The Fuji FinePix S700

There is plenty of competition in the digital camera industry. New technology is coming out all the time which makes these cameras sharper, faster, and sleeker. It’s easy for customers to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of camera models available. Even photographers on a budget have many choices when it comes to their digital camera purchase. Some models work best for indoor photography, while others specialize in outdoor or action shots. In most ways, though, digital cameras within the same price range tend to offer the same features.

But every now and then a digital camera comes along which distinguishes itself in some way. For example, the Fuji FinePix S700 is the premier point-and-shoot camera for close-up shots. Users claim that shots come out in focus even when the camera lens is close enough to touch the subject. Now that’s impressive!

The camera is also rather heavy for its size, which speaks of good quality. It might not fit so easily into a shirt pocket, but neither is it the sort of camera that will break after a week of use.
Here are the specifications for the Fuji FinePix S700 digital camera:
* CCD Image Sensor
* 7.1 Megapixel Resolution
* 10x Optical Zoom
* 35mm Zoom Lens 38 - 380 mm
* 4.8x Digital Zoom
* Autofocus & Manual Focus
* Focus Range from 12 in. to Infinity
* Macro Focus Range  1.6 - 117.6 in.
* Focal Length 6.33 - 63.3 mm
* Shutter Speed 4 - 1/1000 sec
* Uses SD or xD Picture Card
* 27MB Internal Memory
* 2.5 inch LCD
* LCD Screen Resolution of 230,000 pixels
* Self Timer, 2 and 10 seconds
Images are compressed in JPEG or EXIF 2.2. The Fuji FinePix S700 has image resolutions of 640 x 480, 3072 x 2048, 2304 x 1728, 1600 x 1200, and 3072 x 2304. Images are 0.13MB in size for low resolution, and 3.48 MB for high res pictures.
Video resolutions are 320 x 240 (QVGA) and 640 x 480 (VGA). Videos have a speed of 30 frames per second and use either AVI or Motion JPEG format. The S700 comes with a built-in microphone for audio. The camera has automatic and manual white balance with several pre-sets, including daylight, fuorescent, incandescent, and shade.
The Fuji FinePix S700 digital camera runs on four AA batteries. Its dimensions are 4.2in x 3.2in x 3in (WxDxH). It weighs 0.67 pounds and retails for about $200 US. Black is the only exterior color available. The camera bundle includes AA alkaline batteries (4), shoulder strap, lens cap, lens cap cord, A/V cable, USB cable, CD-ROM and owner’s manual.

The FujiFilm FinePix A900

Seldom is a digital camera described as “strange” or “bizarre”. Yet those terms pop up frequently in professional reviews of the FujiFilm FinePix A900. Though this digital camera has good image quality, the unusual controls and specifications make it less than user-friendly.
To start with, the FujiFilm FinePix A900 is a 9 megapixel camera. That’s the good news. Most companies don’t even offer 9 megapixel models. But getting a high quality printable photo can be a little tricky with the FujiFilm FinePix A900. It seems that the while balance adjustment is hidden away in a maze of non-intuitive menu options. If users plan on printing their digital photos, they should adjust the white balance before they start shooting. Making adjustments in the middle of a shoot can be frustrating with the camera’s odd menu layout. While common scene modes like “landscape” are hidden, unusual ones like “baby” can be found right on the camera’s dial – just another strange quirk in the A900’s layout.
One very nice feature of the FujiFilm FinePix A900 is a long lens which gives this camera a 4x optical zoom. Similarly priced cameras only offer 3x zoom capability. The camera also has an infrared sensor which allows it to transfer photos to other infrared-enabled cameras and mobile phones.

The FujiFilm FinePix A900 does not have the sleek, stylish body so common to modern digital cameras. In fact, it has been described as “clunky”, weighing in at a hefty 200 grams plus. This camera is larger than most of its competitors, and critics complain that it barely fits into a shirt pocket. Other sticking points are the shutter lag and relatively long wait time until a picture takes. The FujiFilm FinePix A900 was outpaced by nearly all of its peers in regard to speed.
Some users prefer the thick body and greater weight of this model. Men with large hands find it easier to deal with than some of the super-slim alternatives. Surprisingly, given the camera’s odd menu layout, many users find it to be a very straightforward device. It is lauded for the ease with which a user can pick it up and start taking photos. Beginners and younger children might have a lot of fun with this sturdy model.
And even the most ardent detractor has to give credit where it’s due: if you can figure out all the controls, the FujiFilm FinePix A900 takes beautiful pictures. Colors are life-like, faces are crisp, and even the high magnifications seldom show grain. For all its quirks, this is a quality camera.
The FujiFilm FinePix A900 comes with 10MB of internal memory and is compatible with SD or xD cards. It runs on two AA batteries. The A900 retails for about $150-$170 US.

The FujiFilm FinePix A610

The FujiFilm FinePix A610 was announced in early 2007. Much ado was made about this camera, because it combined for the first time Fuji’s proprietary Super CCD HR sensor and Real Photo Processor. This dual technology means cleaner pictures with more detail – something digital camera enthusiasts are always looking for. And the camera’s affordable price tag is another major selling point. It exceeds most people’s performance expectations for a $130 digital camera.
The FujiFilm FinePix A610 is a 6.1 megapixel camera with a maximum ISO sensitivity of 400. It has a 3x optical zoom. Most impressively, the Fujifilm FinePix A610 features a dual memory card slot which accepts both Fujifilm’s xD-Picture Card and Secure Digital (SD) card format. The FujiFilm FinePix A610 is powered by two AA batteries. It comes with 10MB of internal memory, allowing photographers to take and store pictures without a memory card. Customers appreciate this camera’s ease of use. It has a highly touted intuitive button layout, as well as easy-to-navigate access menus.

In fact, this digital camera seems to have been designed with beginners in mind. Fourteen scene positions and multiple picture settings make this camera a great choice for new photographers. Its generous 2.5 inch LCD is coated with an anti-glare protector that lets users preview their pictures even in bright light. Fuji has added a “new baby” setting that captures the true color of newborns’ flesh tones. New parents, traditionally a camera-happy lot, can really appreciate this feature. Soccer moms and dads will love the sports setting which reduces the blur in action shots.
Customer reviews of the FujiFilm FinePix A610 are mixed, but mostly positive. The user-friendly design of the buttons and menus is widely praised. The picture quality, however, has been brought into question. Some users complain that pictures come out looking a bit oversaturated. Others have observed that indoor pictures come out a little too dark. The camera seems to perform best when used for outdoor photography.
Also, the camera’s video quality doesn’t seem to be on par with other cameras in the same price range. The FujiFilm FinePix A610 captures movies in QVGA at a rate of thirty frames per second, without sound. This doesn’t keep the camera from receiving high marks in other areas, but many of its peers produce higher resolution video with sound included.
The bottom line is that the FujiFilm PinePix A610 is a nice camera for beginners. It has easy-to-use buttons, menus, and settings. But for the best quality pictures and videos, you might do well to look elsewhere.
This digital camera retails for about $130 US, and can be found online or at any major electronics store.

The Fisher-Price Kid Tough Digital Camera

Parents lead by example, and children learn by watching grown-ups. Beloved hobbies tend to get passed down from parent to child, especially if those hobbies are kid-friendly and entertaining to young minds. Photography is one example. Kids love to take pictures. And with the LCD preview panels on digital cameras, kids have found a whole new reason to be excited about picture-taking.
Unfortunately, too many digital camera models aren’t appropriate for kids. Either they break too easily, or cost too much, or simply have too many confusing features and non-intuitive button and menu layouts. Children get disappointed when they are constantly refused access to a camera, especially if they see parents and older siblings taking pictures. What’s a parent to do?

Thanks to Fisher-Price, parents can simply buy a digital camera for their youngest photographers. The Fisher-Price Kid Tough Digital Camera was designed for small children who might subject it to rough treatment. The plastic and rubber camera case can take a lot of abuse.
Available in blue, pink, or red, the Kid Tough Digital Camera is praised for its superb design. Even two year olds can quickly learn to take pictures with this camera. It features a pair of large rubber grip handles for small hands. There is also a wrist strap built into the camera’s base. The buttons are large and easy to use. Kids also enjoy the shutter sound that comes whenever they snap a picture. Parents and kids both like the fact that this is a true point-and-shoot camera. Everything is automatic.
But therein lies the problem with the Fisher Price Kid Tough Digital Camera. Because everything is done for you, there is no chance to change exposure settings to suit the situation. The photo quality is poor, with pictures often coming out blurry, dark, or discolored. Many parents have even exchanged the Fisher Price Kid Tough Digital Camera for low-cost models designed for adults. The Kid Tough doesn’t have enough fun features to compensate for the low image quality. Its competitor, the VTech KidiZoom Digital Camera, comes with a host of games, video capability, and silly frames and special effects for images. The Kid Tough just doesn’t compare.
Bottom line: if you want an entertaining camera for kids, go with the VTech KidiZoom. If you want a simple camera that takes decent pictures, go with almost any of the low-end point-and-shoots out there. They are more likely to take clear, printable pictures than the Fisher Price Kid Tough.
The Fisher Price Kid Tough Digital Camera sells for about $70 US, and can be found in toy stores or online where digital cameras are sold.

The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS

Subcompact digital cameras are a good idea in theory, but they can lead to diminished photo quality. Some people are willing to trade a little bit of quality for the ability to tuck the camera into their shirt pocket and take it with them wherever they go. Small cameras definitely appeal to many customers because of their style and convenience.
With the Canon PowerShot SD2200 IS, quality is no longer compromised by small, slim body. This digital camera packs a lot of punch into a tiny package. And with its loads of features aimed at improving photo quality, this camera is perfect for new photographers who want good pictures with minimum hassle.
The Canon PowerShot SD2200 IS is an 8 megapixel digital camera with a 1.25 inch CCD imager. It comes with a 3x optical zoom lens with image stabilization. Other useful features include onboard red-eye elimination and face detection technology for like-like facial details. If you often take pictures of children and other fast-moving objects, the blur reduction in the Canon PowerShot SD2000 will come in handy. The camera’s face detection technology seeks out human faces and sharpens them, balances the color, and makes them appear true to life. Image stabilization will keep action shots crisp and minimize blurring due to hand or camera shaking.

The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS also has the following specifications:
* 13 Scene Modes
* Exposure Times as long as 15 seconds
* 2.5" LCD
* ISO Sensitivity Range from 80 to 1600
* Shutter Speed - 15-1/1500 seconds
* White Balance Control - Auto, Preset (Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H)
* Custom Built-in Flash
* Auto Red-eye Correction
* Shooting Modes - Auto, Camera M, Portrait, Special Scene (Foliage, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Fireworks, Aquarium, Underwater, Indoor, Kids & Pets) Night Snapshot, Color Accent, Color Swap, Digital Macro, Stitch Assist, and Movie
* Self-Timer - 2-second or 10-second delay
* Custom Dimensions - 3.42 x 2.16 x 0.87 (86.8x54.8x22.0mm)
* Weight - 4.41 ounces (125 grams)
* Colors Available: Metallic blue, pink, gold, silver, and brown
Users consider this camera a resounding success. They do, however, point out that the camera’s color names (which include “Bohemian Brown” and “Pink Melody”) sound a little too much like cosmetic products. But, silly names aside, this camera delivers tons of features that aren’t found in the average affordable point-and-shoot.
The Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS can be found wherever digital cameras are sold. It retails for about $250 US.

The Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH

When people shop for digital cameras, they usually fall into one of two categories: those who want good picture quality at a low price, and those who want exceptional picture quality, period. The Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH, though not the least expensive digital camera out there, is still affordable for most digital photographers. It has been described as being worth every penny of its moderate price. It would make a wonderful gift for a budding photographer or new parents who want to document their child's early years in clear, vivid color.
The Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH is a 10 megapixel digital camera. It has an optical zoom of 3x and a digital zoom of 4x. The camera's LCD is quite large, at 2.5 inches. The Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH uses the following recording methods: SDHC Memory Card, MultiMediaCard, and SD card. It even comes with frame movie mode and a self-timer for maximum fun.

With a generous 32MB of internal flash memory, this camera is ready to point and shoot the moment you remove it from its wrappings and charge up the battery. It comes with A/V and USB cables, as well as a wrist strap to help keep the camera in hand. At a slender 5.8oz and 2.4 in x 3.6 in x 1.1 in (HxWxD), the Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH has been described as especially pocket-friendly. This is a camera you can take anywhere. Users praise its photo quality. Some use it for everyday picture-taking, while others bring it out for special events.
Though this camera is the most highly rated on many Internet shopping sites, is has a few downfalls. For one thing, the Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH uses a proprietary battery. Some users complain that the battery life is too short. Others point out that the camera does not have a battery indicator, which can be problematic to say the least. Also, this is not a plug-and-play device. The camera must have its own software installed before Windows will communicate with it. With so many competitors churning out Windows-ready digital cameras, one has to wonder why Canon didn’t follow suit.
The Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH comes with a time and date stamp feature, but, curiously, this seems to be available only at high resolutions. And, of course, the camera is not cheap. Those users who want a quick point-and-shoot digital camera with average quality photos could save a lot of money by going with another brand. But serious hobbyists will enjoy the high quality and many features that come with the Canon PowerShot SD900 Digital ELPH.
The PowerShot SD900 retails for about $350-$400 US, and can be purchased wherever digital cameras are sold.

The Canon PowerShot A710 IS

An upgrade to the short-lived Canon PowerShot A700, the A710 IS received a design facelift and a few feature tweaks, the biggest and most welcome of which is that the new model adds optical image stabilization. In addition, upgrading from 6 mega pixel to 7 mega pixel provides for improved image quality. Is the A710 IS a worthy successor to the popular A700? 

Here are the main features:
* 7.1 Megapixels
* 6x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer (35-210mm equiv.)
* DIGIC II, iSAPS, 9-Point AiAF, FlexiZone AF/AE
* Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
* 2.5” LCD with wide viewing angle and real-image optical viewfinder
* 20 shooting modes
What else has changed?
Although a better looking camera, the A710 IS is more than mere style, with the addition of the optical image stabilization system, the only downside of which is the slight decrease in battery life.  Still, one can get an impressive 360 shots from a good pair of rechargeable AA NiMH batteries.
Additional changes include….
* 60fps (QVGA) movie mode
* MyColors effects in playback mode
* Playback overexposure warning
* 3:2 overlay on live view
* SDHC card support
* Underwater scene mode (for use with new optional 40m underwater case)
* Slightly reduced continuous shooting speed (1.7fps vs 2.0fps)
* 10g (0.36oz) heavier
Here are the full list of features and specifications:
* Sensor:  1/2.5” Type CCD, 7.1 million pixels
* Image Processor:  DIGIC II with iSAPS technology
* Image Sizes:  3072 x 2304, 3072 x 1728, 2592 x 1944, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480
* Movie Clips:  640 x 480 – 15/30 fps, up to 1 GB or 1 hour.  320 x 240 – 15/30/60 fsp, up to 1 GB or 1 hour (15/30 fps) or 1 minute (60 fps).  160 x 120 – 15 pfs, up to 3 minutes.  AVI motion JPEG.
* Lens:  6x optical zoom, 35-210 mm equivalent, F2.8 – F4.8
* Optical Stabilization:  Yes (shift type)
* Focus:  TTL auto focus, AF illuminator, 9-point AiAF or 1 point AF (any position or fixed center), 1 cm macro mode
* Metering:  Evaluate, Center-weighted average, Spot (center or linked to focusing frame)
* Shooting Mode:  13 different modes, including Night Scene, Shutter Priority AE and Aperture Priority AE
* Shutter Speeds:  15 – 1/2000 second
* Apertures:  F2.8 – 8 (Wide) F4.8 – 8 (Tele)
* Exposure Compensation:  +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments
* Sensitivity:  Auto, High ISO Auto, ISO 80 – 800
* White Balance:  8 settings, including underwater
* Image parameters:  12 different settings, including photo-stitch
* Continuous:  Continuous (1.7 fps) until memory is full
* Flash:  5 modes, including red-eye reduction.  Range: 55cm – 3.5m (wide) / 2.5 m (tele)
* Storage:  SD, SDHC, MMC compatible.  16 MB card included
* Viewfinder:  Real-image zoom, optical viewfinder
* LCD Monitor:  2.5” P-Si TFT, 115,000 pixels
* Connectivity:  USB 2.0 Hi-Speed, AV out
* Power:  2x AA batteries (alkaline included, but NiMH recommended), optional AC adapter
* Optional Accessories:  3 lenses, high-power flash, waterproof case
* Dimensions:  97.5mm x 66.5mm x 41.2mm
Generally, users of this camera give good reviews, citing the advantages of using 2 batteries over 4, the convenience of using SD disks, date/time feature, overall quality and ease of use.  Some users find that using the zoom feature indoors lowers image quality and the limits of the 1 GB file (about 8 minutes of video) and the limited storage capacity of the provided 16MB card. 
The camera retails for around $300 US.

The Canon PowerShot A640

The Canon PowerShot A640 10 megapixel digital camera has been described as "bursting with creative options". This sounds a bit optimistic, but it's actually true. Canon has put together a great digital camera for photo enthusiasts, and it won't even leave you with an empty wallet.
Professionals and photography teachers alike use the Canon PowerShot A640 as their "walking around" camera for everyday use. The quality of the pictures is undeniable, especially when printing. The Canon PowerShot A640 receives high marks for its 11x14 printed photos, with users often calling the quality of the pictures "incredible". If you do a lot of photo printing, this could be the digital camera for you.
As mentioned before, the Canon PowerShot A640 is a 10 megapixel digital camera. It has 4x optical and digital zoom capabilities. The camera's minimum focal length is 7.3mm, with a maximum focal length of 29.2mm. The minimum shutter speed is 15 seconds, with a maximum of 1/2500 of a second. Images are produced in JPEG format.
The Canon PowerShot A640 has automatic and manual focus modes, as well as programmed, automatic, manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority exposure settings. This guarantees great shots in any level of light. And with a 2.5 inch LCD and real-image zoom, photographers can preview their shots in great detail.

Like many of its peers, the Canon PowerShot A640 has a frame video mode and self-timer for those who want to include themselves in their pictures. The camera has 32MB onboard memory and is compatible with SDHC Memory Card, MultiMediaCard, and SD memory cards. It comes with a wrist strap along with A/V and USB cables. At 8 ounces in weight and 2.6 in x 4.3 in x 1.9 in (HxWxD), the PowerShot A640 is about average in size.
What do PowerShot A640 owners think about their cameras? By and large, they are thrilled with their purchase. Some do point out that certain extra features are available, but only at an additional cost. For example, the A640 has no image stabilization, no information in the viewfinder, and no RAW setting. To get these extra features, customers have to spend extra money – approximately $200 more.
Some users complain that their photos lose quality when taken in low light situations. Wide angles and close-ups are subject to barrel distortion in any light. Others share their unhappiness about seemingly small things, such as the wrist strap being too near the USB port, or the battery cover seeming a little flimsy. One should note, however, that there have been no reports of customers needing to replace their A640 due to any defects or physical damage.

The Canon PowerShot A640 is about on par with similar cameras in its price range, but it stands apart because of the high recommendations it has earned from people who know digital cameras well. The A640 sells for approximately $300 US.

The Canon EOS 40D

The Canon EOS 40D is a 10 megapixel SLR digital camera that saw a lot of hype prior to its release. According to users who have bought this camera, it lives up to the hype – and then some. Its DIGIC III image processor and large 3 inch LCD make it a favorite among casual photographers and professionals alike.

Users have nothing but lavish praise for this camera. The Canon EOS 40D consistently gets 5-star ratings and plenty of glowing reviews from owners. Some laud the camera’s impressive light sensitivity and its hefty size. The camera feels substantial, not like something fragile that might break with rough treatment. With the EFS 17-85 IS in place, the camera weighs in at two and a half pounds! But it does fit into the photographer’s hands naturally, and handles very well.
Professional action photographers use this camera for outdoor work and enjoy its sharpness and color identity. The camera even cleans itself every time it is turned off, thanks to an automatic sensor cleaning feature.
Some users feel that the Canon EOS 40D is more suited to advanced camera users. The sheer number of features can be intimidating. Customers recommend a lot of patience and exploration, or even the purchase of special training DVDs to help new photographers learn the ins and outs of the 40D.

Here are just a few of the Canon EOS 40D’s many features:
* 10.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
* DIGIC III Image Processor
* RAW, JPEG File Format
* Canon EF/EF-S Lens Mount
* Auto and Manual Focus
* Auto and Manual Exposure
* ISO 100-1600 (3200 Enhanced)
* 3.0-inch LCD
* Compact Flash Memory
* Lithium-ion Battery
* USB Cable
* Video Cable
* Neck Strap
* Battery Charger
The Canon EOS 40D is an SLR professional grade digital camera with image resolutions of 3888 x 2592,  2816 x 1880, and 1936 x 1288. It has a minimum shutter speed of 30 seconds, and a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds. Pictures can be snapped rapid-fire for excellent action shots. The EOS 40D does up to 75 images in burst mode. Its exposure controls include Auto, Manual, Daylight / Sunny (Preset), Cloudy (Preset), Fluorescent (Preset), Tungsten (Preset), Shade (Preset), and Flash (Preset).
A few critics voice disappointment that the camera kit doesn’t come with a lens hood as would be expected from a camera of this caliber. But complaints are few and far between. The Canon EOS 40D would be a great gift for a photography student, journalist, or anyone who is ready to move away from point-and-shoots. This is a real camera for real photographers.
The Canon EOS 40D retails for about $1,200 US.

Canon Digital Rebel XTi

Canon Digital Rebel XTi
The Digital Rebel XTi, the newer version of the Digital Rebel XT, resembles its predecessor in many ways.  It offers a 10.1-megapixel sensor, bigger eye-friendly LCD screen, and many new features. Small body molding changes in the XTi arguably makes a difference in the ergonomics of the camera; depending on your hand size, you may find the XTi comfortable or unbalanced and cramped.
Two of the most salient changes from the XT are readily apparent on the back of the unit:  the LCD screen is a larger 2.5 inches, and the dedicated status LCD is missing; instead the XTi uses the main LCD as the status display. The camera automatically activates or deactivates the LCD screen as your eye moves to or away from the viewfinder. In addition, the newer version shows flash exposure lock and white balancing in its viewfinder's status bar.
The critical shooting functions are easily accessible through the four-way buttons and LCD screen on the back of the camera. Program shift, exposure compensation, exposure lock, drive mode, and focus-point selection all have dedicated buttons.
The menus are simpler and easier to navigate than with the XT.  Additionally, the Picture Styles feature has been added, offering predefined image parameter sets for shooting in specific situations. For example, the Portrait style provides settings appropriate for reproducing skin tones.

Several features from the previous two versions of the Digital Rebel have been added or enhanced. The Auto Rotate During Playback mode allows users to magnify and pan around the image that appears immediately after shooting.  Users can view the histogram display in luminance (brightness), RGB or monochrome.  And users have new long-exposure noise-reduction options. 
The XTi has a 10.1-megapixel sensor, upgraded from the XT's 8-megapixel. 
The Xti features a triple self-cleaning sensor system.  First, the sensor has an antistatic, dust-repelling coating.  Second, a clear element in front of the sensor vibrates ultrasonically when the camera is turned on or off, to shake off dust.  Third, users can create “dust referencea” shot that permits the digital removal of dust spots during later editing.
Users have versatile lens options, as this camera will accept all Canon EF and EF-S line lenses, which include everything from ultra-wide-angle to super-telephoto functions.  The unit is also compatible with EX-Series Speedlite flashes.
This camera tends to retail in the $500 to $800 range.
Features and Specifications include….
Camera Type:  SLR/professional
Image Sensor:  CMOS
Dimensions:  3.71” high x 4.98” wide x 2.56” deep
Weight:  1.12 lbs
Exposure Speed:  3 frames per second
Shutter Speed:  30 – 1/4000 second
White Balance:  Auto, Manual, Daylight / Sunny (Preset), Cloudy (Preset), Fluorescent (Preset), Tungsten (Preset), Shade (Preset), Flash (Preset), Color Temperature Adjust
Flash Type:  Built-in and External
Flash Functions:  Flash Off, Auto Flash, Red-eye Reduction, Manual
ISO Speeds:  Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600
Image Resolutions:  3888 x 2592, 2816 x 1880, 1936 x 1288
Microphone:  no built-in microphone
Self-Timer:  10 seconds
Interface:  USB 2.0
Video Interface:  video out
Focus Type:  auto and manual
Lenses:  Interchangeable
Power Type:  NB-2LH
Power Duration:  360 Images
Memory Type:  CompactFlash Card, Types I and II
LCD Screen Resolution:  230,000 pixels
Viewfinder:  Optical (Through the lens)
Users generally give this camera good reviews.  Users who are transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras give the XTi especially good reviews, citing the great picture quality and ease of use.  Some users lament the lack of an inborn anti-shake feature, and although lenses are available with this feature, they are high-priced.  Prospective purchasers, especially those transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras, should be aware that fully realizing the potential of this and similar cameras does require purchasing multiple lenses, the selection of which is not especially easy or cheap.  That having been said, there is little buyer-remorse for those who do wish to invest in this camera and the lenses suitable to their photographic goals.

The Leica V-LUX 1 Digital Camera

The Leica V-LUX 1 Digital Camera
Debuted in Cologne in 2006, the Leica V-LUX 1 is a sturdy, compact camera known for its high performance optics. With 10 megapixels, this camera captures images with clarity and life-like detail.
This camera was designed with the action photographer in mind. It comes with many innovative features that protect against motion blurring and camera shake. The Leica V-LUX 1 also comes with a tilting TFT display that allows photographers to get great shots from different perspectives.
The Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT 1:2.8-3.7/7.4-88.8 ASPH lens has a very wide focal range. The minimum focus length is 35mm, with a maximum of 420mm - a much larger range than most other cameras in this price range. The lens has a 12x optical zoom that produces excellent far shots and landscapes. Close-ups are also clear and vibrant. And the integral image stabilizer keeps tripods from being a necessity. Photographers can get a clear shot with just the camera and their bare hands.
The Leica V-LUX 1 comes with a 512 MB SD memory card, a battery charger, a proprietary rechargeable battery and a comprehensive software package that includes Adobe Photoshop Elements and QuickTime Movie Player.  Customers can also purchase a direct power adapter, a spare rechargeable battery, and two types of camera cases. Both cases are very durable and protect the camera from damage.

Users like the flip-out, rotating LCD screen. It makes tricky shots easier to capture, especially at odd angles. Also, the Leica V-LUX 1 takes dazzling photos. When compared to other digital cameras in the same price range, the V-LUX 1 was found to have better than average photo quality. There is a slight problem with noise in the pictures at higher ISO settings. Some noise is apparent even on the lowest ISO, but it’s very slight and won’t affect print pictures. Starting at ISO 1000, the noise is probably too much to make for good prints. Stick to the lower settings and you’ll have nice pictures.
Additionally, some users have complained of insufficient white balance under tungsten lighting. There is a preset for this, but it does not balance out the tones as well as manual white balance.
Finally, the camera’s size and bulk put some people off. The Leica V-LUX 1’s dimensions are 3.3 in x 5.6 in x 5.6 in (HxWxD), and it weighs in at a hefty 1.5 pounds. This is not a camera you can keep in your pocket. The Leica V-LUX 1 is a serious camera for serious photographers, and it looks the part. The price tag, too, will probably put this camera out of the reach of casual picture-takers. For its quality, though, the Leica V-LUX 1 is well worth the expense.
This digital can be found wherever cameras and electronics are sold. It retails for about $850 US.

The Casio EX-Z77 EXILIM Zoom

The Casio EX-Z77 EXILIM Zoom
The 7.2 mega pixel EXILIM Zoom EX-Z77 joins Casio’s successful EXILIM Zoom series, which balances high functionality with compact yet stylish features. The EX-Z77 also adds enhanced movie functionality and features a new YouTube Capture mode.
The EX-Z77 also features a blur reduction function by using motion analysis technology, an auto-tracking AF system, and face detection technology. The combination of face detection technology and the auto-tracking AF system ensures that once the focus locks on to a person’s face, it will stay sharp and maintain the right exposure, even when the person moves, ensuring great shots every time.
In addition to the YouTube Capture mode, this camera features the eBay® Best Shot Mode, exclusive to the U.S. line of Casio EXILIM digital cameras. The eBay Best Shot Mode optimizes photos for display on eBay, allowing users to quickly and easily create photos for selling items on eBay.  Such photos are even stored in a special eBay directory, making the process very easy and user-friendly.
The YouTube Capture mode records in next-generation MPEG-4 H.264 video format, providing an optimal compression ratio that allows users to record longer movie segments without downgrading movie quality.  The YouTube Capture mode also provides sharp resolution (640 x 480) and a frame rate of up to 30 frames per second. An exclusive software application is included which provides for an easy and seamless two-step process to upload clips from the camera directly to YouTube. The software also allows users to upload multiple videos at once, making it easier than ever to share original content with your family and friends or the public at large.
Photos and movies are stored in 11.4 megabytes of internal memory and on optional SD/SDHC or MMC/MMC Plus type memory cards. The camera is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery with a charge lasting for 190 shots. The camera can be charged with either an AC charger (included) or an optional docking cradle. The camera interfaces with the computer via USB and you can print directly to any PictBridge compatible printer. Still images are ExifPrint and PRINT Image Matching III compatible.

Features include….
* 7.2-Megapixel effective CCD imager
* 3x optical zoom
* Large 2.6-inch TFT color LCD
* Onboard blur reduction function
* 39 "BEST SHOT" modes set the camera for easy to difficult situations
* Record voice-only audio, or add up to 30-second audio memos to still images, either at the time of capture or afterwards
* MPEG-4 H.264 format Movies
* Movie Resolution:  848 x 480, 640 x 480 and 320 x 240, up to 10 minutes in length
* Autofocus system with selectable AF modes: Multi or Spot AF
* Face Recognition technology for sharp portraits
* ISO sensitivity from 50 to 800
* Built-in flash with Red Eye Reduction and Flash-assist function
* USB data transfer to PC or Mac computers
* Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery and charger (included)
* 11.4 MB of internal memory and SD/SDHC/MMC/MMC Plus card slot
* ExifPrint, PRINT Image Matching III, USB Direct-Print, and PictBridge compatible
* Available colors:  black, blue, pink and silver
This camera retails from $160 - $220.
Users find this camera to be easy to use and appreciate the small compact design, but some users express dissatisfaction at the quality of photographs taken, citing poor noise reduction.  The proprietary USB cable (included) is also a source of dissatisfaction, and the LCD quality and photo quality sometimes do not match.
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