowser EX (Version 6.6.0) for Windows and ImageBrowser (Version 6.6.0) for Mac OS X are the easy, user-friendly options for viewing and editing of JPEG and even RAW image files. Both allow viewing of numerous types of images including finished TIFF and BMP files. Both also have a variety of search options for finding images, allow re-naming of single images or batches of files, and offer a variety of options for printing without using a separate image-editing program.

Picture Style Editor (Version 1.8.0) Canon's Picture Style Editor enables photographers to create custom Picture Style profiles that can be used to customize the appearance of JPEG and RAW images captured with EOS Digital SLR cameras. Picture Style files created with Picture Style Editor can be loaded into the EOS cameras that support Picture Style and may also be used when processing RAW images in Canon software applications Digital Photo Professional, ZoomBrowser EX (for Windows) and ImageBrowser (for Mac).

What's in the Box

EOS 60D Body
Eyecup Eb
Wide Strap EW-EOS 60D
USB Interface Cable IFC-130U
Stereo AV cable AVC-DC400ST
Battery Pack LP-E6
Battery Charger LC-E6
EOS Digital Solution Disk and Instruction Manuals "Great Photography is Easy" Booklet and "Do More with Macro" Booklet

Customer Reviews

A nice camera - fits right in between the T2i and 7D
Simply put: Chances are good that your expectations and what you are looking for will determine whether or not you like this camera.

The newest addition to Canon's XXD line might initially seem like a minor downgrade to the previous XXD cameras, but several new capabilities actually help make this a nice, well-featured camera that will appeal to many people who don't get caught up in whether or not this is a better camera than it's predecessor. Canon certainly made this camera for the price point and was careful to add just enough features to make it desirable over the T2i, but not desirable enough to compete with the 7D. In some respects though, it seems like a beefed-up version of the Rebel line (a "Super-Rebel") instead of a new addition to the XXD line.

As someone who has now had the opportunity to use all three of Canon's mid-range lineup (the T2i, 60D, and 7D), I have to say that I really like the feel of the 60D. Even though it no longer has the magnesium alloy body, it feels solid. In no way does it feel cheap. I have fairly small hands and the 60D feels like it was made for me. It's significantly lighter than the 7D and feels like it would be much more friendly on long hikes. The 7D feels much more robust; however, the 60D feels much more "comfy". It is definitely bigger in size than the T2i, but the angles and design of the camera have a nicely updated feel to them that makes it seem like you are getting a much more substantial camera. The articulating screen was also done very well. My initial worries that the screen would feel cheap and break easily were immediately relieved after using it. The hinges are very solid and feel almost stiff to the point where you are comfortable with it staying right where you want it. It also is very flush with the rest of the body and offers little space in between.

Aside from the feel, the camera takes beautiful pictures. Quality-wise, there is very little difference between the pictures that come out of the T2i, 60D, and 7D. ISO performance is very similar and therefore can not be much of a deciding factor between the models. Most of the decision factors really will focus on which user interface and camera system best appeals to your type and level of photography. Each of Canon's mid-range models has it's own pros and cons, and while there are MANY differences between each camera, these are the main points I considered when deciding between cameras to purchase (hopefully it helps those going through the same decision I did):

60D vs. 50D:

(+) New Sensor - the same 18MP sensor that the 7D and T2i have, better ISO coverage/performance
(+) 63 zone dual-layer metering
(+) Better viewfinder - 96% coverage vs 95% coverage
(+) Video
(+) Articulating screen
(+) Wireless flash control
(+) Horizontal electronic level
(+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects)
(+) Control over max auto-ISO
(+) Eye-Fi wifi file transfer functions

(-) The magnesium alloy body of the 50D has been replaced with a polycarbonate body
(-) 6.3 fps shooting is down to 5.3 fps
(-) No lens microadjustment in 60D

(+/-) Compact flash card slot has been changed to a SD card slot
(+/-) Joystick replaced by directional pad

60D vs. T2i

(+) 9 all cross-type AF points vs T2i's 9 points w/ 1 center cross-type
(+) 96%, .95 magnification pentaprism viewfinder vs T2i's 95%, .87 magnification pentamirror viewfinder
(+) Articulating screen
(+) Wireless flash control
(+) Horizontal electronic level
(+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects)
(+) Top LCD screen
(+) 5.3 fps vs 3.7 fps
(+) Built in adjustable audio level capability in video

60D vs. 7D

(+) Articulating screen
(+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects)
(+) Control over max auto-ISO
(+) Eye-Fi wifi file transfer functions
(+) Built in adjustable audio level capability in video

(-) 9 all cross-type AF points vs 7D's 19 all cross-type points
(-) Less AF features (such as Zone AF and Point Expansion)
(-) Polycarbonate body vs 7D's magnesium alloy
(-) 96%, .95 magnification pentaprism viewfinder vs 7D's 100%, 1.0x magnification pentaprism viewfinder
(-) Transmissive LCD screen on focus screen on 7D
(-) Only horizontal electronic level vs both horizontal and vertical level on 7D
(-) 5.3 fps vs 7D's 8 fps
(-) No lens microadjustment in 60D
(-) Shutter life of 100,000 vs 7D's 150,000
(-) Dual DIGIC 4 processors in 7D
(-) 3 custom settings in 7D; 1 custom settings in 60D
(-) No PC Sync in 60D

By comparing these features, it's easy to see that the 60D fits well in the price point directly between the T2i and 7D, but of course, a large segment of previous 40D and 50D owners hoping for a true successor that isn't watered down to a certain price point will still undoubtedly be disappointed. It's easy to see in comparing the 60D to the 7D and also to Nikon's newest offerings that Canon chose to limit functionality merely so that 60D sales didn't interfere with the 7D. In fact, if you are not completely entrenched in the Canon camp, I would also suggest looking at the new Nikon D7000. It looks like a spectacular camera for not much more than the 60D. I have not used it nor will I, so I can't comment on whether it's a better choice or not.

Even so, the quality of the 60D and new functionality offer enough new aspects that many customers will surely be happy with it. The articulating screen offers a way to attain tough shots that would have previously demanded extra equipment or odd contortions to reach. It also gives a great new avenue for video capture. Eye-fi wireless transfers work well and help out on those lazy days where you just want to set your camera down and have the work of transferring photos be done for you. Much of the in camera post-production comes off as being a little "gimmicky" to me, but having the option to add effects and process photos definitely doesn't detract from the camera. And many people who don't do much of their own post-processing after transfer to a computer will probably find the in camera RAW conversion and creative effects to be a nice addition.

To me, it really came down to one major factor though: autofocus. I tend to do a lot of shooting involving fast moving subjects, so autofocus for my photography is key. The T1i and T2i were disappointing in this respect. 9 points with one cross-type in the T1i/T2i is respectable, but I found that I really could only rely on using the center point in AI servo mode to get many speedy subjects in focus. I purchased a 7D later, and was blown away by the accuracy. The options of using extra points for expansion, using autofocus zones, having 19 full cross-type points, superior subject tracking, and even the option for narrowing the points in spot autofocus really opened up new areas of photography for me. I get about 10x the amount of usable shots than I would with the T1i and T2i. The 60D isn't THAT good, but it is still much better than the T1i/T2i. In fact, just like with almost everything else about the camera, it's just about right in between the T2i and 7D. Autofocus is fast and accurate, but there are still moments where subjects just move too fast and unfortunately, the 60D doesn't have the capabilities of the 7D. If you are deciding between the 7D and 60D, this is the area you should really look at, because this is the real difference between the 2 cameras. I chose the 7D, and then decided to give the 60D a try just to see if I made the right decision. I am happy with my 7D, but the 60D was no slouch.

In my honest opinion, I think this is a huge sticking point for 40D and 50D owners though. The autofocus system needed to be updated from the previous 2 XXD editions. It has the same 9 cross-type points as the 40D and 50D did before it, and same functionality. To be a good upgrade for previous XXD users, it didn't have to be as good or better than the 7D, but it would have been nice for it to be better than the previous 2 models. Removing the magnesium alloy body and lens microadjustment really comes across as a slap in the face to some users who valued those aspects. I have to say that the body is much lighter, doesn't feel significantly less sturdy (even though it probably is less sturdy), and I've never needed to use lens microadjustment though, so I'm not overly upset about those aspects. I am not thrilled about the "non-update" of the autofocus system though.

Now that I have handled and used all 3 cameras currently in Canon's mid-range lineup, I can definitively say that they are all stellar cameras, but just made for different segments of the market. The T2i is an amazing starter camera and takes great photos for those who want to save a little extra money by going without some of the features they might not use. It might be the best budget option for those who don't take many action shots. For an extra few hundred dollars, the 60D adds some intriguing new features and seems to be aimed at the people who want a slightly higher-end camera than the T2i, but aren't ready to shell out the money for the 7D. It's a great compromise, and to me, the main thing you are missing out on is superior autofocus capabilities. The 7D is more aimed towards the pro-sumer market who want/need a faster autofocus and overall faster, more rugged camera. It's hard to go wrong with any of them, but the 60D offers a great blend of features from both the T2i and 7D along with new features of it's own for a price that won't completely break the bank. It seems to have accomplished everything it needed to do, except for one: giving the 40D and 50D owners an option for upgrade aside from the expensive 7D. If the 60D had kept the magnesium alloy body, lens microadjustment, or even just had a slightly better AF system compared to the 50D, I could easily give this camera 5 stars. As it is, I can only give it 4 stars because it's a wonderful camera for a certain segment of customers looking for a new camera, but completely isolates another loyal customer base looking for their beloved XXD line to continue.

Why Choose the 60D over the T2i or 7D?
The three dSLRs in the Canon consumer line-up (60D, 7D, T2i) all share a number of specifications and features, a similar exposure metering system, as well as an image sensor that is very similar, and all with 18 megapixels. Due to this, the image quality and ISO performance of these three cameras will be nearly identical, and all are capable of taking high quality images. So why choose the 60D over the T2i (550D) or the 7D?

-Exterior buttons and controls: Greater ease and control of changing camera settings as you work vs. the T2i. The 60D has nearly every control one needs on the exterior of the camera and it has the rear dial and top LCD display screen that are not on the T2i. Any other controls can be easily accessed with the Q button and menu or in the other menus on the rear LCD monitor. The top buttons of the 60D set only one setting each, so this is less complicated than the multiple-setting buttons of the 7D. Canon has removed the WB button that the 7D and 50D have, but that isn't a big deal - use the Q Menu. Another change is that the Multi-controller has been moved from the thumb joystick like the 7D and 50D and placed in the middle of the rear Quick-control dial. This doesn't change how it functions, and should just be a matter of getting used to the difference.

-Menus and custom functions: Greater control over customizing how the camera functions vs. the T2i. The 60D has many more Menu and Custom Function settings than the T2i and nearly as many as the 7D. These settings allow you to customize the operation, function, and controls of the 60D to work how you want them to, including things like exposure increments, peripheral illuminations correction for lenses (fixes dark corners) and customizing which button does what.

-Auto focus systems: The 60D shares a similar autofocus system to the T2i and the previous 50D, with 9 focus points and three auto focusing modes. However the 9 AF points of the 60D are more sensitive than those of the T2i: all are cross-type in the 60D, only the center is cross-type in the T2i. The 60D autofocus system is much less complex than the sophisticated AF system of the 7D with its 19 AF point system and its additional Zone, Spot, and Expansion focus modes - not to mention the custom settings of the 7D which will allow one to customize how the AF system works. However, if you are not an avid sports photographer, a wildlife shooter, or someone who understands, needs, and will use the elaborate features of the 7D AF system, then this shouldn't dissuade you from the 60D.

-Exposure Metering: The three cameras all share the latest 63-zone exposure metering system and 4 metering modes. That means they will all determine the exposure virtually identically and enable you to take properly exposed photos in most every situation, including difficult back-lit scenes. The size of the areas metered for Partial and Spot metering vary slightly between the cameras, but that isn't anything critical.

-ISO: Since the 60D shares a very similar sensor with the other two cameras, its ISO sensitivity and performance at high ISO settings is virtually the same. But don't take my word for it, don't be swayed by pixel peepers on forums, instead check out the camera sensor tests at dxomark to verify this.

-Continuous Shooting Speed: While the 60D can't shoot a blazing 8 frames per second like the 7D, it can shoot a respectable 5.3 fps which is generally a more useful rate, and is a higher rate than the T2i rate of 3 fps.

-Size and Weight: The 60D is larger and heavier than the T2i but smaller and lighter than the 7D. It is a very nice size, weight, feel, and design that should be comfortable for most users.

-Construction: The 60 has relatively strong construction of aluminum and polycarbonate. It is better built than the T2i but not as strong as the 7D's magnesium alloy frame. The 60D also has some amount of weather sealing - more than the T2i, less than the 7D. But for most users, including even those using the camera daily or in travel situations, the construction of the 60D is far more than good enough, strong enough, durable enough, and weather resistant enough.

-Articulating Rear LCD Screen: The 60D is the only current Canon dSLR with this handy feature. This may prove useful for videographers, as well as for setting up compositions while the camera is on a tripod, for macro use, or for using it from unusually low or high vantage points. There is also an electronic level, visible in the viewfinder, rear LCD, or top LCD.

-Viewfinder: The 60D has a large, bright viewfinder with 96% coverage of the actual resulting image, a tiny bit better than the T2i but not quite as nice as the nearly 100% view of the 7D.

-Wireless Flash: Like the 7D, the 60D incorporates wireless flash triggering. It allows you to trigger multiple off camera flashes at different output levels. The T2i does not have this feature.

-Battery: The 60D has a larger batter vs. the T2i, thus allowing longer periods of shooting before having to recharge. The 60D uses the LP-E6 battery like the 7D, which is a nice feature as this battery can often last through a full day of shooting.

-Processor: The 60D shares the same Digic 4 processor as the T2i. The 7D has dual Digic 4 processors. However, for most general or even demanding photography needs, the single processor is more than sufficient.

-Memory Card: The 60D uses the SD memory card like the T2i, not the CF card of the 7D. This doesn't affect anything except perhaps your collection of CF cards.

-Additional processing features: The 60D has added features such as the creative filters (toy camera, miniature tilt-shift effect) and internal file processing capabilities (RAW image processing, image resizing) that the other two cameras do not have. This is not critical as these operations can typically be more easily done in batches on a computer.

-Lack of AF Microadjustment: Many are disappointed that the 60D does not include the ability to micro-adjust the focus so that each lens is completely accurate. However, if you have a focus issue, send your camera and/ or lenses to Canon while under warranty and ask them to calibrate them. The 7D has this feature, the T2i does not.

-Locking Mode Dial: This is a new feature for a Canon dSLR that keeps the Mode dial from accidentally rotating. A nice touch only on the 60D.

-Full HD Video: And of course the 60D has full HD video, just like the other two cameras.

-A Note to Strobists: The 60D does not have a PC sync flash socket to plug in PC sync cords. The 7D has this, the T2i does not.

-Ease of operation: While beginners may find all the buttons, controls, and menus of any dSLR difficult and confusing at first, the controls and menus of the 60D are all quite intelligently designed and straightforward for the advanced user. If you'd like to get up and running with the 60D quickly and competently, while you are waiting for user's guides such as Canon EOS 60D: From Snapshots to Great Shots or Magic Lantern Guides: Canon EOS 60D Multimedia Workshop to become available, be sure to check out a PDF eBook I put together called Your World 60D on the "Picturing Change" Wordpress blog or the Kindle version here: Your World 60D - The Still Photographer's Guide to Operation and Image Creation with the Canon 60D. It describes how to set up the Menu settings and Custom Function settings, and explains how, when, and why to use the settings, controls, and features of the 60D in everyday still photography use, including aperture priority and shutter priority modes. Plus it has information on exposure, composition, using depth of field, and basic video settings. It should help you get the most out of the 60D.

The 60D is an excellent camera for those wanting to upgrade from the Rebel line, for the advanced dSLR user who wishes to take advantage of all the features and customizations options of the 60D, and for the first-time dSLR buyer who is knowledgeable of camera controls or eager to learn. Its size, durability, and features will suit those who wish to use it for both general use and for travel, and its image quality and performance is exceptional for a camera at this price.

60D is very good, despite all the hate it gets. 60D is a worthy xxD member.
Quick 1-sentence review: The 60D's image quality (IQ), features and ergonomics are just as good as the 7D that will undoubtly stay in kit for a long time.

Background:
I come from an entry-level DSLR background and have never owned anything about the Rebel Series. However, I have played with my friend's 40Ds, 50D's, 7D's, 5D's and 5dMkII's a lot. My style is a photo journalistic style, where I follow people and take candid pictures or posed pictures. I take pictures of children and at times, just still subjects like food products or decorations. I have previously taken a lot of photos from my old Canon S400 and SD800IS point and shoot cameras. My XSi was and still is a wonderful camera. I still find myself bringing the XSi for trips, so I don't have to worry too much about the body. I've probably taken at least 20,000 pictures on it already. I have done some event photography as well for friends or friends of friends.

I was hesitant to purchase the 60D because of all the flak and hate people were throwing at it. Some of the complaints I heard were:
(-) A Polycarbonate aluminum chassis - a downgrade from the Magnesium alloy
(-) 5.3 fps - decreased from 6.3fps
(-) lack of lens microadjustment - only the 50D had this in the xxD line as I recall.
(-) SD cards - used to use CF cards
(-) Bad product direction seen in the xxD line - Seems like they are going to dumb it down for noobs.

I'll try to address these separately, but won't go really deep in them.

Polycarbonate Aluminum Chassis
The change back to a "Plastic" casing has quickly gotten the label of being cheap, less-durable and unprofessional. Cheap, it does seem cheaper, I will agree with that. Metal is more expensive. Less-durable? I don't know about this. Plastics nowadays are so strong that could withstand a good fall on the floor, water damage and maybe even some fire. [...]. In my hand, the 60D feels very comfortable. It has weight and heft to not make it feel like a smaller cheaper camera. The feel is important here, because this is what you are feeling when you grip your hand to shoot photos. I think the 60D is almost at the borderline of being just large enough to fit fully and comfortably in one hand, meaning, don't be smaller than the 60D in the future or else it might as well be a Rebel. As for being unprofessional. This is the one that I find that ego and pride get in the way of logic making it irrational. No one in their right mind is going to say you are unprofessional just because it isn't build like a tank. How often are you going to drop your camera? I bet less than you drop your phone by a long shot. The only impact I get from my camera is knocking into walls or tables. It doesn't do a thing. Thus, watch the video on durability on the plastics even on the Rebel series that I have already put a link to in this paragraph.

5.3fps - Slower than 6.3
This one is the case of losing something that has been in the xxD line for 2 generations. The 40D had 6.5fps, the 50D had 6.3fps. Now the 60D is only 5.3fps. I see how people are disgruntled here. Losing that extra frame sucks. I won't argue that maybe that extra frame could have been the right frame. In some way, this is an argument of numbers. Mind you, if a photographer wanted to do some highspeed photography like sports, they probably wouldn't have looked at the xxD line of products anyway. The would have looked at the xD (1Ds or 7Ds). Oh, also, did you notice that the 5Dmkii only has 3.9 fps? That is a professional Full Frame camera. Do people complain? yes they do. Should you worry about it? I don't think so. Some people (not all people) just like to see higher fps numbers, but almost never use it. And when they do use it, it isn't going to be the life saver they may think it is. I had shot with my 3.5 fps with the XSi and that was very good already. It is more about photography technique, and not the numbers and capabilities of the camera. So is it a huge loss of 1fps? Not a huge loss. I agree that is sucks and is a downside, but it is not a deal breaker at all.

Lack of lens microadjustment
Like the previous 5.3fps argument. This one is more of a case of been given something and then taken away right away. Only the 50D had this function. The 40D didn't have the Lens microadjustment. Once again, it would be nice to have when you need it for sure. But once again, is it necessary to take good shots? No it isn't. People can still take wonderful shots with the 30D or 40D and they didn't have this functionality. When it is needed though, it is super helpful to adjust the lens for the body. Most of the time, you won't have to worry about this. If you really really need it done, get the lens calibrated, hopefully that helps.

SD cards coming from CF cards for xxD line
Some will like and some will hate. Personally, I like this approach for Canon. SD cards, are smaller, cheaper but not as fast. But what I love about having SD cards is that i don't have to carry an extra card reader to transfer to my laptop. All new laptops have SD card slots, so I never have to worry about forgetting a card reader. The SD card in the xxD line also helps reduce a small amount of bulk on the side of the camera. Sure the writing speeds aren't as good, but the future is looking great for SD cards and SDXC. If I had to choose to carry SD cards or CF cards around on a trip or event, SD cards. I can just keep them in my pocket and never have to worry about the pins inside the camera from becoming bent and damaged.

Bad product direction for the xxD line
This is where a lot of other arguments get merged into. Because the xxD is now in between the xxxD and xD line (Rebel and 7D line of products), it has to be able to make itself distinct enough to be deemed a separate line of family. It has to take the some of the good features from both lines and bring them together and also add new things to it to make it useful. Is the xxD line going in the wrong direction? I don't know actually, this is the first time the xxD line has been quite different from the previous generation, aka the 50D. What many don't realize is that the 60D has gained some really good characteristics from the 7D, namely the wireless flash control. Thank goodness for this. But at the same time, lost the PC sync. Hmm, maybe Canon has something else planned for the future of this wireless flash control that would make the PC sync obsolete in the future? We don't know. Many people attribute the 18MP sensor to the T2i. But please remind yourself that the 18MP sensor came from the 7D. So instead of "losing" to the T2i. The xxD line has gained from the 7D line. Same goes with the 63-zone metering system, it is more gained from the 7D and then put into the 60D. Video capability from the 7D, which is also shared by the T2i. Horizontal Electronic Level, this is useful for tripod shots or even some hand held. But I see the value for the tripod just as a final check.
The increase of the Auto modes is kind of stupid. I know why Canon might have put it in, but it would have been way better to just remove it altogether. Video mode should have been put on the creative auto portion of the mode dial with M, Av and Tv. It really is a pain to move there. Speaking of mode dial, this is one that many people are very split on. I really like it. When I was using the XSi, I was consistently changing the mode without realizing until I after I had taken the shot. And the mode dial wasn't even hanging out on the side of the camera. So the locking mechanism for the mode dial is something I like in the 60D and new to the xxD line.
I don't blame people for being very demanding and have high expectations of cameras from Canon, but one should be reasonable. It would be very unlikely that the 60D would gain a ton of features from the 7D. If it did, the 7D would instead be the one that could not be distinct. I believe that if the 7D came out, then the 60D then the T2i, the complaints would be different. I could even foresee people complain if the order of release was T2i, 60D and 7D, with the same features set. I can see how people would argue differently and maybe have praised the 60D. To me, the 60D is just an evolution of the product line and not a revolution like the 40D was to the 30D. Does it make it a bad product? Not at all. It takes marginally better pictures than the 50D and is at least at par with the 7D and T2i. Oh one more thing I really like in this new product line. They use the same LP-E6 batteries as 7D and 5Dmkii. YAY!!! I can share batteries with my friends. This is great because more commonality between these lines is not a burden, but a great plus.

D7000 vs 60D battle (not a war) is like a battle of pride with no substance.
Another BIG BIG argument in the world of DSLRs now is the whole D7000 vs 60D argument. Many people love this argument because it is time for Nikon fans (not going to say they are fanboys, because I know there are some Canon fanboys too) to really blow their horns and tout superiority by numbers. Once again, I'll repeat, superiority by numbers. Why do mention this? It is because people allow numbers, specs and math to determine why they like a camera or system. Some people will argue that because the D7000 is a better specced camera, therefore, by transitivity, the D7000 will take better pictures by a long shot. What do the results show? Marginally better, is the probably the common thing noticed if anything is ever noticed between the photos. The D7000 has everything the 60D doesn't have and improves on it is another one I have heard several times that have caused Canon users to think, "Oh Nikon has a wonderful D7000, I think it is time to jump boat". I won't prevent them from doing so. But this argument is similar to that of girlfriends almost. Oh, that girlfriend has better "specs" that my current one, I think I will just dump this "system" and go to the Nikon. The word I would use to describe this is "Brand" insecurity. It isn't wrong to change systems. But the reasoning behind it needs to be thought over. I am afraid that some people are just insecure about their purchase that they need to be able to walk around town, events or show others to match the level of pride they have.
Back to this D7000 and 60D battle. Who is going to win? I actually wouldn't look it in that way. I would say, the D7000 and the 60D are both wonderful systems and both have proven to take wonderful pictures, hold up to weather effects, is durable (mind you, D7000 has magnesium alloy, but it isn't the entire body, only partial, its marketing getting to your head.), great ergonomics, has video capability, etc. There isn't a battle at all actually. It is just a bunch nerd battles like D&D with their character sheets. My camera has more strength and dexterity while the Canon has more charisma and constitution. See how irrelevant this argument and so called battle is? It is down to numbers and pride. The seaweed is always greener, in somebody else's lake.

Oh. Let's also put it this way. As I had mentioned about the order of being released. If the order of release was like 7D, 60D and T2i (equivalent) for the Nikon camp, the story and arguments would be just like canon's. D400, then D7000 and lastly D5000. People would have said, why doesn't the D7000 act more like the D400. That is my point.

The actual review of the 60D without trying to compare too much.
I have had the 60D for 2.5 weeks and have taken some videos and pictures with it at some events and some portraits. Some at low ISO and some at high ISO (3200 and 6400). Compared to the XSi, the pictures were better, but not immensely better. What was more important was the technique in taking the photo that made more of a difference. The 60D, with its better size and ergonomics (compared to Rebel series) really helped me to keep my hands steady and to choose the properly settings to get the pictures looking really nice without any post processing. I have used the remote flash trigger with great results and I really really like the camera. The price point now is just amazing for the 60D. And when the camera is put with the 24-70mm f2.8 and 50mm f1.4, the images are loved by all who I take a photo for. Is it because the camera that made the huge difference? No. But it did help me as a photographer to take better pictures.
The better photos at high ISO is attributed to Canon's research in sensors that they have put into the 7D. The images continue to look great even at high ISO. The articulated screen helps me take ninja candid shots without people noticing and that is something I wouldn't be able to get in T2i or the 7D. Some clients love this type of photography even though they don't like to be taken pictures of. I don't have to worry too much about the high ISO when taking these shots now as I can trust the 60D to resolve good photos in the end as long as I did my part as a photographer to keep the camera steady.
The price point of the camera with such good features is actually great. At $999 at the time of posting, is the even cheaper than the 50D when it came out. So if you are in the area and are looking to get th 60D, buy it, because you won't be disappointed as long as you don't feel insecure. The camera takes absolutely wonderful pictures indoor and outdoor. Videos are good and the same as the 7D and T2i. It is rugged, as mentioned by digital rev. I can't say much more to praise the camera. Buy it, don't look back and take photos. You by a camera to shoot photos, not so you can bring it to a party and compare specs and see who is better? Canon 60D, 4 stars, 1 star left so they can improve.

SecurityMan SM-3601S Dummy Indoor Camera with LED (Silver) From Securityman

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:10:00 +0000

SecurityMan SM-3601S Dummy Indoor Camera with LED (Silver)
From Securityman

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Product Description

Dummy Indoor Camera w/LED

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #3343 in Camera & Photo
Color: Silver
Brand: Securityman
Model: SM-3601S
Dimensions: 4.00" h x 7.00" w x 9.00" l, .22 pounds

Features

Imitation IR LEDs and one flashing LED
Plastic material
Metal mounting bracket
Powered by 2 x AA batteries (not included)
Dimension: ?80X260mm

Customer Reviews

Look just like real
This dummy camera costs a bit more than some other cheaper dummy camera but it's worth it. It's look very realistic. I have other real camera look just like this. It uses two AA batteries and the LED red light blinks every second. I just installed them a week ago and don't know how long the battery is going to last. The whole housing is made of plastic but sturdy enough. The base and leg are metal. Installation is very easy.

Dummy security camera
Looks authentic. Blinking red light makes people aware that the camera is active.Has helped considerably in diminishing activity in neighbor's yard.

Very Nice Product
Well let's face it...this is meant to be a fake camera and it does a very good job of that. Unless you're a criminal expert in security systems you can't tell this from the real thing. The front is filled with fake LED's, one of which blinks red all the time. The whole package is nicely made and very convincing.

Transcend 32 GB Class 10 SDHC Flash Memory Card TS32GSDHC10E From Transcend

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:05:00 +0000

Transcend 32 GB Class 10 SDHC Flash Memory Card TS32GSDHC10E
From Transcend

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Product Description

This Transcend 32GB Class 10 SDHC Memory Card is for you to expand the memory capacity for your compatible device like digital camera, camcorders, music players, and more cool device that is with a SD card slot available.It is ideal for storing media-rich files such as music, videos, and photographs. FEATURES: Fully compatible with SD 2.0 Standards Class 10 compliant Easy to use, plug and play operation Built-in Error Correcting Code (ECC) to detect and correct transfer errors Supports Content Protection for Recordable Media(CPRM) Allows In System Programming (ISP) for updating firmware Supports auto-standby, power-off and sleep modes Mechanical write-protection switch RoHS compliant Lifetime Warranty High storage capacity for storing essential digital content such as high quality photos, videos, music and more. Transcend Memory card for reliable quality. Non-volatile solid-state; no moving parts maximizes battery power. Data is not lost when power is turned off. Fast transfer rate for reliable copy, download, back up. This SD card is compatible with all digital devices and more cool devices with a SD memory card slot. SPECIFICATIONS: Size: 32mm x 24mm x 2.1mm (L x W x H)Op. Voltage: 2.7V3.6VOp. Temperature: -13Compatible With Hitachi DZ-BD10HA

Product Details

Size: 32 GB
Brand: Transcend
Model: TS32GSDHC10E
Dimensions: .20" h x 3.98" w x 5.08" l, .3 pounds
Hard Disk: 32GB

Features

Lifetime warranty, the data storage solution you can trust
Perfect for vast amounts of HD video and high-resolution images
Compatible with all SDHC-labeled host devices (not compatible with standard SD)
Built-in error correction(ECC) automatically detects and fixes transfer errors

Customer Reviews

Great Value for the Price
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1R4PZXIDGUTUZ UPDATE 9-10 I own 4 of these cards now. I have more of these than any other card I own because they are a very good value for capacity/price/and speed. My initial disappointment over the lack of super high speed is outweighed by the reality that this card is an exceptional value.

If you own a compact digital camera, or SD/HD video camera, this card will exceed the capabilities of all of them. For compact cameras the card isn't usually the slowest part of the data write process, it's the camera.
This card unloads very quickly with a 20MB/s read speed. You will need a SDHC card reader if you don't have one. A standard SD card reader will not read a HC (high capacity) card.

These cards make great gifts. I have given several of the 8 Gig cards as gifts and have received appreciation and great comments from all the recipients.

UPDATED REVIEW:
I purchased this card making the assumption that all class 10 cards had the same read and write speed. This was a poor assumption on my part. In order for a card to qualify for class 10 speed the card needs to be certified to have 10MB/s write and read speed. Some manufacturers classify their cards at a slower speed even though they qualify for a higher class. SanDisk make some cards that would qualify for class 10 and rates them as class 6.

The product photo on Amazon does not have the card's speed printed on it. The card that was shipped shows the front of the card printed with "20MB/s" which is the cards read speed. The cards write speed is 16MB/s.

I own a SanDisk Extreme III class 10 card that has (up to) 30MB/s read and write speed. My Nikon D-90 that can take advantage of the SanDisk cards speed. The difference is the SanDisk card can capture 100 photos at fine resolution in 24 seconds. The Transcend card captures 66 photos in the same time/resolution.

I reality very few people will ever have the need to drill off 100 photos in 24 seconds, but I can't stand to lose a good shot because the camera is slow while writing to the card and I can't fire the shutter. You can hear this happen at about 4.5 seconds in the video review. This does not happen with the SanDisk class 10 30MB/s card.

If you own an SLR that is capable of rapid fire, high-resolution photography you may want to consider the SanDisk Extreme III 30 MB/s card. It is expensive.

This card is reasonably priced for a class 10 card. Just know what you are getting, what your needs may be, and what else is available. I own other Transcend cards and they have always worked properly without any issues.

The video that I attached shows this card with the same 24 seconds that I gave the SanDisk Card.

To see the SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s video demo and review on Amazon go to:

Sandisk SDSDX3-008G-E31 8GB Extreme III SD Card 30MB/s (RETAIL PACKAGE)

Fast!
I purchased this for use with my new Canon T2i. I use it primarily for shooting full resolution 1080p video, although I shoot stills as well.

The camera choked on the class 4 chip that I originally purchased, but with this one, it is amazing. I can shoot rapidfire 18 megapixel stills (I've tested it up to 30+ shots in a row), and there is no lag. I've never had an error when shooting hi-def video.

Highly recommended! I'm buying another one.

Fast, fast, fast!
I bought this card for my Canon T1i. The card I had been using before ordering this one was a Kingston Class 6 micro sd card and it worked well enough for the type of shooting I did. Class 6 was the card speed that Canon recommended when I bought my T1i (Class 10 cards were not yet available) and it seemed fast enough for the way I used my camera - isolated single photos taken at Medium (8 MP) or Large (15 MP) jpg settings and 1280 x 720 video. And while I ocassionally took continuous photos, I had never much exceeded 5-10 photos in a row and had never run into a problem with my Class 6 card.

When I first saw the Class 10 cards I did some experiments with my camera. How many continuous Large photos could I take before the camera slowed down? It turned out to be about 30. And how many RAW photos could I take before the camera slowed down? It turned out to be about 9. SInce I did not generally take any photos in RAW and never needed more than about 10 continuous photos at Large, the Class 6 card seemed more than sufficient for my needs. But I wondered about the speed of the Class 10 cards enough that I finally bought one.

It turns out that the Class 10 card is sufficiently fast that there does not seem to be a reasonable upper limit on single Large photos. I have taken 60 on continuous without an issue. And although I still cannot take more than 9 RAW photos on continuous with the Class 10 card, when I am finished taking those photos the camera no longer displays a Wait - writing pictures screen. The RAW photos get written from the built-in memory to the card so quickly that the camera does not need to display the Wait screen.

So this card is fast! Given the way I take photos this purchase was unnecessary, but still I am glad I bought it. I know I will not run into a situation where speed is an issue with this card.

Sony 4 GB Memory Stick PRO Duo Flash Memory Card MSMT4G From Sony

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 14:01:00 +0000

Sony 4 GB Memory Stick PRO Duo Flash Memory Card MSMT4G
From Sony

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Product Description

4gb Memory Stick Pro Duo Mark2 Flshmedia

Product Details

Size: 4 GB
Color: Black
Brand: Sony
Model: MSMT4G
Platform: Windows
Format: CD
Original language: English
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 7.00" h x 1.00" w x 5.00" l, .9 pounds
Memory: 4000MB

Features

Write Speed - 32Mbps When combined with optimized Memory Stick PRO format-compatible devices

Customer Reviews

Sony Memory Pro Duo II - Fast But Expensive Memory for Your Sony Devices

Even though I have been slowly weaning myself off of the newer Sony cameras, I still have some Sony devices that need memory pro duo cards. There are some advantages and a few disadvantages, namely the cost and availability. Sony's memory format averages 30 to 100 percent higher prices for the same capacity of SDHC cards. While that sucks, if you have a Sony Camera or a PSP there's not much you can do about it.

To that point, both the new Sony Cybershot DSCT300 Digital Camera and upcoming PSP God of War Entertainment Pack will benefit from any of these memory cards. Both of those devices, along with most Sony devices for that matter are only comaptible with the memory duo platform.

But like I said, if you need one of these cards, there are some advantages especially if you get a Mark II card. Namely, the performance speed of the mark II format is about 50% higher than the fastest available SDHC card at the moment. The rating is for 36 MB/s and what I've seen through some basic tests seems to indicate real performance close to this. In fact, the solid performance has to be the biggest pro for these cards. So while it sucks to have little choice, when you factor in the premium performance it's easier to swallow.

The 2 and 4 GB cards are a better value than larger capacity ones right now. Sometimes you want the largest card you can get, but till the 8 and 16 GB cards come down I see no reason to buy them. Not to mention, this isn't for my primary camera but for an older one that I use as a backup.

Make sure your device is compatible with the card. Some older electronics aren't compatible with larger capacities, although in general Sony has been better with making these guys backward compatible than others.

Works Great With PSP
This 16GB Memory Stick Duo II card works great with the PSP portable gaming system. It comes pre-formatted, so all you have to do is stick it into your PSP and go. In fact, there is a picture of the PSP right on the packaging.

The usable space on this device is actually 14.9 GB, however.

The "Mark2" certification on the card has to do with higher writing speed requirements and indicates the memory is certified to operate with AVCHD recording products.

Sony DSC-W330 14.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Zoom with Digital Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 3.0 inch LCD (Blue) From Sony

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 13:57:00 +0000

Sony DSC-W330 14.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Zoom with Digital Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 3.0 inch LCD (Blue)
From Sony

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Product Description

The DSC-W330 captures amazingly detailed images with a Carl Zeiss 26mm equivalent wide angle 4x zoom lens. Taking and reviewing images is made easy with a large 3.0” LCD and advanced features including Easy mode, iAuto and SteadyShot™ make it easy to capture great images in various conditions.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #427 in Camera & Photo
Color: Blue
Brand: Sony
Model: W330 Blue
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 2.25" h x .69" w x 3.88" l, .28 pounds
Display size: 3

Features

26mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens with 4x optical zoom
14.1-megapixel CCD sensor and 3.0-inch LCD screen (230k pixels)
SteadyShot Image Stabilization reduces blur; iAuto mode automatically optimizes camera settings
Smile Shutter technology automatically captures a smile
Card slot for optional Memory Stick Duo media and SD media

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

The DSC-W330 captures amazingly detailed images with a Carl Zeiss 26mm equivalent wide angle 4x zoom lens. Taking and reviewing images is made easy with a large 3.0-inch LCD and advanced features including Easy mode, iAuto and SteadyShot make it easy to capture great images in various conditions.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W330 Highlights

14-megapixel Super HAD CCD image sensor
A powerful 14.1-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch Super HAD CCD image sensor helps you capture gorgeous images with superb contrast and clarity down to the finest detail. With 14.1 megapixels, you can create stunning, photo-quality prints up to A3+ (13x19-inch) size, or crop your images and still come away with high-resolution shots.

The DSC-W330's wide-angle lens delivers the big picture

Sony lens with 4x optical zoom with 26mm equivalent wide angle
Sony 4x optical zoom lens with 26mm equivalent wide angle brings distant subjects closer for great outdoor, sports, and travel photos.

3.0-inch Clear Photo LCD display (230k pixels)
Generous 3.0-inch (230K pixels) Clear Photo LCD display features sharp, natural color that makes it easy to compose shots, read menus, and view photos, even in bright sunlight.

Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode
Unlike traditional auto mode, Intelligent Auto (iAuto) mode thinks for you, recognizing scenes, lighting conditions, and faces, and adjusts settings resulting in clearer images, faces with more natural skin tone, and less blur. By incorporating advanced features such as Intelligent Scene Recognition, Face Detection technology, and SteadyShot image stabilization, iAuto mode lets you take advantage of the latest Sony Cyber-shot technology without leaving auto mode. Whether you're shooting landscapes, capturing a beautiful flower, or taking pictures at an in-door birthday party or wedding shower, iAuto mode will optimize your camera's settings to help ensure you come away with a great shot.

Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode
Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN) Mode automatically detects nine different types of scenes and, within just 1/30th of a second, selects the appropriate camera settings: Backlight, Backlight Portrait, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Portrait, Landscape and Macro . iSCN has two modes: Auto and Advanced. In Auto Mode, the camera takes a single shot using the optimal settings. In Advanced Mode, the camera takes a photo with the optimal settings and, if in difficult lighting (low light or back light) immediately takes a second photo with another optimized setting so you can choose which to keep.

Steady Shot Image Stabilization
SteadyShot image stabilization compensates for camera shake and helps prevent blur by using higher ISO.

Face Detection technology
Face Detection technology detects up to eight individual faces and adjusts flash, focus, exposure, and white balance to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of family and friends.

Motion Detection
Motion Detection, along with Face Motion Detection adjusts ISO sensitivity and increases the shutter speed when movement is detected, reducing blur in moving subjects and faces.

Smile Shutter technology in action

Smile Shutter technology
Smile Shutter technology captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply press the Smile Shutter button and the camera does the rest. You can also select adult and child priority and indicate the degree of Smile Detection Sensitivity. Intelligent Scene Recognition can be used together with Smile Shutter mode. This means that beautiful smiles can be captured with settings optimized for the particular scene, even in difficult conditions such as twilight and backlighting.

Scene modes
The DSC-W330 features 10 convenient scene modes: High Sensitivity, Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Underwater, Gourmet, Pet.

Intelligent AF
Thanks to Intelligent AF technology, capture fleeting moments like a child's adorable expression with the ultra-quick AF which locks focus in as little as 0.3 seconds.

Easy Shooting Mode
With Easy Shooting Mode, even beginners can take great photos. In Easy Shooting Mode, easy-to-understand basic instructions are displayed on the LCD screen and the camera switches to all automatic settings, removing several function choices and allowing you to focus on just your subject. Since this mode works together with Intelligent Scene Recognition, the camera selects the optimum setting for each scene. In addition the easy mode simplifies preview mode.

Function Guide
This beginner-friendly optional function helps navigate through the various functions and settings displaying the description of chosen functions or settings on the LCD screen.

In-Camera Retouching Tools
Retouch and enhance your photos on the go with in-camera Trimming and Red-Eye Correction.

In-camera retouching options

Lithium-ion battery
Included lithium-ion battery provides added convenience with longer lasting power than alkaline batteries (capacity of 230 images or 115 minutes of still image with the DSC-W330).

Media card slot
For convenient storage and sharing of your images, the DSC-W330 accepts Memory Stick Duo/Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media (sold separately).

SD Card Functionality
Sony SD memory cards are the perfect solution for storing and sharing your digital content such as high-quality photos, videos, music, and more.

Includes Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Software ver. 5.02
Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites.

Includes Sony PMBP (Picture Motion Browser Portable) software
With the pre-installed Picture Motion Browser (PMB) Portable software the DSC-W330 makes it easy to pre-select videos and images in the camera and conveniently upload them from the camera to a compatible PC and popular Internet sharing sites without the need for any additional software or install.

Customer Reviews

Sony cameras for life!
I wasn't sure about taking the plunge, but I am so glad that I did! I did 6 months of extensive research for this camera, as I was scared that nothing could replace my old Sony. Almost 5 years ago, we purchased a Sony Super Steady Shot (5.1 mega pixels, was over $500 at the time) when we had our 1st baby. Sticker shock aside, I have no regrets purchasing that camera, as it has given me professional quality pictures of my family that I treasure. Fast forward 4 years, now I have 2 very active little boys and the old camera is showing its age. The shutter speed is seriously lagging and the old camera just can't keep up with our busy boys.

Enter the DSC W330. My husband purchased this camera for me for Mother's Day and received a free case and memory card with it! I have been talking for years about how I needed a small point and shoot for my purse, but thought nothing could be as good as my bulky Steady Shot. In fact, for the first few weeks of owning this camera, I carried both in my purse, afraid that I was going to miss a moment. I was afraid that a $150 camera could not possibly compare to my beloved Steady Shot. Not the case. With the DSC W330, I get clear, beautiful photos and 99% of the time the camera is on easy mode. My kids move around quickly and I still get amazing shots of them. Not one time have I thought the shutter speed was slow or that the smile finder was not good quality.

My only complaint is the volume on the videos. To watch a video and hear it very clearly, I have to plug it into the TV and turn the TV volume way up. For the pictures this delivers, it is a quirk I can live with.

If you want a professional camera with no plastic parts, I highly doubt you will find that for the $150 range. If you want a small, compact camera that takes fast, high quality pictures, take the plunge! My old camera sits on a shelf in the kitchen, officially retired. That says a lot! If you are in doubt, give the DSC W330 a chance, you will not regret it!

Fabulous Camera!!!
I can't say enough about this camera. I took it to Europe and the quality of the pictures is amazing. The zoom is crystal clear. Its super easy to use, just point and shoot. The large screen is so nice to have. The size of the camera is small and slim, easy to put in a pocket or purse.

Great pics sony quality.
I bought this for my wife and she just loves it. The 14.1 mega pixels let us blow up pictures of our baby and still keeps it clear.

The only reason i gave it a 4 star and not a five is because the auto smile shutter is not as accurate as a samsung we purchased and the menu features are not as intutive as those on some other cameras. Also the battery has to be removed for charging and one has to purchase a charger from sony if you dont decide to remove the battery. i think the charger needs to come with it.

I like the fact that it uses a SD card and has other options.
The LCD screen is really nice and big compared to other cameras.
Has great pictures even in low light.
Other than that it is a great point and shoot and one of the best we had. I recently purchased a samsung for my mother in law but i think this is better.

Also Amazon got me a better deal than sony direct and even shipped a lot faster full marks to you amazon thats why we are loyal.
Cheers and good luck on the camera.

Meade 20218 NG-70SM 70MM Altazimuth Refractor Telescope From Meade

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 13:37:00 +0000

Meade 20218 NG-70SM 70MM Altazimuth Refractor Telescope
From Meade

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Product Description

Aperture: 70mm(2.8-Inch). Focal Length: 700mm. Focal Ratio: f/10. The world’s top astronomers got started with a telescope just like this one — and so will you. A quality refracting telescope for land or sky viewing. Perfect for observing Saturn, Jupiter, the Moon and land objects. A first look at the rings of Saturn or the craters of the Moon can inspire a lifetime of exploration. Go to any star party anywhere in the world and you’ll see more Meade telescopes than any other. Altazimuth Mount w/Slow Motion Controls, Steel Tripod w/ Accy Tray, Red Dot Viewfinder, Diagonal Mirror, Two Eyepieces (MH9mm, MH25mm), Astronomical Software & Instructional DVD.

Product Details

Brand: Meade
Model: 20218
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 5.00" h x 11.80" w x 29.00" l, 9.80 pounds

Features

Refracting Telescope Perfect For Land Or Sky Viewing
slow Motion Controls On Both Axes
find & Track Objects With Precision Controls
Includes A Red Dot Projection Viewfinder
heavy-Duty Steel Tube Tripod Provides A Rock Solid Platform

Customer Reviews

Good telescope for the money
This is a good telescope for the money. If you have grandchildren or want to look at the stars or any object in space this is a very good telescope for starter. Plastic parts inside the house unit and are easy to break,light weight to handle and it does the job.

Meade Teleschope
We purchased this telescope to give to our grandsons who live outside the country. On delivery to them we discovered that the switch on the red dot viewfinder was broken. On contacting Meade, they immediately agreed to send us a new part. We are delighted with the quality of the telescope and attribute the broken switch to shipping. With the replacement part, we will be very, very satisfied. A good telescope for the beginning astronomer at a most reasonable price, with a company that stands behind its product.

The best ever
We had purchased another brand telescope for our 10 yr old grandaughter but had to return it because the quality was horrible. We ordered this one and it is fabulous. The quality of this one is superb and my grandaughter loves it.

Nikon 7072 Lens Pen Cleaning System From Nikon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:13:00 +0000

Nikon 7072 Lens Pen Cleaning System
From Nikon

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Product Description

Nikon Binocular Lens Cleaning Pen 7072NIK Cleaning Kits

Product Details

Brand: Nikon
Model: 7072
Dimensions: 1.00" h x 1.00" w x 5.00" l, .50 pounds

Features

A simple lens-cleaning system
Small, pen-style design easily fits in any camera bag
Soft brush retracts into pen body to stay clean
Removes fingerprints, dust, and other debris that may compromise your image
Works with all types of cameras (digital and film), as well as binoculars, telescopes, and other optical products

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Description
The Nikon Lens Pen Cleaning Pen System is a great accessory for any optics user, making it great for maintaining your digital or film camera, binoculars, telescopes, or spotting scopes. The soft retractable brush combined with a non-liquid compound on a natural chamois tip removes fingerprints, dust and other debris that may compromise your lens. The small, pen-style design easily fits in any camera bag, as the soft brush retracts into pen body to stay clean.

Customer Reviews

Works fine ... but you don't have to pay that much
If you haven't used a lens pen, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised -- it works well. The description doesn't make it very clear that this product has TWO different cleaning tools, one at each end. The brush, which retracts, is to take off dust particles. Hidden in the other end is a soft pad with a cleaning agent to remove fingerprints and more serious dirt, hopefully without damaging the anti-reflection coating on your lens.

My only reservation is that this particular "Cleaning System" is a bit overpriced (at the time I wrote this review, Amazon was selling it for about $21). Essentially identical double-ended Lens Pens without the Nikon name attached cost $8-$10 from many sources, including Amazon (search "Lens Pen"), so you're paying quite a lot to impress your friends ;-)

One more thought: another reviewer mentioned cleaning his lens daily with this product. That's not such a great idea. Camera lenses, and especially their anti-reflection coatings, are quite fragile. The more often you clean your lens, the more likely you'll damage the coating, or even scratch the lens due to a small dirt particle on the cleaning pad (likewise, NEVER clean a lens with bathroom tissues, since they contain tiny, hard wood chips).

The fact is, a moderate amount of dust and dirt on your lens does NOT affect the pictures you take, since anything that close to the lens is so out of focus.

PS -- Here's an update: I just got an Adorama Camera catalog that lists this lens pen, WITH the Nikon name, for $6.50! Imagine that.

it really does work
does exactly what it's supposed to, and does it well.

to use:

1. with one end, extend the brush, and wipe debris away.

2. twist the cap on the other end, and take it off. with that end, wipe in a circular motion, and smudges get polished away.

Easy to use lens cleaning device
This is a easy to use lens cleaning device.

You use the bush end to remove any debris from the lens, and the pad end to remove fingerprints and the like.

The bush is retractable and soft enough not to damage lenses.

The pad is treated (coated) in such a way as to remove fingerprints without leaving smudges.

I have had excellent results using the Nikon Lens Pen on my Sony DSC F-828 digital camera. However it is important to note that the pad end is much too big to use on the electronic viewfinder (or anything else less than about a half an inch in diameter).

The Nikon Lens Pen appears to be identical to many other LensPens out there (they all seem to be identical except for branding and coloration). Perhaps they are all manufactured by one company (perhaps other than Nikon)?

Lomography Diana F+ Medium Format Camera From Lomography

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:57:00 +0000

Lomography Diana F+ Medium Format Camera
From Lomography

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Product Description
Dating back to the early 1960's, the all-plastic Diana camera is a cult legend - famous for its its dreamy, radiant, and lo-fi images. The brand new DianaF+ is a faithful reproduction and a loving homage to the classic Diana - with a few new features tossed in. Its plastic lens, 2 shutter settings (daylight & "B"), 3 aperture settings, and manual focus are all hallmarks of the original Diana. But on top of that, the DianaF+ offers a removable lens and super-small aperture for pinhole images, two image formats (12 or 16 square shots on a standard 120 roll), an endless panorama feature that allows for unlimited and nearly seamless panoramic shots, and both a standard tripod thread & shutter lock for easy shake-free long exposures. IT now also is compatible with the Diana flash. Each package includes the beautiful "Diana Vignettes" book - packed with over 200 pages of Diana history, Diana+ images, and truly off-the-wall short stories. Uses all varieties of medium format 120 film.

Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #3729 in Camera & Photo

Brand: Lomography

Model: DianaF+

Dimensions: 5.00" h x 3.25" w x 3.50" l, 1.25 pounds

Features
Diana Flash compatible

Variable shutter (daytime & ?B? for unlimited long exposures)

uses 120 film, and allows 12-shot (5.2x5.2cm), 16-shot (4.2x4.2cm), and endless Panorama (4.6x4.6cm) formats

Lens removes to convert your camera into a ready to use pinhole camera.

Customer Reviews
I love this camera!
I love this camera! The medium format is probably my most used and adored film format and this camera can do just about anything. B&W, color, whatever! It's also a pinhole, which is fantastic because you can have color pinhole photos and have one or two on a role and just keep switching it out. I highly recommend buying some of the other lenses that go with this but come separately. Also, I purchased the ringflash, which adds another dimension to your creative capabilities. If you get the 35mm attachment, you're really in business! Yes, it's a bit expensive (these cameras originally sold for literally pennies when the first generation came out decades ago) but what you can do with these cameras is worth every modern day dollar!
LOVE THIS
SO MUCH!!
i originally got this camera for my boyfriend, who is wayyy into photography and lomography. well, i had NO idea it was so easy to use, took amazing pictures that you can't get with any other camera(no matter what holga's promise to do, although they do have their good points as well), and was so cute and vintage-y to boot! so i decided i want one now...
great lo-fi camera
I just purchased this camera recently and saw my developed film. Its looks great! I recommend using the 16-shot frame mask to get the most out of your film. Take this camera everywhere you go. You will not be disappointed.

16GB SDHC HC-SD MEMORY CARD FOR NIKON CAMERA SLR D90 From Patriot

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:48:00 +0000

16GB SDHC HC-SD MEMORY CARD FOR NIKON CAMERA SLR D90
From Patriot

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Product Description

Patriot Signature Line (SL) Secure Digital High Capacity Flash Memory cards are based on SDA 2.0 specification, a completely new design that is required for cards and hosts to support 4GB and higher capacities. These cards adhere to SD Speed Class Rating specification which defines a minimum sustained transfer speed for SDHC cards. Patriot SDHC cards provide the ultimate flexibility and storage expansion for the latest SDHC compatible digital devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and mp3 players.

Product Details

Brand: Patriot

Features

Complies with SDA 2.0 Specifications
High level of copy protection
Compatible with SDHC slot devices
Write protection switch to avoid accidental data deletion
5 Year Limited Warranty

Customer Reviews

16 GB SDHC HC-SD MEMORY CARD FOR NIKON D90 CAMERA
I used this card for about two to three weeks and I find it to be very good in the Nikon D90 camera. The Nikon D90 User's Manual gives two companies for the 16GB and 32GB memory cards (Toshiba and Panasonic). This card is much lower in price, and I have not experience any problems.

SD with a bang
This SD chip works great in my Nikon D90. At my current setting the chip will hold 4300 photos and is more than enough space to do 6 fast pitch softball games at 550 to 700 shots per game.

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens From Canon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:43:00 +0000

Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens
From Canon

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Product Description

This is considered the standard lens for use with Canon SLR cameras

Product Details

Brand: Canon
Model: 2514A002
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 1.60" h x 2.70" w x 2.70" l, .29 pounds

Features

50mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture
Traditional Gauss-type optical design is extremely sharp
Focuses as close as 18 inches for extreme close-ups
Ideal for natural-looking shots; excellent color balance
Measures 2.7 inches in diameter; 1-year warranty

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description Lightweight and affordable, the Canon EF 50mm lens--which offers a fast f/1.8 aperture--is an excellent lens for people who prefer a fixed focal length. Canon's lightest EF lens at a mere 4.6 ounces, the lens boasts a traditional Gauss-type optical design that delivers a sharp performance even when wide open. As a result, the lens provides an image that's extremely close to how your eye perceives a subject, making it excellent for portraits and images that require a natural depth of field. In addition, the lens focuses as close as 18 inches, helping you take extreme close-ups. Finally, the lens offers an excellent color balance. As with all Canon lenses, the lens carries a one-year warranty.

Focal length: 50mm
Maximum aperture: 1:1.8
Lens construction: 6 elements in 5 groups
Diagonal angle of view: 46 degrees
Focus adjustment: Overall linear extension system with Micromotor
Closest focusing distance: 1.5 feet
Filter size: 52mm
Dimensions: 2.7 inches in diameter, 1.6 inches long
Weight: 4.6 ounces

From the Manufacturer
Lightweight and affordable, this sharp lens with a fast f/1.8 aperture is an excellent first lens for those who prefer a fixed focal length, and makes an excellent addition to any photographer’s system for available-light shooting. A traditional Gauss-type optical design ensures sharp performance even wide open, and it focuses as close as 18 inches/0.45m.

A medium telephoto lens with a large aperture brings the subject closer, creates excellent background blur, gives a longer flash range, and affords a faster shutter speed to freeze the action. A standard zoom lens, with its natural angle of view and perspective, captures the subject plainly, with no special effects. However, you can use standard lenses in creative ways by varying the subject distance, aperture, and angle.

Customer Reviews

Sharp, fast, inexpensive
Once upon a time the 50 mm lens was THE standard camera lens and was THE optical benchmark by which manufacturers were judged and compared. Although the basic lens focus has now shifted (at least at the low to mid amateur level) to zooms - you can still benefit from years of research and development that went into designing the 50 mm lens and this here lens may be the best lens, dollar for dollar, that you can ever buy. The question is can you afford not to own this lens?

Years of development have brought us a lens that has a fast aperture of 1.8 - far faster than any consumer zoom lens - and that is sharp as a filed tack. Be forewarned about the sharpness . . . if you are taking pictures of people, this lens is unyielding in its sharpness and may well surprise you and your subjects whose every blemish is captured. The lens has a fabulously shallow depth of field if you want to use the 1.8 aperture to blow out a background. This lens is also ridiculously inexpensive. It is not USM - so it is a little loud. It does not have a moving focus scale. For the money though - this is heaven.

As to the build quality - yes, it is plastic. No, it's not built like the Rock of Gibraltar. If you are going to give this lens extensive use as your everyday lens and you shoot a lot, it may not hold up all that well as one reviewer suggests. However, I've now had this lens and used it fairly regularly (although not as the primary lens) for about 8 years and it is still in great condition. In my mind, spend the $$ on this first before you go and drop $330 on the 50mm 1.4 USM lens and I think you'll find it gets the job done nicely and that the extra $250 on the 1.4 may not be worth the difference in build (major difference), speed (minor difference) and image quality (minor difference).

Best Value in Photography!
Wow! My theory now is that Canon doesn't put this baby as their kit lens because many people would decide that they DONT NEED ANOTHER ONE! And many of them would be right!

Like others, I bought the Rebel XT and the 28-135 IS lens. The 28-135 is heavy and priced like a gold brick. I guess it does OK, and I do keep it mounted most of the time.

And like others, I stumbled on this lens somehow, read the raving reviews, and for the price figured, "What the heck?"

This lens in tack sharp. It shows the fire in the colors you photograph. The wide aperture means candles can be excellent lights for portraits. Its narrow field is great.

There are pitfalls though. I snapped a pic of my face at arm's length using autofocus a while back and (1) the focus locked on the tip of my nose and my face was already blurring (2) the lens was so sharp that I saw blackheads clearly on my nose tip I can't really see in the mirror (doh!). I've read that dSLR images are slightly soft to aid in later editing. I can only imagine what it would do on a film camera.

Yesterday while camping I slapped this lens on. Unlike the 28-135, this one is light enough that I didnt notice I was carrying a camera everywhere. At night I put the lens on the top of the car pointed at the sky, set the shutter for 15 secs, and hit the button. Much to my amazement, the lens not only showed hundreds of stars that were invisible to my eyes, but it also found a galaxy. That pic is on the customer image section of this page. You can see what I saw, but the smaller size doesnt do the lens justice.

One quirk of Amazon is that this page keeps alternating pictures of lenses. This lens does not have the distance focus scales on the outside of it.

Zoom is nice for many things. But where zoom isnt necessary, performance is very, very nice. Performance at $70 is almost too good to be true.

Let me close by repeating what has been said elsewhere and will continue to be said here....IF YOU OWN A SLR, STOP NOW AND GET THIS LENS!

UPDATE 12/06 I have owned this lens for about a year now. Over that time I have immersed myself in photography, workshops, books, tests, etc. I have since upgraded to the 30D and a couple of L lenses, and now have a portfolio strong enough that I am now getting dollar signs thrown at me that I didnt even see coming. I say all this to give you some perspective on what I will write afterward.

Now that Ive really learned the difference, I can agree with others that it is a tad soft wide open, but that is to be expected. I read a lens test recently that put the 1.8 against Canons heavweight L glass, and, not surprisingly, the L beat out the $70 plastic wonder in most categories. What might surprise you, however, is that when the lens was tested at F 8 it BEAT THE L GLASS in sharpness! As one that has felt the pain of trading large sums of money for L glass, I appreciate affordable quality...not something anyone can plan on seeing much of in photography.

My 28-135 has since joined my kit lens in the garage. The 1.8 is still in my case with my newer 30D.

With some experience under my belt I now would make the following recommendation. Right now, as you read this, you may have an idea if you've been bitten by the photog bug. You may know that this beast is going to morph into something more than a simple pasttime. If you look inside the depths of your aspirations and you know that you are going to be a serious amateur, bite the bullet and get the 50mm 1.4. Trust me on this one. Eventually you'll end up getting it anyway, so just apply the $70 to the 1.4 now.

If you're just exploring different areas of SLR photography, you cant go wrong with this lens. Case in point- as of this writing the baby in pink in the customer images section of this lens is one of the top-ten rated images of all pics uploaded on Amazon! This lens will allow you to dazzle friends and relatives used to snapshots from point & shoots. It will be the start of what you upgraded to a DSLR for in the first place. For you, the 1.8 is still, by far, the best value in photography!

Great images, poor build quality
Optically, you can't really do that much better than the f/1.8 - strong contrast, good color rendition, and very sharp even when shooting wide open. I bought this lens and it lived on my camera for several months and was the default piece of glass that I reached for when the quality of the shot "really mattered."

But, honestly, it's built about as solid as a toy prize in a box of Cracker Jack. After a few months of use - use, not abuse - the lens literally came apart, the front barrel separated from the mount. The bad news was that the lens was completely shot - it was in pieces, after all - the good news was that it had been cheap, so my pocketbook was able to stand the cost of replacement.

I replaced the lens with it's older brother, a used version of the Mark I - much more solid, and which gives equal optical quality even used. It's a shame that the body and housing on new version of this lens is so shamefully cheap, because the glass is very nice. But I can't recommend it, unless you either a) don't do that much shooting, or b) don't mind replacing the lens on a fairly regular basis.

My suggestion is to either cough up the money for Canon's 50mm f/1.4 - gains you a half a stop and is built to pro-quality standards - or pick up the older version of the f/1.8 on the used market. Either option will likely end up being cheaper in the long run.

Sony HDR-HC9 6MP MiniDV High Definition Handycam Camcorder 10x Optical Zoom From Sony

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:40:00 +0000

Sony HDR-HC9 6MP MiniDV High Definition Handycam Camcorder 10x Optical Zoom
From Sony

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Product Description

RE)SONY HDR-HC9 MINIDV HI-DEF CAMCOR

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #16217 in Camera & Photo
Color: BLACK/SILVER
Brand: Sony
Model: HDR-HC9
Released on: 2009-11-30
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 3.20" h x 3.20" w x 1.00" l, 3.15 pounds
Display size: 2.7

Features

Capture high-definition video to MiniDV
3.2-megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor
10x optical zoom, 20x digital zoom; Digital Zoom Interpolation
Capture still images up to 6.1 megapixels
HDMI connection; USB 2.0 terminal

Customer Reviews

A Barely Upgraded HDR-HC7...But Still A Great Camera
After looking at the specs to this new HDR-HC9, I noticed that Sony's HDR-HC7 (last year's model) was almost identical to Sony`s latest in MiniDV technology. I began digging in the specs department for awhile on both Sony's website and here on Amazon. I was able to determine the following differences between the two:

- The Sony HDR-HD9 boasts on it's Amazon specs that it has upgraded to a 2.0 USB connector leaving the old 1.1 design behind, however the specs sheet on Sony's homepage seem to dispute this, claiming the HDR-HC9 is still plagued with the old technology. I rarely use any sort of camcorder for still pictures, I do have a 512MB Memory Stick installed in my unit for that "just-in-case" moment we've all been in. Even in the rare occasion I do snap a couple experimental stills while on vacation, I always use a card reader to transfer the pictures to my PC, not the USB interface.

- The supplied software is obviously upgraded. The Sony HDR-HC9 comes with Picture Motion Browser version 2.0.17

- If you really care about stills (and take a lot of them...I mean a lot of them) the Sony HDR-HC9 can now handle an 8GB Memory Stick compared to the HDR-HC7's 4GB.

- The general color of the new HC9 is black (which I prefer over the cheap space-age looking silver of the HC7) but this is just a consumer's preference, no reason to upgrade.

- It has been posted on other websites that the HDR-HC9's manual focus has been improved over the HC7's.

I've been trying my best to come up with something more but honestly, this is all I could find. This camcorder is basically the HDR-HC7 with a new paint job and a few minor modifications. Not to say this is a bad camera...far from it. I shoot exclusively with Sony camcorders and this one is by far the best I've ever owned.

If you happen to own the HDR-HC7 don't be swindled into upgrading. As the few minor spec differences above point out, you already own the new HDR-HC9 minus the 8GB Memory Stick storage capacity and the onyx color scheme. Compare the specs for yourself, if you find anything that differs between these two models feel free to list them in the comments section under this review. I searched for 30 minutes and this is the best I could do.

As far as the camera performance itself...what can I say? It's a Sony, top of the line. If you want to shoot quality HD movies but don't want to break your bank account, the Sony HDR-HC9 or HDR-HC7 is probably the right fit for most people's budgets.

I also prefer shooting with this camcorder because of the MiniDV tapes it uses as opposed to all the other media platforms such as DVDs, Hard Drives, Flash Memory...etc.. This format (MiniDV) is an industry standard and if you are planning on editing your videos with computer software (Adobe Premiere, Sony Vegas Studio) this is the ONLY way to go.

DVDs and Hard Drive camcorders require a lot of MPEG-2 video compression and when the video itself is transferred to your PC and edited into files the quality of the video is compressed again. Finally, when burning your finished film to DVD the files are degraded once more, leaving the footage pixilated and grotesque...like someone ran it through a garbage disposal. Something to think about.

Product Highlights:

- MiniDV (my format of choice)

- HDMI hook-up (for a quick plug-n-view of your footage in beautiful high def)

- Switchable HDV/DV formats (just in case you don't need to shoot in HD)

- Professional quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens

- Widescreen display

- Compact size (for an HD camera this is VERY convenient )

Product Down-points:

- I really wish Sony would have given us a 25x optical zoom...it would have put this little guy over the top as far as camcorders in this price range

- The touch screen interface is a bit cumbersome (sometimes feels like a rat maze when just trying to find a single button) plus it leaves annoying fingerprints

- The supplied battery is a joke, definitely need an upgrade

Recommended Accessories:

- Sony NPFH100 H Battery (This thing goes through juice quick)

- Sony VF37CPKS Filter Kit (Protect that lens)

- Sony LCSVA31 Soft Carrying Case

Smaller is better...sometimes
The Sony HDR-HC9 is a great camera in a small package. The HDV footage is stunning in clarity. The Super SteadyShot really works well as long as fast zooms and pans aren't in the plan. The NightShot is super fun to use at dimly lit parties and events. Smooth Slow Record is a blast! Tape something with lots of motion (volleyball serve, trampoline flip) and dissect it. Coonectivity is great with component video, AV, and HDMI outputs. All this functionality in a camera that fits in your pocket (almost) is awesome! most of the time...

Some of the buttons are too small and hard to reach if the LCD screen is out. Also, the manual focus control is difficult to use. It is a scroll wheel which is hard to control. A focus ring would have made this camera much better.

Overall, I would recommend this camera for anyone who wants to shoot HD footage of family events or even use professionally as a 2nd or 3rd camera as a stand alone on a shoot of an event.

Good camera, bad support
This is our first HD camera, so we didn't really know what to expect. (Note that for video review, we played the output via HDMI to our Sony Bravia 46" HD TV.) In full light, the picture is fantastic; you get some blur and artifacts during movement or in shadows, but I don't know if that is normal or not for an HD camera, so I'll take that at face value. Night shooting without the IR light (Nightshot) is pretty grainy, even with an add-on light. The Nightshot IR functionality works great and is a lot of fun to play with. The built-in IR light seems to work well up to 7 or 8 feet and then drops off.

Still shots are pretty poor; even in picture mode, they look like video captures; the contrast and color balance are bad compared to a dedicated still camera, but that seems to be common with most if not all dual use cameras so, again, take it at face value. Note that it does have a built-in flash (I couldn't find that documented anywhere).

It is small and light; you can almost stick it in your pocket, even with an extended life battery. Contrary to the CNET review, I didn't have any issues with the touch screen functionality.

Video and still import work fine; I had to buy a different firewire cable (the one included has the small end on each side, my PC has a large firewire connection). The Picture Motion Browser did not work; it crashed with an error when trying to open on Vista. Sony were absolutely no help; they just kept sending me to knowledge base articles that were of no use, and refused to make any effort to help (given that I just dropped $1500 on camera and accessories, you'd think there would be more love there).

On the whole, I'm pretty happy with the camera, although I'm disappointed that I have to carry two devices to get quality stills, and I'm very frustrated with Sony's support for their worthless software. But, at the end of the day, I paid for an HD video camera, not a still camera or software...so, four stars for the video functionality.

Kodak Pulse 7-Inch Digital Frame From Kodak

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:31:00 +0000

Kodak Pulse 7-Inch Digital Frame
From Kodak

Or click here to choose other product.

Product Description

DIGITAL FRAME, 7" PULSE, WI-FI, 4:3,

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #942 in Camera & Photo
Size: 7 Inch
Color: Black
Brand: Kodak
Model: 1338813
Original language: English
Dimensions: 1.50 pounds
Display size: 7

Features

7 in. (17.8 cm) high-quality digital photo display
Receive pictures via e-mail, Facebook and Kodak Gallery sites
Wi-Fi enabled
512 MB of internal memory
USB port and 2 card slots to add pictures from other sources

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer
Refresh your world with endless pictures.
The exciting way to get a steady stream of new pictures from everyone in your life.

You know how good it feels to come home to find an unexpected gift from a friend? That’s the same excitement you get every day with the KODAK PULSE Digital Frame. Now everyone can send pictures right to your frame, giving you continuous surprises. Adding your own pictures is easy too. It doesn’t slow you down with time-consuming software setups or complicated technology. It makes connecting with friends and family simple, so you’ll always have new pictures to relive and enjoy.

Easily see new pictures on your frame more often

Create your own e-mail address for the frame to easily receive new pictures

Send pictures from a computer
E-mail pictures from mobile phones as soon as they’re taken—perfect for sharing on-the-go

Adding your own pictures to the frame from your computer is incredibly simple
The PULSE automatically links to friends and photo albums on FACEBOOK and KODAK Gallery sites, so you can see new pictures on your frame when they’re posted

So effortless, yet so rewarding

Hassle-free pictures—there’s no software to install, making setup easier than ever
The PULSE automatically alerts you as soon as you get new pictures from friends and family
Wirelessly add or replace pictures with built-in Wi-Fi
You can also insert a memory card or USB drive to start viewing your pictures right away

Displays pictures beautifully
Pictures look amazing on the 7 in. (17.8 cm) high-quality digital photo display (800 x 600 pixels) featuring KODAK Color Science and LED backlighting

Simple-to-use touch controls

The full touch screen makes your entire photo-viewing experience fun and easy
Scroll through photos and view slideshows – all at the touch of your fingertips

Keep those memories coming

You’ll enjoy every moment with the ability to store up to 4,000 images with 512 MB of internal memory
Pictures are automatically resized to fit more on the frame and still look beautiful
Use the USB port and 2 card slots to add pictures from other sources

Actual storage capacity will vary based on image content.

Environmentally responsible operation

ENERGY STAR qualified for efficient power consumption
Mercury-free panel
Programmable timer automatically shuts down power at preferred times

System Requirements

A computer with internet access using INTERNET EXPLORER 6.0 or newer (WINDOWS), SAFARI 3.0 or newer (MAC), or FIREFOX 3.0 or newer (WINDOWS or MAC)
Compatible with 802.11b/g or b/g/n router

Package Contents

KODAK PULSE Digital Frame
Power adapter and plug
Cleaning cloth
Quick Start Guide

Customer Reviews

A clever Wi-Fi enabled frame, but it has its limitations.
The Kodak Pulse digital frame is a nicely designed Wi-Fi enabled frame that you manage through a website. It's an excellent frame for the most part but there are some things I wasn't fond of.

Design wise it is a nice looking frame with a glossy black front and a chrome strip running around the edge. It reminds a lot of the iPhone aesthetic. I especially like the fact that the Kodak logo on the front of the frame is very subtle. On the back of the frame is a door that covers the memory card / USB jump drive slots, a power button, and a status check button. The frame is primarily controlled via its touch screen and the Kodak Pulse website. The touch screen itself is very nicely done. It's quite accurate and responds to the first touch most of the time. You can swipe your finger across the screen to flick through the photos like an iPhone too. While the frame is light in weight the built quality is nice and it feels solid. To store your photos there is 512MB of internal memory, and my 2,510 photos are using 56% of the available memory.

Once you take your frame out of the box and plug it in it prompts you to enter your Wi-Fi information. The process is simple and it walks you through step-by-step. I was able to connect it to both a NETGEAR and Apple Airport router without problems. Both routers have a hidden SSID and WPA2 security. Once you have successfully connected the frame to your network, you are provided an activation number, and are directed to the frame's website.

You add pictures via several methods; 1) directly from your computer via the website, 2) from a memory card and/or USB jump drive, 3) from your Facebook and/or Kodak Gallery accounts, 4) from a custom e-mail address just for the frame.

I added photos to the frame from the website and it was a simple process (I am using a Mac running Snow Leopard and used the Safari browser). I had some friends e-mail photos to the frame and everything came through fine as well. Lastly, I accessed my Kodak Gallery photos, and the process was simple and worked well. The website also allows you to view all the pictures on the frame and delete some as needed. Being able to manage the frame this way is very convenient, and it is what makes this Kodak frame special. It's very nice to be able to manage your frame's photos remotely. This makes it an ideal frame to give to people who do not live close by and/or are not tech friendly because you can manage the frame for them remotely. (see my included photos for screenshots of the website)

Not only can you manage the pictures through the website, but also you can change the frame's settings. You can adjust the picture display duration and transition effect, how the pictures fit the frame, and whether one picture or a collage is displayed. Lastly, you can set times for the frame to automatically turn on and off.

The frame's picture quality is very high. The photos are sharp, the colors are vivid and true, and the viewing angle is good. The frame's resolution of 800 x 600 allows you to view the photos up close without the pictures looking pixilated. Additionally, the frame's 4:3 screen-ratio is much better than widescreen frames, since 99% of photos are not taken at a 16:9 ratio. Thus, your photos are not cropped as much. The only picture quality issue is some light leakage from the bottom. Basically when you are close to the frame, and it is displaying a dark photograph, the bottom edge looks brighter.

The only negatives I have are as follows: 1) The settings for the frame are very limited, you can only choose from 3, 10, and 30 second picture display durations. There is a smart setting that starts out fast and slows down to 30 minutes a photo, but I find all these choices either too fast or too slow. A Philips' frame I had allowed for much more flexibility in this area. 2) There is no separate schedule to turn the frame on and off for the weekend. Again, the Philips' frame had an automatic schedule for both the weekdays and the weekend. Moreover, you can't change the frame's schedule through the frame itself, it has to be done via the website. 3) If a photo is in portrait orientation there are just black bars placed on both sides of it. Some frames will tile portrait photos to eliminate this problem. 4) There is no adjustment for the frame's screen brightness. 5) Lastly, the frame cannot do a slideshow of both the memory card photos and online photos together. It would be nice if you could so you could supplement the frame's memory using a card. I am hoping that Kodak can fix some of these issues by updating the website, or the frame's software, since it is Wi-Fi enabled.

All in all... a very nicely done Wi-Fi frame, with good photo quality, and a well designed website.

P.S. Sorry for the long review, but there is a lot to cover. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment and I will respond promptly.

3/27/2010 Update - Some of my photos had quotes in the titles and they did not upload even though the website said they did. Make sure your photos don't have quotation marks anywhere in the title.

4/6/2010 Update - So I've recently run into a problem with the frame. I tried uploading some more photos I recently took. 59 to be exact, and it keeps getting stuck after it uploads a handful of them. All the photos show up in the online gallery, but the frame keeps trying to download the remaining pictures and nothing happens, I've waited days even. I deleted those pictures and tired them again with no luck. Then, I deleted all the photos off the frame except for the e-mailed ones and it got stuck again. I had to resort to uploading all the photos via memory card. I've added some additional photos via the online gallery after I uploaded all the older ones and they came through fine. Hopefully it will not get "clogged" again. I still like the frame overall and think it's neat. I'm hoping this was a one-time issue. The problem has not re-appeared as of 4/19/2010.

4/11/2010 Update - To reset the frame and erase all its photos and setting you can click both the Power and Status buttons on the back. Be aware though that any photos that have been e-mailed to your frame will be deleted as well. Also, I've found that if you add photos via the website, when you display the photo's information on the frame it shows the upload date, but if you add them to the frame via memory card it shows the date it was taken.

4/19/2010 Update - Last night the frame prompted me to download a new firmware update. Very nice.

7/14/2010 Update - A couple of days ago I turned on the frame and all the photos I had added via SD card were gone. I unplugged it a couple of times and cycled the power but they never came back and the frame said they were gone. So I tried to upload them again but the frame stopped halfway through and said it was full. This meant that even though the frame said the pictures were not there, they were, since the memory was still being used. I had to reset the frame and start from scratch but was able to get all the photos on there again. I'm hoping this was just a one-time fluke. If this happens again, I'll update this review and revise my rating.

3/12/2011 Update - I downloaded a new software update for the frame and you can now send a quick canned message (LOL, Wish I was there, That's a Kodak moment, etc.) to the person who e-mailed you a photo through the frame. It's a cute little touch. Additionally, you can now create frame playlists via the Kodak Pulse website.

A very clever digital frame
I've had this for a couple of days now and have to say that Kodak really has a winner on its hands with the Pulse. Kodak has solved the "last mile" problem with photo frames by creating such an easy way to get photos onto the Pulse. After receiving it you create an email address at [...] and simply email photos to that address. It takes about three minutes from emailing a photo to the Pulse to when it shows up on it. Let your friends and family know the email address and they can send photos to it too.

Setting up the Pulse is easy and takes about 10 minutes from unboxing it to displaying photos on it. The frame first connects to the internet via your WiFi and then displays an activiation code. You then go to [...] and create a user account and email address by keying in this activation code. After that you can start emailing photos to your new email account. In addition you can also have it display photos from your facebook or Kodak Gallery accounts.

The Pulse has worked great for me with both photos emailed to it and from a facebook account. It has all the usual slots in the back so you can run a slideshow off a flashcard too. A nice feature of the Pulse is that you can sort the photos displayed on it based on who emailed them to you. Tapping on a photo shows who sent it, when it was sent and the subject line of the email when it was sent to you.

My one concern with the Pulse is with wireless connectivity. Where we originally wanted to put the Pulse our computers, cellphones, etc., easily get WiFi coverage but for some reason the Pulse can't. We moved it across the room and it got coverage but it's strange that it had a problem when other devices didn't. Other than that, however, the frame has been perfect.

I originally bought this for my mom so all her kids and grandkids can email her photos without her having to be at a computer to view them. But I like it so much I've decided to keep it for myself and buy her another. One surprise is that there isn't a simple way to print the photos from the Pulse. It would be great if you could select one or more pictures and have them sent to Kodak Gallery or some other online site and have them printed. Perphaps they'll add this feature in a future software update.

I'm very pleased with the Pulse and recommend anyone thinking about a digital photo frame seriously consider it. Good job, Kodak.

finally, a photo frame for grandparents
I've been looking for a photo frame that I can give to my parents, who don't get to see my kids often. I wanted one that allows me to update pictures remotely, and doesn't require any technical knowledge on their part. I tried a few WiFi-capable units: Toshiba (wide-screen ratio, a mistake), Viewsonic (doesn't auto-play when turned on), and Pixstar (seems nice, but $230?). Finally, Amazon emailed me about the new Kodak Pulse, which at the time got three 5-star reviews. Well, what the heck, I decided to buy it and try it out for myself.

Pros:
- Very nice, clear LCD display. It appears to be higher res than other frame. Maybe it's because it is only 7", yet 800x600 pixels. Maybe the LED backlight helps too. The colors also seem richer on this frame.
- Small frame border. Some frames have a ridiculously large border, which takes focus away from the pictures.
- Once configured, zero-configuration needed to use. Perfect for non-technical viewers.
- Impressive web management tools, with many settings.
- No remote! Yes, this is a feature! Since it has web management, there is no remote control to lose. And photo navigation is done thru touch screen.
- Simple, elegant design. The frame is also pretty thin.
- Collage mode, where individual pictures in the collage update in sequence.
- Energy save mode, where you can set times when frame is on. Also can turn on frame when new pictures are received.
- Touch screen interface, for simple management and flipping through photos (you can disable touch screen interface).
- Email upload. This is very convenient, especially from phone.

Cons:
- Management must be made thru Kodak website. What if Kodak website is down, or decides not to support product anymore?
- On first use, it automatically upgraded firmware, which is fine. However, it wiped out my WiFi settings so I had to re-enter it.
- Wished it was offered in larger screen size, which would be nicer for collage mode.
- Security. If you enable upload by email option, anyone who knows the email address can send pictures to the frame. Last thing I want is spam or inappropriate photos on my frame. They should allow you to restrict who can send photos to the frame.

So far I'm very impressed by this photo frame. Never thought of Kodak as a high-tech company, but I guess they know a thing or two about displaying pictures. I think it makes for a great gift that will keep on giving.

Bushnell 1708032C 8 x 32 Permafocus Binocular From Bushnell

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:28:00 +0000

Bushnell 1708032C 8 x 32 Permafocus Binocular
From Bushnell

Or click here to choose other product.

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #2048 in Sports & Outdoors
Brand: Bushnell
Model: 170832
Dimensions: .0" h x .0" w x .0" l,

Features

Focus-free binoculars with 8x magnification and 32mm objective lens
Unique focus-free feature is perfect for sports and other fast-moving activities
Fully coated optics for superior light transmission and brightness
Nonslip rubber armor absorbs shock while providing firm grip
Twist-up eyecups; 13mm eye relief; weighs 14.1 ounce
Rugged rubber covered body ideal for all outdoor activities

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Lose your focus and some of life's finest opportunities can pass you by. This hard-earned lesson drove the creation of Bushnell's PermaFocus binocular series. Simply raise these 8x32 binoculars to your eyes and you'll catch the action instantly with stunning clarity--no adjustments necessary. That's because of its unique focus-free feature that keeps you dialed in for instantaneous viewing at virtually any distance.

PermaFocus binoculars are perfect for sporting events, nature observation, and winter days when gloves would hinder the use of standard-focus binoculars. The 8x32 binoculars offer other benefits as well, including fully-coated optics for superior light transmission and brightness and a nonslip rubber armor that absorbs shock while providing a firm grip.

Note: Focus-free models are designed for viewing distant subjects. The close-focus limit is subjective and dependent on the user's eyesight.

Magnification (Power)
Binoculars are often referred to by two numbers. For this example: 8x 32. The first number is the power, or magnification, of the binocular. With an 8x 32 binocular, the object being viewed appears to be eight times closer than you would see it with the unaided eye.

Objective Lens
The second number in the formula (8x 32mm) is the diameter of the objective or front lens measured in millimeters. The larger the objective lens, the more light that enters the binoculars and the brighter the image.

The binocular's unique focus-free feature lets you instantly capture the action on the field.

Specifications:

Magnification: 8x
Objective lens: 32mm
Lens coating: Fully
Field of view: 382 feet @ 1,000 yards
Tripod adaptable: No
Eyecups: Twist-up
Eye relief: 13mm
Focus system: Focus-free
Exit pupil: 4mm
Prism glass: BK-7
Waterproof/fogproof: No
Prism system: Roof
Size class: Mid-size
Weight: 14.1 ounces

How Do the Bushnell® PermaFocus® Binoculars Work?
No focus mechanism or control is needed on PermaFocus because its point of focus preset for optimal distant viewing only (and of course, most people buy binoculars because they want a closer view of sports action, animals or other subjects that are at least 50 or 100 feet away), and it takes advantage of common "depth of field" principles.

The PermaFocus design takes advantage of the fact that the farther away the subject is located, the less focusing adjustment is required to obtain an acceptably sharp image. Try holding a pen a foot or so away from your eyes with one hand, and a magazine page about a foot behind that with the other hand. Hold these objects up against a distant background such as a wall at least 10 or 15 feet away. Focus your eye on the pen. The print on the magazine page just a foot behind it will not appear sharp. If you shift your eye's focus to the page, the pen in front will be quite blurry. Your eyes will not be able to focus sharply on both objects at the same time. Move your point of focus to the wall, and both the pen and the magazine will appear extremely out of focus, when they are in your field of vision at the same time. Now try looking at two objects that are separated by a greater distance (such as two trees 50-100 feet apart), but much farther away. The farther away they are, the greater the distance between them can be, yet both will still appear sharp to your eye. Using the same concept, these binoculars can deliver a high quality view of the players, cheerleaders, coach and goalpost located at different distances from you, because they are all far enough away from you to take advantage of the unique PermaFocus optical design.

Manufacturer's Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty

About Bushnell
Bushnell has been the industry leader in high-performance sports optics for more than 50 years. The company's guiding principle is to provide the highest quality, most reliable, and most affordable sports optics products on the market. Bushnell product lines enhance the enjoyment of every outdoor pursuit, including nature study, hunting, fishing, birding, and stargazing. Indoors, the company's binoculars bring the audience closer to the action in fast-moving sports or the fine arts at theaters and concerts.

Customer Reviews

Great Value
I have compared many binoculars before purchasing this pair and have no regrets what-so-ever. They are a great all-purpose binocular. The 7x magnification along with a larger 50mm aperture gives a very clear image, even indoors.
I regularly take them to hockey games and the wider field-of-view keeps the action in your sight.
The perma-focus keeps images sharp. Remember that they are set assuming you are looking through with at least almost 20/20 vision so you can not use them without corrective lenses.

I love these!
These binocs are very similar to the ones they replaced that cost 5x as much. The old ones got tossed because they were showing a double image after living in my backpack for 2 years or so. The Bushnells may or may not have the quality of optics that the more expensive units did but the "Permafocus" or infinite depth focus makes it so you just pick them up and look. If what you are looking at is further than about 75' away it will be clear. This is really great when multiple users are using them as you don't have to reconfigure them for each persons eyes. It is also good for scanning a wide area as you don't have to adjust focus for close or far. This also makes them great for watching sports where things move fast.
I decided to try these because we have some older 10x50 units that use the same "Permafocus" design under a different brand that got bought by Bushnell and they have been working great for over 10 years. I hope I will be able to say the same about these.

Good for brightly lit subjects if you're young, have 20-20 vision, and both eyes are the same
These things work by setting the focus to infinity and reducing the opening on the ocular (eye piece) side. That maximized the range of distances that are in focus and reduces the amount of light that gets in. The result is a slightly dimmed and more possibly in focus image. For noon-time football or other midday activities it's OK. Of indoor things like plays or evening activities, not so much.

If you wear eye glasses these won't work well. There is no way to hold them comfortably against your glasses.

If you eyes are different, as they are for most people, these won't work well. There is no way to individually adjust the separate eye pieces (as there is for all but the most least expensive :) binoculars.

If you are old, as I am, and need reading glasses, as I do, these won't work well. See the reasons above.

If none of these apply then you will probably find these a good value. Otherwise, search out binoculars with the functions you need and leave the magic to the magicians.

Nikon Coolpix L110 12.1MP Digital Camera with 15x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) From Nikon

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:24:00 +0000

Nikon Coolpix L110 12.1MP Digital Camera with 15x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)
From Nikon

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Product Description

Nikon Coolpix L110 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 15x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) - 26194

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #169 in Camera & Photo
Color: Black
Brand: Nikon
Model: L110 Black
Number of items: 1
Dimensions: 4.30" h x 3.10" w x 3.00" l, 2.45 pounds
Display size: 3

Features

12.1 megapixels for stunning prints as large as 16 x 20 inches
Incredible 15x wide-angle optical (28-420mm) Zoom-NIKKOR glass lens
Bright 3.0-inch high-resolution HVGA (460k-dot) Clear Color Display
HD Movie with HDMI output; 5-way VR Image Stabilization System
EXPEED Image Processing; Smart Portrait System

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

Zoom in on your passion with Nikon's Coolpix L110, with 12.1 effective megapixels and an incredible 15x optical Zoom-Nikkor glass lens for stunning prints as large as 16 x 20 inches. The camera's new huge bright 3.0-inch high-resolution (460k-dot) LCD lets you compose and share your pictures with family and friends. The Coolpix L110, with Nikon's 5-way VR Image Stabilization System takes incredible pictures, incredibly easy plus you can take HD (720p) video with stereo sound! Nikon's Smart Portrait System which; automatically detects your subjects face, takes a picture when they smile and warns you if they blinked.

Bring special moments closer all day with 15x optical zoom, and a long battery life

Coolpix L110, a powerful photographic tool that blends ease-of-use with advanced shooting functions, a long-lasting battery life, and high-power zoom reach. Combining the precision optics of a Nikkor lens with the image quality and performance benefits of Nikon's innovative EXPEED digital image processing concept, the Coolpix L110 is ready to capture every special moment with quality and clarity.

The Coolpix L110 features the compositional freedom of a 15x zoom, Nikkor lens. Covering 28mm wide-angle to 420mm super-telephoto shooting, the lens' broad focal range can readily handle everything from landscapes and group shots, to tight close-ups and shots taken from a distance that allows shooting subjects as they move or play naturally. It even covers macro shooting ability from as close as 1 cm (0.4 in.).

The power-efficient Coolpix L110 can shoot approximately 840 still images or record 7 hours^*1 of HD movie footage using the supplied Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA batteries (FR6/L91). Regular alkaline or optionally available Ni-MH rechargeable batteries can also be used, eliminating worries about running out of power virtually anywhere.

The Coolpix L100 offers a lineup of advanced image stabilizing features^*2. Nikon's Image sensor shift and Electronic VR compensate for the effects of camera shake, while Motion Detection automatically controls shutter speed. Extended light sensitivity settings as high as ISO 6400^*3 add further capability that helps ensure sharper results when shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects. The secure grip for the Coolpix L110 is also designed to complement these technologies by lending added stability when shooting.

_{*1 Recording stops automatically after 29 minutes. This figure is based on in-house testing standards and stated for recording at 25°C with AA-size lithium (FR6/L91) batteries. Actual results may vary greatly depending on factors that include differences in ambient temperature, and the amount of zoom and autofocus operations used.}
_{*2 The camera selects and uses only the features required to optimize each image.}
_{*3 ISO3200 and 6400 are available only for image sizes of 3M (2048 x 1536) or smaller.}

Nikon Coolpix L110 Feature Highlights

EXPEED digital imaging technology
Nikon's smarter approach to digital imaging technology. From image capture to processing, Nikon's comprehensive EXPEED digital imaging concept encompasses the entire picture-taking operation. EXPEED is much more than a processing engine; it is a revolution in digital photography.

3-inch, 460k-dot TFT LCD featuring Nikon's Clear Color Display
The high-quality 3-inch Clear Color Display for the Coolpix L110 features anti-reflection coating and screen brightness adjustment, which greatly reduces reflection and improves visibility outdoors for a more vivid, clearer image preview and playback.

High-Definition movie recording
Entertain audiences with movies that capture the entire impact of the scene with HD. The Coolpix L110 records up to 7 hours^*1 of HD movie footage (720p) with stereo sound with its conveniently positioned Movie-record button. HDMI output is also available for easy in camera playback on your TV or computer.
_{*1 Recording stops automatically after 29 minutes. This figure is based on in-house testing standards and stated for recording at 25°C with AA-size lithium (FR6/L91) batteries. Actual results may vary greatly depending on factors that include differences in ambient temperature, and the amount of zoom and autofocus operations used.}

Sport Continuous Mode
Sport Continuous Mode offers the added benefit of shooting as many as 20 consecutive pictures at a rapid 11.1 frames per second to capture all the excitement of most action scenes.

Five advanced image stabilizing features^* help ensure sharper results

VR Image Stabilization in action.

Compensating for the effects of camera shake to realize sharper results and contribute to a more reassuring shooting experience, Image sensor shift and Electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) frees you to enjoy capturing special moments without worrying about slight hand movements. High ISO 6400 capability at any image size up to its maximum of 2048 x 1536 pixels allows faster shutter speeds when shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects. Motion Detection automatically controls shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for subject movement as well as camera shake. And, Nikon's original BSS (Best Shot Selector) function automatically shoots a series of sequential frames and saves the one with the sharpest focus.
_{* The camera selects and uses only the features required to optimize each image.}

Intelligent automation contributes to carefree shooting
Easy Auto Mode simplifies photography by taking control of settings; just turn on the camera and shoot freely. Activated in Easy Auto Mode, Nikon's Scene Auto Selector eliminates the need to manually select a scene mode to match the shot, making it faster and easier to capture the moment. This function analyzes the subject and its surrounding settings and automatically selects the most appropriate of the following six scene modes to achieve optimal results--Portrait, Landscape, Night Portrait, Night Landscape, Close-up, or Backlight.

Nikon's exclusive Smart Portrait System
Automatically detecting as many as 12 faces in the shot, Face-priority AF helps produce satisfying portraits by adjusting focus and exposure. Smart Portrait Mode^*helps to faithfully record precious moments by automatically releasing the shutter when the subject smiles. Blink Warning alerts the photographer when it suspects that a subject has blinked. Now featuring faster processing speed, In-Camera Red-Eye Fix automatically corrects perceived red-eye effect before saving the image to memory.
_{*The Smart Portrait Mode function for the Coolpix L110, L22 and L21 operates in the same fashion as the Smile Mode function for other models.}

Nikon Coolpix L110 Other Features

Macro shooting from as close as 1 cm (0.4 in.)
15 scene modes for optimized shooting in various settings
D-Lighting
Approx. 43 MB of internal memory
Powered by commonly available AA-size/R6 batteries

What's in the Box

FR6/L91 (AA-size) lithium batteries x4
UC-E6 USB Cable
EG-CP14 Audio Video Cable
AN-CP21 Strap
LC-CP20 Lens Cap
Coolpix Software Suite CD-ROM

Customer Reviews

Straddles the line between point & shoot and DSLR
UPDATE: 1/11/2011 - Because there are so many comments asking the same question I decided I should add this to the beginning to save you agony. This camera is poor in low-light and not the greatest for taking shots of kids running around or in situations where you need to quickly take multiple shots. Having said that, this camera has an absolutely amazing zoom, optics are top notch, macro mode is incredible and great video recording is possible as well. I've taken thousands of beautiful photos with this camera. You need to work with this camera and it will reward you handsomely. But read through as many comments as you can because there is a lot of discussion that may interest you. And now on to my original review...

I have two types of cameras that I generally use, small point & shoots, like the Canon Canon PowerShot SD600 6MP Digital Elph Camera with 3x Optical Zoom for "take anywhere" convenience and DSLR's which for me currently is the Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

If you have any questions about the camera, leave a comment and I'll do my best to answer you. Please note that I have updated my review with some additional observations on 3/29/2010 based on my continued experiences with the camera.

I wanted to get a camera that was SDHC compatible (the SD600 is not SDHC compatible, while the D300 uses CF cards) so that I could use the Eye-Fi wireless card Eye-Fi 4GB Share Video SDHC Wireless Flash Memory Card EYE-FI-4SV with it. I've had excellent results with small Canon point & shoot cameras over the years but the Nikon L110 caught my eye and I decided to buy it. It is substantially larger than the svelte Canon SD600, yet much smaller and lighter than my D300. It's called a "bridge" camera by some people since it has some qualities reminiscent of a DSLR at the expense of being as small and pocketable as a typical "point & shoot" camera. Consequently, depending on where you are on the scale of novice to professional photographer and how pocketable you need your camera to be, this camera may either thrill you or leave you wanting something else. I'm somewhere in the middle.

There is a lot to like about this camera. It has a very nice feel in the hand and the rubberized grip makes you feel secure holding the camera. The large 3" LCD display is gorgeous... it is bright, sharp and has excellent dpi not normally found in a camera of this price range. It also works quite well outdoors due to the fact that it has an anti-reflective coating on it. However the camera lacks an optical viewfinder which I do miss as I am more accustomed to using a viewfinder than not. The lack of a viewfinder is not a deal-breaker for me though. 12.1 megapixels gives you ample file size to make huge enlargements or lots of room for cropping. And the awesome zoom, from the 35mm equivalent of 28mm-420mm gives you an amazing range. It's not normally even possible to hand-hold a camera and expect a very sharp image if you are zoomed to 420mm, or even 300mm, but with the great VR and Motion Detection incorporated into the camera, you can actually hand-hold at that extreme and get usable images. I was impressed with that. If you use a tripod at those extremes, then be sure to turn off the VR or you will get poor pictures. This is always the case with electronic VR... you never want to use it when also using a tripod since it is intended to compensate for your hand shake and when you're on a tripod, there is no hand shake to correct so it is not necessary or desirable to have VR on.

The L110 has a minimal number of buttons and control pads which makes it a very approachable camera to use. Of course, the downside to that is you need to delve into the menu to get to some other features or controls that you may want to fiddle with. Again, coming from the D300, I found this a bit frustrating but someone more used to a point & shoot might not mind or even think about that as much.

What I like specifically about the camera is that I can take stunning photographs with little thought. Using the default "easy auto mode" lets you get started taking photos with little to worry about. Just frame your subject and press the shutter button. But you may not want to keep the camera in that mode all the time because it does come with some limitations that you need to be aware of. Easy Auto Mode automatically determines what you are trying to accomplish then sets the "scene" to what the camera thinks is the appropriate setting... it may not always be correct. And I noticed that auto-focus may not always work correctly especially when trying to shoot closeup images in easy auto mode. So in those cases you can switch to "auto mode" or manually select the "scene" to the mode you specifically want, such as "close-up, portrait, landscape, backlight, etc"

The macro mode on this camera is excellent. You can get as close as .4 inches from your subject and this is fantastic if you are into macro photography. I will post some sample photos in the customers images area for you to see.

I like that the camera can be turned on directly in playback mode simply by pressing the playback button instead of the on/off button. The advantage to doing this is that if you just want to view photos/videos on the camera, the lens remains retracted. Otherwise if you turn the camera on using the on/off button, then press the playback button, the lens first extends then goes into playback mode.

The flash does not automatically flip up when needed like some cameras of this style. That's not a bad thing, just something you need to know. If the camera determines that flash is necessary, it does display a message on the LCD screen informing you to "Raise The Flash."

The buttons on the back of the camera only require a very light touch. At first this annoyed me a little bit as they felt overly "touchy". But I quickly grew accustomed to the lighter touch and now must say I like it.

Video quality is very very good, especially in outdoors and well-lit situations. Low light results in more grain than I would like to see, but since this is not a dedicated video camera, nor expensive, it is acceptable. The audio recorded in video mode (stereo by the way) is very good too.

UPDATE: I've been using the movie mode more extensively since my original review and have changed my opinion of the audio and video quality. The low light performance of video recording is not very good at all and results in -very- noisy (grainy) video. I've also noticed a significant muffled quality to the sound that is especially noticeable when just a persons voice is recorded. Recording where the ambient noise levels are high, such as when outside, masks this somewhat. But when recording video in more quiet surroundings, a single sound source such as voice will present the distortion, hiss or whatever you want to call it, at much more noticeable levels and is not what I would call good quality at all. On a scale of 1-10 I'd have to rate the audio quality about a 4. There is no capability to attach an external mic, nor would I expect that for a camera in this price range. The audio quality is quite disappointing to me now though, especially when compared to my Canon SD600 that has extremely clear, distortion free (mono) audio. Finally, I also heard some zoom induced mechanism noise while zooming and recording video.

One feature that really appeals to me is the "small picture" option. If you take a lot of photos that eventually end up on the web, you can have the camera make a smaller sized copy of any photo that you have taken... either 640x480, 320x240 or 160x120. I find this really helpful because if you take your original photo at a lower resolution, then that's what you're stuck with forever. But with this feature you can take your photos at the highest resolution then have the camera make a re-sized copy of the photo at the resolution you specify. I build websites so this is very helpful for me as I don't have to spend as much time in Photoshop resizing photos destined for the web.

There are a slew of other features, such as "blink warning", automatic red-eye fixing, smart-portrait mode, sport continuous mode (pretty cool feature that will take up to 20 continuous photos at 11.1 fps) and even more. Regarding the Sports Continuous Mode; this mode reduces the image quality/size to a maximum of 3Megapixels and is not going to give you razor sharp images that you would get in other modes. But consider it's purpose... to get a shot that would otherwise be nearly impossible using this level of camera. It takes a burst of photos to enable you to hopefully get a decent action shot out of a series of shots taken at a moment in time. The ISO is also increased to 640 in this mode which does inject more noise into the final image. This is common to small sensor cameras such as this. You really want to keep the ISO at as low a value as possible to reduce "noise" in the photo. Increasing the ISO increases the sensitivity of the sensor and this is what causes the increased noise... think of it as distortion when you turn the volume up to high.

I'd have to write a book to cover all the features in detail. But one more feature that I'll mention is Panorama Assist which is handy when composing a series of shots intended to be a panorama. It provides a ghost image of the previous shot to help you align the next shot you want to take in your series of photos destined to be a panorama.

Nikon includes several software titles including Panorama Maker Pro by ArcSoft. I was happy with the results that Panorama Maker Pro produced; it was easy to use and flexible in what you can do with it.

Battery life is quite good. The camera uses 4-AA batteries, either alkaline, Ni-MH, or lithium. That makes it convenient if you have dead batteries since AA batteries can be purchased anywhere. Proprietary batteries often provide longer life, but once they're dead, so are you if you don't have a charger or second charged battery with you.

A few issues for me with the camera is that I am frequently wanting to manually focus the camera and that is not possible. Another issue is that other than setting ISO and exposure compensation, there is little else you can manually do to control the camera. You cannot manually set the shutter speed or aperture. Concerning ISO, when it is set to 3200 or 6400 the image mode settings are limited to 3 megapixels 2048x1536, PC 1024,768 or VGA 640x480.

Overall I like the Nikon L110 quite a bit. The photos are excellent and HD video is a nice extra although you won't be too happy with lower light video quality and the audio capabilities are not the best. It strikes a nice balance between a simple point & shoot camera and a larger and substantially more expensive DSLR. It's a product that because of it's price point, will not meet everyone's expectations. If you desire excellent video from this camera, you'd be better off spending more and getting something that is video-centric. If you view this as predominantly a camera that also has the ability to take video, then you'll probably be OK with this. If you are expecting this under $300 camera to also excel at taking movies with awesome audio, you will not be happy. Concessions will have to made at this price point.

UPDATE: 4/4/2010- Just a brief update regarding battery life using plain old Alkaline batteries. I took over 300 photos plus 20-30 movies of varying length and did quite a bit of viewing before the batteries died. That's not bad for regular Alkaline batteries. Consider also that I am also using the Eye-Fi wireless SDHC card in the camera that automatically uploads any photos or movies through my wireless network so that is also putting a drain on the batteries. Without the card, I would expect even better battery life than what I've reported. You'd get much longer life with Lithium and of course rechargeable NiMH batteries would probably be the best long-term bang for the buck.

UPDATE: 4/22/2010- I've uploaded a few video snippets from the L110 on YouTube. Just search for "Nikon L110 Video Sample". They will not win any Academy Awards for cinematography but just a really quick indication of video quality. Sorry for the wind noise, but it was quite breezy outside.

Easy to use and fast camera. Cool pics!
I bought the L110 for the main purpose of taking pictures of my two kids. They are not still subjects and the L110 is doing a great job in keeping up the pace with them. It pops-up in like 2 seconds and is shooting rounds of pictures at max resolution (12.1). That's for speed.

Wide angle and super-zoom are in the manual. What is impressive is that at max zoom (digital zoom included) - with no tripod - I get to take sharp pictures. That's for image stabilization.

After ~500 pics and ~30 min of HD video, the original AA Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries are still fully functional. No warning yet.
----
Later edit. I took around
- 1100 pictures with the original AA Energizer Ultimate Lithium (L91-FR6) batteries ([...]).
- 400 pictures with some alcaline AA Energizer (LR6-E91-AM3) batteries ([...])
- 500 pictures / recharge with some rechargeable Energizer AA 2450 mAh.
All pictures were taken at maximum resolution and the flash fired for about 80% of those pics.
----

The stereo HD video recording under the same hood is a treat. The maximum length for one video session is 30 minute (regardless of SD capacity) which is decent for birthday parties and similar.

Unfortunately, this is no camera phone that you can slip into a pocket until you need it. The only draw back I can see.
I test drove both Nikon Coolpix L110 and Canon SX200IS before I decided on Nikon. Size is the only advantage of the compact vs bridge, although price is higher for that particular Canon.

L110 is a stylish piece of equipment and an ergonomic one: I can easily operate it with only one hand.
The menu is really simple and intuitive... even for the feminine intuition... :)

All in all, a great camera and some well spent money.

Awesome little point and shoot!!!
This is an awesome little point and shoot camera.
I purchased it because I needed something that would take really nice photos but could be easily slipped into my handbag whilst on vacation. My DSLR and lenses are a little bulky to be lugging around all day.

My first choice after reading tons of reviews was the Canon SX20, mainly because I really didn't want to sacrifice a viewfinder, plus it had the HD video capability. But I have to get a hands on the product first and no stores in our area had one in stock.

When I found the L110 was just being released I decided to give it a go....I have to admit I am impressed....this is a neat little camera. I've read some reviews where people are dissapointed that there aren't any manual settings, but the many preset features are really good for just about all conditions.

One feature that I really like is the smart portrait setting - the camera will automatically shoot the pic when it detects a smile. This feature helped me get some of the cutest photos of our baby nephew. When I was trying on plain auto mode I missed the smile every time. Theres also a setting that will let you know if someone blinked with a pop up on screen warning. This certainly helps avoid those *would've been a great pic if only you hadn't blinked* photos that you notice hours after the event.

As for digital zoom...I don't really like it on any camera...so chances are I won't use it unless absolutely necessary. But, I did try it out and found that using the full zoom capabilities you can get a pretty impressive photo of the moon, craters and all :o) (I'll post a photo I took of the moon with the L110) I did need to use a tripod though, because at that power zoom the camera shake was pretty bad. But it could be just me, I don't have the steadiest of hands.

I also love that I can record HD video, even indoors in low light it's not really that bad when played on a HD TV. Outdoors in natural light it is pretty impressive. However, its not intended to replace a stand alone video camera so don't expect Hollywood results. Oh and the mic isn't ideally placed, but thats probably to minimize the recording of the lens movement when zooming (it already picks up on it so avoid zooming if possible)

All in all its a great camera and I didn't really find any real cons to it. It definitely isn't a *pocket* camera, but its not bulky either, somewhere in the middle I'd say.
Oh and as for battery life.....using either the optional recommended Nikon rechargeables, or the included energizer ultimates you won't be dissapointed, I just can't seem to get either of them to run out of power.

Canon G12 10MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.8 inch Vari-Angle LCD From Cano

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:20:00 +0000

Canon G12 10MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.8 inch Vari-Angle LCD
From Canon

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Product Description

Canon PowerShot G12 10 Megapixel Compact Camera - 6.10 mm-30.50 mm 4342B001 Digital Cameras

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #33 in Camera & Photo
Color: Black
Brand: Canon
Model: G12
Dimensions: 1.90" h x 3.00" w x 4.40" l, .78 pounds
Display size: 2.8

Features

10.0-megapixel sensor and the DIGIC 4 Image Processor combine to create Canon's HS SYSTEM for improved low light performance
Shoot 720p HD video in stereo sound; HDMI output
Canon's Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake during close-up shooting
5x optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer; 28mm wide-angle lens; optical viewfinder
Capture images and video to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card, MultiMediaCard, MMC Plus Card, HC MMC Plus Card (not included)

Editorial Reviews

From the Manufacturer

Feast your eyes on an updated G Series digital camera: The G12. It's ready to impress the advanced amateurs who have always celebrated the G Series. The G12 is still loaded with powerful technologies that has made the G Series cameras so renowned, like the Canon HS SYSTEM, 2.8-inch Vari-angle PureColor System LCD, and RAW + JPEG image modes. Now, this flagship camera paves the way with these new upgrades like 720p HD Video with stereo sound to get crystal clear footage, multiple aspect ratios, High Dynamic Range, Electronic Level, Tracking AF, a Front Dial and much more to give you even more creative control than before!

Canon PowerShot G12 Highlights

10.0 Megapixel sensor combined with the DIGIC 4 Image Processor creates Canon's HS SYSTEM
The PowerShot G12 employs the HS SYSTEM by combining a powerful 10.0 Megapixel CCD sensor and Canon's DIGIC 4 Image Processor. Thanks to this technological advancement, the G12 is dramatically more sensitive than cameras with identical megapixel counts, and delivers spectacular images with minimal noise. Increased sensitivity demands a higher ISO speed, and the PowerShot G12 delivers with a new maximum setting of ISO 3200. Blur and camera shake are notably reduced for the ultimate in sharpness and clarity.

In addition, a new Low Light mode lets you capture images in an astonishing range of conditions. The camera automatically adjusts the ISO speed from ISO 320 to ISO 12800 in relation to ambient brightness, subject movement and camera shake.

Shoot 720p HD video in stereo sound and play back on an HDTV via the HDMI output

The PowerShot G12 lets you record video in beautiful high definition (1280 x 720 pixels). The camera also makes it easy to enjoy HD videos (and still photos) on your HDTV with a mini-HDMI connector for direct connection to a high-definition TV monitor. You'll enjoy the HD experience with no degradation of image or audio in the signal, plus the ability to display up to 130 still images at once.

The PowerShot G12 also includes spectacular video functionality. When shooting video, you can get up close with the 5x Optical Zoom for riveting detail and realism, from the overall appearance to facial expressions! And the camera's Smart AUTO technology that helps ensure the perfect still image works to bring that same quality to your video.

Shooting and recording modes including RAW + JPEG
The PowerShot G12's RAW mode lets you shoot images without JPEG compression. It gives you clearer images and complete creative control in editing. RAW images are transferred directly to the computer where they can then be edited using image adjustment software or a processing application to adjust your images as you please. The camera can also be set to allow the simultaneous recording of both RAW and JPEG images while shooting.

Canon's Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake during close-up shooting
The PowerShot G12 is equipped with Canon's highly advanced Hybrid IS function, which corrects camera shake from two sources to deliver sharp, blur-free images even when you zoom in close to your subject.

Hybrid IS employs both an angular sensor and an accelerometer, enabling it to suppress both the blur caused by the angle of the camera and the "shift blur" that happens when your subject moves parallel to the camera, a problem that is especially noticeable at large zoom factors.

With the ability to produce clear, steady images in all situations and at any zoom length, the PowerShot G12 is the camera you'll want to take everywhere.

2.8-inch Vari-angle LCD with 461,000 dots plus an optical viewfinder
The PowerShot G12 gives you a large 2.8-inch PureColor System LCD screen for excellent control when framing your shots. But size is only part of the story. Canon's PureColor System LCD offers spectacular color, resolution and contrast even at an angle. The screen is durable and easy to see. It is a perfect feature for gathering friends and family around to see your images.

5x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer, plus a 28mm Wide-Angle Lens
The camera is equipped with a long, 5x Optical Zoom, and Canon's own Optical Image Stabilizer Technology keeps images steady and blur-free all through the zoom range--even in low light--by detecting motion and generating a corrective signal. Because it is an optical system, more corrective movement is allowed and there is no degradation of image quality.

The G12 is a highly versatile camera with a wide-angle zoom lens that reaches all the way from 28mm at the wide end to 140mm at the telephoto end (35mm format equivalent). You'll capture more image in every shot, and add greater depth to your overall photography.

Optional accessories including Speedlite flashes, underwater housing and Tele-Converter Lens are available
The PowerShot G12 is compatible with the Speedlite flash series intended for all EOS series SLR cameras. Attach a Speedlite flash to the hot shoe, then you can set and control the flash on the "Flash Control" menu in the camera. With a Speedlight, the G12 is given extra functions such as autoflash metering, FE lock and Flash exposure compensation; continuous shooting with external flash. Also Canon's Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 enables you to have multiple slave flashes and wireless control. A Tele-Converter lens designed for the G12, Filter Adapter FA-DC58B and WP-DC34 Waterproof Case is also available.

High Dynamic Range scene mode combines multiple shots into one picture
Shooting in high contrast environments can often result in photos with overexposed and underexposed sections. So to tackle this problem, Canon developed the High Dynamic Range shooting mode to make select PowerShot cameras even more intuitive. Under High Dynamic Range* the camera will shoot three different exposures in a succession (underexposed, overexposed and normal) and then merge them into a single image. Underexposed areas are combined with the overexposed and vice versa, resulting in an evenly detailed image with flattering shadows and highlights.
_{*Tripod is required.}

What's in the Box

PowerShot G12 Camera body
Lithium-ion Battery Pack NB-7L
Battery Charger CB-2LZ
Neck Strap NS-DC9
AV Cable AVC-DC400ST
USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM

Customer Reviews

Fantastic tool for serious photographers - but not perfect.
So I owned a G11 - and for whatever reason sold it a few months back. I have since tried the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1, Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 and Samsung TL500. This whole time I was searching for something better than the G-series - I only found it with the GF1 - but it is too large to be a compact.

I only give this camera 4 stars instead of 5 for the following reasons.
1. External Speedlite control - you still need a "Master" unit like a 580EX II or Canon STE2 to control external Speedlites. Canon should get off their butt in this area to compete with the new Nikon P7000. I almost considered going the Nikon route just to have that feature built in. Canon - start paying attention to what David Hobby says.

2. The screen is only 460K resolution. The Nikon mentioned above is 960K. The Samsung TL500 I mentioned above sports a beautiful AMOLED screen that knocks this one out of the park.

3. The pathetic optical viewfinder. You are catering to those people that say a camera MUST have one of these - stop it. You are wasting space with something so awful that even a disposable camera does better. I would rather have a higher resolution bigger screen (or a smaller camera) than this awful piece of warped tunnel-vision.

4. The rear control wheel is too small - enlarge it so it feels more like one of your DSLRs.

5. While the lens is gorgeously sharp (I mean competing with some of my L-lenses sharp) - f/2.8 to f/4.5 is slow.

6. The lens needs to be wider - 24mm f/2 (or even f/1.8 in the Samsung) equiv is the primary reason I tried the LX5 and TL500 before going back to Canon.

7. No microphone input for video recording.

8. Just too big and bulky - slim it down (but do NOT remove the articulating display).

So 8 knocks like that might sound like a big deal - but believe me when I say this - the camera is phenomenal.

Image quality is outstanding - I have had to process my RAW files with their converter (typically use Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 3 - but even with their converter image quality is second to none in the compact world. I actually prefer to do product shots with a G-Series than my usual 5D2 kit due to the flexibility and increased depth of field. The lens is magnificently sharp. HD video results look pretty good - but not stellar. It'll do in a pinch - but its no camcorder replacement.

Operation speed is very very good. I have read a few posts saying that focusing speed is vastly improved from the G11 - I haven't found that to be the case but none-the-less its pretty good.

Construction quality is pretty good - but I don't like the rough textured finish as much as the smooth finish on the G11 - it somehow makes it feel cheaper.

Controls are absolutely second to none. Dedicated EV and ISO dials are wonderful. The new front control dial is great. The rear dial however could use a bit of an extension - hard to operate quickly with my fat thumb. The whole camera is a little fat - slim it down and kill the awful optical viewfinder. Would like a dedicated movie button like pretty much all of its competitors. The articulating display is fantastic - PLEASE include this whenever you update the 5D.

Value for the money is mostly good - but if you are like me and need on-camera control of external flashes add a whopping $200+ for the ST-E2.

All in all a fantastic camera - even if it is a minimal update to the G11.

Why I picked it over LX5 > See my LX5 review - but I didn't particularly like that camera. Biggest reason would the articulating display followed by the awful screen resolution when composing on the LX5.

Why I picked it over the TL500 > I couldn't get the TL500 to trigger external strobes using radio triggers - that plus the lens is MUCH sharper on the Canon. I must have a bad copy of the TL500 as finding a sharp photo in my 50+ test shots is pretty hard.

Why I picked it over the S95 > Hotshoe and articulating display. If the S95 had those it would win hands down.

Why I picked it over the P7000 > Articulating display is about it here if you don't take into account I already own several Canon Speedlites.

Why I picked it over the GF1 or EP1 > Size + Nikon P7000 comments.

Hope you found my review helpful - if so please click the link below!

Edit 30 days in: I would add one more negative - once you lock focus in video to start recording - that focus cannot be changed after the fact - disappointed in that.

Also - I dropped mine this morning =( from 4ft onto concrete. Surprised that everything still works great and as expected it got marred up and one corner's metal is a little bent - but it still works which is impressive.

Feast your eyes on an upgraded G series digital camera!
First, let me say I own or have owned a G10, G11, and G12. I am not really sure why anyone expect the G12 to be a major upgrade to the G11. The title of this review is the first line of Canon's marketing material on the Canon USA website....so this is what I personally expected, and Canon delivered, as far as I am concerned. I am not a professional, so my observations are from the viewpoint of an average guy with a serious camera addiction. I took photos side by side using my G10, G11, and G12 and I have to be honest, I could not tell much difference, though a slight nod would go to the newest camera. They are all great, however, and suit an average user like me perfectly. My tests were not scientific and not comprehensive - I have to work for a living after all. I am very pleased with the image quality, but is it a major upgrade from previous G series cameras, I do not think so. If I were forced to choose one, I would probably go for the G12 because the photos look slightly nicer to me, and the camera is easier to work with but only if I am forced to choose!

Build quality is also as you would come to expect from a Canon high end compact camera that costs $500. It is excellent just like the G10 and G11. They all feel and look pretty similar. There is an extra rubber grip on the back for your thumb which is kind of nice. Overall, and I have smallish hands, I find the G12 the easiest of these 3 cameras I have been comparing, to hold.

Probably the most important new feature is employment of Canon's HS (high sensitivity) system (combination of sensor and processing engine) which migrates from the EOS line. Does it deliver on its promise to improve image quality and allow shooting at higher ISO? I think the answer is yes it does, but not very much. The camera maxes out at 3200 ISO marked on the dial and you can bump it up to 12,800 albeit at lower resolution using the Low Light mode. Again, this is how it looks to my not professional rapidly aging, eyes. Whether it is worth running out an upgrading from a G11 is totally subjective and I cannot answer this for anyone. The camera also has the Hybrid IS system a la the updated 100mm Canon macro lens which compensates for a greater range of camera shake type. It looked to me like the camera did a more effective job at obtaining sharper photos at the same speeds as my G11. This is important to me as my hands do shake and I enjoy macro and cannot always use a tripod. Nor would I expect people buying a carry along point and shoot camera to carry a tripod with them.

There are additional new shooting modes like HDR that takes several photos then combines them for greater detail, better exposure. FYI, this feature was available in Ricoh cameras for sometime already, so Canon and Nikon are just catching up here. But I think it works a bit better on the Canon than it does in my Ricoh. The photos do look a bit richer, more detailed to me. Canon offers a level adjuster with this camera so you can keep your photos looking, well more level. Another feature that has been available elsewhere for years.

There are other niceties about this camera. Like you can pre-set the maximum ISO level (I like because a lot of cameras seem to default to a higher ISO than I would set for myself), there is a front dial to control settings (another inheritance from the EOS line), you can control the dynamic range (just like on Sony cameras from the past) for improved highlight clipping control, and you can shoot in a 1:1 aspect ratio (square which I personally like however, you guessed it, Canon is late to the party on this feature too) to name a few.

I will not comment on the video. I never use it and if I were able to trade video capability for say, a slightly bigger or better sensor, or a faster lens, I would do so in a heartbeat. But I have no idea if such a thing is even possible or practical. This is only my opinion and reflects my personal set of priorities. If it were up to me, I would dispense with most of the shooting scenes and the video if it meant a lower price or a camera with better image quality.

I share the findings of many that this is an incremental upgrade of the G11 as Canon's own literature seems to suggest. Higher expectations than this may be met with disappointment. But in my opinion, the G12 raises the bar, if only a little, of one of the best compact cameras available. I think as long as you keep what the G12 is, (an upgrade) in perspective with what it is not (evolutionary) you will not find yourself regretting your purchase.

Not a toy, excellent photo quality for a serius photographer
I went to LA last week, from Ecuador for 10 days on vacations, I wished to have this new camera in my hands to feel it, but at Samy's store at Fairfax blvd, they didn't have the camera yet, I ordered one from Amazon, (cost ¡$600 plus fast shipping! because it was the only one available at that moment, but...), finally I have it in my hands.
first impressions: small enough, not exactly a point & shoot camera, but not to big too, ideal to bring with you a better equipment than any point & shoot camera any were without to carry a big dslr and a bunch of lenses, actually y have a Canon 5d mkII, a canon 50d and I began the dslr world with the famous Canon 20d, something interesting is that I use all this cameras with a bunch of old Nikkor lenses (at least 20 years old) using an adapter ring, for me it is the perfect marriage, Canon body with old Nikkor lenses, of course I can only use the manual mode and have to use the manual focus ring to get focus but... while my sight is 20/20 love the final results.

Some features about this camera:

1 The lcd is fantastic, allows to take pictures or movie shoots in practical any position and situation, nice also when you are taking videos or do not want to be noticed when you are shooting, getting more spontaneous photos.
2 The ergonomic of the wheels for ISO,compensation and the mode selector are very well located, they work firmly.
3 The new front wheel, that works for increase or decrease the aperture or shutter speed is great.
4 The menu is easy to use and I like the new formats and sizes you can take pictures, 10:9, 4:3, 1:1, 3:2, 4:5 allows to get a better composition and photo formats without crop the image.
5 the rugged feel is nice for me, besides is only in two parts of the camera, where your hand and fingers needs more support.
6 At first instance I though the optical view finder appears to be so simple and "awful" like somebody told before, but, the diopter corrector works fine and when I clean the visor glasses, become so clear and nice that actually I am using it a lot, because do not need to open the lcd screen and it is possible to see the green or orange light which tells you that the exposition is ok or not, "going back to the old times".
7 I did not test enough the video, but at first look, it is ok and allows to record some interesting moments.
8 The quality of the pictures is awesome, really love it, finally can get almost the quality I have with my DSLRs but in a small camera.
9 It is fast, is ready to take pictures maybe in a second.
10 The quality of the lcd screen may be is not the best, but, allows you to see if the picture is ok, and normally if you see that the picture is ok, when you opened in any software the picture is !really great!
11 for me all the wheels are well located, the buttons are in the right place, I have a normal hands size, use xl gloves, but have not fat fingers.
12 The autofocus works great, fast and with an excellent accuracy, feature not easy to find in a small camera, so reduces the possibility of loosing a nice photo.
12 Could be perfect, but nothing is.

This is my first week with this camera, I will let you know more and more of my experience.

for now, I am really happy, fits my requirements.

Canon PowerShot SD1300IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Blue)

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 18:09:00 +0000

Canon PowerShot SD1300IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 4x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7-Inch LCD (Blue)

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Product Description
Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS Point & Shoot Digital Camera - 12.1 Megapixel - 2.70" Active Matrix TFT Color LCD - Blue 4218B001 Digital Cameras

Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #103 in Camera & Photo

Size: One Size

Color: Blue

Brand: Canon

Model: SD1300IS Blue

Original language: English

Number of items: 1

Dimensions: 2.20" h x .80" w x 3.60" l, .28 pounds

Display size: 2.7

Features
28mm wide-angle lens; 4x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer

Smart AUTO mode intelligently selects from 18 predefined settings

12.1-megapixel resolution allows you to print large size images with clarity and detail

Clear 2.7-inch PureColor System LCD

Shoot in Low Light mode for dimly-lit situations

Editorial Reviews
From the Manufacturer
It's all about the power of contrast. Color that defies convention. Sleek, gentle curves that merge art and technology into a camera designed to inspire. The PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital ELPH camera captures your world as much as it expresses your originality, with bold innovations that include remarkable low light performance. Everything looks right. Hold it, and everything feels right, too.

PowerShot SD1300IS Highlights

28mm wide-angle lens, 4x optical zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer
The Canon commitment to innovation defines the excitement of the PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital ELPH with its 28mm wide-angle lens and 4x optical zoom that makes it easy to get the inspiring, emotive close-ups that will make your images lasting keepsakes.

This magnificent lens gives you the power to shoot distant subjects with razor-sharp precision and stunning life-like color. So you can brilliantly capture a closer shot of a landscape, or a child's big smile.

The PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital ELPH is equipped with the acclaimed Canon Optical Image Stabilizer, which automatically detects and corrects camera shake--one of the leading causes of fuzzy or blurred shots. Even when zoomed in, you can get the steady, crisp, brilliant images you'll be proud to shoot and share. And the Canon Optical Image Stabilizer technology is so convenient to use. It functions perfectly with or without a flash.

Smart AUTO mode intelligently selects from 18 settings
Just set the Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS to Smart AUTO and you're ready for maximum enjoyment from your picture-taking every time. It's a relaxing and satisfying way to shoot because you can completely concentrate on your subject knowing that the camera has the technical details covered. Advanced Canon technology intelligently analyzes your situation and shooting conditions. Then it automatically selects an appropriate setting from 18 specially defined settings. So whether you're photographing flowers, a captivating sunset, or your friends at the park, you can be confident that you're getting dramatic, memorable images.

Shooting Modes
Advanced presets for the best possible photos under certain conditions. With 15 Shooting Modes, you're ready for whatever shot comes your way.

12.1-megapixel resolution makes it a breeze to print large size images
With the PowerShot SD1300 IS, dramatic, personal pictures have never been easier to shoot and share. This 12.1-megapixel camera lets you create impressive, large photos of family and friends you'll be proud display. The high-resolution images taken by the PowerShot SD1300 IS can be enlarged up to 13 x 19 inches.

Bright, clear 2.7-inch PureColor System LCD
The PowerShot SD1300 IS gives you a large 2.7-inch LCD screen for excellent control when framing your shots. The Canon PureColor System LCD offers spectacular color, resolution and contrast even when viewed at an angle. The screen is highly durable and easy to see in any light with a scratch-resistant, anti-reflective coating. It also features Night Display for easy viewing in low light--a perfect feature for gathering friends and family around to see your images.

Shoot in Low Light mode for dimly-lit situations
With an ISO of 400-6400, the Low Light mode takes the Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS boldly into the shadows! Now even scenes notorious for having insufficient light, such as those lit by candles, fire, or street lamp, come through in fantastic color and clarity, with less noise. You can keep the feel of the scene intact without adding additional light, so the result will be scenes with the visual accuracy, depth and clarity you expect from a Canon camera.

What's in the Box
PowerShot SD1300 IS Digital ELPH Body

Lithium-ion Battery Pack NB-6L

Battery Charger CB-2LY

Wrist Strap WS-DC7

Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM

USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU

AV Cable AVC-DC400

Customer Reviews
It is classy and it takes great pictures
I will try to share some things I have discovered about this camera, these are just my thoughts, I hope they might be of help .

Some things I am compairing to a canon SD1200 and the SD940, SD1400.
I do not use the viedo enough to judge that part of the cameras.

** No SD memory card included with this camera **, see below

* Some will miss the eye viewfinder that the SD1200 has.

* Some will miss the HD 720p in the movie mode that the SD940,SD1400 has, The SD1300 has 640x480 at 30fps like the canon SD1200, G11 and S90.

* The SD1300 has ( no optical zoom while recording video ) just digital zoom.

* There is a date feature on the SD1300, see below

* The flat button arangement is the same as the SD1200 all but the (( Power Button )) on top is larger and easier to turn on and off, I like that ( but be careful ) it does not come on in your pocket, purse or in your soft camera case.

* I have not had any trouble using any of the buttons even with my big old hands. The flat buttons on the SD1300 are a ( tad larger than on the SD940 and SD1400 ).

* The menu screens are large and very easy to read and use.*

* You get a 2.7inch very clear LCD screen that has a (very good and wide viewing angle in all directions).

Note > when your LCD screen is set to a lower brightness you can push and hold down the display button for 1 second and it will go to the brightest setting and do that again and it will go back to the lower setting...

A 28mm x 112mm lens, a little better than the 35 x 105 on the SD1200 ( But no view finder on the SD1300 ).

* The SD1300 is very easy to use and small enough to carry every place you go for those spontaneous grand kid pictures like the SD 1200 was .
Just a very good basic camera.

* I like that the mic for the video is in the front of the camera instead of being on the top (where I put my finger) like the canon SD970 and others, it picks up less finger movement noise being in the front.

** Timing and Performance** ( Using program mode )> Very fast start up time of just over 1 sec.
I can not tell any difference in shot to shot or flash shot to shot times between the SD1300 and the SD1200
,
which is ( 2secs with out the flash ), and 3 to 4secs with the flash on, (( up to 6secs for full flash recharge )).

(Update > Some of review sites(C-NET) are getting around 2.7 to 3 seconds for the SD1300 between shots with out the flash so I grabed the two cameras and tryed the two again(SD1300 SD1200) with and with out the flash on and I had the same results both ways, ((I used program mode)) both times and they would focus and recharge the flash evenly also...)

Shutter lag is good for a canon point and shoot but if you ( pre focus ) that will help even more. To pre focas > > Push shutter button down half way untill camera beeps and green square apears on LCD screen,picture should be clearly in focas at this point, if not let up on the shutter button and repeat the steps again. these steps will also help take a good clear (in focas) picture, just something for you to try if your having trouble getting your picture.

I never tested the continuous shooting( but see my battery test) but canon says it is 0.9 per sec where the sd 1200 is 1.4 shots per sec, if that is important to you. UPDATE > The 1200 does seem to be faster, quicker than the 1300 in continuous mode, how much I dont know but you can tell the difference...

* (Battery) I did test the battery (NB-6L same battery as SD1200) by using continuous shooting mode ( with the flash on ) and got well over 400 pictures and it was taking ( 1 picture every 2 seconds or less in the continuous mode( flash on ) if that helps you out on the continuous shooting part, and when I turned the flash off it seemed to do prety good coming from a newer small canon point and shoot world.

* (Battery life). In real life I get around 300 or more pictures with some of them using the flash, your still need a second battery for a backup.

* The battery has a little larger capacity at 1000mAh in the SD1300, were as the canon SD940 and the SD1400 is a smaller capacity at 760mAh if that matters to you.

** A nice backup battery is a (power2000) for canon NB-6L (1200mAh)$19.00. I have used them for years.
I really like the battery charger that comes with the camera, it is small and charges quickley, about one and a half hours the very first charge and then one hour or less there after...
Some set back the brightness of the LCD a couple of notches to save some battery. I think your new battery will do better after the first couple of charges.

* 10/30/2010 At the Columbus zoo we shot 350 pictures and a lot of them with flash on with one charge...

** Very good image quality keeping the iso at 200 and below.
I am getting about the same image quality as the SD 1200 which is very good for this small size point and shoot camera.

* As point and shoots get better we often try and compare them to digital SLRs ( speed,noise, ISOs, picture quality ) but because of the point and shoots very small sensors and craming all those mega pixels into them it is just asking to much of the little cameras....
Fewer pixels mean there's more room on the sensor and the individual pixels can be made larger to gather more light, making the camera better able to record low-noise images in low-light situations.

This is just me, but I like using the program mode and 100,200iso best and I try not to use the auto mode indoors ((auto works good outdoors in good light though, Lighting is everything. Indoors alot of times auto seems to want to use a (very high iso)(and sometimes no flash) to get low light photos, but this just results in more noise, which makes your pictures look noisy grainy or snowy looking on larger prints,(or the yellow tint that some are talking about).
* I use program mode and set the iso indoors to (( 100iso ))in good light conditions or ( 200 iso ) in poorer light indoors for the best image quality indoors with out all noise in the picture. Again auto does good outdoors in good light but keep your eye on the iso in auto indoors...

* Portrait mode does better indoors than auto in keeping the iso down. It uses 200iso and below. not bad...

*They also have taken away the supper fine quality option for the last couple of years , you just have fine and normal now, I miss the supper fine option...

The more I use this camera the more I find myself useing ( 100iso in program mode ) in good light conditions indoors or outdoors). Again indoors you might have to use 200 to get the picture you like...

** Just a side note, before judgeing the camera and your picture quality on your computer or camera screen get some pictures printed out, why I say this I thought the pictures that I took at the rest home were just ok, but I took them to the store and had 8 by 10s made and they look so so much better, you can see these pictures on this site under (view and share images on the SD1300s home page). I wish you could see the printed ones...

* A lot of the review sites blow there pictures way up and look for defects, your likely to only make 5x7 or 8x10s and not see (what they see).
If you are going to make larger prints or need a better (low light camera) and still stay in a point and shoot you could go with a canon S90, S95 or the bigger G11, G12, but (much more money I know)! Just keep the iso down at 200 and below and you will do fine...)

* The SD1300 seems to have a nice sharp lens even at the telephoto end of the zoom.

Highlights sometimes tend to blow out in very bright sun (direct light source) as with all small cameras(small sensor) this size, you can see this in some of the pictures I posted on this sight for the 1300. ( But to be fair my G11 does this also ).

I do not use I-Contrast in the program mode while shooting, some times in play back I will try it but I am not a big fan of it even then, it will brighten the picture up in dark areas but seems to increase the noise a little, again this is just me alot of people seem to like it and have good luck with it see what you think...
In auto mode you have no controll of I-Contrast and can not turn it off or on...

* I just realy like the colors in the pictures that the canon cameras produce, again thats just me thinking out loud.

Not much problem with red eye in pictures useing the SD1300 unless in a very dim lit room and there are some times when it can not modify or fix it in red-eye correction,
I have many small newer canon cameras and it is no worse or better with red eye than the rest of my newer cameras with red eye correction.

The SD1300 has a touch more style, larger LCD and a little more virsatle lens than the SD1200, but the 1200 is also a very good camera.

The SD1300 does have a weak battery door cover like the SD1200.

*No Memory card * You do not get a (SD Memory Card) with the camera, they just do not include a card anymore, just be aware so you won't be with out one.
A 4gb card ( class 4 or class 6 ) would be a good place to start (if your going to use the movie mode any at all ).
You could get by with a 2gb ( which is good for about 632 pictures ) if not using the video mode much.
A 4gig SD card would be good for 1,231 pictures.

* If your new to this digital camera stuff remember to low level format the SD card first thing.
( Save your pictures first, doing this will also erase all your pictures. )

* I have used the SD1300 for about 12 months now and is holding up very well.

* There is a date feature on the SD1300, it shows up on the right side at the bottom of the picture.
You can see it when reviewing the photo...
Push menu button and scroll down, it is the very last idem there, You have 3 choices,(off), (date), (date and time)...
When you go to take your picture your screen will have the word (DATE) on the screen above the iso reading, right side at bottom so you will know it is on...

* I carry my camera in a little phone case that has a belt clip not a loop for fast & easy on and off the belt.
* OK, your right I could lose it that way...
I definitely recommend picking up a small camera case for protection, watch out for cases using velco,the velco likes to grab ahold of you camera strap and not let go.

I also like theLowepro Apex 20 AW (Black) CASE it has room for spare battery, sd card cable, cleaning cloth). It has a little rain coat also. Good for hikers and backpackers.

The Lowepro Napoli 20 case is very nice but no room for spare battery on this one and could let dust in case, not fully inclosed.

** Casecrown ( SD1300IS 12 MP Digital Camera Carrying CaseCrown Black ) < I like these alot > Canon PowerShot SD1300IS 12 MP Digital Camera Carrying CaseCrown Compact Travel Case (Black)
Canon PowerShot SD1300IS 12 MP Digital Camera Carrying CaseCrown Compact Travel Case (Crimson) < < See my reviews on these if you have the time > >CaseCrown Protective Compact Travel Camera Case (Grey) for Canon PowerShot SD1300IS 12 MP Digital Camera

Be carefull of some of the canon cases, the metal magnet catch on the flap might or could scratch the cameras LCD screen takeing it out or puting it in the case (just my thoughts).. I am sure alot people like them and have good luck with them, this is just my opinion, The canon case I have (Canon PSC-55 Deluxe Leather Compact Case) has no room for a spare sd card or spare battery if that would help you any.

These are very nice and roomy cases, with alot of storage > Case Logic DCB-302 Compact Camera Case (Black)
Case Logic DCB-302 Compact Camera Case (Gray)

One more case to look at Case Logic QPB-201 EVA Molded Compact Camera Case (Black) Only one zipper on this one and xtra battery seems to slide out of case a tad to freely .

* In the menu mode I set the I S mode to continous.
The display overlay to grid lines(the grid lines help me take straighter pictures, you may use it for the 1/3 rule also).
I set review to 2seconds,
AF-assist beam to on,
Review info to off,
Lens retract to 0 seconds.
White ballance to auto, if this would be of any help to you.
I like using continuous shooting mode alot also.

I like to set the AF (auto focas) frame
to center (some times) instead of face AiAF and just shoot (focas) on what ever that I am shooting , this is found in the main menu setting, Again this is just me dont take this advice to the bank but check it out if you want or have the time...

I posted some pictures on this site ( see > View and share related images on main page ) for the SD1300, to give you some idea about how your pictures would look (color - sharpness - moving shots - iso noise in pictures - zooms - modes - cropped pictures), if that would help.

* Please look at everybodys pictures to see what you think before you buy the SD1300.

(( Please if mine pictures are not helpful vote them down and I will delete those, I need to delete a lot of them, please help me out here, Thanks...)

If you have any questions I will try to answer them the best I can, no camera is perfect...well not many. But like John Crim said in his review at $109 the SD1300 is a great bargain...

My favorite SD point & shoot was a canon SD550, SD850, SD880, I thought the SD1100 and SD870 were very good looking cameras but never had a chance to use one of them, what was your fav canon SD...

I mostly take pictures of bear in the Smokey Mountians (CADES COVE) and love chaseing the grand kids around taking their pictures. ( And this year the Outter Banks NC ).

Update 2/3/2011 > The new replacement camera for the SD1300 is being called a Canon PowerShot ELPH 100 HS 12 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom (Grey)
Comes in 5 colors (Blue, Silver, Grey, Pink and Orange)
Note one of many changes is that they did change the battery used to a NB-4L 760mAh from the NB-6L 1000mAh battery if that would be any of help.
Many other interesting changes also,some are good and some not so good , Alot of bells and whistles on this one, check it out...
The best camera to have...
...is one you'll have with you. The nice thing about the Canon ELPH series is they easily fit into your pocket, are well built/designed, don't cost a lot, come with a boatload of features, and take great pictures. The SD1300, the latest in the ELPH line continues in that tradition, adding considerable additional sophistication and sacrificing some useful functionality in the interest of cutting cost.

It is a small camera and carries with it the baggage that comes with the convenience of having to carry so little baggage. (sorry, couldn't resist) None of the issues raised, given that they comes as part of the convenience trade-off made me consider anything other than the 5-star rating this camera deserves.

- Many of the functions are only accessible through menus, sometimes several levels deep. The good new is the Automatic and scene modes are pretty good (as long as you spend a few minutes reviewing what they really do). This camera is not intended to be used in aperture or shutter priority, let alone full manual.

- The battery life might be shorter than you expect. That's a trade-off for having a camera that's small and light; you get a battery that is small and light. One thing you can do is get a spare battery. That is good advice for any camera. Another thing that will help is to keep the display off as much as possible. That means using the monitor as little as possible. The "sad" part is that Canon chose to drop the optical viewfinder in this model. That means a camera that is simpler and less expensive to make but will go through batteries quicker because you must use the display when taking picture.

- The camera response is a bit slow for effectively capturing children and pets. The trick for doing that is to either have a great sense of timing and a shutter that reacts instantly or a reasonably fast ( > 4x / sec ) burst mode. This camera has neither.

Some other suggestions that apply:

- Use the lowest ISO available given your requirement for either aperture or shutter speed. To avoid getting technical, higher ISO always introduces higher noise. At issue is when it becomes noticeable. In newer dSLR cameras you can get over 1000, maybe well over depending on the camera, before the noise becomes noticeable. For this camera keeping it at or below 200 is a good idea.

- Don't use in-camera sharpening. Digital pictures will almost always benefit from sharpening but you are better off doing it with a photo editing program. Computer-based algorithms tend to be more sophisticated and you can better judge the results on your monitor as opposed to the camera LCD.

- If you want more vivid colors and have the choice use sRGB instead of Adobe RGB. While you get fewer colors they are distributed over a wider range. They are also render better on computer monitors, many commercial labs, and any other place your pictures are likely to show up.

Finally, I've found the Caselogic QPB-1 Compact Digital Camera Case (Black/Gray) is just the right size for this camera. It's semi-rigid so you get a fair amount of protection but doesn't add a lot of bulk. It's made even better by using one of these, Nite Ize SB1-2PK-01 Size-1 S-Biner, Black, 2-Pack, to secure it to a belt loop.
Canon PowerShot SD1300IS
I purchased this camera as a replacement to my Canon PowerShot SD600. The main reason I chose to replace it was for the IS feature. When I purchased to SD600 it was on sale and the IS features on cameras were an expensive option on upgraded models. I have to say the feature performs as expected. Obviously it's not going to do much if there is a lot of camera shake, but it does the job for what it's intended to do. Picture quality is excellent. Low light does well despite the reviews I've heard. Manual settings do just as well as auto settings. I like the playback button that lets you review pics rather than having to switch the camera into another mode. When taking multiple shots the lag time between pics is minimal. Videos work well with it but there is that pesky no in and out zoom during a video. Sound quality was surprisingly good with video mode as well. It takes outdoor video well with little wind noise. I was a bit cautious about buying a camera with no viewfinder as my last camera had one, but let's face it, I hardly used it when I had it. Insisting on a camera with a viewfinder also significantly limited my choices for point and shoots. I'm satisfied with no viewfinder and this camera is exactly what I expect in a good point and shoot. I considered the SD1200IS since it was on sale and a little less expensive but I figured for a few extra features, it's worth the extra $50. Battery life is great! Even under moderate to heavy use it lasted all night and part of the next day. I'd suggest always having another battery pack as a backup though as you never know when you might need it. I would recommend this camera to anyone looking for a quality point and shoot. For the price I don't think you can ask for much more in a compact digital camera.

Best Rated Professional Digital SLR Camera - Nikon D3

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:44:00 +0000

Click here to buy this product.

If you want a professional camera that will let you just shoot and get great images fast and easy then you are looking for the Nikon D3, which is considered by many to be the best rated digital SLR camera.

With the Nikon D3 you don't need to check out a lot of reviews in order to check its performance. All you need to do is ask anyone who has it and they will surely tell you how great it is to have a camera that is so feature-rich, so convenient to use and creates fabulous images. Such praises you would also hear from any professional photographer who has held this equipment even for just a short while. This camera will definitely let you do the things you are not able to do with other cameras, or let's you do them at a much higher standard.

Best Rated Digital SLR Camera -- Usage

The Nikon D3 can be used professionally for events such as news, sports and action, and it is also very good in taking landscape photos. This camera really provides quality performance. It has a lot of image processing tricks, more than you could imagine, which will make it easier for you to create the image you have perceived in your mind. It will also allow you to get more quality pictures in different conditions than ever before. This Nikon D3 camera adds more speed, more choices of lens, triples the battery life of its predecessor which is called the D300 and sports a real-time viewfinder camera display just positioned on its top.

Best Rated Digital SLR Camera - Popularity

Many professional photographers consider this model as the best one so far made by Nikon. It was launched around the year 2007 and after a few months it gained a lot of popularity among professional and non-professional photographers alike.

With this camera, you get excellent quality of pictures. The pictures are so much like real-life and like what you want to achieve, that the camera becomes an extension of your imagination. So its performance is also mainly limited by your own imagination!

Best Rated Digital SLR Camera -- Composition

Another advantage you can derive in buying this product is its ability to produce pictures with excellent composition. This is due to the fact that it has a very big, bright, and sharp finder more than any of its predecessors. You would not see any scratches that would interfere with composition in using this model. Its focusing and composition improvements are just so remarkable that anyone looking for a brand new camera who is a very serious enthusiast or (semi-)professional user should seriously consider having this one.

The D3's adjustment of automatic settings is considered to be pretty strong, so often you can get away with just using automatic settings. As a more serious photographer you probably don't want to do that, but if you need to be quick for that one special shot, it is good to know that your Nikon D3 will do its utmost to make it perfect. That's one of the reasons why people consider this to be one of the best rated digital SLR cameras today. Use this camera and you will have what you need to take great professional-looking photos.

12 megapixel full-frame Nikon D700

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:34:00 +0000

12 megapixel full-frame Nikon D700

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Nikon D700 is a have 1200 megapixel Imaging ability of medium format SLR cameras, is positioned on the video enthusiasts and professional equipment.

Nikon development and manufacturing of NIKON EN-EL2 Batteryshutter unit, its shutter blade is made from new materials (carbon fiber and composites KELVE). To assemble a good camera shutter for loop test proved that the D700 camera shutter in extreme environment after about 150000 Nikon camera battery tests. Self-diagnosis type shutter sustainable monitoring and keep the shutter accuracy.

Nikon D700 uses a 3-inch LCD of about 92 megapixels and the LCD also has real-time viewing features. In handheld mode, it will activate the ordinary TTL phase-detection auto focus feature, so you can take advantage of automatic focus point 51 (including 15 cross on focus) to composition, in order to begin the actual filming. Tripod mode is to use a tripod of stability, precise static scenes. The mode can be specified in the desired point on the focal plane contrast detect AF. In terms of speed, the D700 has the sensitivity range; ISO200-ISO6400 through extended can improve to ISO25600.

The Nikon D700 left shoulder above the collection of the many features of the control buttons and wheel, three ellipses button control image quality, white balance and sensitivity. In this 3-button below is a mode dial, press the Unlock button on the front of the before turning the dial. Through the turntable can choose single, continuous, real-time viewing, etc. Same with the D3 and D300, the D700 also design right shoulder was a Deputy to the LCD displays the image parameter, for easy reading. Shutter button rear side-by-side with MODE presses the distribution and the exposure compensation button.

Superior picture quality and no need lens focal length conversion advantages for D700 by Nikon imaging enthusiasts alike. Imaging style depictions of sharp is Dell INSPIRON 1100 battery Nikon's style, gripping feeling is, as always, filling rich.

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:14:00 +0000

The Fujifilm Waterproof Camera XP10 is Tough Digital Camera Great for Family Use

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The Fujifilm waterproof camera is a small versatile rugged camera. Full of features, it is a tough digital camera you can use in all types of outdoor conditions, including snorkelling and skiing. Don't worry if you drop it, this tough digital camera can withstand knocks and drops too. You can even let your kids use it: substitute the toy kid tough digital camera with this rugged camera.

The Fujifilm Waterproof Camera Finepix XP10 is a small smart easy to use camera. It is one of the smaller tough digital camera models available on the market. It is easy to use, ultra-stylish and comes in different bright colors. It is designed to be used indoors, outdoors or under the water for fun lively pictures. It is comfortable to hold and its shape means it should not easily slip from your hands. For those looking for a tough digital camera that is relatively inexpensive, this Fujifilm waterproof camera should be considered.

The main features of current Fujifilm Finepix XP10 include:

· It's Waterproof: Capable to withstand being submerged in up to 3m / 10 ft of water for up to 2 hours.

· Also Freeze proof and Shock proof: The latest model now incorporates these tough digital camera features.

· It's Cool to Look at: This Fujifilm waterproof camera comes in a selection of hot colours.

· A Large LCD Screen: It has a large 2.7" LCD screen instead of a viewfinder.

· It's Slim and Stylish: Stylish design, easy to hold and won't easily slip from your hands.

· Has Great Features: 12MP sensor, 5X optical zoom, HD movie recording, couple and group self timer, special double blog mode (facilities image resizing for sharing via email or internet).

· A Tough Digital Camera Kids Can Use: You can even let the kids use this without fear of damage.

The Fujifilm waterproof camera is stylish and is terrific for all round activities. This tough digital camera is great for outdoor use, whether this be in the sun, rain or even snow. While the Fujifilm waterproof camera is not for serious underwater photography, its ability to be submerged in up to 3m / 10 ft of water for up to 2 hours means that it can be used for most water adventures, whether this be in the swimming pool or the sea.

In summary, the Fujifilm waterproof camera looks great, is easy to use and is relatively inexpensive for general, outdoor and underwater use. The much improved FinePix XP10, incorporating waterproof, freeze proof and shock proof features, makes it a real contender with other serious tough digital camera models such as the Olympus Tough Stylus camera.

Nikon Coolpix S3000 Digital Camera

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 15:53:00 +0000

Nikon Coolpix S3000 Digital Camera

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Nikon Corporation is a multinational brand that leads in manufacturing of optical devices like binoculars, measurement instruments, microscopes, cameras and other such fields. Company has established a strong grip over the market and serving you quality products from last so many years. Nikon Digital Cameras are renowned for their creative and highly-developed technical installations offering brilliant quality images. It has wide range of digital pieces from entry-level to high-featured and regularly introduces new and sophisticated models. Nikon Coolpix S3000 Digital camera is one of the entry-level point & shoot digital camera, which comes with resourceful list of features in order to provide you excellent pictures.

Nikon Coolpix S3000 has got right amount of glamour with pretty beautiful dimension and light-weight body weight that makes it to slid smoothly into your pocket or purse. Though, it's not a right option for the people are semi-serious for photography. This compact digital camera has been designed for beginners casual camera work with all basic installations. Nikon Coolpix S3000 digital camera could be yours with the little investment of $109 along with give you great satisfaction of worthy choice. This is ultra-thin and ultra-portable digital camera particularly from this category. It has integration of 2.7inches LCD display screen along with commanding plastic buttons except power switch metal button. It has been energized with a ongoing battery delivering you long and smooth fun time.

Nikon Coolpix S3000 is featured with higher ISO sensitivity providing you crispy and appreciable quality images even in poor light conditions. It has got 16 scene persets (including a panorama assist),smart portrait, auto mode, a scene auto selector to take you on the next level of fine camera work. Nikon S3000 has been equipped with some adjustable basic manual setting like macro mode, flash, exposure compensation and ISO along with other auto controls including shutter priorities,white balance/auto focus and more. This digital piece is the ideal choice for the people who have attraction towards quality, performance and accessible gadgets.naaptol opens the extensive and exclusive collection of various products under the flagship of different brands, allows you to compare the features and price of the available products with best online deals and discounts.

Kodak EasyShare C182

noreply@blogger.com (Oatmeal) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 15:37:00 +0000

Kodak EasyShare C182

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Camera has become the most popular and also most-used products regarding technology, which is actually experiencing lots and also significant development. That's right; there are currently many brands and different types of digital camera products it will be easy to find in it stores downtown your current area. One on the best and most preferable digicam products is the kodak c182, that's manufactured by Kodak. It truly is one of contributing IT company, that's mostly manufacturing camera, printer, and photocopy equipment. However, you need to know some specifications and reviews of this digital camera, in advance of buying it. For that reason, here are many features and specifications of Kodak C182 along with few brief acquiring tips.

In general, one main reason that makes this camera much more preferable is the fact this camera has the ability to snap or seize sharp images. For that reason, this camera creates such best choice for you if you need to record memorable moments, including wedding and personal gift, perfectly. Such sharp and also fine images are made by the 12 megapixels lens which might be equipped in this particular camera. Besides, another highlight is a wide LCD showcase to preview this pictures or images within this digital camera. Just for this lens resolution, you may also capture HD videos with this digital camera.

Besides 12 megapixels lens, this magnificent photographic camera is also built with movement sensor that permits the camera in order to capture fast action without such problematic blur effect. Especially, this digital camera is sold at affordable selling price, compare to additional camera with comparable features. If you actually are interested to order Kodak C182, you don't have to go to land-based THE ITEM store because these day there are many online stores are available this digital digital camera. You only have got to find a big retailer that provides free shipping price and relatively cheaper prices. It might also want to provide detailed review of the digital digicam.