Information On Digital Camera Articles and News

The Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera - One of the Good Cameras

2007-11-16T03:36:00.001-08:00

Amongst all of the Canon digital camera models you can get cameras for all type of photographers. Whether you are an experienced photographer, the semi-serious professional or the amateur canon offers some of the best cameras for your needs. Amongst those cameras you will find the Canon Sure Shot digital Camera.

The Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera is known to be one of the “good” canon cameras. The various features you can find on this camera will make it very easy for you to take great pictures.

The Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera comes with amazing features. Here are just some of the features you get with your digital camera:

- Built-in zoom capability
- Timer system
- Red eye reduction capability

Those features make the Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera fully automatic. You can be sure that you will be able to capture steady images. No more blurred pictures unless that’s what you want.

One good point about the Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera is the duration of the battery. With this type of camera you can expect a long duration and life for your battery. Of course like many cameras out there are also some weak points. With this type of camera you can expect to experience a small delay in-between taking pictures. For some it can be a problem, for others it’s no problem. Either way it’s worth mentioning.

The bad side of this is that you will have to wait a few seconds before you can take the next shot. The time delay you will experience is very short but sometimes this can cost you a great picture by loosing a candid moment.

But to be fair I need to say that there are a lot more advantages to this camera than disadvantages. The flash you get with this camera is powerful enough to turn a dark room into daylight brightness. For me The Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera remains a very good camera to buy.

On top of that the Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera is very good to take great pictures of landscape and portrait photographs.

One of the things you might want to consider when buying your Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera is the accessories that come with the camera. You might also take note of the accessories that you might have to purchase separately to enhance you camera even more.

When you buy the Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera you will also get the strap which is attached to the camera. You will also get the case for transporting the cameras which is usually made of leather with a strong Velcro fastening.

You will find that the Canon Sure Shot Digital Camera is probably on of the best digital camera you can get if you are an amateur photographer.

http://www.articlefrenzy.com/Article/The-Canon-Sure-Shot-Digital-Camera---One-of-the-Good-Cameras/75465

How to Compare Digital Camera Features

2007-11-16T03:35:00.001-08:00

The day you decide that you need to buy a digital camera you will need to consider various facts. By doing this you will be ready to compare the various digital camera features and decide which digital camera you wish to buy. There are of course many features available when we talk about digital cameras so you will need to isolate what features interest you as a photographer before buying.

So you may start by asking what are the features you want are or need that will help you take great looking photographs. One important factor you might want to consider is the amount of pixel that is offered on the various type of digital cameras.

Of course if you want to compare digital camera features like this you might want to have a buyer’s guide that will list all the various features for each camera model. For example you will be able to compare the amount of pixels for each camera model you consider buying. Always keep in mind that the amount of pixels will usually determine what will be the quality of your pictures. The more pixels you have the greater the quality.

Another factor you should consider when you compare digital camera features is: What will you do with your camera. Is the camera you are looking at is for amateur photographer, semi-serious or serious photographers? Determining this will bring you one step further from buying the camera you need.

When you start to compare digital camera features you will soon be submerge by more info that you were actually looking for. They key is to look for the one you want instead of being overwhelmed by features you don’t need. Some of those feature apart form the pixel amount could be your picture options. Do you want your pictures to turn into sepia, black and white or soft pictures with the use of your filter?

One point I strongly suggest you look into when you compare digital camera features is the shooting modes you get with your camera. You should find indications about various features like the focusing or flash capabilities of various digital cameras. Whether it is Canon, Nikon, Olympus or any other brand of digital camera, make sure you don’t overlook this aspect.

Of course the information you will gather to help you compare digital camera features will mostly be of technical nature. Make sure you look at various sources of information. Another great place to look for information is to buy photography magazines. They will help you compare digital camera features that allow you to take picture with special effects.

These special effects could be special zoom capabilities that allow you to take pictures from a totally new angle or focus capabilities enabling you to crop some of the surrounding areas of you subject.

Of course if you want to take great picture (who doesn’t want to) it helps to have many different helpful features in your camera. It is up to you to find what features you want in your camera by gathering the right information and doing research in magazine, internet articles and digital camera buyer’s guide to help you compare digital camera features.
All those information will help you identify what type of camera you need to best suit your needs. You will need as much sources of information as you can to compare digital camera features. This is surely the best way to make sure you buy the one that you need.

This way you can select the best type of digital camera that is suited for your needs. To compare digital camera features you need all of these different sources. This way you have a wide choice of digital cameras to look at.

http://www.articlefrenzy.com/Article/How-to-Compare-Digital-Camera-Features/75970

Wondering how to use your digital camera? Wonder no more

2007-11-16T03:32:00.001-08:00

It is important to realise that there is no such thing as a perfect camera, one that will be the best for everyone. Although we sometimes talk about 'cameras of the year' or 'top picks', such lists and awards are really of little consequence. The camera that wins most accolades may not be the one that is most suitable for you. The important thing you need to do is to think about what you want from a camera; you need to know what the various specifications mean, and to work out which is the best for you. Even those aspects that can easily be quantified - such as the number of pixels the sensor records - are not always straightforward. For some people a 2 megapixel (Mp) camera may be a better choice than a 4 Mp model. Even where image quality is important, you cannot assume that a 5 Mp camera will necessarily give better results than a 3 Mp model. As in life, other things are seldom equal.

During photography's entire history, the amateur and the professional have represented distinct and often contrary approaches to photography, each battling for supremacy. Has the digital revolution tilted the field of battle irrevocably in the amateur's favour? Or has it swept this traditional rivalry into the dustbin? Can anyone say? For the 19th-century practitioner, photography was fraught with personal and technical adversity. The darkroom environment was equally challenging: space was constrained, and in smaller field tents the photographer had to kneel or lie down to work. Ventilation was poor or non-existent, and lightproofing faulty. Digital photography is starting to become accessible to the average consumer. Camera prices are falling and image quality is improving. Compared to conventional 35-mm photography, there is no film or processing costs, and results are immediately viewable so a re-shoot can be made quickly if needed. Plus there are more and more applications where digital images are more convenient and cost effective.

It is usually taken for granted that white is white, with no variations. However, all artists would agree that this is wrong, including photographers. The white balance of a camera can make or break a picture, meaning you must learn to control it. In order to regulate it, you must set your camera to manual or custom white balance, and take a picture of something white. It must fill the screen, and should not be in shadows. If the result is not to your preference, you can always use your photo program to tweak the picture.

Action photographs are quite popular, though they are difficult to take properly. Speed is essential to taking clear pictures for indoor sports and activities. The shutter speed is crucial, for if it is too slow you will lose the picture, as the movement will have continued past the shot you wanted. The results can be erratic, so the highest quality won't be assured. Make sure when taking pictures of indoor sports that your camera is on a setting with a fast shutter, such as rapid fire mode.

JPEG (pronounced "jay-peg") is a standardized image compression mechanism. JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, the original name of the committee that wrote the standard. JPEG is designed for compressing either full-color or gray-scale images of natural, real-world scenes. It works well on photographs, naturalistic artwork, and similar material; not so well on lettering, simple cartoons, or line drawings. JPEG is "lossy," meaning that the decompressed image isn't quite the same as the one you started with. (There are lossless image compression algorithms, but JPEG achieves much greater compression than is possible with lossless methods.) Making image files smaller is a win for transmitting files across networks and for archiving libraries of images. The real disadvantage of lossy compression is that if you repeatedly compress and decompress an image, you lose a little more quality each time. This is a serious objection for some applications but matters not at all for many others.

If you use a flash in a dark environment, you often get a red eye effect. This is because the light of the flash is reflecting from the retina, which is covered with tiny blood vessels. The more open the pupils are, the more red eye effect you get in your photos. Red eye is more pronounced in people with light eye color. It is also more pronounced in people with blond or light-red hair and in children. Many cameras have a built-in red-eye reduction pre-flash that helps reduce the incidence of red eye. Red-eye reduction works by having the flash shine a light into the eyes of the subject prior to taking the picture. This causes the pupil to contract. However, you have to make sure the subject is looking at the camera. If not, this technique won't work. Also be wary of using red-eye reduction feature when not necessary, because it may cause your subject to blink.

How do you begin to take good photos? The first thing to remember is this: It's the photographer that takes great photos, not the camera. Think about that for a minute. It's true isn't it? I've seen some people take great photos with a simple point-and-shoot camera, while some take lousy shots with the most expensive SLR. Always look for beautiful natural light. The best natural light usually occurs right before, after, and during sunrise and sunset. Be deliberate and creative. Think about what would make a good background, what would make for good colors. When you set out on a picture-taking spree, shoot 10 to 25 pictures so that you can be sure of getting a good shot. Vary the distance, setting, poses, or even the times of day.

http://www.articlefrenzy.com/Article/Wondering-how-to-use-your-digital-camera--Wonder-no-more/100607

Digital Cameras In Todays Society

2007-11-16T03:30:00.000-08:00

Digital cameras have become mainstream cameras because they are extremely easy to use and offer a host of wonderful features. Digital cameras connect to PC via USB so you can transfer your photos easily for archiving, editing, and printing. Digital cameras make it easy to share pictures both online and in print. Digital cameras with resolution in the four to five megapixel range are capable of producing professional-quality images.

Cameras

The major advantage of digital cameras is the ability to take multiple pictures at no extra cost and then printing only the best ones. Cameras meant for automatic point-and-shoot photos, with a 3x zoom lens, will serve casual shooters as well as dedicated hobbyists much of the time. Digital cameras with less than one megapixel are inexpensive, but they usually lack key features. Cameras with higher resolutions of 7, 8, 10 or even more megapixels give you the latitude to create large reprints, or to crop and manipulate images with photo-editing software without degrading them. All digital cameras have a built-in computer, and all of them record images electronically. Since film still provides better picture quality, digital cameras have not completely replaced conventional cameras. All the fun and interesting features of digital cameras come as a direct result of striving to improve customer needs for high quality, low cost photos.

Images

Images are made up of tiny cells (also called pixels). Images taken at higher resolutions will look much clearer and sharper when printed, and large prints will look better. You can even select only the best and copy them from your computer back onto the camera's storage device so you can give an edited slide show of just the best images. Once images are in digital form, you can start to take pieces from various images and paste them into other images. Digital photography now makes it possible to put all of your images on the Web and bore the entire world instead of just your friends and family. One nice thing about digital cameras is that you can show your images on a TV set.

Memory

Memory Most digital cameras support some type of removable memory card for storing your images. You should buy as large a memory card as your camera can accept, as the memory cards that are included with the cameras are usually not nearly big enough to hold a good number of high quality pictures. Two popular memory card types are CompactFlash and SmartMedia cards. Both types of memory are similar in price and performance but CompactFlash cards are more widely used. How many pictures will fit in the memory. The exact number depends on the size of the memory card (or other type of storage used), the camera's resolution, the compression quality setting, the exact type of camera, and even the type of pictures taken. If you can't fit enough pictures in the memory, you should buy a higher capacity memory card instead.

Digital cameras are distinguished by their resolution—how many pixels, or picture elements, the image sensor contains. Digital cameras give you extraordinary control over images. Digital cameras are perfect for learner photographers as the images can be displayed immediately. Digital cameras generally need a computer to manipulate and print images, but the technology is evolving rapidly, and photo printers that work without a computer are now mass-market items. Digital cameras have high power requirements, and over time have become increasingly smaller in size, which has resulted in an ongoing need to develop a battery small enough to fit in the camera and yet able to power it for a reasonable length of time. Digital cameras emerging popularity is attributed to the vastly improved photography experience they afford, through instant viewing, deletion, annotation, and control over reprint size and quantity.

http://www.articlefrenzy.com/Article/Digital-Cameras-In-Todays-Society/103301

Benefits Of Panasonic Digital Cameras

2007-11-15T03:58:00.000-08:00

Gone are the times when digital cameras as well as SLRs that mimicked long zoom lenses were considered to be rather cumbersome. Following the public demand for small and cheap digital cameras with long zoom lenses, the manufacturers had no choice but create them! Panasonic digital cameras have always met all the requirements applicable to quality photographic equipment.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-F27
The new 6.0 mega pixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-F27 is a fine answer to the consumers’ needs. This Panasonic digital camera is contained in a trim housing, and has a Leica 12x optical zoom and Panasonic’s Optical Image Stabilization. Its additional features include the 2.5 inch LCD screen, a new widescreen VGA movie mode as well as a joystick to control manual focus and exposure.

Among the benefits of this Panasonic digital camera is its small size to fit into a backpack and weight – just a little more than half a pound. It is also reasonably priced at $350 that makes this Panasonic digital camera affordable even for an average budget.

Panasonic Lumix F27

This new Panasonic digital camera is a continuation of the F23 that was used in 2004 and has evolved through the F25 and has improved light, long range zoom without any need to really reinvent the wheel. Its Optical Image Stabilizer is a useful feature to eliminate the effect of shaking, especially when capturing an image using its optical zoom that is more than 4x. High zooms usually make it more difficult to shoot a picture, if the camera doesn’t have a tripod to make the shooting experience steadier. Also, its 6MP CCD mega pixels is a major improvement over previous models and so too is the 2.5 inch LCD screen that is an improvement over the 1.8 inch LCDs that preceding models of the Panasonic digital camera had.

This model of Panasonic digital camera was designed to provide a most pleasant shooting experience and due to its small size the camera can be taken along anywhere. In fact, many of its features are of professional cameras; at the same time, it is simple and user-friendly. One of the most prominent characteristics of this Panasonic digital camera is its lens that is a 12x optical Leica DC lens with a variable aperture. Also, it has a preset scene mode called High Sensitivity that can boost the ISO to 800 and 1,600 and helps in reducing blurred images, especially when shooting fast moving objects. There is also an option for increasing brightness when shooting outdoor under low light. This Panasonic digital camera is one more technological achievement well worth money investment.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Benefits-of-Panasonic-Digital-Cameras/235938

Olympus Digital Camera – Versatile Yet Simple

2007-11-15T03:57:00.000-08:00

The Olympus digital camera is designed to provide easy access to all most used features, such as Flash settings as well as delete with the touch of one simple button. Printing pictures has also been simplified often requiring no cables to connect; thus, turning files into photos is also incredibly easy.

All Olympus digital cameras have digital image stabilization to eliminate blurs if any happen due to a shaking camera or moving objects; the user has the privilege to take crisp and clear pictures with greater degree of sensitivity as well as quick shutter speeds. Olympus digital cameras also have all-weather reliability thanks to their durable design that contains protective seals and gaskets that allow the user to shoot pictures with confidence in rain or shine. Also, they use bright capture technology that allows one to clearly preview every picture even if the lighting is low, as it does not require a flash to capture a picture in such conditions.
Manual as well as automatic controls installed in all Olympus digital cameras allow the user to be in full control over their pictures or simply let the camera do the work for them. With expanded capabilities, there are no limits to what one can do with Olympus digital cameras; add-on lenses, flashes and underwater housing are a few among many options. In addition, Olympus digital cameras have zoom and lens quality par excellence; their impressive zoom helps the user frame and capture fantastically accurate shots with the same precision-crafted optics as are used in digital SLRs.

The Olympus SP-350 camera combines elegant and compact design with amazing features as well as advanced manual functions that are perfectly complemented by easy, automatic options. They all work to deliver outstanding performance during the day as well as at night, and in any weather conditions. It has one-touch printing as well as 30 different shooting modes and settings that can be customized to suit individual preferences; the camera also features conversion lens/extra flash compatibility. It is ideally suited for just about everybody.

The camera’s 30 shooting modes give a great opportunity to make excellent pictures of fast-paced sports or peaceful landscapes – there is a shooting mode available for any occasion and condition. If needed, one can change the lens or attach external flash to lighten up the scene or achieve a new perspective. This Olympus digital camera also has a large 2.5 inches LCD where everything looks better as well as bigger on the large color display. This little genius costs only around $350.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Olympus-Digital-Camera---Versatile-yet-Simple/235940

Nikon Professional Digital Camera – Every Photographer’s Dream

2007-11-15T03:56:00.000-08:00

Nikon has proven its reputation among professional photographers, being the top choice for many of them. Don’t expect a Nikon professional digital camera to be inexpensive, but be sure that you are paying for quality, durability, functionality and reputation.

The first Nikon cameras entered the market during the early days of film photography, and were using optics from Zeiss, a German optical maker that produced some of the absolute best camera lenses. Around the middle of the 20th century, Zeiss-Nikon lenses were the standard for professional quality lenses throughout the world. Nikon’s reputation in the camera market quickly reached the top mainly thank to their excellent line of Nikon professional digital cameras.

At the time when other camera makers were quickly occupying the digital camera market, Nikon wanted to make sure it made the conversion right with their biggest base relied on a Nikon professional digital camera. As market forces changed, Nikon also tries to give amateur photographers the opportunity to have the quality professional use in a Nikon professional digital camera.

Nikon produced less expensive units of their professional digital camera, that became available for serious amateurs and those that stick to a particular brand name. Nikon’s reputation as a top camera maker is unparalleled in the photography world.

In August 2006, its amazing line of five Coolpix camera models strengthened their position at the top, and a Nikon professional digital camera became affordable to regular folks. All models can be found between $200 and $400 and they all have a five-star rating from consumers. The rating encompasses issues such as ease of use, dependability, quality of pictures among others. Their goal is to enable amateurs to have the same photo experience as those using a Nikon professional digital camera.

The Nikon D80, costing around $1,000 is not considered to be a Nikon professional digital camera, but shares many of the features. Improved auto-focus and interchangeable lenses make it an amateur’s dream. It boasts 10.2 mega-pixels, wider flash range and longer battery life.

The Nikon professional digital camera D2X is packed with all possible features, which most amateurs will hardly use in a lifetime. At $5,000, this camera has it all and does it all, being every photography enthusiast’s dream.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Nikon-Professional-Digital-Camera---Every-Photographer-s-Dream/235942

Nikon Digital Camera: Sophisticated Technology And Ease Of Use

2007-11-15T03:55:00.002-08:00

Nikon digital cameras occupy a special niche in the photography market and they are popular among people thanks to their Coolpix line of cameras as well as the notable D-series SLRs. There are “point and shoot”, ultra compact, extended zoom as well as SLR/professional Nikon digital cameras with a variety of megapixel resolutions. Among the other advantages there is their reasonable price as well.

An excellent and highly rated Nikon digital camera is the Nikon Coolpix S7c. It is a fine example of further improvement of the already impressive line of slick wireless digital cameras. The Nikon Coolpix S7c presents startling new features like the ability to utilize wireless image transfer; besides, with the Coolpix Connect service it has taken another step forward and allows for free service through which users may instantly email photos to friends using the in-camera address list so long as the user is in range of an open Wi-fi access point.

This model also provides the user with crisp portrait photographs thanks to its Face-Priority AF; the camera comes with 7.1 megapixels resolution and is Wi-fi capable. Other useful features include vibration reduction, 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom, auto focus and auto exposure. The LCD display is bigger at 3 inches, stores files in JPEG file format, and has Secure Digital card storage of 14MB internal. It can also use movie mode with sound and is powered by lithium-ion batteries. The average price of this model is around $350 depending on where one buys it.

An Absolute Marvel: Nikon D200

An absolutely marvelous Nikon digital camera is the Nikon D200 (body only) which is a SLR targeting both professional photographers and the entry-level professionals. A powerful 10.2 megapixel resolution makes this digital camera powerful enough for use by professionals, while its small body attracts users who are more accustomed to the look and feel of other mainstream conventional digital cameras.

This Nikon digital camera is a safe bet, when it comes to wonderful performance and easy operation. Its advanced features like wireless photo transfer make this camera the best of its kind in the market. Its 10 megapixel CCD sensor ensures photos of extreme quality, which can be stored in JPEG and RAW file formats. The camera also comes with an interchangeable lens option and a 2.5 inch LCD. Its light weight (1.81 pounds only) is one more added benefit of this camera which costs around $2000.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Nikon-Digital-Camera--Sophisticated-Technology-and-Ease-of-Use/235944

Minolta Digital Cameras: A Fine Example Of Quality And Reliabilit

2007-11-15T03:55:00.001-08:00

Nowadays digital cameras are in rage, and it is not surprising, since they moved up the concept of photography on a new level. The owners of digital cameras enjoy the ability to take quality pictures without the need to wait for them to be developed. Those who are more on a professional side of photography should consider purchasing a Minolta digital camera.

Before purchasing a Minolta digital camera, you might want to know a little background about the company itself. Minolta, a Japanese camera company, was founded 1928 in Osaka, Japan. The founder of the company was Kazuo Tajima, and the original name of the company was the Japanese meaning of “Japan-Germany Camera Shop.”

It was not until 1962 that the company officially became known as Minolta. It was also in 1962 that John Glenn took a Minolta Hi-Matic camera (that was specially modified) into space with him aboard the Freedom 7.

In 2003, Minolta merged with the Konica Corporation to become Konica Minolta. However, this partnership did not last very long, because Konica Minolta announced on January 19, 2006 that they were leaving the camera business and selling part of their SLR camera business to Sony.

About Minolta Digital Cameras

Minolta digital cameras were designed mainly to enter the professional digital photography market. Thus, the DiMage line of Minolta digital cameras was created not only as an avenue for advancement in the digital camera market, but also as a way for professional photographer to purchase a camera from a trusted brand. This line included scanners and software as well as the digital cameras themselves.

DiMage cameras (specifically the DiMage 7) were designed for people who had experience using 35 millimeter SLR or single-lens reflex cameras. However, this line of cameras was more advantageous being easier to use, since the photographer would not have to deal with the complications of such things as interchangeable lenses. Thus, these cameras were meant to be sophisticated in design and purpose, but at the same easy to use, just like today’s digital cameras.

Although Minolta digital cameras are no longer in the production, they are still available for purchase. Prices of these cameras will most likely be high, since no more are being made, but they are totally worth it. With any of the Minolta digital cameras you can be sure that you are getting excellent equipment – reliable and professional at the same time.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Minolta-Digital-Cameras--A-Fine-Example-of-Quality-and-Reliabilit/235945

Reasons To Buy The Kodak Professional Digital Camera

2007-11-15T03:54:00.001-08:00

To have a good and trustworthy camera to capture your life’s most special moments is essential. Though good digital cameras are not cheap, they are worth the investment. But you might be wondering what brand to choose in order to get best quality and ease of use at the same time? Consider buying the Kodak professional digital camera – a compact answer to all your photography needs.

With your Kodak professional digital camera, you may be confident that you will get pictures of best quality, which you can then transfer right to your computer to store or edit them, if you want. With the Kodak professional digital camera, you are the professional photographer and the world is your studio.

Just imagine how many favorite moments you can shoot with your Kodak professional digital camera – and all of them will be of quality you never thought a digital camera is capable of. That’s because Kodak is synonymous with camera, and is the best reputed brand in the world. The Kodak professional digital camera is created by a company who has been in the business for a long time and knows exactly what you require from a digital camera.

The Kodak professional digital camera has all sorts of different features, depending on the model you buy. If you are a beginner and you are not sure which Kodak professional digital camera will give you the features you need and be easy to operate at the same time, it is better to ask the associate at your nearest camera retailer. These professionals know the difference between the different models and they can be the best judge of which model will be the best buy for your money.

When you take pictures with your Kodak professional digital camera, you can transfer all of the pictures to your computer so that you can sort them, label them and even print them into beautiful professional prints of excellent quality.

If you still want to get more information proving that you are making the right choice, you can try the latest camera reviews. That will also give you an idea which Kodak professional digital camera would suit you better. You can find camera reviews on numerous consumer websites. Once the Kodak professional digital camera is in your hand, you will not want to miss any of your favorite life moments.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Reasons-to-Buy-the-Kodak-Professional-Digital-Camera/235948

Kodak Digital Cameras: Advanced Technology Coupled With Quality

2007-11-15T03:53:00.000-08:00

Kodak digital cameras gained a well-deserved reputation of powerful and professional quality digital cameras that combine advanced technology with outstanding quality. Kodak digital cameras come with many standard and additional features of digital cameras to give a product that has everything from ‘point and shoot’ to high zoom and compact size.

For example, look at the very popular Kodak EasyShare digital camera that allows one to shoot when inspired and share photographs with ease. It provides the user with amazing prints of up to 20 x 30 inches thank to the camera’s 6.1 megapixel output.
It also has a 3 inch high-resolution rotating display and can store as many as 1500 pictures using 256 MB of internal memory. Since it is Wi-fi enabled one can send and share pictures from the memory of the camera. Wireless photography made it much easier to stay connected and email pictures to friends and relatives using this Kodak digital camera, and also view the gallery albums on the camera itself.

This Kodak digital camera also allows one to transfer pictures as well as videos to a computer without a USB and is compatible with in-home Wi-fi Networks as well as able for use in most public hotspots. This amazing model of Kodak digital camera costs around $200 and is highly recommended for those who value greater convenience combined with connectivity.

Kodak Easyshare C875 Zoom Digital Camera

The Kodak Easyshare C875 Zoom Digital Camera is a ‘point and shoot’ version that allows one to get close to what is important and allows the user to take panoramic view shots with ease. Thank to its exceptional 8.0 megapixel resolution, the user can get high quality prints because more pixels allow one to crop as well as enlarge the photographs while retaining the great image quality. The same feature allows printing pictures up to 30 x 40 inches.

Kodak Color Science Chip is responsible for rich and vibrant colors under different lighting conditions; irrespective of the way to print images, this Kodak digital camera would provide exceptional long-lasting quality of pictures. Among other features are 2.5 inches indoor/outdoor color display, Kodak Perfect Touch technology, and smart scene mode. Advanced video features as well as panorama stitch mode are adding the value to this Kodak digital camera, which is available for as cheap as $250, or even cheaper.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Kodak-Digital-Cameras--Advanced-Technology-Coupled-with-Quality/235949

Canon Powershot 8.0 Megapixel Digital Camera Reviewed

2007-11-14T02:29:00.000-08:00

Bigger is better, the more megapixels the better the quality. With the Canon Powershot 8.0 megapixel digital camera you can be sure that you will be able to capture every detail of your child’s big wide smile, every color of his or her birthday cake or every sleek corner of your brand new car.

A camera has always been a great company in recording moments. Since George Eastman created the first camera, more and more households have had their own personal cameras. Now, with the onset of the digital age, more and more digital camera manufacturers have developed their own digital cameras and developments like the Canon Powershot 8.0 megapixel digital camera have made quality higher and higher.
Becoming one of its flagship cameras in the compact digital camera level, the Canon Powershot 8.0 megapixel digital cameras high quality 8.0 megapixel resolution allows a more detailed image than its predecessors. With a large 2.5-inch LCD screen, you can instantly view your pictures and choose which ones to keep.

Canon’s new offering is a camera that embodies Canon’s commitment to creating cameras that offer superior imaging setting the bar for other digital cameras to emulate.

With a resolution of 8.0 megapixels, you can be able to capture a wider area of images with the Canon Powershot 8.0 camera, Transfering images from your camera to your computer is fast and easy with the 2.0 high-speed USB port and editing is even easier with the bundled software.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Canon-Powershot-8-0-megapixel-Digital-Camera-Reviewed/100620

Spion 5 Mega Pixel Digital Binocular Camera – A Voyeurs Dream

2007-11-14T02:25:00.000-08:00

Whether you enjoy bird watching or just spying on your neighbors, the Spion 5 mega pixel digital binocular camera is must have. After all what is the fun of spying on something or someone if you cannot take pictures to show your friends afterwards.

The Spion Digital Binocular Camera Package
The Spion binoculars come packaged in a very colorful and eye catching box. The boxes side also contains a fairly detailed spec sheet so buyers can get a little bit of info about what they are looking at.

Spion Digital Binocular Package

When I first opened up the box I was pleased to find the Spion digital binocular camera came with it’s very own soft carrying case. I also found an installation cd, USB cable, lens cloth, neck strap, instruction manual, and warranty card. The makers of the Spion 5MP digital binocular camera seemed to throw in everything but an SD card and a tripod.

Closer Look At The Spion 5 MP Digital Binocular Camera

There is no doubt that the Spion digital binocular camera look sleek and stylish. But what really makes it tick? So without further delay I will get down and dirty for you and breakdown all of the Spion’s technical specs.

Lets begin with the most basic and biggest part of the Spion binoculars first. Of course I am talking about the binoculars themselves. They are your basic 8×32mm adjustable binoculars. Not really nothing to fancy. Just a nice easy and comfortable to hold pair of binoculars.

There sure was not to much to say about that part of the product now was there. But now with that out of the way we can get onto the fun stuff and take a look at the camera portion of the Spion 5MP digital binocular camera.

I would like to start this off by saying that the Spion uses a very basic 5 mega pixel digital camera with a 4x zoom. This has to be my biggest gripe about the Spion digital binocular camera. While looking through the binoculars themselves you can see up to 8x, but your picture will never get closer than 4x. Simply put your picture may not be as close as what you are viewing through the binoculars.

The digital camera portion of the Spion is powered by four AAA batteries. However standard alkaline batteries will only allow you to take about 25 pictures at 5MP. So just like any other digital camera it is in your best interest to get some rechargeable batteries.

The Spion comes equipped with a 1.5” TFT LCD screen so you can view your pictures directly from the camera or even view what the binoculars are looking at. I myself find the 1.5” screens to small. But there is really no reason why you should even have to look at it since your eyes should be watching through the binoculars themselves. However you may find it hard to watch the LCD outdoors since it has no backlight. This can make figuring out what you are doing fairly difficult.

The Spion’s digital binocular cameras control’s are also very strait forward and easy to learn. Everything you will ever do with them will use only four simple buttons. The first button is the on / mode button. This button will turn on the camera with a simple push. Once the camera is on you can push it again to bring up the menu. When you want to turn it off simply hold the button for 3 seconds.

The next button is the take picture / set button. This button is all you need to push once you have found something to take a picture of. When you are in the menu this button will also select whatever you have chosen.

The next two buttons are the up and down buttons. These buttons will help you navigate through the Spion’s menu. They will also be the buttons you use to zoom in and out. I really don’t think the control’s could of got much easier than that.

Now you get to hear about another gripe I have about the Spion digital binocular camera. You just picked up your new Spion binoculars, so you rush home rip open the package, throw in some batteries and proceed to go outside and take a few pictures. But wait, your new Spion just will not do it. You need to go back and get yourself a darn SD memory card!

That is right the Spion is not manufactured with any internal memory. And you used to think that the measly 25 megs they included on your digital camera was bad. So now you have to go and buy an SD card (up to 1GB) just so you can use your Spion binocular camera.

But you will be pleased to know that once you have everything you need your Spion is capable of doing the following. You can take pictures at either 0.3MP, 2.1MP, 3.2MP, or 5.0MP. But that is not all. You can also record movies at either 320 x 240 @ 30fps or even 640 x 480 @ 12fps.

Once you have taken some great pictures or even made a small movie you will probably want to put it on your computer so you can share it with your friends. To do this the Spion digital binocular camera uses a standard USB 1.1 port. Simply attach your binoculars to your computer with the included USB cable and it should find a removable storage device. This is where you can find your pictures / movies.

One last basic feature that I do not want to leave out is the ability to attach a tripod to your Spion 5MP digital binocular camera. Tripods can be pretty handy with a digital camera but you could probably live without one. With the Spion though I can almost guarantee it will save you a lot of headaches. Cameras are a lot easier to hold still and usually you are not using the zoom. With the Spion binoculars you will be using the zoom almost 100% of the time.

Spion 5MP Digital Binocular Camera Specs

Resolution: 3.0MP interpolates to 5.0MP

Image Size: Still Image 0.3MP – 640×480, 2.1MP – 1600×1200, 3.2MP – 2048×1536, 5.0MP – 2560×1920
Movie LO – 320×240 @ 30fps, HI – 640×480 @ 12fps

Image Format: Still Image = JPEG Movie = AVI (no time limit)

Storage Media: SD / MMC Memory Card (Up To 1GB)

Zoom: 1x – 4x

Exposure: Automatic

White Balance: Automatic

Shutter Speed: 1/20~1/2000

Display: 1.5” TFT LCD Screen

Interface: USB 1.1

Power Supply: 4 AAA Alkaline Batteries

Language: Chinese, English, French, Germany, Japanese

Magnification: 8x

Objective Lens: 32mm

Eye Relief: 14mm
Exit Pupil: 3.9mm
Angular Field Of View: 6.3 degrees

A Few Sample Pics

1x zoom

4x zoom

Here are a few sample pics from the Spion digital binocular camera. Both pictures where taken looking in the exact same area (full dune buggy in view). Notice how the 4x zoom pic tured out a little off center.

Conclusion

So to sum everything up I would have to say that the Spion 5MP digital binocular camera is an all around fun gadget. It may not be the greatest digital binocular camera on the market but one thing is for sure. Whether you are looking to spy on wildlife or your neighbors wife the Spion 5MP digital camera binoculars are sure a great investment and offer some good bang for your hard earned buck.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Spion-5-Mega-Pixel-Digital-Binocular-Camera---A-Voyeurs-Dream/188555

Digital Video Cameras And A Look At Some Of Their Features.

2007-11-14T02:20:00.000-08:00

Digital video has only been around for a relatively short period of time yet some of the latest models have quite a long list of features. Lets look at some of those features.

One major component of the video camera is the CCD or charge coupled device which acts like the film in the old film type video cameras except it works by capturing the light that falls on it and converting it to electrical signals. It is made up of a grid of individual pixels where each pixel represents a pixel in the captured image. The more pixels the camera uses the higher the resolution of the image it produces. The CCD quality is also measured by how much light it takes to produce an image which is measured in lux. The lower the lux rating the less light needed and therefore the better the images will be in low light situations.
When recording with the video camera you need to view the image you are trying to capture and this is achieved either by using the viewfinder or an LCD screen designed for this purpose. It is often best to use the viewfinder to follow your subject while recording and use the LCD screen to review the recorded images. This prevents excessive drain on your battery. You will want to make sure you have a large enough LCD screen to make review and menu applications easier if it has a touch screen and that it also has enough pixels to give you a clear image.

The recording medium is another thing to consider when you are looking at video cameras. A lot of them use MiniDV tape but there are some that record directly to DVD. The tape format is usually easier to use if you intend to load your video onto your computer and do a lot of editing. The advantage to the DVD's is that they give you random access to your recordings. Some of the DVD based video recorders are able to use rewriteable discs but you need to make sure that the format is compatible with with your home equipment if you intend to view it on you DVD player. There are also some models that use nonremoveable hard drives similar to a notebook computer but the disadvantage here is clear because you have a limited storage capacity. However there are others that use removable storage devices like flash memory such as SD cards or Memory Stick.

The lens is another major feature and is probably the most expensive component and can make a huge difference in the quality of your video. Most video cameras will have some kind of zoom feature that is usually just in the adequate range and not too exceptional. Between the optical zoom and the digital zoom, the optical is a more important one to consider since it is determined by the actual range of the focal length of the lens and gives the best image compared to digital zoom.

If you are using the zoom feature a lot then will want to be sure that the video camera has a good image stabilization feature as well. This keeps the image from becoming blurred due to movement of the camera which is more exaggerated with longer shots. Image stabilization is done either electronically using digital circuits or optically using a variable prism or lens group witin the lens. Optical stabilization is considered to be better.

Some other features you might see are still image capture similar to photographs where the image may be captured on video tape along with the video or could be recorded separately on flash memory cards. There are long play features that allow you to capture more video on a single tape by extending the recording time from 60 to 90 minutes and even an infrared feature that allows you to record with infrared light in low light conditions such as at night.

There are still more features to consider than there are listed here so you will have to do more research to find out all you need to know in order to make an educated purchase. Just do your homework and review several models and makes and you should be able ok.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Digital-video-cameras-and-a-look-at-some-of-their-features-/295265

Tips For Finding The Best Small Digital Cameras

2007-11-14T02:19:00.001-08:00

It used to be that if you wanted to get a decent digital camera, you had to get one that was rather large. I bought mine over a year ago, and it was indeed rather big and cumbersome. I love it though, so I won’t complain too much about the size. I have seen a new trend lately, however. It seems that cameras are getting smaller while not having to give up picture size and memory. Many of these small digital cameras have the same features the larger ones do, but are far easier to carry around.

I’m not so sure I will be willing to get a smaller camera the next time I decide I would like a new one though. It’s not that I don’t think small digital cameras will work as well or take the same great pictures. It’s not that at all. It’s that I am prone to losing things. The fact that I have not lost my cell phone over the last two years is something of a miracle. I suppose if I spend a lot of money on something I am going to keep it close, but I fear losing such small things all the time. It’s in my nature.

A lot of my friends have the small digital cameras, and they say that they love them. I still fear losing one, but they are quite appealing. I have to have a larger purse in order to take mine with me when I go out, but they can slip theirs in a small handbag. I have also noticed that the small digital cameras can take the same quality pictures as mine will take, so I would guess that the small camera is the wave of the future.

If you do decide to go with small digital cameras the next time you buy, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Though they might seem slim enough to slip into your back pocket, this is never a good idea. This is a great way to break one. Also remember that even though you can easily slip them into your purse, you might still want to get a camera bag to protect your camera. If you can’t find a bag made especially for small digital cameras, you can find something that works for another electronic device of similar size. As long as it will protect your camera, it does not really matter what it was made for.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Tips-For-Finding-The-Best-Small-Digital-Cameras/203058

Digital Cameras: Why You May Or May Not Want An External Flash

2007-11-14T02:17:00.000-08:00

The built-in flash on a digital camera is compact, simple to use, and often effective in providing the extra illumination needed to assure adequate exposure of a subject when ambient light is insufficient. In some instances, the internal flash is able to soften shadows in harsh light as well. So why then, would the average, non-professional photographer need or want an external flash for their camera?
The built-in flash on the average digital camera has a useful range of about 13 to 15 feet. An external flash has more power and can illuminate a larger area; their range can be as large as 70 feet. Whether trying to illuminate a large group of people only 15-20 feet away or a single subject 50 feet away, an external flash can provide much better lighting in such situations. An external flash is particularly useful when shooting with a wide angle as many can disperse the flash to fill the width of the scene.

Shadows can be excessively harsh when illuminating a subject directly.

The internal flash on a digital camera shines directly in front of the camera lens onto a subject and can create shadows behind them when it is the primary source of lighting. An external flash offers the user greater versatility with models that tilt, swivel, and many that can be positioned well away from the camera body. An external flash can create lighting from different angles and can be bounced off of a white ceiling or reflector to significantly soften any shadows and reduce any glare. The ability to have the flash moved away from the camera lens also helps to eliminate the red-eye effect as the light is not reflected from the eyes of a subject directly back into the lens.

Slow flash recycling can make it difficult to take shots in rapid succession.

The typical built-in flash on a digital camera can take several seconds to recycle after being triggered during which time additional shots with the flash are not possible. An external flash is often able to recycle in less than a second and thus allows multiple shots to be taken in rapid succession.

As lighting is generally considered the single most crucial factor in the quality of the image captured, using an external flash with a digital camera would seem to be an excellent choice. However, there are instances in which a user might wisely opt to forgo the additional expense and complexity of using an external flash.

Compact size or sleek styling is of primary interest to the user.

An external flash is large, bulky, and certainly does not lend itself to going unnoticed. They cannot be toted around in a pocket and thus are not a good choice for casual use.

Ease of use is critical.

An external flash often requires the user to manually adjust settings. For the most simplicity, a TTL flash (through the lens) is the best choice versus a non-dedicated or slave flash device, as a TTL flash communicates with the camera and triggers automatically. The process of purchasing an external flash can also present some complexity as the buyer must assure that the camera and flash are compatible, that they will communicate or connect (via hot shoe, cold shoe, sync-cord, adapter, and so forth) and that the voltage on any flash device that connects to their camera will not harm their camera circuitry.

Budget constraints.

An external flash, as with any auxiliary or accessory device, adds cost. The average flash will add $140-$500 to the total cost of a camera. In addition to the up front cost of the device, an external flash can also consume a significant amount of battery power adding to the life time cost of the camera.

Use of an external flash with a digital camera can significantly improve the quality of images created by giving the user much greater control over lighting. However, these devices do add another level of complexity as well as cost to the photo taking process. First time buyers merely need to weigh which features are most critical for them to determine whether or not an external flash will be a good investment.

http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Digital-Cameras--Why-You-May-or-May-Not-Want-an-External-Flash/219979

Compact Digital Camera Reviews

2007-11-13T01:42:00.000-08:00

There is a plethora of fine, solid quality compact digital cameras on the market today. And there are lots of camera models to choose from. So much so that it can be confusing for all but the most dedicated hobbyist. So which camera models are the cream of the crop? That depends a lot on what you intend to use the camera for, but we have listed a few models here that we think would make a fine purchase in most cases.

First of all, here are the features that we like to see in compact digital cameras. They are features that are most often appreciated by consumers in real world situations. Here is our list of required features:

* At least 3 megapixels
* Costs under $300
* Has at least a 3X optical zoom
* Can run on AA batteries
* Produces high quality, sharp photos

So with that criteria in mind, when you look over the compact digital camera field there are three models that meet or exceed these requirements and are often found on the top of most compact digital camera reviews by both consumer websites and consumers themselves. And here they are:

1. The Canon Powershot A510 is an incredible camera for the money. It comes in at the least expensive price point in our little group at $170. It's a 3.2 megapixel camera which will do just fine for anything but the largest enlargements, and produces incredibly sharp and vivid photos. It sports a 4X optical zoom which provides a zoom range that is roughly equivalent to 35-140mm in 35mm. It also runs on AA batteries and can be expected to provide around 300 shots per set of batteries. And it has a movie mode w/sound which is a nice extra.

2. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W5 is a 5 megapixel camera that features an extra large LCD screen at 2.4 in. which can be very nice for those that can use a little more screen size. It's optical zoom is adequate providing a 35mm focal length equivalent of 38-114mm. It also allows manual control of the exposure settings for those that like to go their own way. Another noteworthy mention is that this Sony manages power very efficiently and you can expect to get almost 400 shots before replacing the batteries in this unit. It costs $275.

3. The Kodak EasyShare Z700 is another fine compact digital camera with 4 megapixels that boasts an optical zoom of 5X which translates to an effective 35mm lens length of about 35-175mm. It also uses AA batteries and comes with it's own charger, although it uses more power than the other two cameras listed here and can be expected to go through a set of batteries in around 200 shots. This Kodak model comes in around $240.

Any serious listing of compact digital camera reviews should include all three of these models and rate them highly overall. You choice should be based on what your individual needs and uses will be however, but all of them should provide years of solid, quality service.

http://www.cryosphere.f2s.com/articles/cameras/compact-digital-camera-reviews-before-you-buy.html

3 Alternative Tripod Tips for Steady Photographs

2007-11-13T01:40:00.000-08:00

The tripod is one cumbersome accessory, and in many cases, it's just one of those items you don't want to lug along with you each and every time you're planning on taking pictures. However, even without the tripod, there are several ways to improve your photographing results, if you pay attention to your surroundings.

The Lazy Photographers Tripod

Let's say you're heading out for nice stroll, digital camera in your pocket, and you really don't want to carry that bulky heavy tripod. The first consideration is of course how to properly steady your hands while taking pictures. Most people use their hands when taking pictures, so it's not the end of the world if you have to. However, there is a right way and a wrong way to do it.

Even if you have steady hands like that of a surgeon, you'll need a little assistance when it comes to holding that camera perfectly still. For your best results, always hold the camera with both hands. Your left hand should not be grasping the camera, rather it should be supporting it, while your right hand has a solid grip on it. Use your chest to brace your arms and steady your hands.

When you're ready to snap the picture, don't press the shutter button quickly as this will actually cause the camera to shake slightly as you click it. Try squeezing the button slowly. As you squeeze you are entering a two-stage process. The first stage will lock in your focus and exposure and as you continue to squeeze down on the shutter button, the picture will be taken.

The Spur of the Moment Tripod

Depending on the environment you are in, you can use your surroundings to help steady the camera. If there's a nearby railing, use it as your steadying device. If the surface is smooth enough, you can place the camera directly on the railing, gently but firmly gripping the camera as you squeeze off your next shot.

Even using a nearby wall or fence to lean against can help create a more secure way of steadying your camera while manually pressing the shutter button. Of course you'll want to make sure you're the only one using the prop to steady yourself. If someone were to come along just at the right moment and bump the railing or perhaps simply backup against it, you might get a sudden jarring motion just as you take your picture, which will produce an unwanted result.

The Less Cumbersome Tripod Alternative

Sometimes the surface of your possible props may not be as steady or smooth as preferred. In these cases, you can use a beanbag. Some beanbags are actually specifically threaded just for this purpose, allowing you to securely attach your camera to it. The nice thing about the beanbag is it's flexibility, which allows you to adapt it to almost any surface providing you with a more stable setting for your camera.

The most important thing to remember is to take along that camera everywhere you go. Tripod or not, the world is full of wonderful and exciting things that you can capture on film or memory disc, if you take it with you always.

About the Author

Kimberly Shannon enjoys digital photography and graphic arts as a hobby and part time business. You can read more articles for digital camera tips at www.digitaltipsweekly.com.

Basic Digital Photography II:Getting the Light Source Right

2007-11-13T01:39:00.001-08:00

Lighting is the single most critical factor in determining the quality of any photograph. Although with digital cameras you can edit after the fact, such features are limited and it is more effective to assure that you get the best exposure when taking the shot. The amount of light on the image sensor, or exposure, is determined by the opening/closing of the aperture, the length of time that the shutter is open, and the amount of light present. For the purposes of this article, the discussion will be limited to working with and enhancing the light present for the shot.

When the light in a situation is not sufficient or when you want to create a different effect with highlights and shadows, an internal flash or external light source can be used. The happy news for the photography novice is that digital cameras have an auto flash feature in which the camera decides when lighting is insufficient and will activate the flash automatically. One of the most important things to remember about using flash photography for the novice is that all cameras have a flash range. Beyond that range, generally no more than 14 to 15 feet, the flash is not effective. Flash is most often used when shooting indoors where there is generally less light. One of the pitfalls of using flash when photographing people and animals however is the infamous "red eye" effect which is created when the light bounces off of the back of the retina of the subject. This can be reduced by having subjects avoid looking directly into the camera or using the "red eye reduction" mode. This mode simply emits a tiny flash prior to taking the picture to help the pupil contract prior to the full flash. Glare is another common problem encountered when using flash photography but can easily be eliminated by being sure not to point the camera directly into any shiny object such as a mirror or glass. Most digital cameras allow the user to have control of the flash function giving them the ability to disable it for use in situations where flash is not allowed or the user is striving to achieve a particular look in the picture. It also allows the user to set the flash so that it is always on, allowing the flash to be used even when the camera senses adequate lighting.

Flash can be used to deal with some lighting related problems outdoors as well. Sunlight can create shadows and cause the subject to appear dark and difficult to discern with the brighter, sunlit area around them. One option is to pose your subject in the shade. Taking photographs in the shade often provides images with better/truer color definition, no shadows, and subjects free from squinting. When in the sunlight, use of the flash can be particularly helpful in balancing the light and reducing shadows. The fill-flash mode can be useful in any situation where the subject will be darker than the surrounding background whether they are shaded by a hat, a tree, or simply their own facial features. However, fill-flash mode should be used only when the subject is within 6 feet. Beyond this distance full power mode will be necessary.

Use of an external or auxiliary flash can give the user the control necessary to adjust lighting and create special effects. Just as the intensity of a light source influences the exposure in a picture, the direction of the light source can change an image through shadows and highlights. A flash can be attached to a camera with either a "cold shoe" or a "hot shoe". A cold shoe is merely a plastic shoe that allows the flash to be physically attached to the camera but does not have any contacts that allow the camera to communicate or coordinate the flash activity. With a hot shoe, users can attach a flash sync cord, allowing them to move the flash away from the camera and choose the direction of the lighting. In addition, a hot shoe attachment allows the flash to be controlled by the camera's flash settings. With the external flash, there are various modes to control the flash function.

* The TTL setting allows the camera and flash to determine the best exposure based upon the focal length of the lens. This is possible when the camera and the flash are of the same brand.

* The Stroboscopic setting can produce multiple flashes within a single exposure to create special effects.

* The Manual setting allows the user to set the flash for full, half, or quarter power.

* The Auto setting allows the flash to determine the best exposure independently. This is used most often when the camera and flash are not of the same brand.

There are two primary types of lighting used in photography. A hard light is created from a single, bright source of light and it produces shadows, highlights and pronounced contrast in the resulting image. Soft light on the other hand is very diffuse, making highlights and shadows more subtle. Hard light is preferable when detail and distinct color is desired, but soft light is best for a softer image. Light from a single source can be diffused in a number of ways. The flash can be covered with a thin material such as tissue or wax paper or it can be bounced off of another surface, such as the ceiling or a wall, rather than being shown directly onto the subject. Bouncing the light is obviously not effective outdoors and the distance of the reflecting structure should be no more than 6-8 feet. The color of the surface reflecting the light must also be considered. Any color on the surface is generally reflected onto the subject. For this reason, white is generally preferred although professionals use black to absorb light and darken shadows and shiny materials are used to harden the light.

As mentioned previously, the direction of lighting can also greatly influence the characteristics of a photograph. The use of an external flash gives the user the option of moving the light source in relation to the subject. Front lighting is the most common. When wanting to emphasize the detail of the subject, front lighting is the best choice. However, it can create a rather harsh image with shadows in the background, muted colors in the foreground, and red eye. The use of fill flash and red eye reduction when using front lighting can help to alleviate some of the negative effects, while diffusing the light can reduce harshness. Back lighting can produce a very dramatic photograph but, if too bright, can cause the subject to appear only as a silhouette unless the object is transparent. Reducing the brightness of the light source and using fill flash to brighten the shadowed areas can improve the quality of a picture with back lighting. Providing lighting from an angle rather than directly from the front or back can be beneficial in either of these lighting situations.

Lighting can also be directed from the side, the top, and from under the subject. Side lighting gives the user the most options as far as angle and the ability to create a wide variety of effects. Side lighting is optimal for creating texture and a sense of depth to a photograph.

For the novice photographer, experimentation is key. Whether diffusing light for softer images, using fill flash outdoors to eliminate shadows, or altering the direction of lighting to create special effects, creating unique, quality images requires practice.

About the Author

Christine Peppler shares information on home electronics products and home entertainment on her site at: www.homemedias.info.

The Secrets of Choosing a Digital Camera Part 1

2007-11-13T01:36:00.000-08:00

Size

Small is beautiful. Today's digital cameras are sometimes so small, that they fit into the breast pocket of your shirt easily and are still fully featured so you get the most out of the camera in almost every situation. Just imagine taking a picture of a wonderful sunrise when your are on your morning run or the happy smile of your kids when you pick them up after school. With a small digital camera you don't have to lug around heavy equipment, you are always ready to take the picture of your life.

But too small could be a nightmare for someone with large hands or big fingers. In this case it is not practical and the fingers could cover the lens, the internal flash or could not work the tiny buttons to select the diverse functions, a modern digital camera offers.

A larger, heavier digital camera is useful when you want to do more serious work. Think about taking pictures where the internal flash is disabled and you work with longer shutter speeds. A heavier camera is easier to hold steady and it can better compensate the tine movement when you press the shutter button.
System - Camera Technology

There are many different kinds of cameras on the market today. The consumer has the choice between an ever increasing number of brands, but mainly his decision is based on what he wants to use the camera for and what his past experiences with photography are.

Viewfinder cameras
this is the most simple system on the market. The viewfinder is located in the upper left corner of the camera (seen from the rear) and presents a picture that is slightly offset to what the camera really sees. When you are very close to an object, the difference in view can be dramatic. This type of digital camera works very good for snapshots as well as for most photographic needs of the average person. Disadvantages are the fixed lenses, the lack of influence you can take on the picture (e.g. sharpness, focus, light).
Some more advanced models also use the small LCD monitor as a viewfinder. The advantage here is that the picture you see on the screen is the same that you will take with your camera. You have good control of what you will put into your picture. Disadvantage with his type of display is that you cannot preview the pictures in a brightly lit environment. Taking pictures in brought daylight is sometimes difficult as you try to hold the camera steady and also shade the LCD.

Bridge cameras
this type of camera is more heavyset than the usual compact digital camera. Usually it features a fixed lens with a good zoom factor. Ranging from wide angle to telephoto, you can cover most photographic challenges with these models. They offer a trough the lens view finder, which gives you a correct impression of the photo you are going to take, regardless of focus length. The picture is projected on the CCD chip in the camera and projected on a small monitor that is either inside the camera positioned like on traditional cameras or on the back panel of the camera body.

These cameras are usually more capable of changing photographic parameters and are used by people who want to do more than the occasional snapshot.

Digital SLR (Single Lens Reflex)
this is the most advanced type of digital camera on the market today. It works very similar to traditional SLR cameras, but using the digital process instead of film. You can choose different lenses for every possible purpose. Whether it is a wide angle lens for landscape photography or a small telephoto lens for doing portraits or close-up work. The lenses are interchangeable and you sometimes even get compatible lenses from third party manufactures that are of similar quality, but lower in price. The picture is reflected into the viewfinder via a mirror (this is why its called reflex). When you release the shutter to take the picture, the mirror is moved away, the shutter curtains open and the light is directly sent to the CCD chip. A small LCD screen on the back panel of the camera is used for doing a first check on picture quality and for setting the different features and options of the camera. Digital SLR cameras are usually used by professional photographers and high level enthusiasts.
Memory - Bigger Is Better

The advantage of digital cameras compared to traditional ones is that you can shoot as many pictures as the memory chip allows. Pictures that turned out to be low quality can easily be discarded and again you have room on your memory card to take new pictures. As advantageous as it is, this circumstance leads to taking more pictures than with traditional cameras and as the resolution of the digital cameras increases from year to year, the need for memory increases. Therefore it may be useful to exchange the memory card that came with the camera with a bigger one or having a spare one when going on a longer trip. Below table lists the approximate number of photos that fit on a 128 MB memory card when using the jpg-format:

Resolution Quality Best Good Standard
6 mega pixel 3008x2000 34 70 117
4 mega pixel 2400x1600 51 96 161
1.5 mega pixel 1536x1024 106 173 271

The above quality rating is based on the compression factor of the jpg format (higher compression results in smaller files, but in lower picture quality).

More things to watch out for shoppping or digital camera will be covered in part 2 of this series.

About the Author

Tom has spent most of his free time behind cameras of different types. He specializes in close-up work and travel photography. To share his experiences and fascination about digital photography, he has set up www.digitalcameratips.de which covers topics for beginners as well as advanced users of digital cameras.

Basic Understanding of your Digital Camera Flash

2007-11-13T01:35:00.001-08:00

Many of us do not think twice about the usage of our digital camera's flash assuming that the camera will use the flash automatically as needed. Flash however can and should be manually set in many scenarios resulting in high quality digital photos.

The most common usage of flash photography is when there is not enough ambient light for example when taking an indoor digital photo in a dark room. There are many other ways in which you can use your digital camera's flash to get high quality digital photos. One such usage is fill-in flash.

Before setting your flash to manual mode and making more efficient usage of it you should know a bit more of the technology and history behind flash photography. Flash photography has been around for more than a century. During the early days of photography flash was implemented as a powder that was literally lit by either fire or electrical current. At that time flash photography was a risky business. Digital cameras today use a safe implementation by utilizing electronic flash tubes that are automatically synchronized with the camera's shutter.

You have two options for using flash with your digital camera. The first option is using the digital camera internal flash. Practically all digital cameras have build-in flash units. Most cameras also allow the usage of an external flash unit. Such flash units can be either mechanically attached to the digital camera or they can be connected to the camera via a cable and mechanically positioned on a tripod or any other mechanism. They are synchronized and controlled by the digital camera. External flash units vary in price and features. They can have different maximum light energy that they can emit and different mechanical capabilities (tilting, skewing).

In automatic flash mode the camera sensors evaluate the amount of ambient light in the scene. The digital camera fires the flash if the amount of ambient light is not high enough. There are limitations to the cameras automatic sensors resulting in either firing the flash when it was not needed or vice versa.

In some scenarios the usage of flash can result in poor digital photos. For example when the object is too close to the digital camera the flash light will be too strong and will wash out the object. Another example is in scenarios where the flash creates unwanted shadows in the digital photo. Yet another example is exaggeration of details such as when shooting a digital photo of an older person the skin wrinkles and imperfections details can be overly detailed.

Digital camera's flash units have a certain effective range. This is a limitation of how much light energy the flash unit can emit. Internal flash units usually have shorter range than external flash units. If the object in the photo is outside of the flash range the flash will not be effective and the object will be dark. On the other hand if the object is too close to the flash unit or the flash unit emits too much energy the object will be washed out. If your object is outside of your flash unit effective range you should turn off the flash and use slow shutter photography preferably with a tripod or another stabilizing mechanism. If your flash units allows the setting of the light energy that will be fired (usually by setting the distance to the object) make sure that it is set right to prevent washed out objects.

In some scenarios there will be enough ambient light to take a digital photo but without the usage of the flash the digital photo quality will be very poor. In such scenario if the camera is left on automatic flash mode it will not fire the flash. For example daytime photography with an object that is shadowed. If the object is wearing a hat it can create shades on the object's face or when the object is lit from the side the object's nose can create shades too. Putting the flash in manual fill-in mode will force the flash to fire. The flash will lit those shadowed areas and prevent the shades in the final digital photo. The object of course must be in effective flash range. Another example is an object that is lit from behind such as when taking a digital photo of an object against a sunset. Without a fill-in flash the photo will likely be just a dark silhouette of the object.

These were some basic concepts behind flash usage. There are many other advanced options for your digital camera flash. For example bounce flash can result in great digital photos in that mode instead of pointing the flash directly at the object it is pointed to some reflecting surface like a wall or a special reflector. The result is more natural light and color rich digital photos.

http://www.cryosphere.f2s.com/articles/cameras/basic-understanding-of-your-digital-camera-flash.html

Digital Photography Tips - How To Get The Correct Exposure

2007-11-12T03:38:00.001-08:00

One thing that many newcomers to digital photography find most challenging is getting the correct exposure for their digital photos. This can also be challenging for more experienced photographers. One of the great things about digital photography is that digital photography lets us use PhotoShop and other photo editing software to make corrections after the digital photo has already been taken, but it's certainly better to get it right to begin with.

Most people take their digital camera out of the box, charge up the camera batteries, make sure the exposure setting is on automatic and never change it. However, using all the settings on your camera is not really that complicated. It just takes a little information and some practice. Here are some tips to get you going in taking more control over your digital photos.

First, decide what you want to emphasize in your photo. Are you taking a digital photo of a child against a dark background? Is the sunlight overly bright, or is it a hazy day? Perhaps the child is in a filed of flowers with a dark forest in the background. Do you want to be sure the child's face or clothing is correctly exposed, or do you want to emphasize nature and make sure the trees in the forest stand out? Your exposure settings might have to change to emphasize what is most important in the photo to you.

Second, you need to decide whether you want the camera to decide on the exposure, or whether you want to make some or all of the decisions about exposure. Most modern digital cameras give you a choice of exposure modes, including so-called programs. For example, there might be a stylized symbol of a mountain for landscape photographs or a profile of a runner for action photos.

If you select one of these modes, the camera can then use one of its internal programs to make decisions about shutter speed and camera lens aperture. The camera will select the settings the manufacturer has decided is best, on average, for these kinds of photos. For example, if you're taking a landscape photo, you can always just set the camera on the landscape photo setting and let the camera make all the decisions. The problem is, you may not be in an average situation for your landscape or action photo. If so, it's time to get into a more lands-on mode, and take more control over how your digital photos will look.

In addition to auto exposure, nearly all digital cameras come with settings for aperture priority, shutter priority and manual modes. The cameras aperture setting determines how large the opening is in the lens that lets the light through. The shutter speed is how long the lens stays open. The larger the aperture, the more light comes through, so if the aperture increases (more light), the shutter speed must also decrease (open a shorter period of time) to make a correct exposure.

When you use the aperture mode, you control how large the lens opening is. With a small lens opening, you can have a very sharp focus on one object in your picture, but objects that are not the same distance from the camera will not be as sharp. If the aperture opening is larger, objects up close and not so close to the camera can both stay in focus (greater depth of field). To compensate for that, when you increase or decrease the aperture, the camera will adjust the shutter speed up or down.

This is great if you're taking a close-up of a flower and want it to be extra-sharp. But if you photography a moving object, you r must have your shutter speed set fast enough to stop the motion. This needs to be at least 1/125th of a second if you are following the motion with your camera. If you are shooting a scene with motion in it, you probably need to be anywhere from 1/250th to 1/1000th. When the shutter speed is increased, there will be less time for light to come through the lens, so the lens opening (the aperture) must be larger to compensate. You can set the shutter speed in the shutter priority mode. Then the camera will adjust the aperture to match.

Finally, you can switch to fully manual mode for total creative control over your digital photos. This may require more decisions than you think you will want to make, but it does give you total artistic control because it allows you to break the rules tying the aperture and shutter speed together. Manual settings are more than we can get into in this article. We will cover this in a separate article.

Finally, the best part of digital photography is that, in most cases, if a photo doesn't come out just like you want it, unless it's one of those once in a lifetime shots, you can always take it over. So be sure, especially if you're on a trip or at a special occasion, to scroll through your photos before you leave. Then if a picture didn't come out like you wanted, you can always try again.

Dave Hunt has shot landscape and scenic photos in almost all states of the US and in most countries in Europe. He is the author of numerous articles on photography, travel and recreation. You can find more articles, tips and how-to's, along with and the latest news and information on digital photography at: http://www.digitalphotographygeek.com For tips on travel and vacation ideas, visit: http://www.deskatravel.com and http://www.bahamasbeat.com

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

Disposable Digital Cameras Deserve To Be Thrown Away

2007-11-12T03:37:00.000-08:00

Disposable digital camera – these three words fit naturally together in today’s world. After all, in today’s world, everything seems to be disposable and everything is digital, why shouldn’t a camera be, too? But is a disposable digital camera really a good idea? Do the brains that came up with this idea deserve to be saved in jars of formaldehyde and studied for many years to come? My opinion is, “no.”

First of all, if we have so much technology these days, why do we continue to think of ways to make things disposable? Shouldn’t we be coming up with things that will last long for the pleasure and use of many generations to come? Instead, we are coming up with items that will fill our landfills for many generations to come.

Granted, because you have to take your disposable digital camera into a processing center to get the photos, it will not be you, personally, who is disposing of the camera. And, in fact, many of these disposable cameras are recycled or reused almost in full. Nonetheless, in a world of disposable diapers, paper plates, plastic forks, one-day-wear contacts, and so many other things that are meant to be used once and never again, do we really need to add disposable digital cameras to that list?

As far as the “digital” of a disposable digital camera goes, this part is just fine… in theory. Let us first think of why people love their digital cameras: People love their digital cameras because they can take seemingly endless amounts of photos on them. People love to look at their LCD screens and decide immediately whether or not they need to take another photo to really capture the moment. They like to be able to delete the really horrible photos, right on their camera. They love the ease of viewing all of their photos at home, on their own computer.

The problem is, a disposable digital camera does not have any of these things. You can only take a limited amount of photos and you certainly cannot check them out on an LCD screen – that would make the disposable camera way too expensive. And you cannot go back and delete photos (although, many have a feature that allows you to delete the one that you just took – of course, if you cannot see it, how do you know you want to delete it?) And you need to take your camera to a processing center -- you cannot simply set it up on your computer at home.

So, why, would you want a disposable digital camera? I guess that after you pick up your photos from the processing center, you will have them on a CD so that you can put them on your computer – but you can pay a few bucks and get such a disk with a disposable film camera, too. And unless you are a complete film connoisseur, you likely will not be able to tell or care about the difference between the images.

So, for now, I am not a huge proponent of disposable digital cameras. Although, I do believe that they will improve greatly in the future, so I am going to leave myself room to change my mind. For now, though, either buy yourself a disposable film camera, or go out and get an inexpensive digital camera. You will be happier in the long run.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on disposable digital cameras, please visit Disposable Digital Cameras.

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

Canon digital camera - innovative digital products

2007-11-10T02:26:00.000-08:00

They make market leading products now but a Canon digital camera [of course film in those days] started in a single-room by three Japanese men in the year 1933 under the name of Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory, Canon has come a long way today. It all began with the phantom prototype camera called the ‘Kwanon’. At that time, Germany was considered to be the leader in camera production. German cameras were extremely expensive. So, Goro Yoshida, along with two others tried to produce a 35mm rangefinder camera at a cheaper price and came up with “Kwanon’.

However, at that time, one of the problems faced by the company was that it did not have a lens of its own. So, it decided to tie up with Nippon Kogaku Kogyo (who was to become the founder of Nikon) and acquire lenses from them. With the use of these lenses, Canon came up with its first commercial camera called the “Hansa Canon” in 1936 which became a hit. However, the company still had to go through hardships due to the War.

After the war, the company officially adopted the name “Canon” as its name. Up till then, the lens was under a different name, the camera had a different name and the company had a different name. So, in order to unify all these three, Canon came into existence on September 15, 1947. Slowly the company started to expand, and many historical cameras were created such as the Serenar 50mm f/1.8 lens in 1951, Canonet in 1961, AF35M (Autoboy) in 1979 and the EOS 650 in 1987.

The first Canon digital camera was the PowerShot 600 in 1996. Then, after making several advances in digital technology, Canon launched the EOS D2000 digital SLR camera in 1998 for professionals. In addition, the XL1 digital video camera was introduced. Due to its superior functionality and reliability, the XL1 became the official digital video camcorder of the NASA.

In order to provide the market with a cost effective camera along with superior functionality and performance, Canon introduced the EOS D60 in 2002 and the EOS 10D in 2003. These two cameras made Canon the market leader in digital technology. Then, the EOS Kiss Digital was introduced in 2003, which became a big success.

Today, Canon has introduced several digital camcorders. Starting with the FV30 and the FV200KIT in 2002, Canon went onto launch the FV M1 and the IXY DV M2 in 2003 in the mid range segment. As the company progresses, Canon digital camera continues to strive to provide its consumers with better and better technology at the lowest price possible. They have been known as a choice of the pros for many years in the world of photography but now with a broad line of products Canon is firmly positioned in the consumer market as well.

http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/canon-digital-camera-history.html

How to shoot digital video of your kid's sports team so everyone will want to watch it!

2007-11-10T02:25:00.001-08:00

1.You bought a digital video camera
2.You want to shoot your child playing sports
3.Here is how to do it!

What a wonderful age of technology we live in. You can buy the greatest gadgets now days to record video and music and play them in all sorts of ways on other great technology gadgets from computers, DVD’s, MP3 players, VCR’s, and many more. It is all great stuff. But they all come with thick owners manuals that do not always get you going the right direction. You may eventually learn to use your great new camera for instance, but that does not mean you will necessarily take pictures that are worth looking at down the road. Rolling tape in your camera is one thing and creating video that is high quality and interesting is another thing. The goal of this product is to bring you up to speed with using your video camera (whatever format, and whatever brand) to get the best results for recording those precious moments of your kid’s athletic achievements.

as parents spend plenty of hours out on the field, court, pool, or track watching our kids take part in and compete in youth sports. If you have a video camera you are going to want to record some of these events for posterity and perhaps education. Following the simple steps in this guide will help you to capture them in the best possible fashion so that it is watch able but also usable down the road.

My video expertise stems from two decades as a network television cameraman and as a parent with several kids actively involved in youth sports. In my years of shooting video professionally I have been around the world and seen just about every type of news event. I also spent 15 years covering pro sports events for my employer. These were the best type of assignments as far as I was concerned. In my entire career the things I have enjoyed most is being able to go to places where the average person cannot.

In sports that usually means being on the field, next to the court, in the press box, or in the pit. I have shot football games of all levels up to and including the NFC and AFC championship games. Living in the SF Bay Area has allowed me to cover many baseball pennant races and several World Series. I was right behind home plate the night the earth shook in the 1989 World Series between the Giants and A's. Talk about a shock. I had to give up covering a World Series between the two Bay Area baseball teams to go and cover a huge news event. Baseball seemed small for a while after the magnitude of the earthquake.

The point in this is that I love sports, have been around sports my whole life and I know how to shoot video of sports. With that in mind I will do my best to give you advice on how to do the same.

Gear

Now whether you have the latest DV camera in your hands or an old VHS format camera there are basic things you will need to keep in mind if you are going to shoot sports. As we say in the video business your camera is only as good as the glass that you hang in front of it. The better the lens the better the results will be no matter what kind of recording format you use. Now you already have a camera in hand and may never have heard this particular bit of advice so it is too late to factor it into the equation. However if you have camera in hand and it has any limitations on what it can do due to the lens being less than wonderful there are things you can do to mitigate the situation. We will discuss those things in more detail later on.

The key factors before setting out on your game day video assignment are to make sure you know the operating functions of the gear, have a tape supply in hand (soon to be DVDs with the revolution in gear design that is taking place right now), and batteries fully charged. I know these may seem like the simply obvious things but even the pros have to constantly remind themselves to check and double check these items.

A little aside here about preparation. Over the many years of covering news I learned lots of little tips from other photographers in the field and applied them to my work regimen. In the early days of video we always had to carry around a portable hair dryer because the record decks would seize up if the moisture levels got to high. So in the winter time if you came in from the cold outside into a nice warm building the air would condense inside the machine and cause moisture build up. The warning light would come on and bang we were dead in the water. One of us would have to run to the car and get the hair dryer, fire it up and chase the water away from the record heads of the deck. It caused some very funny moments in public places I can assure you. (This by the way can still be a problem even today with electronics/VCRs/lenses. Too much moisture can cause havoc. So just remember a portable hair dryer can save your day)

Another thing I learned from others is the value of backup. A few years ago I was out on assignment and we had a young eager college intern along with us in the field. This young man wanted to learn all about what we did in our job. He was very interested in how to take pictures, unlike most of our interns who only wanted to become reporters or anchors. He asked many questions and after seeing that he was really paying attention I decided to take him under my wing and really fill him up with information. One tidbit that I shared with him was to always have an emergency stash of tape in his car when out on assignment. He didn’t quite understand the importance of this at first since I had already drilled him about always bringing tape stock with him when going out on assignment. I filled him with stories of times when something or other happened and I’ll be darned if you didn’t need another tape and there under the seat of the car was that emergency spare. So anyway he went off to graduate from college and get a job in a small market TV station. He would send us progress reports from time to time, which I really enjoyed. Then lo and behold one day he sends me a letter telling me how he got into a jam one day on a story and needed that emergency tape. He had dutifully tucked one under the back seat and it was there to save the day. I hope that what you learn in this book will in some way keep you from having a video failure down the road. What I learned in my career is that video production is 80% of it is dealing with the curves and problems that are thrown at you and 20% talent. If you can learn to trouble shoot then you will always be successful.

My first suggestion for shooting your kids sports activities is to go watch TV. Yes sit down put your feet up and watch some sports on TV. Really watch how they make it interesting at the top level. Then watch the news and see how they cover the games from a news perspective. Don’t pay attention to the content; just watch how it develops visually. Now of course you can never duplicate what the networks are doing with just your one camera. However if you can glean anything from watching it should be how they try to bring intimacy with the athletes out in the broadcast. All the new improvements in covering sports have to do with getting you the viewer as close to the athlete as they can. Bring you into their world. From cameras on wires overhead that swoop along the field to cameras in the net of a hockey game to cameras inside the cars at Daytona, it brings you into the game. Now you cannot stand on the pitchers mound at your kids’ baseball game but you can learn some techniques that can make your baseball video more intimate and therefore more compelling to watch.

A side note here, if your task is to capture the whole game or sporting activity for review as a coaching tool you should focus mainly on getting a good high view and putting the camera on a tripod. Pan slowly to follow action and don’t zoom in and out. My main goal here is not to teach you this skill since it is pretty darn basic. However if this is what you are doing you should do it right. Find the right framing to keep as much of the activity in the frame and follow it carefully. Some sports move quickly from one end to the other and you will have to be smooth. Resist the temptation to follow the ball on full zoom. You will lose. Those guys that shoot sports on TV are full on pros using much better gear than you will ever have at your disposal.

Now in order to get a good video of your child’s game you need to find that emotion and excitement that exists in any game. Think of it as capturing a few of the things that occur and making those golden. Does the team do a pre game cheer? Get up close, stick your camera wither way up high over their heads looking down or get underneath looking up and shoot it in a way that takes the viewer where they can’t go. Capture an at bat in baseball by taking a full pitch cycle in close-up of the pitcher, and then one of the catcher and then as close as you can of the hitter. Show their face if you can. If they get the big hit don’t go crazy rushing to zoom out. Follow the runner down the line. It will be almost impossible to follow the ball so stay with the runner. Look for the angles that will give you these emotional shots.

Some sports are more of a challenge due to the size of the field and the amount of movement up and down the field. Take soccer of instance, if you follow the ball the camera is moving all over the place and the viewer gets queasy. To capture some good video of your kid playing you need to focus on specific shots and not try to follow the play. Look for moments such as throw ins, free kicks, kick offs when things are predictable and you can get closer to the action. Walk down the sideline and wait for the action to come to you. If you child is playing right forward then get ahead of the play and when you see the ball moving towards you then you can find you child and roll tape in anticipation of them playing the ball. Be sure to get some shots of the crowd cheering, the coach watching (not yelling I hope) the goalie waiting in anticipation.

Hold your shots steady for 6-10 seconds at a time. If you are taking a shot of someone watching the game actually count it out in your head (thousand one thousand two…) This will ensure that you get good solid shots and that you don’t run on and on with the shot. Brace your arm against your chest for stability and use your other arm across your belly underneath to create a stabilizing platform. This is in lieu of a tripod of course. If you have a tripod it can always be a good thing to use if it does not get in the way.

Use creative angles as much as possible. Get down low and wait for the action to run by you. Don’t pan with it but rather let the action race through the frame. At a swim meet get the camera down on the deck for more of a swimmers perspective of the action. Of course you may not want to stay there when the swimmers approach for a turn. Digital electronics do not like water inside them. I was getting the most awesome low angle shots of some open water ocean swimmers one time and the boat lurched on me and salt water sprayed over the camera. I had a cover on the camera but salt water seeped into the crannies and it caused us much grief getting it cleaned out so as to avoid damaging the electronics of the camera.

http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/sports-digital-video.html

Laptop And Digital Camera Memory Devices Improved With Nanotechnology

2007-11-10T02:21:00.000-08:00

Arizona State University's Center for Applied Nanoionics (CANi) has a new take on old memory, one that promises to boost the performance, capacity and battery life of consumer electronics from digital cameras to laptops. Best of all, it is cheap, made from common materials and compatible with just about anything currently on the market.

"In using readily available materials, we've provided a way for this memory to be made at essentially zero extra cost, because the materials you need are already used in the chips -- all you have to do is mix them in a slightly different way," said Michael Kozicki, director of CANi.

For some time now, conventional computer memory has been heading toward a crunch -- a physical limit of how much storage can be crammed into a given space. Traditional electronics begins to break down at the nanoscale -- the scale of individual molecules -- because pushing electronics closer together creates more heat and greater power dissipation. As consumer electronics such as MP3 players and digital cameras shrink, the need for more memory in a smaller space grows.

Researchers have been approaching the problem from two directions, either trying to leapfrog to the next generation of memory, or refining current memory. CANi took both approaches, amping up performance via special materials while also switching from charge-based storage to resistance-based storage.

"We've developed a new type of old memory, but really it is the perfect memory for what's going to be required in future generations," Kozicki said. "It's very low-energy. You can scale it down to the nanoscale. You can pack a lot of it into a small space."

CANi was also able to overcome the limitations of conventional electronics by using nanoionics, a technique for moving tiny bits of matter around on a chip. Instead moving electrons among charged particles, called ions, as in traditional electronics, nanoionics moves the ions themselves.

"We've actually been able to move something the size of a virus between electrodes to switch them from a high resistance to a low resistance, which is great for memory," Kozicki said.

Most memory today stores information as charge; in the binary language of computers, this means that an abundance of charge at a particular site on a chip translated as a "one," and a lack of charge is translated as a "zero." The problem with such memory is that the smaller its physical size, the less charge it can reliably store.

Resistance-based memory, on the other hand, does not suffer from this problem and can even store multiple bits on one site. Moreover, once the resistance is set, it does not change, even when the power is switched off.

CANi's previous high-performance resistance-change memory has been licensed to three companies, including Micron Technology and Qimonda, and has attracted the attention of Samsung, Sony and IBM. However, it used some materials, specifically silver and germanium sulfide, previously unused by industry and therefore required new processes to be developed.

The real advancement of CANi's newest memory is that researchers discovered a way to use materials already common in chip manufacturing. Although "doping" -- mixing silicon with small amounts of conductive materials such as boron, arsenic or phosphorus -- has been common practice for years, copper in silicon dioxide was largely unheard of. In fact, it was strictly avoided.

"People have actually gone to great lengths to keep the silicon oxide and the copper apart," Kozicki said. "But in our case, we are very interested in mixing the copper with the oxide -- basically, so that it would become mobile and move around in the material."

"Because it can move in there, we can make a sort of nanoscale switch," he added. "This very, very small switch can be used in memory applications, storing information via a range of resistance values."

Industry has already shown interest in the new memory and, if all goes well, consumers could see it on the market within a few years.

"What it means is we could replace all of the memory in all sorts of applications -- from laptops to iPods to cell phones to whatever -- with this one type of memory," Kozicki said. "Because it is so low energy, we can pack a lot of memory and not drain battery power; and it's not volatile -- you can switch everything off and retain information. What makes this significant is that we are using materials that are already in use in the semiconductor industry to create a component that's never been thought of before."

The research was conducted in collaboration with Research Center Jülich in Germany. It was published in the October 2007 issue of the journal IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices in the article "Bipolar and Unipolar Resistive Switching in Cu-doped SiO2." The team included Christina Schindler, on loan from Germany to CANi, Sarath Chandran Puthen Thermadam of CANi, Kozicki, and Rainer Waser of the Institute for Solid State Research and Center for Nanoelectronics Systems and Information Technology in Jülich.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071023173435.htm

A Primer on Digital Cameras... Everything you need to know

2007-11-10T02:18:00.000-08:00

It wasn’t long ago that digital cameras were essentially for the rich and the geeks; if you spent just a few bucks you didn’t get anything worth having, and if you really wanted something good.. well, you’d better be in the book about the Rich and Famous.

Technology and costs have changed drastically in the last few years, and it seems as if today that digital cameras nearly outnumber all the classic film cameras, and to all but the classic photography buffs, digital is the way to go.

Even traditional photography studios use digital, often in combination, with film.

Why? What’s the attraction? Instant availability and the ability to discard unwanted photos without cost penalty is one main attraction. The second is the ability to share, publish, store your pictures.

The purist will still argue that for professional grade photography and the widest range of effects that film is the only way to go. If he were shooting today, it is doubtful that Ansel Adams would be using digital.

For the rest of us, digital seems to be the way to go.

Now assuming you have not yet made the plunge, the biggest question is "Where Do I start?" or "What do I buy?" or "How Do I Compare?"

Articles have been written on just these subjects and if we were to expand on all, this article would be a text book instead of just a primer. You can do a search on any of the popular article sites to find many articles just on that subject, (one site for example is ArticleCity.com, but not to promote one over the other.. chances are you may be seeing this on an article based site). You can also use search engines.

But sometimes it’s nice to have interactive expert advice. We suggest you read and research for background, but then for selection, visit you closest specialty photography or camera store. One where that’s all they sell.. not a general all purpose discount or department store that probably has that department "manned" with part time help.. but go to the specialty store. The person will know what to ask you and how to guide you.

Your biggest question will end up being an ethical one: After you have been taught and guided, do you buy from that store, or take your knowledge and model to the internet or a discount store and make your buy. If you do, keep in mind that the full service store may offer just that.. service after the sale; maybe an upgrade trade in policy, and other intangibles that must be assigned value.

Before you venture out, choosing the right camera begins with asking yourself "What do I want this for?" "What kinds of pictures do I expect to be taking?" "How many at a time?" (Addresses memory and storage issues). "What kind of light will most of my pictures be in?" "Will I be carrying this camera for long periods of time?"(Think of weight). And lastly, and this is important.. What kind of batteries does this camera use; how available are they, and what do they cost? Most digital cameras are real battery hogs, so it is important that batteries are readily available.. and possibly rechargable.. but if you are on a 3 week safari in Africa and you don’t have chargers handy.. what are your options? How many pictures? Memory cards available easily? Or do you have to dump and download often? On a long vacation you don’t want to shoot all day and fill up.. and then not have a computer handy to dump into?

Compared to film where it’s just "pop a new roll" digital cameras purchased that don’t match the photographers needs can be a detriment, not an asset.

Once you choose, then you need to know how to compare pricing and benefits.. but that’s the subject for another article.

Choose wisely and you’ll love your new camera!

http://www.multihost.com/digital-camera/a-primer-on-digital-cameras...-everything-you-n.html

Nikon Professional Digital Camera - Every Photographer's Dream

2007-11-08T04:41:00.001-08:00

Nikon has proven its reputation among professional photographers, being the top choice for many of them. Don’t expect a Nikon professional digital camera to be inexpensive, but be sure that you are paying for quality, durability, functionality and reputation.

The first Nikon cameras entered the market during the early days of film photography, and were using optics from Zeiss, a German optical maker that produced some of the absolute best camera lenses. Around the middle of the 20th century, Zeiss-Nikon lenses were the standard for professional quality lenses throughout the world. Nikon’s reputation in the camera market quickly reached the top mainly thank to their excellent line of Nikon professional digital cameras.

At the time when other camera makers were quickly occupying the digital camera market, Nikon wanted to make sure it made the conversion right with their biggest base relied on a Nikon professional digital camera. As market forces changed, Nikon also tries to give amateur photographers the opportunity to have the quality professional use in a Nikon professional digital camera.

Nikon produced less expensive units of their professional digital camera, that became available for serious amateurs and those that stick to a particular brand name. Nikon’s reputation as a top camera maker is unparalleled in the photography world.

In August 2006, its amazing line of five Coolpix camera models strengthened their position at the top, and a Nikon professional digital camera became affordable to regular folks. All models can be found between $200 and $400 and they all have a five-star rating from consumers. The rating encompasses issues such as ease of use, dependability, quality of pictures among others. Their goal is to enable amateurs to have the same photo experience as those using a Nikon professional digital camera.

The Nikon D80, costing around $1,000 is not considered to be a Nikon professional digital camera, but shares many of the features. Improved auto-focus and interchangeable lenses make it an amateur’s dream. It boasts 10.2 mega-pixels, wider flash range and longer battery life.

The Nikon professional digital camera D2X is packed with all possible features, which most amateurs will hardly use in a lifetime. At $5,000, this camera has it all and does it all, being every photography enthusiast’s dream.

For more information on Nikon Professioanl Digital Camera check out http://www.digitalcameraworld.org You'll find loads of tips and techniques plus you'll find answers to questions many others in your situation have asked before. But Hurry! For a limited time you can get your very own copy of our award winning Digital Camera Software at absolutely no cost.

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

The PowerShot G7 Digital Camera by Canon

2007-11-08T04:39:00.000-08:00

The newest camera Canon has put out for the advanced users, the Power Shot G7, had many serious photography aficionados snapping their fingers, anxiously awaiting its October 2006 debut. The 10 Megapixel digital camera is more than most casual users need but the consummate professional will find the Power Shot G7 great for snapping shots for enlargements and nearly unlimited cropping. A large 2.5 inch LCD monitor, complete with wide viewing will make on-camera screening much easier. The 6x optical zoom will make taking crisp, clear close-ups almost effortless.

Canons G series cameras all offer superior image quality but the G7 is one of their first to offer DIGIC III Image Processor with Face Detection Technology. Not only are images clearer and higher pixel count, but the processing and saving is twice as fast as previous technologies. You’d think such power would run your batteries dead in no time, but Canon addressed that as well by integrating low power consumption into the DIGIC III processor.

The Power Shot G7 6x zoom lens and compatibility with auxiliary lenses lets you snap shots in the middle of a soccer game without ever stepping on the playing field. You won’t lose brightness or clarity as you zoom in and out of the game, either. Meticulously engineered lenses reduce and correct aberrations while Canon's new SR coating technology (used here for the first time in a digital camera) virtually eliminates ghosting.

There are so many shooting modes on the G7 you’ll be hard pressed to use them all.

Auto mode lets you focus on your subject and makes all the decisions for you. Great for everyday pictures in normal light and motion situations. The P program is a more advanced Auto mode with the addition of advanced exposure compensation. The AV aperture priority mode allows you to isolate your subject or, in the alternative, to add clarity to your entire picture. The camera chooses shutter speed on the AV setting.

If you like more control of shutter speed, the TV shutter priority allows you to adjust shutter speed and possibly add blur while the camera chooses the appropriate aperture. Canon’s noise reduction will reduce the noise when on the TV setting. For ultimate control, choose the M, or Manual, setting. You choose the ISO speed, exposure and white balance. Once you find a setting you like on M, you can save it as a C, or Custom, setting.

Do you build panoramas or want to start? The Stitch Assist will help align the images in order efficiently and neatly.

Movie makers will love the Power Shot G7’s options of shooting in XGA – 15 fps (frames per second); VGA and QVGA - 30 fps for up to 1 hour or up to 4 gigabytes; QVGA (60 fps) for up to 60 seconds or QQVGA (15 fps) for up to 3 minutes.

If you like the blurred-background look of traditional portrait shots, choose the Portrait special scene mode. It will automatically focus on the subject while blurring the background. For sharpness from front to back, the Landscape scene mode will set a small aperture for a great landscape photo.

Nighttime shooting comes with a set of problems all its own. Canon realizes this and added a night scene mode for impressive nighttime pictures. When you choose this setting, the camera will automatically expose the background and use a slow flash. Sunsets will “pop” when you choose the G7 to shoot.

Soccer moms will love the super accurate auto-focus feature that comes in the form of the Sports scene mode. Capture little Johnny kicking the game winning field goal or smacking the ball for a home run.

Autumn foliage and blossoms won’t come of dull or muted when shot through the lens of the Power Shot G7. The Foliage scene setting will automatically pick up the brilliance of the colors of greenery and flora.

Snow shots have often come out looking bluish or darkened. Those days are over when you use the G7. Choose the Snow scene mode to fix the off-tints and darkened hues.

Clear beach shots might have been a sore spot in the past but Canon addressed this by adding a Beach scene mode. Gone are the darkened faces and blurred background waves with the Beach mode.

Fourth of July used to mean fireworks – and bad pictures of them. Not so when you set the G7 to the Fireworks mode. You’ll pick up the brilliance of the skyrockets and awe-inspiring ground fireworks on Independence Day.

Underwater photographers have been thought of as well. With the optional waterproof case (part number WP-DC11) and the Underwater scene mode, you’ll be able to encapsulate the beauty of the submarine world with reduced or even removed backscatter effect.

Indoor aquarium shots often come with flash exposures and unnatural hues. The Aquarium scene mode allow for flash-free exposure and natural colors you see in indoor aquariums.

The Indoor scene setting will reduce blur and pick up more accurate colors when shooting inside. With the ISO 3200 feature, you won’t have to use the flash in some indoor settings.

Children and pets are always on the move, making a family photographer’s job that much more difficult. The Kids & Pets setting reduces the time you’ll spend focusing by freezing fast-moving subjects like Sally and Spot. No more stories of the shot that got away.

The Color Accent setting will produce natural-looking photos with subjects lit by flash and beautiful bright backgrounds

Change that blue shirt to red or green eyes to brown with the Color Swap feature. This is possibly the coolest special effect feature you’ll find in Canon’s Power Shot G7.

You’ll find the G7 easy to use with dedicated dials for ISO settings and Scene Modes. The zoom is quick and easy. The camera itself is small, light and painless to carry. The pricetag you should expect to see on the Canon Power Shot G7 is about $600, though you might find it a little cheaper at discount camera shops.

The article on the canon camera Powershot G7 has been brought to your buy your consumer electronics.

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

How to Get Your Photos Off of Your Digital Camera

2007-11-07T04:12:00.000-08:00

How do I get my photos off my digital camera? For some, this is an obvious question with an obvious answer. But as digital camera purchases continue to grow in leaps and bounds as more people convert from traditional 35mm to digital, new users may be confused about the many options. Here is a review of the various ways to get your digital photos off your camera and printed.

Via Software and USB Cable

Digital cameras usually come with software that you install on your computer. It launches a program that prompts you to transfer your photos directly from your camera to your PC using a USB cable. Photo editing and photo management software like ACDSee Photo Editor and Adobe Photoshop Elements also feature prompts to transfer your images to your computer. You can choose to have your photos automatically erases from your camera's memory card afterward, or you can do it manually later. Once your photos are on your computer, you can organize them in folders and rename them just like you would with any other files on your computer, as well as use photo editing software to crop or enhance the images. Then you can either print them on your own color printer or upload them to an online digital photo service for printing.

Via PictBridge

Many cameras have a "PictBridge" feature which means you can connect your camera directly to your printer via USB cable and bypass a computer completely. You can print your photos immediately.

Camera Docking Station

Some cameras have a docking station that connects via USB port to your computer. You just put your camera in the docking station and your photos will transfer automatically.

Memory Card

There are several methods here. If your computer or printer has a memory card slot (many newer ones do) you can take your memory card out of your camera and insert it into the appropriate slot and transfer them that way. Another method is to take your memory card out and take it to your local drug store or photo store to review and print them at the photo kiosk.

Upload your Photos to Online Photo Service

Online photo processors offer simple, free software programs to help you upload your photos to their site either directly from your camera or from your computer. You can use their editing tools to crop or adjust color and contrast and then order prints for home delivery. Some services even offer in-store pick-up.

There are so many options for getting your photos out of your camera and printed. Don't let your memories languish in your camera-get them printed so you can see and relive them!

Learn more about printing and editing your digital photos at DigitalPhotos101.com

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

A Few Helpful Tips For Choosing a Digital Camera

2007-11-07T04:11:00.000-08:00

Digital cameras are different from regular cameras because they have a computer built into them. This means that you can later transfer the images to your pc and play around with size and definition. Digital cameras have been around for a while now and the prices are just about on a par with the prices of a good regular camera.

If you are looking for a digital camera, there is plenty to choose from – with prices that should suit most budgets. Some digital cameras are better than others but it is a good idea to do your homework before handing over the money. If you don’t, you could end up with a camera that does not suit your needs.

What advertisers call the perfect camera may not be perfect for you. In addition to this, advertisers are trying to sell a product and what they call perfect today may not be tomorrow. You, on the other hand, want a camera that does what you need it to do and that will last for some time. Advertisers are not really concerned with people’s particular needs, just with popularizing a product.

Before you set out to buy a camera, it’s a good idea to have some understanding of the terms you might come across. For example, you may hear the retailer mention pixels and not know what they are. Pixels are the dots that make up the picture. Thousands of these dots are known as megapixels, the more megapixels you get, the sharper the picture you end up with.

Megapixels can also determine the price of a camera, the more you have, the more expensive the camera will be. A lot depends on what you want the camera for. If all you want to do is take family photos and email them to friends and relatives, a normal four megapixel camera should be just fine. If you want to use it professionally, you may need something with more pixels.

You might also want to consider size when buying a digital camera. Now days, you don’t have to buy large cameras – some are so small they will fit into a shirt pocket. However, size is also affected by price. It takes greater technological know-how to make a small camera than it does to make a regular sized one. Most people who take family photos do quite well with a regular one.

The information above should give you some idea of the general things to look for in a digital camera. Now it is up to you to decide which camera you think is the best for your particular needs.

Once you have thought about those aspects, you should have an idea of the kind of camera you want and it should enable you to look at the lists of digital cameras online or in the stores and short-list any suitable models.

You should then try to look and, if possible, handle the actual cameras, either in store or, better yet, if people you know already own them, you are likely to get better answers to any questions you may have.

Then try to find examples of any pictures taken to see the quality and whether it meets your expectations.

Testfreaks reviews digital cameras at http://www.testfreaks.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams

Helpful Tips On How To Choose A Digital Camera Without Wasting Your Money

2007-11-07T04:09:00.000-08:00

When the time comes to buy yourself a digital camera, it can be a very confusing process. There are so many digital cameras available on the market today, it's hard to know where to start. There are so many great features, and each camera has its own particular capabilities for things like image resolution, lens power, storage capacity and so on. So where do you start?

In the end, you buy a digital camera to take pictures. So although there are many things you need to consider before choosing a camera, there's no doubt that image quality and color trueness are the most important. You need to spend time checking out the images generated by a number of different cameras before you can make a decision. Don't look at retouched images, just at fresh shots.

Resolution is also very important. The quality of a camera and its photos are in direct proportion to the image resolution. The higher the mega pixels, the better the resolution. For example, a camera with a capability of 3 mega pixels (MP) will output images that are between 1 and 2 MB in size. But a 7 MP camera produces images from 4 to 5 MB in size. For beginners, a low or mid-end MP camera will be fine, but professionals must go for high pixel cameras.

Once you have a few cameras in mind, try picking them up and seeing how easy they are to operate. A large or heavy camera can be difficult to carry, and may be difficult to hold still while taking photos. It's also important that all the main buttons for operating the camera are easy to locate and use.

Check out the storage capacity of the camera. A small memory card doesn't matter if you're only going to take a few photos at a time and have ready access to your computer for downloading. But if you're going to be using your camera while traveling, you will probably find you need a large memory card or perhaps a couple of small memory cards. That way you won't constantly be running out of space. Even if the camera you prefer only has a small card, it doesn't matter, because you can buy a larger card separately.

Most of the low to mid range cameras come with a single lens, and generally have some sort of 'zoom' capability. If you're going to be taking lots of photos at close range, such as less than 1.5 feet (of flowers, for example) then make sure you choose a camera with a macro option. It's also possible to buy a high-end camera, which is basically a 35mm SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera, which allows you to change lenses. These are great for professional photographers, but for the average person you will probably find you spend a lot of money for nothing.

Digital cameras tend to go through a lot of batteries, so you may like to choose one with an AC adapter so that you can recharge the battery directly from an electrical socket. The only problem is that you can't use the camera while it's being charged. So you may prefer to buy some rechargeable batteries and a battery charger. Always make sure you have a spare set of batteries ready to go.

For more information on digital cameras to include reviews, a digital camera buying guide, the advantages of digital photography and how a digital camera works try visiting Digital-Photo-Tips.info

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

Take Your Digital Camera Along For A Photo Safari

2007-11-06T03:30:00.000-08:00

Are you a shutterbug? Do you love to take photos everywhere you go? Pictures are important because they preserve memories for us that we would not otherwise have. It can be a fun hobby as well as a rewarding profession; in fact most professional photographers begin as hobbyists.

When I go to new places I love taking my digital camera along with me to record the trip. This serves a multitude of purposes for me not the least of which is proof that I was actually there in the first place which really comes in handy if you are at a place where some newsworthy event happens.

There are many companies that actually specialize in Photo safaris or tours. If you want to tour Vegas or the Grand Canyon you can give Adventure Photo Tours a try. They will take you to places like the Grand Canyon, Area 51, Red Rock Canyon and even the Ghost Towns. Be sure to bring an extra memory card or two for your camera because you will want to take every picture your digital camera will hold! These impressive gifts from Mother Nature are definitely worth all of the time that you can spend there.

For those who love the outdoors there are many other adventure photo safaris you can take including hiking, wildlife adventures, and even African photo safaris! Your photo trips can take you to fascinating and exotic places all over the world. If you like to hike I highly recommend going to the Acadia National Forest in Maine in the early fall when the leaves are changing. It is breathtakingly beautiful and well worth your time and effort. You can take photos of sleepy little fishing villages with lobster boats as well with hillsides of exploding colors behind them.

It is a great adventure to go to foreign countries and take pictures of all the unique subjects you will find there. From ancient and beautiful architecture to the landscapes and the indigenous animals there you will get a lot of joy from the photos you shoot. If you take the time to get close to the locals you will be able to take picture of them and bring back some local culture with you. These photos will be priceless memories of your trip in the years to come.

Going on photo tours and safaris is one of the most exciting things you can do with your digital camera and I urge you to not be timid and get out there and find a photo safari that suits you.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about digital cameras and digital camera accessories at http://www.findcamerasplusmore.com

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

How To Choose A Digital Camera - Gimme My Options!

2007-11-06T03:29:00.000-08:00

Digital cameras cost anywhere from tens to thousands of dollars, with all of them having excellent components and will be a good one. What it boils down to is what is it a person wants, and what eventually will suit their needs. The new word on the block is "prosumer" cameras - referring to cameras and their equipment focused on mainly advanced amateurs, a very inelegant word but getting the point across.

According to unbiased consumer reports, the leading brands about price, quality, and guarantees are Canon, Fujifilm, HP, Kodak, Nikon, Olympus, and Sony - with other brands coming from consumer-electronics, computer, traditional film, and film companies.

To avoid being stuck with this, recognize there is no such thing as a perfect camera. What is perfect is not what is the "top pick" but one that is the absolute most suitable one of all of them - for me - not the majority of the consumers. Choosing a digital camera from lists from the random choices of reviewers and camera critics is not the way to go, believe me, as they do not take a person's needs into account with the most updated information available. Each camera comes with its own individual features like image resolution, storage capacity, lens power etc. So, what should the buyer look for in the camera?

The first step is thinking about what is needed and wanted. Look at various specifications - and recognize they are not always straightforward facts for all the cameras at once. An example is the number of pixels the sensor records on the cameras. We assume that a 5 Mp camera will give higher quality results than a 3 Mp, but this may not be true.

Questions need to be asked and looked in their entirety, not just one at a time. Some of these questions are: (1) what type of camera user am I?; (2) how important is camera size, megapixels, and finished picture size to me?; (3) what are the lens options to me?; (4) what are my memory choices, and how much do I need?; and (5) is money an issue, and how much can I pay or should I pay? A digital camera should last for about two or three years before upgrading; I need to look at the camera and how long it has lasted its present owners.

Many factors need to be considered when a buying a digital camera. Look at the online information of digital camera web sites and suitable models of what you want. Then go to your local camera store and handle the actual camera. Get a feel of it, and if it fits comfortably in your hands. Look at its build, its quality, and what it accessories it has.

Talk to the camera professionals that are working there, or even people you know who actually owns one. Look at some of the reviews of the camera you want; do not decide to purchase based on their reviews - only how they feel AFTER they have purchased it. What problems have they had? Would they buy another one? What guarantees does it have, and do they honor it? What is their return time on answering questions or repair work?

Resolution is another major requirement - I need to ask myself how much flexibility would I need to enlarge my images? Are 4x6 or 8x10 pictures what I want - if so, I need to choose the camera accordingly, as the quality of the camera is directly proportional to the resolution of its images. For 4x6 photographs, the 4 or 5 MP (megapixels) is adequate, yet can still do the 8x10 photographs without a lot of image distortion; any enlargements would require a 6 to 8 MP camera.

The 3 megapixels camera outputs images that are anywhere from 1 to 2 MB in size while a 7 MP camera outputs images that are 4 to 5 MB in size. A gentle rule of thumb is if I was a professional photographer then I would go for high pixel cameras; if I was a beginners I can look at low or mid-end cameras.

None of us want to think about our camera malfunctioning or breaking down entirely before we ever purchase one for any length of time, but it can and probably will happen at some time. If this does happen, make sure the camera's manufacturer will guarantee this, and for how long after the purchase? If they do, they will exchange the new camera for the broken one if requested, and then pass the defective camera onto there servicing department. It will be fixed and sent to the outlet warehouse, completely functional.

Many deals for consumers can be found this way, at a newer and lower price for a fully functional and almost new camera. For amateurs and novice users, restored products such as these are popular for a lower price, and still has a warranty that is slightly limited.

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

Nikon Digital Camera D70's - Does The Grade Up Justify The Upgrade?

2007-11-06T03:27:00.000-08:00

After Canon released its first Digital Rebel - an SLR designed to make it possible for novices to take excellent pictures, while at the same time offering lots of scope for advanced enthusiasts - Nikon soon answered with its D70, which has more recently been upgraded with the release of the Nikon D70s.

Reviewers have found it difficult to find this camera a real improvement on its predecessor, the D70 - which only attests to the quality and specifications of the older camera. This is truly a case of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!" - and Nikon dodn't fall into that trap.

The new D70s has a 2-inch LCD which is slightly larger than the D70's 1.8-inch screen, but this is not very noticeable.

It also uses a higher-capacity battery than its predecessor, and a slightly improved, more readable menu structure. In fact, in this area the D70 probably beats the more difficult-to-read menu system of the popular Canon Rebel cameras.

It retains the same useful manual focus facility where you just grip the focus ring and adjust the focus - even while autofocus is engaged.

As far as image quality is concerned, nothing changes about the excellent quality already achieved by the D70, as the imaging system remains the same. The new camera also retains the 6.1 megapixel resolution of the D70.

One area of improvement is the built-in Speedlight flash, which now gives improved exposure with flash shots, and more even lighting with wider zoom settings.

Probably the most impressive improvement lies in the speed of the new D70s. Start-up is almost instantaneous, and there is hardly any shutter lag to speak of. It is also able to shoot a rapid 3 frames a second for a continuous burst of 144 pictures!

The main question to ask regarding the Nikon D70s Digital Camera is not about its own capabilities, but whether or not it is worth the cost of upgrading from the D70!

More features of the Nikon D70s digital camera:

* The viewfinder of the Nikon D70s has a diopter adjustment for individual differences in vision. To adjust viewfinder focus the diopter control is adjusted up and down until the viewfinder display and focus brackets are in focus.

* The Nikon D70s offers a choice of seven Digital Vari-Program (pre-set) modes. When you select a program the camera's settings are automatically optimized to suit the selected scene.

* The camera supports JPEG and RAW file formats, and the ISO range is 200-1600.

* Lenses: It accepts interchangeable Nikkor lenses.

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

Using A Digital Still Camera To Cover TV News

2007-11-05T03:59:00.000-08:00

CNN SF uses a Sony digital camera to capture courtroom art for video editing of daily reports on the Scott Peterson murder trial going on in Redwood City, CA. The use of a digital camera simplifies the capture process and speeds up the editing of news segments for staff editors.

For many years whenever there was a trial in which the TV cameras were excluded from the courtroom the TV folks have had to rely on the courtroom artists to get their images of the drama taking place inside. Each metropolitan area usually has one or more artists that specialize in this type of art. The styles of the artists vary from charcoal based art to pencil art to pencil and water color art renditions of the lawyers, judges and defendants in the case. Vickie Behrenger is a long time courtroom artist in Northern California. For the Peterson case she is providing court art to wide number of media outlets ranging from CNN to local news affiliates. www.courtroomartist.com

The way it works is that the artist sketches away during court and when there is a break they run outside and as quickly as they can they finish up 1 or more pieces of court room art for the media cameras. You have to be good at drawing people in a hurry and you have to be good under pressure. Over the last 20 years or more TV cameramen would anxiously wait for the art to get posted on the wall outside the courthouse so they could shoot it on tape for their stories.

The trick to making it interesting for the folks at home is to take a variety of shots of the same piece of art, utilizing zooms and pans to create the illusion of motion. We would invariably spend ten minutes shooting one piece of art in a painstaking effort to give the editor enough to work with in the edit room.

Now through the use of digital cameras it is possible to integrate digital images with video images to help speed up the process, make the storage and archiving easier, and give the editor complete creative control.

CNN has been covering the Scott Peterson murder trial since the story first began and they discovered that using the Sony Mavica MVC-CD500 camera they could make the process of capturing these images more efficient every day. When art is posted by the courtroom artist Vickie Behrenger outside the court house in Redwood City, CA the CNN editor or cameraman can walk up and snap a couple of images on the digital camera and walk away within a minute.

Then the digital images are downloaded into the computer in the CNN workspace across the street. CNN edits their daily stories on a Mac G4 Powerbook using Final Cut Pro 4 software. Once the digital court room art images are imported into the software the editor can then use the power of the software to crop, zoom, pan, or shrink the image as they see fit to work into the script of the story. This is a very effective method of bringing these images into system. At the end of the day the images can be archived onto DVD for storage and easy retrieval for stories in the future.

The Sony Mavica is easy enough to use that any member of the news staff on location can be called upon to capture the images when they become available. “We have almost no trouble getting these images from raw art to edited video in a very quick fashion. Then to be able to store them on DVD makes our library retrieval so much easier.” Says Jeff

Kevin Rockwell fuels his passion about digital cameras at Great Digital Cameras - Your Guide to Great Photography

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

Sony Ericsson K750i: A Digital Camera and a Mobile Phone

2007-11-05T03:58:00.000-08:00

One of the reason for the rising popularity of Sony Ericsson handsets is their specialization in a certain fields. The W series Walkman phones, P series smart phone or K series camera phones. The Sony Ericsson K750i cannot be simply termed as a camera phone but a digital camera with evolved features clubbed together with a mobile phone. The phone is in classic candy bar form with more than half of it covered by the upgraded 262k colour TFT display. The images produced are good and vivid and remains readable even in bright sunlight. The keypad is made of plastic and number keys are placed in a single block so typing on them is easy and largely error free.

The slide open the protective covering at the back of the handset to activate the 2.0 megapixel camera and shoot holding the handset horizontally, just like any digital camera. You can capture high resolution images of the world around you in accurate and vibrant colors. The integrated camera have advanced options like macro mode, auto-focus and flash so that you don't face any handicap of a 'camera phone'. With adjustable settings and effects, you're bound to get a great snap each time. Video recording and playback of two qualities in 3GP format is supported. The Sony Ericsson K750i also includes a media player to play your favorite tracks. Enjoy the high definition sounds with the graphic equalizer and convenience of playlist support. Apart from 38 Mb of total user memory, a 64 Mb memory card is included in the kit which is further expandable up to 4 GB. A stereo FM radio with presets completes the circle of mobile entertainment with the K750i Bluetooth 2.0, Infrared and USB connectivity is very fast and efficient. Browse the GPRS enabled Internet with the WAP 2.0 browser or simply play highly tactical Java games.

With the Sony Ericsson K750i, there are no end of possibility.

Carly Charu is an expert author and the webmaster of http://www.mobilerainbow.org/, the website having details of latest phones and six mobile phone networks available in UK.

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

Capture Your Underwater Memories With An Underwater Digital Camera

2007-11-03T02:12:00.000-07:00

Do you like to dive or snorkel? I'll bet you have used those disposable 35mm underwater cameras, haven't you? They are good for taking photos up close and in shallow water but not good for deepwater. What you really need to create and save those underwater memories is an underwater digital camera.

Underwater digital cameras are used by divers all over the world and not just for personal use. Those who make their living from the ocean like marine photographers, biologists, and scientists use underwater digital cameras to film and study marine life. The photographers sell their videos and make a good living from it, the scientists use them to study and learn more about the creatures they are interested in. You are more than likely in none of those categories, probably like me, you are just a lover of the water. I thoroughly enjoy being able to bring back evidence of what I have seen underwater with a camera.

When you are looking for an underwater digital camera you must realize that they are rare and hard to find. Cameras as a rule, being electronic, can't take the high pressure associated with depths reached in diving even if they are waterproof. What you will find in most cases is a specialized casing produced specifically for a digital camera to be used underwater which in essence will turn your regular digital camera into an underwater one.

Using a camera underwater is quite a bit different than shooting on dry land. Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind to get the best results from your underwater photography experiences.

Light is diffused more and more the deeper you dive so the images you are filming will be darker than what you would have above water. Using white balance will help with this and also give you more natural colors. Another thing to remember is that your pictures will end up larger due to the magnification effect underwater so bear this in mind when filming. Also be sure not to use a built in flash as this will cause your pictures to be blurry, use an external one instead.

Test your camera before diving with it by submerging the camera within its waterproof case in water for a few seconds and checking to see if there are any leaks in the protective underwater case. Take special precautions that you don't get so much as a hair or a grain of sand in the seal area because if you do I assure you the case will leak.

You can get optional lenses for your digital camera that will help you take better pictures; especially essential are the Macro lenses that will allow you to get close up shots without scaring away your subject.

When you finish your dive or snorkel trip always rinse off the case good and set it out to dry, especially if you have been in saltwater.

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

The Transition to Digital Photography

2007-11-03T02:11:00.000-07:00

Today, an increasing amount of people is discovering the art of taking pictures through the advanced technology of digital photography. This approach, which is often used when capturing the images of graduations, parties, weddings, and family outings, has elevated the possibilities a camera may provide. Over the years, digital photography continues to make strides with the public, as manufactures are producing more equipment geared towards both commercial and professional use.

Digital photography involves an electronic device that records and translates images as binary data. A digital camera is able to store images, which are later edited and printed with the use of a personal computer and specialized software. At the time of picture-taking, the camera possesses the capacity to reveal poor photos and allows a user to immediately delete unsuccessful takes, which helps one better preserve their special moments in time.

Today, digital cameras outsell the traditional film camera, mostly because of the features a film camera is unable to deliver. With the ability to shoot live video and record audio, the digital camera is becoming much similar to a mini-camcorder. This type of technology has also taken hold of the cell phone industry, as an increasing amount of newer models allows users to enjoy digital photography features.

Commercial Digital Camera Advantages

The digital cameras geared towards the commercial consumer carries a great deal of advantages over traditional film selections. The ease of not having to wait for film development in order to review photos you may or may not have taken well is one of the best benefits associated with a digital camera. When problems with photos arise, they are easily correctable, which is very important regarding once-in-a-lifetime events. No more out-of-focus pictures, "cut-off" heads, finger blocking the lens, closed eyes, or awkward expressions. The instant review of photos is a lifesaver for the non-professional picture taker.

The cost of digital photography is also less, as you are in charge of producing the prints you want and photo storage is easily met through your computer. There is also no need to pay for reprints because you will always have the ability to make duplicates on your own. The freedom of picture taking with a digital camera is never-ending, as you select the types of paper, images, and other options. You may also make custom photo CDs and crop out unwanted distractions in photos using software.

Professional Digital Camera Advantages

Since immediate image review and deletion is available through the use of digital cameras, professional photographers are able to adjust the lighting regarding their subjects. This especially comes in handy when one is trying to gain the trust of clients and build a portfolio that attracts more business. A professional photographer is also able to work at a faster pace because of the advanced editing and printing possibilities associated with digital photography. Photo manipulation is a great way to change the hue and saturation of pictures, as well as allow the cropping of photo blunders and blemishes, including red eye.

In the end, digital photography produces a wealth of enhanced outcomes, as specialized software and advanced features are used to improve overall picture taking and tweak original photos into works of art.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rita_Lambros-Segur

Understanding Light In Digital Photography

2007-11-03T02:10:00.000-07:00

Focusing is essential in digital photography. One of the biggest topics in digital photography is lighting. If the light isn't right, then the picture is coming out in trouble. Most cameras will see things in a percentage of grayscale with three difference colors following pursuit. Therefore, photographers focus on backdrops, angles and the like.

It is wiser to add light rather than try to do it in some instances. Most cameras have a dimmer switch, which you can hit if the light is too bright. If the area is too light, you want to read your manual to see what exposure effects you can use in this situation. Otherwise, you can change your position or angle to adjust to the lighting. An ideal if you are trying to snap a shot with a dark background is holding up a grey colored card and letting the snaps meter visual this, which will trick the camera and then you can snap the shot.

One thing you want to keep in mind is that the fixed cameras are manufactured set. Therefore, if you are using one of these cameras you need to keep distance from the target in focus. The digital cameras today have automatic focus commands, which makes it easier to control your focus shots. If you are using the digital cameras with auto focus, you will need to lock in the command to make it work. Go figure! They say automatic and put you to work.

With a digital camera, you can target the subject or frame in photographers terms. Once you have the target in focus, you can hold the shutter button down, holding it halfway. Once you have these steps in place, realize that today's cameras alert you at what time the picture is ready to take.

After you have the alert message appearing push the shutter button down and there you have it. Now that you have a focus, let me stop here for a minute, since I received an e-mail that is fascinating.

It appears the new I-Stick is one of the latest storage mediums for storing files. This medium comes in 128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1GB, and 2GB. What a rewarding new commodity for storing images. Apparently, you can store about anything you want, including music, spreadsheets, videos, documents, pictures and more.

Anyway, back to focus. Are you focusing on the object or person you want to snap a shot at? Are you missing the shot? If you are, realize there are programs that will help you even if you don't focus properly. If your camera has auto focus, personally, I prefer not to use this feature, since as a high observational candidate, I trust what I see verses some auto device taking control of my sight. One thing you want to remember while snapping pictures is to stand still without moving the camera out of position while it is targeting the subject. If you move it can cause blurring, which can degrade your picture. If you are taking pictures with the camera positioned on a surface, your best bet is to invest in a tripod. Tripods are designed to keep a camera in place while pictures are being snapped.

If you understanding light, cameras and focus you are half way to the marketing point of taking a good picture. Still, even if you can't get it going on, you can use software-editing tools to make necessary changes. Remember, cameras also (most) have automatic timers, which enable you to set the cam to snap a shot at the right time. After all, it's all about the image.

Complete Photography Guide Discover the hidden photography secrets with Complete photography guide.

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

Don’t Make a $300.00 Digital Camera Mistake!

2007-11-03T02:09:00.002-07:00

If you are looking for the best buy in a Digital Camera then looking on the Internet is a good start. Throughout the various sites on the Web you’ll see many great deals on digital cameras. Unfortunately, mixed in with all those good deals are a few lemons and over priced headaches no body should be so unlucky to be stuck with.

Having the ability to know which of the many Digital Cameras advertised on the Internet are really great deals and which ones are the lemons will mean whether you win or lose on your next Digital Camera purchase. And knowing the difference between a lemon and a sweet camera can be difficult, unless you have the right information. Below are steps that will help you quickly tell if a digital camera is just a lemon in disguise.

How to Spot a Lemon

* Do you know the one function that should be available on any digital camera you buy? - Image stabilization - Once you use a digital camera with image stabilization you will NEVER use a camera that does not have it again. Really! It’s that neat. Think about it… a large number of the pictures you will take are going to be indoors or in other words, marginal lighting situations. Without stabilization you run a higher risk of blurry (ruined) photos.

* There’s a reason people don’t use the various capabilities of their digital camera. - Buried Menus - One of the main reasons the average digital camera owner does not change settings on their cameras is that they are too hard to figure out and it takes too many menu selections to get to them.

* Not enough power – Battery Life – these days there is no excuse for your digital camera’s battery pooping out on you in the middle of your son’s birthday party. Current digital cameras can deliver 300 to 400 images per battery charge, even if you are using the flash.

* Nobody likes a slow camera – Slow Operation – There’s lots of technical jargon like shutter lag and preliminary metering flash to explain why a camera may be slow but the bottom line is, you’re not going to enjoy a slow camera.

* Low light can really challenge a digital camera’s ability to focus - low-light focusing aid – Many compact digital cameras have auxiliary lights that help them focus in dim settings. Again, once you use it you’ll always want to use it.

How to Research Digital Cameras Before You Buy

* Do you know the first place to look when you’re shopping for a digital camera? – Aggregate Review Sites – Aggregate review sites include summaries from all main digital camera reviewers as they become available for each digital camera on the market, all listed in one place. This will save you a ton of time searching across the Internet for a particular digital camera review. Let someone else do the legwork. Note – Aggregate News Sites generally do not have nondisclosure agreements with the various digital camera manufacturers so you may find more colorful opinions on various digital camera models.

#1 Digital Camera Add-On

Regardless of which digital camera you purchase you will not be able to depend on the amount of storage memory the camera ships with – 1 Gigabyte Card - Considering how inexpensive memory cards are becoming it makes sense to pack your new digital camera with enough memory that you’ll never have to worry about running out. You’ll thank me later.

For up-to-the minute digital camera information and review summaries from all major Internet digital camera reviewers visit our site:

http://www.digitalcameratracker.com

Digital Camera Tracker offers a unique and consumer friendly method of researching your next digital camera purchase. Pay us a visit, you'll be really glad you did.

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

Buying a Digital Camera? Understand the Basics and Find the Best Equipment For Your Needs

2007-11-03T02:09:00.001-07:00

It seems like everyone has a digital camera these days and digital cameras have revived the art of photography as a hobby. As digital camera manufacturers improve equipment in quality and price, more people are embracing the benefits of digital photography and putting their film cameras on the shelf. If you’re looking to make the move to a digital understanding the basics of a digital camera can help guide you through understanding how the differences and similarities with film cameras can provide you with a digital camera that fits your needs.

My first digital camera has a 640 by 480 pixel resolution and saved images to floppy disks. It was a little clunky, but it worked well and I was happy with the results. Today, the quality of that camera would barely qualify as a web cam for some people. The technology curve continues to move along for digital cameras but today most digital cameras should be able to provide you with a simple “point and click” experience and provide enough resolution to print 4 by 6 inch prints that you’ll be happy to archive in a scrapbook.

The resolution of most digital cameras is measured today in “mega pixels.” This is a measure of the number of dots which are available to digitally describe the image as a computer file. A digital camera with a 3.1 mega pixel resolution is usually enough to produce pictures that look like a film print on a 4 by 6 print. Moving up to a digital camera with a 5.1 mega pixel resolution will provide a sharper image at the same print size. Can everyone tell the difference? No they can’t. When shopping for a camera, don’t be mesmerized by claims that you must have the very highest resolution to be happy with your digital pictures. Look at samples and select the camera that meets your price range and quality desires.

Generally, digital cameras with a resolution lower than 1 mega pixel are good for images you plan on emailing to people, or posting on the web, but the resolution is not high enough for quality prints. If you plan on making film-style prints of your pictures, you should make your minimum 3.1 mega pixels.

The next issue with digital cameras is how it gets the electricity it needs to function. Many cameras today use rechargeable batteries but some still use AA size batteries. If you plan on taking lots of pictures, a camera that uses disposable batteries can become a very expensive camera, but if the camera has a rechargeable battery with a short life between charges, you might find yourself without power when a great photo opportunity presents itself or you may be stuck buying an extra, and often expensive, rechargeable battery which is custom designed to only fit that specific camera. When you have made you short list of digital cameras meeting your quality requirements, be sure to compare battery life statistics from the manufacturer.

As with film cameras, most digital cameras have automatic settings that adjust to provide a “point and shoot” experience. Some cameras also have manual settings which mimic advanced film camera settings such as aperture and exposure. Digital cameras often have additional features which allow for special effects and even picture taking in very low light settings. These features may or may not be important to you in a digital camera. How often did you load black and white film in your film camera? Chances are these nice-to-have features are not a high priority for most digital camera owners.

Most of the digital cameras feature an LCD view screen. This lets you shoot the image perfectly and then to check it. and is probably one of the most appreciated features of a digital camera over a film camera. The LCD does use up electricity though and by turning your camera off when you are not shooting pictures will preserve battery life.

Most digital cameras use a removable memory card on which pictures are stored. If you have a computer with a built-in reader of a memory card, checking to see if the digital camera uses a compatible type of memory card can make it much easier for you to transfer images to your PC and reduce the expensive of a separate memory card reader. If your digital camera comes with a data transfer cable, keep in mind that the memory card readers are usually much faster and provide greater flexibility. It’s best to keep the data transfer cable in the box.

Overall, most digital camera manufacturers have done an excellent job in making the transition from film cameras to digital cameras a painless one. By knowing some small details about the minor differences, you should have no problem finding a digital camera that you will enjoy and use frequently.

Dave Saunders is a certified nutritional educator and lifelong technologist. He lives in the Washington, DC area with his wife, Irene and writes about his many passions. While pursuing his own enjoyments in broadly experiencing life, Dave Saunders specializes in creating bridges between technical matters and practical application through his writings and lectures to help others create context and see new discoveries and technologies in more a practical light. You can find out more about digital cameras and digital photography at http://www.aboutdigitalcameras.com

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

How Does A Digital Camera Combined Auto Focus Work

2007-11-03T01:55:00.000-07:00

Objects in good focus in a digital photo is a very basic requirement for high quality photography. There are two different ways to focus on such objects: manual or automatic. There are a few automatic focus methods – combined auto focus systems use more than one such method.

High quality sharp and crisp digital photos are a result of many optical parameters that need to be set right. One of the most important optical parameters is focus. When objects in a digital photo are out of focus they look blurry and are missing details and clarity. When objects are in focus they look sharp and crisp.

While the focus can be manually set by the photographer in most cases using the digital camera’s automatic focus feature is much easier and faster. There are many different algorithms and methods that digital cameras use in order to automatically determine the right focus for a specific scenario. Such algorithms include passive and active auto focus. One type of combined automatic focus system uses these two algorithms to delivery superior automatic focus.

Combined passive and active auto focus

Active auto focus systems use distance sensors that measure the distance from the camera to the objects in the scene. Usually the camera measures the distance to the object or objects around the center of the photo. By knowing that distance the camera can then set the camera lenses to achieve good focus. One of active auto focus biggest advantages is that it can work in complete darkness. On the other hand active focus can fail in problematic scenarios such as when objects emit certain energies (like infrared) are photographed or when surfaces in the scene absorb the energy used to measure the distance.

Passive auto focus systems use software that runs on the digital camera built-in computer. The camera executes such image processing algorithms to determine a Focus Level number. The exact way in which such a number is calculated is out of the scope of this article. Suffice is to say that the camera uses some image processing algorithms with which it can calculate how good the focus is. Using these algorithms the camera can find the best focus for the scene. In some scenes the passive auto focus is limited or not functional at all. It does not work well in poor lighting conditions and does not work at all in dark scenes. It is also hard to focus on low contrast objects such as walls or solid surfaces.

Cameras that are equipped with combined auto focus systems pick the right system for the specific scene or cross check by using both systems at the same time. The photographer can also manually decide to use one of the two options. For example when shooting blue skies the camera can try to use the active system and measure the distance. Since the distance is infinite the camera can set the focus and skip the passive focus. In other cases when the distance is not infinite the camera can use the active system to put the lens in approximately the right position and then use the passive system for fine tuning. In dark scenarios the camera can opt to use the active system since the passive system will not work.

Ziv Haparnas is a technology veteran and writes about practical technology and science issues. This article can be reprinted and used as long as the resource box including the backlink is included. You can find more information about photo album printing and photography in general on http://www.printrates.com - a site dedicated to photo printing.

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

Digital Camera Buyer's Guide

2007-11-03T01:53:00.000-07:00

If you are ready to make the switch to digital photography, there's good news! Digital cameras have gotten better with every new model introduction, and many of the newest models can be as easy to use as any Point-and-Shoot (P&S) 35mm film camera.

In shopping for a digital camera, many photographers make the mistake of trying to find "the best digital camera." Of course, that's a moving target as digital cameras get better and better with each new model introduction, but what they are really asking is "what's the perfect digital camera" -- and there's no such thing. In their (often) exhaustive search, many end up discouraged and even more confused than when they started.

We have put together this Buyer's Guide to help you find -- not "the best digital camera" -- but the digital camera that is "best for you."

Each person has different needs and has different photographic knowledge and aptitude. For example, one person may simply want a Point-and-Shoot camera with the camera making all the decisions; others may want a camera that will allow them to learn and grow as amateur photographers. So, what may be best for one person may not necessarily be the best digital camera for another person.

This Buyer's Guide will help you narrow down the hundreds of digital camera choices available to you to a manageable handful.

http://www.photoxels.com/buyersGuide.html

Price Comparison for Digital Camera's, TV's, Watches and more

2007-11-02T00:45:00.001-07:00

The internet is now the biggest marketplace in the world, everything from a pin to a Ferrari is available online, and all you need to do is log on to the right site and start shopping for what you want. With so many sites and an equally large number of products available online, consumers are often faced with the challenge of finding the right deal and product for their requirements. If you feel that every time you log on to a shopping site you are swamped by deals and different products, then this article is designed to help you make a more informed decision the next time you shop online.

The first thing to remember is, that just like malls and boutique stores there are websites that specialize in products. For example if you are looking for a new digital camera, then try and visit a website that specializes in selling just digital cameras, this ensures that you have a wider selection of digital cameras both in terms of models and pricing, similarly if you are looking to buy the latest James Bond flick online, visit an online movie store.

Even if you have found the product you are looking for, without comparing the same product on a few more sites you will never know if you are getting a good deal, even before you try ascertaining if you are getting a good deal or not you should first compare the product you are buying against other similar products. For example if you are looking for a MP3 player you should go through the various models that are available online, there are various parameters like the storage space, colour, and accessories that will help make your decision.

The demand to compare similar products before buying them has led to the development of comparison shopping, sites like www.gotoshopper.com allow users to compare two similar products side by side, if you are also a comparison shopper then the sites like gotoshopper.com are a good place to start your search, not only do such sites allow you to compare prices and features. You can actually buy the goods online through the site once you are convinced you are getting the right deal.

If you want to make sure that your hard earned money is put to good use, and you are buying the best products available online, then make sure you visit more than one website to compare products and prices, however if you fell that sifting through multiple sites is too much trouble, then a simpler alternative is to visit comparison price shopping sites. Not only do you have the opportunity of comparing more than one product side by side, you can also choose a product that fits your budget.

Most comparison shopping sites have multiple options to compare products, so you can compare products based on their prices, the features of the product, and the manufacturer of the product. The next time you want to buy anything online make sure you have done your homework and compared the product with other similar products online.

http://www.articlepeak.com/Article/Price-Comparison-for-Digital-Camera-s--TV-s--Watches-and-more/65898

Terminology - Digital Cameras

2007-11-02T00:44:00.001-07:00

It helps when learning to use your new digital camera to also know what some of the more common terms mean. Below you will find many of these common terms defined..
Automatic Mode — A setting that sets the focus, exposure and white-balance automatically.
Burst Mode or Continuous Capture Mode — a series of pictures taken one after another at quickly timed intervals with one press of the shutter button.
Compression — The process of compacting digital data, images and text by deleting selected information.
Digital Zoom — Cropping and magnifying the center part of an image.
JPEG — The predominant format used for image compression in digital cameras
Lag Time — The pause between the time the shutter button is pressed and when the camera actually captures the image

LCD — (Liquid-Crystal Display) is a small screen on a digital camera for viewing images.

Lens — A circular and transparent glass or plastic piece that has the function of collecting light and focusing it on the sensor to capture the image.
Megabyte — (MB) Measures 1024 Kilobytes, and refers to the amount of information in a file, or how much information can
be contained on a Memory Card, Hard Drive or Disk.
Pixels — Tiny units of color that make up digital pictures. Pixels also measure digital resolution. One million pixels
adds up to one mega-pixel.
RGB — Refers to Red, Green, Blue colors used on computers to create all other colors.
Resolution — Camera resolution describes the number of pixels used to create the image, which determines the amount of
detail a camera can capture. The more pixels a camera has, the more detail it can register and the larger the picture can be
printed.
Storage Card — The removable storage device which holds images taken with the camera, comparable to film, but much smaller. Also called a digital camera memory card...
Viewfinder — The optical "window" to look through to compose the scene.
White Balance — White balancing adjusts the camera to compensate for the type of light (daylight, fluorescent, incandescent, etc.,) or lighting conditions in the scene so it will look normal to the human eye.

http://www.articlepeak.com/Article/Terminology---Digital-Cameras/70968

Fuji Digital Camera Problems: Troubleshooting Made Easy

2007-11-02T00:43:00.001-07:00

When you bought your Fuji digital camera, you knew you were buying a product with a name you could trust. However, even the most sophisticated cameras have problems every now and then. So, what do you do when you encounter Fuji digital camera problems? There are several ways to figure out what to do whenever you experience Fuji digital camera problems. We’ll outline the steps you should follow if you have any Fuji digital camera problems so that you can get back to doing what you love: taking pictures with your Fuji digital camera.

Common Problems

When we talk of Fuji digital camera problems, we are talking about common problems that can occur that can hinder your ability to use your Fuji digital camera properly. We’re not talking about problems such as breakage or water damage. These things are not the fault of the Fuji company and, if these things should happen, you may be out a digital camera unless your warranty covers such things. However, if your Fuji digital camera problems include such things as a dark screen, an out of focus picture, or any other Fuji digital camera problems that can be helped by customer service or with merely a little information on your particular model.

The first thing you should do if you experience any Fuji digital camera problems is to call the customer service line that’s listed in the documentation that came with your camera. The customer service representative should be able to determine if your problems can be fixed over the phone and then will walk you through the steps to fixing them. However, if your Fuji digital camera problems can’t be fixed over the phone, usually the customer service rep will provide you with steps for either sending your camera in to get it fixed or for taking it to a dealer to have it fixed. Either way, a customer service rep is a great way to find the solutions to your particular Fuji digital camera problems.

If you don’t wish to speak to a person, do an internet search highlighting the problems you are having. Nowadays, there isn’t much you can’t find on the internet and troubleshooting technology is no exception. Merely type the model number of the camera you own and what problems you’re having. Most likely, someone else has had that same problem and so you should be able to find step by step instructions on how to remedy the problem with your camera. Just be careful that any steps you do take are not against the warranty deal you have with the manufacturer (such as opening the camera up). Otherwise, the internet can be a great way to fix your camera problems.

No matter which avenue you choose, you should be able to fix any Fuji digital camera problems. That way, you can go back to doing what you love: taking pictures with your Fuji digital camera.

http://www.articlepeak.com/Article/Fuji-Digital-Camera-Problems--Troubleshooting-Made-Easy/75814

How To Use Your Digital Camera

2007-11-01T00:50:00.001-07:00

Last Christmas, the most popular gift item was the digital camera. Now millions of people are switching from film and processing into the mysterious world of digital photography and are wondering... "Now What Do I Do?"

I attended a MAC Computer conference not long ago where I presented a number of digital photography eBooks that I publish. A mature woman in the audience asked: "I switched to digital thinking I would save a ton of money on film and processing but in the past year I have spent a small fortune on 20 flashcards."

It was difficult to keep my composure but the audience laughed at her expense. I explained to her that she was suppose to download her images from the flashcard to her computer, then erase the card so that she could take more pictures. I suggested that having one or two extra flashcards was certainly a good idea, especially if she was going on a trip and intended to take a lot of pictures.

The digital world has changed how we store and listen to music; how we design and print books; and how we now take pictures and turn them into works of art. Adapting to these new technologies can sometimes be overwhelming.

Jerry Rabow to the rescue. Jerry is a retired attorney with a passion for photography. I convinced Jerry that he needed to pass his great knowledge on to others, especially those just getting into digital photography. I convinced Jerry to write an eBook, and he took my advice and published Digital Photography Tutor which delivers just what the name promises: hands-on, interactive learning that is like having your personal Tutor at your side to explain how things work and show you how it is done. This uniquely enjoyable and effective learning experience will soon have you turning out fine digital photographs you thought only the pros could produce.

Jerry's Step-By-Step tutorials not only guide you through typical procedures, but his eBook also includes 60 narrated VIDEOS to show you the actual mouse moves. He also teaches you how to use Photoshop and Elements. For more information on becoming a better digital photographer visit: www.digitalphotographytutor.com or www.gmbooks.com

William Dorich has over 25 years in commercial printing and publishing experience. After authoring five of his own books on Balkan history he established his own publishng company, http://www.GMBooks.com in 1985. Since then he has designed, produced, and published over 120 titles including Witness to War: Images of the Persian Gulf War for the Los Angeles Times which won them a Pulitzer. His client list includes the Who's Who in American business.

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

How To Improve Your Digital SLR Camera Pictures?

2007-11-01T00:49:00.000-07:00

Digital SLR cameras are amazing tools to expand your creativity and to document special moments. If your starting out and strive to improve your work master these five important tips. These tips deal with the relationship of shutter speed and focal length, achieving proper focus, stability, handling back lighting, and the effects of ISO and noise.

1) Understanding how the focal length of your lenses relates to the shutter speed you are shooting with.

If your shooting with a 50mm lenses the rule of thumb is that you can hand hold your camera with shutter speeds of 1/50th of a second and higher. With a 200mm lenses that is 1/200th of a second. With expensive image stabilization lenses you can hand hold a 200mmm at about 1/100th of a second maybe 1/60th of a second if you have steady hands. One trick I have used to squeeze an extra shutter speed stop while hand holding my camera is holding my breath and keeping my arm tight close to my chest. Knowing your lenses and remembering this simple tip should yield sharper results in your photos while hand holding your digital SLR camera.

2) Understanding the focus system in your camera

Practically every digital SLR camera focuses when you press the shutter button halfway down. Usually you will hear a beep and see a green or red square through the viewfinder. This is what the camera is focusing on. Then press the button the rest of the way down to take the picture. Understand that the computer inside the camera is looking at differences in image contrast and that difference is what is focusing the camera. Most digital SLR cameras also let you change the focus point manually to anywhere there is a predetermined point in the viewfinder. At a minimum you will get 9 points of focus up to 45 points of focus. It depends on the model and make of your digital SLR camera.

While executing my day-to-day shooting I always start with my focus point in the center of the viewfinder then I move it according to the subject I am shooting. It is easy to forget about where you set your focus point and then wonder why your photos are off focus or out of focus. So when you start a shoot the first place to check is where your focus point is and then center it, this should help you get more shots in focus.

3) Stability and when to use a tripod

If you are dealing with long exposures when shooting or if the shutter speed exceeds the focal length, then you need to use a tripod. All tripods are not the same. If in the studio a lightweight tripod can be used effectively if you weigh it down with sandbag or an alterative weighting device. When outdoors use a tripod on the heavier side is probably best, it also depending on weather condition. If there is a lot of wind you really need to secure the tripod with weight or some tripods even have a feature where you can spike them in the ground for more stability.

Any movement during a shot with a long exposure will almost always render that shot useless and that is why stability is so important. One of the newest advancements in camera technology is "image stabilization" in both lenses and camera bodies. This new technology is great and its best used if shooting with two hands on the camera and bracing your body against something. Still in some shooting situations there is still no replacement for a good weighted tripod.

4) How to handle strong back lighting

Back lighting subjects can be our enemy. Many people try to shoot a photo with a strong bright window light in the background, and then wonder why the shot did not come out. Why does this happen? The bright light from the window floods the lens, and your camera usually can not compensate for it. One way to combat this is to use a fill flash on your subject or use a large white fill card. Another option is to diffuse the strong window light and fill the subject with a white fill card. Do not be afraid of back lighting use it to your advantage, just remember you need to counteract a strong back light with a strong fill.

5) Understanding the effects of ISO in Digital SLR Cameras

Digital SLR cameras have some of the same characteristics as film SLR Cameras like interchangeable lenses, viewfinders, matrix metering, etc, but they do not handle ISO the same way. They are similar in that the relative ISO setting handles the light sensitivity that reaches the sensor or film. Where they differ is in the look they achieve in the final product. High ISO speeds on film have a certain film grain look to them that can be pleasing, but high ISO speeds on a digital SLR camera creates noise on the files and the look is not the same as film grain. In most situations noise is your enemy. If you want that film grain look, shoot your digital photos with the lowest possible ISO and then use Alien Skins Exposure® 2 plug in for Photoshop to achieve that film grain look.

In closing mastering these five tips will make your photography stronger, sharper, in focus and properly lit.

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

Digital Cameras - Hold Onto Those Vacation Memories

2007-11-01T00:48:00.000-07:00

Families go to vacation spots all over the world in search of a good time and the ability to "get away from it all," and they do their best to have a wonderful time. Parents need vacations to get rid of the stresses of work and kids need some time away from school. Vacations are also great ways to educate children about the world and its people. However, if you don't have a way to hold onto the precious memories that you and your family create during your vacations, those memories will fade fast.

You want to have a way to remember all of the things that happened, and a digital camera is the perfect way to make this happen. When the kids play with a dolphin for the first time, you want to be able to catch it all on camera, and with a digital camera, this is more than possible. Watching the fireworks at Disney is great too, but imagine if you can see them any day of the year by recording them. A digital camera is virtually priceless to a family that is out on vacation and wants to be sure to take the memories home with them.

There are many types of digital cameras available on the market today, and it can be very difficult to choose the one that is right for you. It is important that you consider all of the many aspects of digital cameras so you get the right model for you.

However, there is now a fantastic way to find the right digital camera for your family vacations. At TechSelector.com, you can now easily locate the perfect digital camera by answering a few simple questions on the website. Their advanced question and answer system will hook you up with the best digital camera for you in no time at all and have you prepared to bring your memories home.

TechSelector is a site designed with the intent of helping consumers research, select, and purchase new high-tech products. Our mission is to provide consumers with a free unbiased method of quickly and easily determining which high-tech products best fit their individual needs. For more information on digital cameras, please go to http://www.techselector.com.

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

In Defense of Digital Photography

2007-11-01T00:46:00.000-07:00

The room is small, silent, damp and without light. The interior air is heavy and laden with chemicals, some of which could cause early death. The person inside receives no visitors. It is isolation.

Have I described a 19th century prison cell or a 21st century photographer’s darkroom ?

Those of us who have spent many hours in the agonizing yet captivating atmosphere of a photographic darkroom recognize the scene. We are compelled to witness --and direct-- the birth pangs of each of our graphic creations. Yet all of us know it is contrary to human nature to confine oneself to such isolation and environmental danger. Such is the allure of the muse.

This is serious stuff. We wonder how many present-day darkroom photographers are short-cutting their longevity by continuing to engage in this archaic working method. Are we subjecting ourselves to Alice-in-Wonderland dangers similar to those faced by the Mad Hatter? (A reflection of the hat makers of a couple of centuries ago, who used arsenic in the fashioning of their beaver skin hats and frequently were gradually poisoned as a result.)

To put this in perspective, if digital photography had been discovered first, and then film photography, would any of us have opted for the latter?

Today’s digital photography offers the promise of safe imaging, once the prices come down. (Only the very costly digital cameras currently produce the reproduction quality demanded by the printing industry. The $200- $800 digital cameras aren’t yet at that level. For now, film photography is still the medium of choice for publishing use.)

Digital photography gives to all of us the luxurious shooting style of Henri Cartier-Bresson, the renowned French photographer of the mid-century. He never stepped into a darkroom. “No, I have never done my own printing,” he told Charlie Rose in a recent interview. “Why should I spend my time in a darkroom when I could be out shooting?”

Most film photographers, because of the high cost of film and the processing delay, are conservative regards the number of pictures they shoot. However, as Cartier-Bresson is famous for saying, “I want to capture the precise moment.” Such moments escape the average photographer who is stingy with film.

Not so with digital photography. One shoots with a freedom to not only capture the “precise” moment, but to also self-educate and experiment. Digital “film” is cheap.

The world of digital photography is easy to enter. Medium-quality images, ease of processing , enhancing, and transmitting, are now available to the average photographer. Digital results are readily acceptable if your work is Web-based, or for buyers who only expect to use the image quarter-page size. At present, as you are reading this, the cost for serviceable digital is well within the budget of most.

Rohn Engh, veteran stock photographer and best-selling author of “Sell & ReSell Your Photos” and http://www.sellphotos.com has helped scores of photographers launch their careers. For access to great information on making money from pictures you like to take, and to receive this free report: “8 Steps to Becoming a Published Photographer,” visit http://www.sellphotos.com

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

The Best Digital Camera for You!

2007-10-31T00:51:00.001-07:00

Frequently in life, we want the genuine available product of a particular type. Maybe we want to buy the fastest computer or the one that has the largest storage capacity. For specific events, we may purchase the most raveled tuxedo or gown that money can buy.

Likewise, after retiring and settling all of our debts, we might be interested in buying the fastest or most luxurious automobile on earth. Furthermore, when in the market for a camcorder, we may seek the best digital camcorder on the market.

Best Is Comparable

While finding the best digital video camera may seem like a measured task, it will involve some subjectivity. For example, it is probably unthinkable to find a unit that all electronics experts would consider the best digital camcorder. It is wiser to categorize camcorders, and then evaluate the best digital video camera for each category

One way to sort the best digital camcorder is to first rank the models by price range. The line of digital camcorder's stretches from a few hundreds of dollars, to many thousands of dollars. The distinction is typically linked to their functions.

Most video professionals primarily use the expensive models, while beginners usually use the cheaper, more basic models. Seeing that most amateur camcorder users often shop on a budget, we will focus on finding the best digital camcorder for those users.

Three price ranges

The first price range for the superior digital camcorder includes those that cost near a thousand dollars. These video cameras are perfect for shoppers who want to utilize their camcorders regularly. They can be used for unusual situations, such as vacations. Nevertheless, they provide quality that is also perfect for simple video projects or independent filmmaking.

Another price scope for the best digital camcorder has a price tag of $700 or less. They offer a moderate number of features and frequently include hard drive and DVD models, as well as those with a ample image sensor, known as a charge-coupled device (CCD).

Lastly, for those on a tight budget, you can still find the best digital camcorder for $450 or less. These models oftentimes include a feature for taking still photos, though the resolution is typically poor. A $450 video camera is suited well for those who will seldom use their camcorders, and mostly for personal use. It is also perfect one for new camcorder users.

To find the best digital camcorder is definitely a challenging task that is greatly based on how "the best" is defined. Notwithstanding, when you locate a digital video camera that meets your filming needs and budgetary constraints, you can certainly classify that as the best one for you. When you find the one you like and the pictures and videos look great keep it and be happy.

http://www.articlecube.com/Article/The-Best-Digital-Camera-for-You-/179858

Choosing Your First Digital Camera

2007-10-31T00:50:00.000-07:00

Digital cameras are no longer a luxury these days, with high resolution mega pixels and sophisticated features coming within a very appealing price range. And thanks to many comprehensive digital camera reviews, it’s easy to pick the most sought after features and qualities and still stay within a budget.

Most people turn to digital photography because they like the ease of printing and sharing the photos on the web. Business owners choose the digital quality for their product catalogues or brochures, students employ digital cameras for their projects and with digital cameras in most recent cell phones, even a child can take a snap and publish it instantly on the web. And thanks to the newest lens and zooming qualities, you don’t have to be a seasoned pro to shoot close-to-professional images with modern digital cameras.

You can hardly find a digital camera today with resolution lower than 2 megapixels – two million color dots per picture. This is a decent quality for most uses, including printing the photos for the home or school use. The higher the megapixel rate, the bigger photos you can print without sacrificing the quality. However, if you are not a professional photographer or a graphic professional who deals with upscale images all the time, you don’t really need a digital camera that produces more than 8-megapixel camera – and these rarely become available for less than $1000. Plus, if you seek to print large detailed photos, make sure you have a high-quality printer that can reproduces all the tiny details that make a difference.

When you pick a digital camera, you should also pay attention to the zoom number. Digital cameras have two different kinds of zoom. Digital zoom enlarges all pixels digitally, while optical zoom enlarges the image with the lens magnification. Since you can always enlarge the image later, on the computer using the Photoshop or other image manipulation program, you would be better to concentrate on higher optical zoom rate. The average optical zoom for midlevel digital cameras is 2 to 4x.

There are a few other options to consider: whether a digital camera uses a rechargeable batteries (zoom and LCD screen consume a lot of energy); whether the digital camera has a standard flash memory (you may need to buy a few more flash memory cards in future), and if the menus are easy to understand. If you travel a lot, you may want a digital camera that is lightweight and compact.

Even if you decide to pick the least expensive digital camera to serve your basic photography needs, you will still enjoy all the benefits of digital photography: no film rolls to buy, no wasted photos to dispose of and best of all, no waiting time to get them printed. New models of digital cameras are constantly launched, and the older ones are becoming less expensive day by day. Know your priorities, check the most recent digital camera reviews, and there should be a digital camera to perfectly suit your needs.

http://www.articlejoe.com/Article/Choosing-Your-First-Digital-Camera/1670

Get Digital At Cheap Prices, Purchase Cheap Digital Cameras

2007-10-31T00:49:00.000-07:00

Do you want a digital camera for yourself but do not want to spend much money on it? There is no need to loose heart.

Gone are the days when digital cameras were the gizmos for rich and classy. The ‘digital’ need not be very expensive always. There are many cheap digital cameras in the market today.

So, following the digital technology for your photo hobby or professional photography is not a tall order at all. The Internet is the best place to gauge for all kinds of digital cameras at cheap prices. Just browse the web and you will get the grand choices for picking up an affordable digital camera.

Still, at doubts? Just read on this article and you would know how easy it is for you to find the digital technology at low rates today.

First things first, you must always know your budget and camera specifications you are looking for very well. The low budget should not be a hindrance to your preference. Just keep that in mind. In fact the advantages of having a cheap digital camera are many.

The range of cheap digital cameras starts at prices as low as £30. With such cost-effective price range, there is no need for you to be bothered about giving them to your young kids for photo explorations as well. Today’s cheap digital cameras also make for a great birthday gift or Christmas Day present for your friends and the members of your family. Moreover, a cheap camera is always utilized in a much better way than any of those expensive high tech gadgets. The reason is simple-- you feel more at ease with them.

In fact, if it is seen logically, the digital cameras are basically cheap gadgets. The main cost is of buying them and that is for once and all. Later, they will not make you spend your dollars on film rolls like the traditional cameras. This is because digital cameras mean no intake of films, no printing, no processing and thus no continuing costs.

There are many kinds of cheap cameras available in the market. Many of them are made on ‘use & throw’ basis. They are disposable cameras, which are rated quite inexpensively by the companies. Moreover, there are chances for you to get them at much less or bargained price even. As they are very cheap and affordable, people buy them on an urgent basis, or when they need them at once, for a family function, wedding or any other occasion.

Now, where you can find the cheap digital cameras? You can go and visit your nearby digital camera showroom to have a look at their collection of cheap digital cameras. You can get them in all sorts of brands, from renowned to local dealers. If you want to buy them online, there are many Internet sources as well to buy these cheap digital cameras, say Froogle or eBay.

One way to get the best price for each camera is to purchase them in bulk. For this you can contact the retailers who offer some particular discounts and packages to sell the digital cameras. The rule—the more the quantity, the lower the price—follows the camera trade, if you want to buy digital camera at low price.

Just remember that a cheap digital camera may or may not have all those features of a standard digital camera. It may not have a flash, good resolution or an effective zoom lens. But they certainly serve the simple photography purposes well. So judge all the pros and cons before making the deal.

If the price is the thing most important for you, a cheap digital camera is undoubtedly the best deal for you.

http://www.articlejoe.com/Article/Get-Digital-At-Cheap-Prices--Purchase-Cheap-Digital-Cameras/940

What Is The Best Digital Camera For Me?

2007-10-30T00:40:00.000-07:00

There is so much to consider when looking for the best digital camera to suit your needs. It is important to decide what features matter the most to you. The main factors, apart from cost, in assessing which is the best digital camera for you are as follows:

• Size and weight
• Resolution
• Level of Control
• Options and features

The size and weight of the best digital camera for one person varies greatly to that of another. If you want a camera that is lightweight and will slip into a pocket or purse then a ultra-lightweight cameras will probably be the best digital camera for your needs. These are often the least complex of the digital cameras as they offer point and shoot simplicity and are the best digital camera for beginners. At the other end of the size and weight scale comes a bulky 1? pound SLR camera for the ‘serious’ photographer who wants the best digital camera with all of the accessories to take the perfect shot.

The resolution you need can narrow down which is the best digital camera for your requirements. The resolution affects the detail of an image for printing quality and the higher the resolution the greater the detail. The best digital camera for printing standard size pictures has a lower resolution than if you want to create oversize prints.

The best digital camera for being able to edit and manipulate your images is one with a resolution of 5 or 6 mega pixels so that you can crop the images with photo editing software and still print them out full size.

The amount of control that you have available will also be an issue in finding the best digital camera. Some people think that the best digital camera is one they can use in an automatic mode and let the camera do the work. Others choose the best digital camera that allows them more input in the creative process by manually adjusting the focus, speed, aperture and other settings. A simple point and shoot camera is the best digital camera for people not wanting to make any setting changes but the range of manual controls available on other cameras varies with make and model. The latter will require more research to find the best digital camera to meet your requirements.

The next part in deciding which is the best digital camera to buy is to assess what, if any, additional features you would like. Here are some suggestions:

• Audio annotation to add commentary to your images.

• Burst shooting which allows you to take multiple pictures in rapid succession for fast moving action shots.

• Macro photo capability that focuses on extreme close-up detail for images of flowers, insects, etc.

• Movie mode with audio to take short videos.

• Panoramic stitching function, often included in a camera's software package, which joins individual images into a multi-photo panoramic picture.

• Weatherproof casing

The most important aspect in choosing the best digital camera for you is ensuring that you are comfortable using it and have some fun taking pictures.

About The Author

Steve Gargin is the administrator of http://digital-camera-reviews.helper-guru.com/digital-camera-kodak-easyshare-ls753/index.html which is a great website dedicated to giving free advice on Digital Cameras.

Digital Camera Storage Media

2007-10-30T00:39:00.000-07:00

When someone buys a new digital camera for recreational purposes, they rarely look at the type of storage media the camera supports. How important is the storage media, exactly? Well, it's where your pictures are stored, so it must be pretty important! Someone doesn't want to be in a another country before they figure out the camera blinks "Memory Low" in red. A new digital camera usually comes with a means of storage, but the storage media is, most of the time, not sufficient enough to hold the slighest amount of pictures. The average stock digital camera may come with 16MB, 32MB, and maybe even 64MB worth of memory media. A memory card with at least 512MB-1GB storage is highly recommended to replace the stock memory card the camera packaging includes. The most common types of digital camera storage media are CompactFlash, Secure Digital, xD Picture, Memory Stick, MicroDrive, and SmartMedia.

Most of the current digital cameras use CompactFlash cards. The two types of CF cards are Type I and Type II(slightly thicker). The Type II CompactFlash card is also known as MicroDrive, which will be discussed further down this storage media list. SanDisk describes their CF cards as "size of a matchbook and only weighs half an ounce". There is a controller card that allows for faster transfers. These cards are the most popular because of the decent price and the support throughout many digital cameras.

Secure Digital Cards are the smallest digital camera media cards in the storage media market. The cards can store up to 4GB of memory as of now, but new technology will soon increase the max size to 8GB. A high level of protection is guaranteed against illegal copying. This means that Secure Digital Cards offer more data security.

xD Picture Cards can be used in CompactFlash supported cameras with a CompactFlash adapter. The maximum capacity of xD Picture Cards is a gigabyte of space. The cards offer fast read and write capabilities for digital cameras.

Memory Sticks were created by Sony for their Cybershot line of digital cameras. They aren't supported by brands of digital cameras other than Sony which decreases their digital camera's support of Memory Sticks severely. Many of Sony's other products, besides digital cameras, support Memory Sticks. The Playstation Portable(PSP) uses Sony's Memory Sticks as well as Sony's Vaio line.

MicroDrives are the hard drives inside of Type II CompactFlash Cards. They have better value and are better priced than flash memory, but flash memory has more space and storage. You may have heard that hard drive MP3 players fail over time due to their moving parts. The same concept can be applied to these cards because they have moving parts as well. This is why you may have heard that MicroDrives are unreliable and low in quality. Many of them would break due to the mishandling of the card.

SmartMedia cards are being replaced by the new flash card technology. The cards are still available, but the modern digital cameras usually don't support this type of storage media anymore. The card is cheaper than all the other types of storage media mentioned above.

Storage Media for digital cameras is constantly evolving and improving in quality and capacity. Years ago, the maximum storage capacity for an average memory card was 128MB or 256MB at max. They cost way too much, probably 300% more than they cost right now. The prices of digital camera storage media gets lower every year as the technology gets better. The types of storage media provides diversity and choice for the average consumer with a digital camera.

About The Author

Charlie Vuong is the webmaster of DealOverflow, http://www.dealoverflow.com/, a site that offers deals on technology. Features computer deals, pda deals, laptop deals, digital camera deals, and coupons.

Things You Should Know Before Buying Discount Cameras

2007-10-30T00:35:00.000-07:00

Taking photographs has always been considered an enjoyable pastime. Photography is one of the best ways to capture a moment in time. It seems now the world has become obsessed with taking pictures. Everywhere you look there are advertisements for cameras. Probably one of the most significant innovations in the Digital Age has been the digital camera. At one time these cameras had one thing in common with their non-digital counterparts—an expensive price tag. In recent years the cost of digital cameras has dropped considerably; so much so that you can easily purchase a digital camera for less than $200. To find the best deal you will need to do some comparison-shopping. By arming yourself with some information about digital cameras, you will better prepare yourself for buying discount cameras.

As most of the innovations in digital technology, digital cameras are considered more complex than they really are. When you shop for discount cameras, price should not be your only guide. It is a good idea to understand some of the basic features of digital cameras so that you can effectively compare the various models available on the market.

If you’re interested in buying discount cameras, you undoubtedly are familiar with at least one buzzword associated with digital cameras: megapixel. Megapixel, which refers to the number of pixels per one million or how fine an image’s resolution is, is important to consider when buying discount cameras because megapixel directly relates to the image quality you are able to obtain. When you shop for discount cameras you will notice that there are a wide range of megapixels. At one time, a digital camera with 1.3 megapixel was standard and a camera with 5.0 megapixels was considered top-shelf. With the recent introduction of digital cameras with 9.0 megapixels, the standard in megapixels is changing.

Buying a digital camera with the highest number of megapixels is not necessarily the best method of selecting a digital camera. Since megapixels relate to an image’s resolution, you should first determine your plans for the digital camera. If you want simply to take images for personal use, a median number of megapixels such as 3.5 may be sufficient. If on the other hand you intend to enlarge and crop images, you may want to shop for digital cameras with a higher number of megapixels.

The number of megapixels that a camera uses is the primary selling point for digital cameras. However, it is the additional features that will have the greatest effect on price. Optional features that you may want to consider include video recording capabilities, an optical zoom lens, and a histogram. Most cameras include a zoom lens, but it is usually a digital zoom lens. This type of lens only appears to enlarge the image. An optical zoom lens is an ideal option if you will use your digital camera to shoot distant objects. Creating a digital movie is another popular option. If you want a digital camera with this feature, be sure to note the maximum recording time. A handy feature that is not used often, but is very handy if you are serious about digital photography is histogram. Once you snap an image you can use the histogram option to analyze the exposure. If an image is too bright or too dark you can reshoot the image.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/things-you-should-know-before-buying-discount-c.html

There Is A Story In Every Digital Picture Frame

2007-10-29T02:20:00.000-07:00

Are you running out of space to display your favourite photographic memories? Fidelity Electronics has introduced state-of-the-art technology that allows you to view your personal photos on a high-resolution digital picture frame. This new technology allows photos that are being hidden away to re-appear again giving them the pride and place they so rightly deserve for all to see and admire. Each ingenious product has all the high technology, modern design and requisite features one requires for displaying precious and memorable moments.

Over the last year, Fidelity Electronics of Canada has been intensely involved in developing the digital photo and picture frame market. Fidelity recently launched their newest Digital Picture Frame, the DPF-1500 Pro with 1GB of internal memory, and an impressive 15" high-resolution color LCD screen.

Fidelity now carries 9 models of different digital picture frames each with different capabilities and styles. Useful features include, rotation, zoom, auto start and auto format. Many of the frames are also multimedia and play MPEG video and MP3 music on built in stereo speakers.

Digital picture framing will offer a new visual experience to people of all walks of life, from the high-tech pro for a traditional sales presentation to the grandmother that wants to display family photos on the mantel or hanging on the wall.

All frames have the capability of being viewed directly from all popular digital memory cards - without the need for a computer, camera or Internet connection and most include internal memory So you can sit back, relax and enjoy showcasing your photos. Imagine the conversations it will create as you, your friends and family admire your digital images! For something different, music can also be added making it the perfect presentation tool...

The love of photos really has no boundaries, all your vacation shots, party photos, baby snaps and other personal photos can come to life in just one picture frame, giving you a stylish touch to an instant photo gallery! It’s another marvellous breakthrough in the field of digital photograph framing. If you are looking to achieve a modern display of high resolution digital photo frames that offers crisper graphics, then bid farewell to the old photo lab and other obsolete contraptions and enjoy your photo memories with the new look of today.

With auto start and auto format functions all Fidelity Electronics products are effortlessly stylish while remaining perfectly functional in the same breath, making anyone of their range of digital picture frames the perfect presentation tool.

http://www.articlefair.com/Article/There-Is-A-Story-In-Every-Digital-Picture-Frame/40016

Digital Camera Primer: Look Before You Buy

2007-10-29T02:17:00.000-07:00

As with any type of electronics, such as computer notebooks, printers, or a computer desktop, buying a digital camera presents you with a myriad of choices. Each digital camera manufacturer has more than a dozen offerings, ranging from the more basic "point and shoot" camera to the top of the line professional single lens reflex digital camera. So, it's important to consider a number of factors before you buy. Here's a primer to get you started.

Digital Camera Cost

Just a few years ago, inexpensive digital cameras had terrible optics and were an overall disappointment. Not anymore. Today, even a $149 camera has more features than a $799 camera had in the past. Of course, you can pay more than $10,000 for a camera, but for most casual photographers a camera under $500 will have everything you want and then some.

Megapixels

It wasn't that long ago that a three-mexapixel digital camera was considered state-of-the-art. Today, fairly basic consumer models are seven- or eight-megapixels, which allows you to considerably crop any photo and still get a high-quality print. For that reason, don't consider buying a camera that's less than five megapixels.

LCD Display

It may not seem like the most important part of a camera, but the size of the LCD display will make a big difference while you're shooting your photos. A two-inch LCD is great, but a three-inch is even better since you'll be able to see at a glance whether the photo you just took is fuzzy or if it's a keeper. Beyond size, make sure that the LCD display is clear in all lighting conditions - indoors, outdoors, and at night. If you can't see the photo you just took, it defeats the purpose of having a digital camera.

Shooting Modes

Many digital cameras offer a variety of shooting modes as well as manual settings. Many of the ultracompact consumer cameras, however, do not have manual overrides, and you must choose among the shooting modes provided. If you're in the market for a "point and shoot" digital camera, that's no problem. On the other hand, if you want to be able to change the aperture or shutter speed, make sure you buy a digital camera that allows you to do manual settings. Similarly, if you'll primarily use your camera in a specific environment (at sporting events, for example), make sure that the digital camera you select has that specific mode. Keep in mind that some digital cameras even have underwater capability or an "eBay" setting for taking photos of items you want to auction on eBay, so don't assume the way you'll use your camera is unique.

Storage Medium

Unfortunately, there's not an industry standard when it comes to storage cards. Make sure that you understand the type of film card your camera uses, and that you have a reader that will allow you to transfer your photos from your camera to your computer desktop or laptops. Alternately, many cameras come with software (usually on a DVD) that will allow you to plug your camera directly into your desktop or notebooks and upload your pictures.

After You Buy

Once you've purchased your digital camera, take time to practice and play with the various settings. It's often said that digital cameras are more like computer peripherals than cameras, so keep in mind that there may be a learning curve. Once you've mastered it, however, you'll be amazed at the enjoyment you'll get from your new purchase.

http://www.articlefair.com/Article/Digital-Camera-Primer--Look-Before-You-Buy/35481

DIGITAL CAMERA TOOLS

2007-10-26T05:27:00.000-07:00

More and more people are using digital cameras simply because more and more people are using Internet and computers. Digital Cameras don't replace standard 35mm film in quality (at least not yet), but they are easy to use if you want to send pictures to your friends by e-mail or you are working on multimedia projects.

In most cases the images from digital cameras should be adjusted. It is very common that images from digital cameras doesn't look too impressive in bad light conditions. Many images need to boost color saturation or make brighter midtones. Also sometimes you would like to filter noise or "too much realistic" skin on portraits.
Well the old good Brightness/Contrast sliders in image processing applications doesn't help because usually the images are ok there... You need more advanced image processing tools.

http://www.mediachance.com/digicam/index.htmlv

What to Look for When Shopping for a Digital Camera

2007-10-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

Shopping for digital camera for the first time can be a confusing and daunting experience. With so many models and features from which to select, first-time purchasers often rely upon the advice of a sales person as to which is the best digital camera. Someone who may not be all that knowledgeable about available products and features, or doesn't know what the main function of the camera will be. All of which are very important.

First-time purchasers also often make the mistake of purchasing a digital camera solely because of its appearance, brand name, or price; without knowing a thing about digital camera photo quality or camera memory.

There is a wiser method of determining which camera to buy. First and foremost, determine the purpose for the camera. Will it be for semi-regular personal use, to take photographs as a hobby, or for professional purposes? Only after determining primary camera use is it time to move on to what specific features are most desirable in a camera.

Digital camera resolution is very important. The resolution determines how many pixels make up a photo. The term 'Pixel' is short for 'picture element.' Each pixel refers to a single point in an image.

Pixels are usually measured in horizontal x vertical resolution. High picture resolution results in a shaper picture. For the most part, higher-end cameras are capable of a higher picture resolution; lower priced cameras usually have a lower resolution capacity.

Because a high resolution camera takes up more camera memory, most cameras allow you to change picture resolution. If you want to e-mail photos to friends, a low resolution such as 640 x 480 work's fine. If you want to print photos, a high picture resolution is necessary for a clear picture that isn't grainy.

Digital camera compression is another important aspect. It is the process that shrinks a photo's file size. Pictures saved as JPEG files take up less memory space. Compression also makes it faster to save and download photos; it makes it easier to send and download e-mail pictures. However, compression affects image quality.

Because compression causes a small amount of data loss, if you want to take pictures for professional purposes, you might want a camera that can take uncompressed photos.

Digital camera memory equals film to a conventional camera. It is storage space for pictures. If you plan to download pictures from your digital camera directly to a computer or other source, a high camera memory capacity might not be important. However, if you take many pictures at one time without downloading, you will want a camera that has a lot of internal memory or one with expandable memory so that you can purchase a large-capacity digital camera memory chip or memory card.

These important aspects, along with required power source and connection functions, and consideration of extra features such as an LCD viewfinder, self-timer, built-in flash, and capacity for audio recording - and the price - should all enter into the decision making process when it comes to purchasing the best digital camera for your purposes.

You only other consideration is buying the best quality digital camera you can, within your budget. Persons who will be using the digital camera mainly for e-mail purposes can get away with a used digital camera, or inexpensive model. Where as hobbyists and professionals will want to get the best, top digital camera they can afford.

http://www.cryosphere.f2s.com/articles/cameras/what-to-look-for-when-shopping-for-a-digital-camera.html

30th Anniversary of the Digital Camera

2007-10-24T04:41:00.000-07:00

marks the 30th anniversary of the one of the hottest consumer electronic products in the world today – the digital camera. In 1975, the world’s first digital photograph was taken at a Kodak lab in Rochester, NY, USA, in an event that preceded the Compact Disc, the Personal Computer and the Internet. In 1974 Steven Sasson, an engineer at Kodak’s Applied Electronics Research Centre, was tasked with devising an “electronic handheld still camera”. The following year his first working prototype – weighing 8.5 pounds, powered by 16 AA batteries and recording images on a cassette – took the first ever digital still camera photograph. That’s Steve, the world’s first digital camera and the world’s first ever digital photograph at right.

“When I took the first digital image in 1975, I had no idea of the impact it would have on the world of photography,” enthuses Sasson, who still works for Kodak today. “Kodak’s flair for fostering innovation allowed us to continue developing our vision of digital imaging, which has come to fruition through the advent of the PC and the Internet. Kodak has continued to push the limits of the technology, ensuring that we stay at the cutting edge of photographic innovation.”

Sasson predicted the digital revolution more than 15 years ahead of time. He knew that digital imaging would be huge, but not until technology in the computer environment had caught up. Now that has happened, digital imaging has revolutionised photography. Digital cameras’ instant results have generated mass consumer appeal to the degree that digital images are now used in everyday communications at home and at work. In 2004, the 74 million digital cameras sold worldwide outstripped film camera sales for the first time. Forty billion digital snapshots will be taken in 2005.

Kodak’s 125th anniversary year is also a year of digital milestones. In addition to the 30th anniversary of the world’s first digital camera prototype and announcement of the world’s first wireless camera, the company is also celebrating its 15th year in digital document scanners, and the 10th anniversary of the first Kodak-branded consumer digital camera.

http://www.gizmag.com/go/4717/

The SANYO VPC-CA6 weatherproof digital movie camera

2007-10-24T04:38:00.000-07:00

We’ve always thought it was kinda dumb that cameras should be so averse to water – they are, after all, there to capture special moments and some of those moments occur while it’s raining. So it’s partly with disbelief that we are writing up a digital movie camera with weatherproof functionality as being all that special, though a lack of such functionality elsewhere does make this camera special. Shouldn’t they all be weatherproof? Shouldn’t all cameras be portable and durable? If you think this should be standard fare, as we do, then Sanyo’s newly launched VPC-CA6 weatherproof digital movie camera is designed for you – presumably a user with an active lifestyle that involves water recreational activities. The hardwearing splash-proof VPC-CA6 body offers carefree video recording by the pool, camping, at the beach or on the water, allowing users to capture their treasured moments with wet hands. The camera’s compact ergonomic design enables one handed usage, which can prove useful.

Featuring MPEG-4 digital recording for DVD movie quality, with high resolution of 6.0 megapixels, the SANYO VPC-CA6 captures high quality images producing professional looking footage of holidays, sporting events and family events.

The SANYO VPC-CA6 features a 5x optical and 12x digital zoom. The optical zoom magnifies the image using a real multifocal-length lens ensuring the finest picture quality even when using the zoom function.

For a professional final result, the SANYO VPC-CA6 weatherproof includes an editing function for quick and easy editing directly from the camera, as well as USB storage support, and a PC movie editing kit. Video clips and images can be played back or recorded through the DVD recorder connection, or viewed through the TV connection.

The SANYO VPC-CA6 can also be used as a still digital camera and video camera simultaneously. By simply pressing the shutter button users can capture still images while recording video.

Fast paced lifestyles can lead to easy-to-miss situations; however the SANYO VPC-CA6 has a rapid start-up time of 1.3 seconds, so memorable moments can be quickly captured.

The SANYO VPC-CA6 also features a digital stereo and noise reduction function for clear and accurate sounds and a digital image stabiliser to correct unintentional camera shake.

For a limited time, the SANYO VPC-CA6 weatherproof movie camera will include a bonus 1GB SD memory card, giving extra space to store precious memories. Users can take pictures anywhere and anytime and keep them saved on the card, which is great for holidays when downloading images and movies might not be an option.

http://www.gizmag.com/go/6602/

Sensor size and Depth of field in film and digital cameras

2007-10-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

Depth of field is defined as the range in which the photo is in focus. Achieving a specific depth of field is a useful photography technique used for example to achieve a blurry background effect. Film and digital cameras have different optical attributes as a result of using different sensor sizes. For that reason depth of field is also different in film and digital cameras.
Before you can understand the difference between film and digital cameras when it comes to depth of field, it is important to understand what depth of field is and how it can be set by the photographer. Depth of field (also known as DOF for short) is defined as the range in which the photo is in focus. For example: an infinite depth of field means that the photo will be in focus from a certain distance from the camera and up to infinity. Another example: when taking a blurry photo the goal is to set the depth of field just around the object, which results in the object being in focus while the background behind it is not.
The depth of field is influenced by the optical parameters of the camera and the specific scene. The main parameters that influence the depth of field are:
The distance of the object from the camera influences the possible depth of field settings. For example shooting an object that is very close to the camera will result in a smaller depth of field. On the other an extreme case when the object is in practical infinite distance from the camera will result in the camera focused on infinity and the depth of field being infinite too.
The aperture: The depth of field increases as the f number increases. The wider the aperture (f number decreases) the smaller the depth of field and vice versa: the narrower the aperture (f number increases) the greater the depth of field.
The focal length of the lens: The depth of field grows as the focal length gets shorter. For example if you use normal lenses at somewhere around 50mm your depth of field will be much greater than if you use zoom lenses at 200mm. With a very long focal length the depth of field can be extremely small.
One of the main differences between film and digital cameras is the sensor used to capture the photo. Film cameras use a film sensitive to light that is placed behind the lens. When a photo is taken the shutter opens for a predetermined period of time and light hits the film. The result is a photo “printed” on the film. Digital cameras on the other hand use a fixed electronic sensor (also known as CCD) that is situated behind the lens. The sensor is built from tiny light sensitive sensors each representing a pixel. When the shutter opens light hits the sensor and each pixel gets its “value”. Put together all the pixels comprise one digital photo.
A normal single frame of film size was standardized at 35mm. Digital cameras on the other hand use smaller sensors. One of the reasons why digital sensors are smaller is cost – manufacturing a large electronic sensor is costly (for reasons such as yield and other specific process limitations). The depth of field changes with the sensor size, the smaller the sensor the higher the depth of field. In fact low end pocket cameras use small sensors that together with their other optical limitations result in depth of field that is practically infinite. Because photographers used to measure everything based on 35mm film – many digital cameras still quote “35mm equivalent” measurement. There are a few high end SLR digital cameras that use 35mm sensors thus providing the same optical characteristics as the old film cameras. These are still expensive and considered high end professional cameras.

http://www.kokkada.com/Article/Sensor-size-and-Depth-of-field-in-film-and-digital-cameras/22403

GE Digital Cameras are Strong Sellers at Micro Center

2007-10-18T05:52:00.000-07:00

"Micro Center stores do a lot of volume and are an important outlet for us," said Hiroshi "Hugh" Komiya, chairman and CEO of General Imaging. "We're excited about adding this retailer to our team."

Micro Center stores have a more upscale feel than typical big-box consumer-electronics stores, offering selection, service and sales staff expertise modeled after Nordstrom and other service-oriented retailers. "The Micro Center business model reaches a whole new demographic for us," said Rene Buhay, General Imaging's senior vice president of sales & marketing for the Americas.

Kevin Jones, vice president of merchandising for Micro Center, said, "The new GE cameras made an immediate impact with our customers. Their feature sets and price points are excellent."

All GE cameras boast sleek and intuitive design, plus a host of popular, advanced functions as standard features, including face detection, image stabilization, red-eye removal, 1600 ISO sensitivity (or higher), and panorama stitching - all of which are embedded in the camera. Panorama stitching is proving to be an especially popular feature, allowing the user to join three images together seamlessly to take in landscapes and other wide vistas.

GE cameras also offer movie mode, continuous-shot mode, and a variety of special scene modes - all at prices far less than many of their competitors.

Even at the entry level, the GE A730 (MSRP just $99.99) includes features one would expect from a much more expensive camera, including 7 megapixels of resolution, a 3x zoom, and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. The A830 ($129.99) is the next step up, offering 8 megapixels and the same specs for zoom and screen size. The G1 ($149.99) offers 7 megapixels, a 3x zoom and a 2.5-inch screen as well, but its drawing card is its ease of handling and pocket-friendly dimensions (35/8 inches wide x 2 1/2 inches high).

The four models in the mid-priced E series offer even more, including even higher resolution, larger zooms, a wide-angle lens, and higher ISO. At the high end of the GE line, the X1 (price TBD) will offer a 12x zoom - great for close-ups when the shooter is far from the action.

About Micro Center

Micro Center operates twenty stores in major markets nationwide. Founded in 1979 in Columbus, Micro Center's distinctive features include:

-- A destination retailer designed to satisfy the dedicated computer user.

-- Uniquely focused on computers and computer-related products. In fact, Micro Center offers more computer and computer-related SKUs (more than 30,000 in stock) than any other retailer.

-- More square footage devoted exclusively to computers and computer-related items than any other retailer (stores average 40,000 square feet).

-- Selection, service and sales staff expertise which surpass all other computer stores.

-- More upscale atmospherics than big box consumer electronics stores.

-- Innovators of the departmentalized approach to computer retailing. Service levels and expertise vary to meet customer preferences by department. This means:

-- Consultative career sales staff in hardware departments which surround staple items in the center of the store.

-- Quick in/out shopping experience on staple items with checkouts arranged conveniently.

-- Large gaming departments featuring XBOX 360, PS3, Wii and PC Gaming displays on HDTVs, more than 2,000 games and nearly 350 different accessories per store.

Readers of the leading U.S. consumer magazine have consistently rated Micro Center among the best stores at which to buy a PC since the publication began surveying satisfaction with computer stores in 2003. Consumers can also purchase online at www.microcenter.com.

http://www.digital-camera-advice-tips.info/article.cfm/id/224779

Getting The Best Out Of Your Digital Camera

2007-10-17T04:56:00.000-07:00

The light from even a small flash is as powerful as the sun but, given that it's only source of energy is a small battery, it can only produce this amount of light for an extremely small period of time - less than 1/1000th of a second. The actual length of time the flash fires for is very carefully controlled by your camera. During a flash exposure, your camera constantly monitors the amount of light reaching the image sensor and shuts off the flash as soon as the picture is exposed correctly.

It has to do this because the light from a small flash falls off dramatically the further away you are. In fact, it falls off with the square of the distance. That means if you moved your subject twice as far away, you would need four times as much light, 3 times further away requires 9 times the amount of light.

But you don't need to know that because your camera will do all that for you automatically. If you did move your subject 3 times further away the flash duration would simply be 9 times longer. This would still be an extremely short time and you probably wouldn't notice the difference. What you might notice is that the flash would take longer to recharge because it had used up so much power.

The very first flashguns were entirely manual and photographers had to do long calculations to determine the correct exposure when using flash. Studio flash units still work this way but most photographers now use flash meters to avoid having to do all this calculating.

So your flashgun will automatically compensate for the distance of your subject and give you a perfectly exposed picture every time - what could possibly go wrong?

Out of range

Although your flash will compensate for the subject's distance, it has its limits. It only has a certain amount of power and this translates into a maximum distance for your subject. If you try to take a flash picture from any further away, it will just be too dark or underexposed. Your camera's manual should tell you what the maximum subject distance is for flash photography is. In small cameras it is typically 12-15 feet.

It is often expressed as a range of distances rather than a single absolute figure because the conditions under which you are taking the photograph will have an effect on this maximum distance. For example, When you take a picture indoors the light from the flash not only goes directly to the subject but also lights up the whole room. The light that hits the walls and ceiling then bounces off them and adds to the light landing on your subject. Compare that situation with taking a flash picture outdoors at night. The light that doesn't reach your subject directly has nothing to bounce off, so overall, less light will land on your subject. Whilst your camera's flash might be able to compensate perfectly well for this, it will reduce the maximum distance for flash photography compared with taking pictures indoors.

Of course, indoors can mean a tiny room or an enormous one. So, if you are taking your photograph in a baronial banqueting hall with very dark walls and a high ceiling, you could be approaching the same situation as you have outdoors and the maximum distance for flash would be reduced.

What this means in practical terms is that if you have just taken a flash picture and it looks too dark, just get closer and try again. That will usually solve the problem.

Don't get too close

There is also a minimum distance for which you can successfully use flash. As your subject gets closer and closer, the flash duration gets shorter and shorter. Eventually, you will reach the limit of how quick the flash can be. In practical terms, this translates into a minimum distance for flash photography with your camera.

I'm sure all of you will have seen pictures of people taken with flash where their faces were bleached out and they look like ghosts. That's what happens if you get too close with a flash gun. Again, your camera's manual should give you the minimum flash distance for your particular camera.

If you can't find the information about maximum and minimum flash distances you could always do a few test shots and measure it for yourself. As a general guideline, if your subject is between 6 and 12 feet away, you should be all right.

Any digital camera has an array of functions and uses that enable the handler to take excellent pictures. However, many of the functions are not fully understood and the pictures are not of the best possible quality. Understanding these features enable the user to have complete control over their machine, and therefore get the best possible images.

Firstly the quality of the image that can be produced relies upon the resolution of the digital camera. This is made up of mega pixels. The number of mega pixels determines the level of detail in the picture. The pixels are the tiny dots of colour that make up image. These look fine on the computer or screen. However, once transferred to the computer and enlarged, images containing a lower number of pixels show these dots and so the image is flawed. Therefore, for good quality images the best digital camera to choose is one that has a high number of mega pixels.

The quality of the digital camera lens will also affect your picture quality. The lens should have a zoom feature, which enables you to zoom both in and out to create the perfect composition for your image. Each device will differ, but the concept is the same. The lens should be labeled with two zoom numbers; the smallest states the shortest possible zoom distance and the biggest number shows the longest possible distance. Consider the type of photographs that you are going to take when choosing your digital camera. If the pictures will mainly be indoors, then a lower number is required to be able to zoom out in enclosed areas.

The average digital camera will have an inbuilt auto focus function which will serve most amateur photographer`s needs. However, for more effects or for advanced photography, select a camera that has a manual focus option also. The auto focus can be turned off in some devices, which is an exceptional feature as the photographer can choose which option is best for the photograph being taken.

Another consideration is the shutter delay on the digital camera. The shutter delay affects the quality of focus and composition. The delay means that the picture is actually taken some time after the button is pressed on the camera. This means that the subject of the composition may have moved, clouds may shadow the expected lighting effects, or that your hand may shake and so the image is distorted and blurred. A good way to combat this is to only half press the button when you are composing the picture. This activates the auto focus and prepares the device for the shot. When the button is pressed, the photograph will be taken much more quickly, and will help combat any distortions.

Memory space is important if you want to take good photographs with your digital camera. Not only does this enable lots of storage, it also gives you the opportunity to take several photographs, in search of that one perfect shot.

Any digital camera will have inbuilt storage but this is minimal, averaging around 16 megabytes in total. The memory space can be added to with the use of a memory card or stick. The type chosen will depend upon what is compatible with your camera. Any memory card or stick is good, and they go up to 2GB in size. It is important that the type chosen is compatible with your home computer so that the images can be transferred and stored, giving you access to more photographic opportunities.

http://www.digital-camera-advice-tips.info/article.cfm/id/196002

Digital SLR Buyer's Guide

2007-10-16T05:56:00.000-07:00

As a result of the recent rush to 10 megapixel digital SLR cameras, everything that has been held sacred in the camera business is now upside down. At the price of yesterday's 6 megapixel cameras you can now buy almost twice the resolution - and you can definitely see the difference in pictures taken at 6 and 10 megapixels. The $1700 Nikon D200 is now mostly the same feature set and virtually the same 10 megapixel sensor as the new $999 Nikon D80, and the $800 Canon Rebel XTi has almost the same processing engine as the $1500 Canon 30D and a 10 megapixel resolution compared to the 8 megapixel of the 30D. Since so much has progressed so fast in the last few months, it is time for a hard look at what is available in the hottest digital camera segment - digital SLRs.

The new "entry" level digital SLR market, generally defined as digital SLR cameras that sell for $1000 or less, has certainly expanded at both the bottom and the top. Today you can actually buy a digital SLR camera in the $400 to $500 price range, which was unheard of as recently as last year's Holiday buying season. This lower entry price has practically made the popular fixed lens SLR and "quality" pocket digital cameras all but obsolete. Why pay $800 for a fixed lens digital when you can get more features and flexibility with an interchangeable lens digital SLR at a lower price? This "prosumer" category of the past is rapidly disappearing, but it is worth pointing out that there is always room for a high-quality, pocketable fixed-lens digital camera.

he $1000 and under segment, which used to be entry level SLR cameras, now includes10 megapixel models at the top, and the feature sets for this new generation include enhancements previously available only on much more expensive cameras. All of the 10 megapixel SLRs are faster than their predecessors - borrowing processing engines from higher priced models (Nikon and Canon) or pioneering new high-speed processing circuits (Pentax and Sony).

The "entry" market is now segmented into true entry level SLR cameras in the $400 to $600 price range, the new 10 megapixel mid-range SLRs at $700 to $1000, and a couple of mid-range 8 megapixel SLRs that straddle the middle in the $600 to $700 range. In practical terms it is very difficult to tell any difference between 6 and 8 megapixel images, or between 8 megapixel and 10. However, there is a discernable improvement in moving from 6 to 10 megapixels.

This SLR Buyer's Guide will take a closer look at the top of this range, comparing the new 10 megapixel models. We will also compare models in the true entry level $400 to $600 range. The 8 megapixel models will be considered at both ends of the spectrum for features and value. Prices quoted in this guide are based on the best prices we could find at major online retailers like Newegg or Amazon. These are also typical prices in our own price engine. The prices quoted should be available to any online shopper, but you may find even better prices if you are willing to do more searching. Conversely, local photo specialty retailers normally provide better customer support and return options than etailers, and their prices for the same item will generally be higher.

If you are shopping for a digital camera but you're not really a photo hobbyist, you might want to start with our overview of digital photography in Digital Photography from 20,000 Feet. In that introduction we cover the terms and concepts used in this Buyer's Guide. If you're a photo hobbyist then dive in. Our advice is not jaded, and many will be surprised that Nikon and Canon were not our first choices in every category. 2006 was definitely the year of the Digital SLR camera, and the names that are new or that resurfaced this year are definitely making shopping for a new Digital SLR more fun than it has been in a very long time.

http://www.anandtech.com/showdoc.aspx?i=2896

Kodak EasyShare V550 digital camera introduction

2007-10-15T05:40:00.000-07:00

Kodak EasyShare V550 digital camera introduction : Fresh for the summer season, the new Kodak EasyShare V550 V-series digital camera has been unveiled today in cities around the globe. The Kodak V550, smaller than a deck of playing cards, is designed for trendsetters who seek high-style, compact personal electronics that combine phenomenal quality, performance and simplicity. The Kodak EasyShare V550 zoom digital camera breaks new ground in blending video and still photography. For the first time, videos can be automatically turned into stop-action still pictures perfect for printing and sharing. Record longer, up to 80 minutes, TV-quality videos with sound, while using less memory storage.

Kodak EasyShare V550 -Video
Avoid on-screen shaking with built-in image stabilization technology, and zoom in on video subjects in real time using the professional-caliber Scheinder-Kreuznach lens. Then watch the videos with friends on the cameras' big, bright, crisp LCD screens, viewable from nearly any angle. In addition, EasyShare Software version 5.0, which will be available as a free download next month from Kodak's website, makes combining, rotating, and adding music to video clips a breeze.

Kodak V550 - EasyShare Photo Frame Dock 2
Crafted to capture every pose, the EasyShare V530 camera is equipped with 5-megapixel (MP) resolution for breathtaking prints up to 20 x 30 inches. The included Kodak EasyShare Photo Frame Dock 2, which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer while keeping the cameras' high-capacity battery charged and ready to go, can play video and photo 'slideshows' on the cameras' high-resolution LCD screens, providing an additional degree of elevated design and innovation to EasyShare V-Series camera owners.

Kodak V550 digital camera - Designed for women
"With women buying more than half of the electronic items sold in the United States, Kodak is designing new products that particularly appeal not only to women's sense of style, but also a desire to simplify their lives," said Mary-Irene Marek, worldwide marketing manager at Kodak. "The new Kodak EasyShare V550 camera makes it incredibly simple to take and share videos and pictures, while being chic, fashionable and small enough to slip into the newest designer handbag."

Kodak EasyShare V550 camera - Perfect for every social occasion
Like the little black dress or classic button-down shirt, the Kodak EasyShare V550 digital camera is perfect for nearly every social occasion. In addition to its high-end video performance, the Kodak V550 model captures all moments with 5MP resolution and its pro-caliber, Scheinder-Kreuznach C-Variogon 3X optical zoom lens. Nineteen scene modes such as beach, snow, sunset and party help you get the best possible shot with the least possible effort.

Kodak EasyShare V550 digital camera - Beautifull bodie
The black and silver metal camera bodies, paired with luminescent blue indicator lights, beg to be shown off. A brilliant 2.5-inch, very high-resolution LCD screen (230,000 pixels) is viewable from almost any angle (170 degrees) and can be used to preview a shot - as can the optical viewfinder - before instantly sharing the snapped picture with friends. The Kodak EasyShare V550 camera will be available worldwide beginning this June for US$399 (MSRP).

Kodak V550 digital camera - EasyShare Software
Kodak V-series cameras, like the EasyShare V550, include Kodak EasyShare software for Windows and Macintosh systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing - and even CD and DVD burning. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 5.0 will be available as a free download from the website of Kodak beginning this summer, and will feature new video editing tools that allow people to quickly and simply trim, splice, rotate and add music to videos. Kodak EasyShare Software is now among the most widely used picture software titles in the world, with more than 22 million consumers enjoying its features.

Kodak V550 camera - Kodak EasyShare Printer Dock Series 3
Kodak makes it easy to accessorize the new V-serie camera, with a range of products that help show off your pictures. For instance, the popular Kodak EasyShare Printer Dock Series 3 (US$149 MSRP) makes it one-touch simple to print real Kodak pictures at home in just seconds - with or without a computer.

http://www.letsgodigital.org/en/news/articles/story_3285.html

Video Production Equipment: The Director’s Cut

2007-10-13T04:22:00.000-07:00

New technologies in video production equipment combined with the emergence of video—particularly digital video—as an acceptable medium for film has made it possible for almost anyone to become a film director virtually overnight. While the cost of film and film equipment is financially prohibitive, video production equipment is relatively inexpensive and can be mastered quite quickly. While there is a great deal more to the art of film that just having the right equipment, the accessibility of video equipment has encouraged many amateur filmmakers to give it their best shot. Understanding the basics of video production equipment is the first step to becoming the next Steven Spielberg.

Filming Video Production Gear

As you prepare to make a video film, it’s a good idea to take stock of your video production equipment required for filming to make sure you have everything that you need. Some common video production products needed for creating a professional looking film include:

* Professional video cameras – From ENG cameras that are slightly larger than your average camcorder to Studio cameras that are connected via cable to dock recorders that do that actual taping, there are many levels of professional grade digital video cameras.

* Stabilization Equipment – Including simple tripods, shoulder mounts, camera dollies and high tech camera cranes, stabilization equipment ensures that the video production is smooth and not shaky. Additionally, stabilization video production equipment can help determine the type of camera shot that is available for a production.

* Film Quality Lighting – Beyond just lights, film quality lighting banks include grip lighting, reflectors, crate grids for lighting effects and scrims to control different aspects of light diffusion.

* Microphone/Audio System – While many video cameras contain a microphone to capture sounds, creating a professional quality video requires separate audio equipment including shotgun mics, audio mixers and pole audio devices.

Editing Video Production Equipment

Once you have your film on video, additional video production gear is required for editing and finalizing a video into a complete entity. Using professional quality editing equipment can give your video the polished quality that separates it from home video or amateur productions. Typical video editing tools include:

* Video Editing Software – Unlike film, which much be edited manually, video can be edited right on your computer. Using professional video editing software, you can add transitions, trim scenes and put the whole project together seamlessly. Selecting the right video production equipment for editing is critical to the final quality of your video.

* Sound Mixing Equipment – A professional video will use sound mixing equipment to balance volume levels, add ambient noise and include a soundtrack to the video. Additionally, sound mixing can transform the standard video mono-audio into a heightened stereo experience.

* Video Duplication Equipment – Once you film is complete, video duplication equipment will be required for copying and distributing your film. Professional video production gear will enable copies that maintain the sound and video quality of your master video.

About the Author:

Paolo Parodi is an expert author who writes for Video Production Equipment

HDMI, DVI , Component Video Cables And Interconnects Explained

2007-10-13T04:21:00.000-07:00

Background:

As the HDTV market continues to heat up, consumers are in need of being educated on the latest technology in order to make intelligent purchasing decisions. There are a plethora of articles explaining the technical pros and cons of the 3 dominant HDTV display technologies namely: LCD, Plasma, and DLP. However, one all- important, but overlooked feature in selecting a HDTV set is the type of HD video connection. The video connections available for HDTV are: component video, DVI (digital video interface) and HDMI (high definition multi-media interface). We will discuss briefly the pros and cons of each.

Component video cable commonly referred to as R, G, B (Red, Green, Blue) actually consists of 3 separate cables because it distributes the 3 primary color components to the display. All colors can be generated from weighted distribution of each Red, Green and Blue color components. Of the 3 HD connection technologies available today, analog component video is the most mature technology.

-Advantage: Analog component video cable is mature and cost effective.

-Disadvantage: component video cables are analog! All HDTV sets are inherently digital therefore extra digital to analog and analog to digital conversion is necessary in order to process the video. This extra conversion can introduce video artifacts. Since all HDTV's are digital, it only makes sense to use an all- digital connection such as DVI or HDMI.

DVI (digital video interface) as the name suggests is an all-digital video connection. Unlike analog component cables the DVI interface transports the original digitized R,G, B video signals from the HD source to the HD display. Since it is all digital, no artifacts or degradation will be incurred. You will get EXACTLY the picture that the video source supplies with no degradation. DVI connection is often found on HDTV as well as PC video cards.

-Advantage : DVI is ALL-digital, so there is no picture degradation from source to display.

-Disadvantage : Digitizing R, G, B requires extremely high bandwidth. The aggregate data rate of the digital R, G, B signals is 1.65 Gbps! The high bandwidth means that cable quality is important and also the link distance is limited. Typical link budget for a DVI is ~ 15 ft.

HDMI (high definition multi-media interface) is the latest state of art audio and video connection. Technically, HDMI is identical to DVI with 3 notable differences. 1) HDMI is a much smaller connector (it looks like an U.S.B. connector), 2) HDMI utilizes copy protection called HDCP (high definition copy protection) and 3) HDMI carries multi channel digital audio. HDMI, like DVI, is ALL-digital therefore picture quality is “perfect” from source to display.

-Advantage: HDMI is a single digital video and Audio connection. Only 1 single cable is needed to transport both audio and video! This significantly reduces cable clutter behind your theater setup. HDMI is all-digital therefore there is no picture degradation from source to display.

-Disadvantage: Like DVI, the link distance is limited and a high quality cable is required because of the inherently high bandwidth required to transport digital R, G, B. video.

http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/hdmi-dvi.html

The Types Of Camcorders

2007-10-13T04:20:00.000-07:00

If you are planning on purchasing a camcorder, you should be familiar with the types of camcorders and how they can benefit your specific needs. The formats of video cameras include, VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, Hi8, Mini Digital Video (Mini DV), DVD and Digital 8. Each format has its pros and cons

VHS

The VHS format is the oldest type of camcorder. This type of video camcorder is fast becoming outdated, because you can only play back the video on a VHS VCR system. VHS camcorders are not nearly as clear as digital video camcorders that offer clear video with 540 lines of resolution, VHS video cameras only offer 240 lines of resolution. They also weigh more and are much more bulky, that dv camcorders. You can only find these video camera used because their technology is now outdated.

VHS-C

The VHS-C format offer 240 lines of resolution, just like VHS. These analog camcorders come in a smaller size that the VHS camcorder models, but use the same technology. The video tapes used in VHS-C camcorders are much smaller in size than VHS, just in a smaller camcorder design. VHS-C is considered old technology and not used today in newer models.

8mm

If you are looking to record more than 1 hour, then 8mm camcorders are perfect. These video cameras can record up to 5 hours of footage and they offer better video quality that VHS cameras. In order to view video from your 8mm video camcorder, you need to connect the camcorder to input jacks on your TV or your VCR system.

MiniDV

MiniDV, short for mini Digital Video off the clearest and most vivid colors out of all the types of camcorders on the market, and they're small in size only 4 inches in width and height. Mini dv camcorders can fit in the palm of your hand, making them very easy to handle and transport. And if you like editing your video footage you can connect dv camcorders to your computer system. Transferring the video is a snap with the FireWire connection. Once the footage is in your computers hard drive you can burn it to dvd, add it to your web site or email small clips to friends and family.

Digital8

Digital8 camcorders offer the best of both worlds, Hi8 and DV. You can use 8mm and hi8 video tapes combined with the best image quality found in digital camcorder formats. Digital8 camcorders are larger and heavier than Mini DV camcorders, but they are also cheaper in price. The Digital8 system offers 540 lines of crystal clear resolution.

DVD Camcorders

The newest form of digital video cameras are DVD camcorders. These camcorders are small in size, just like Digital8 and Mini DV camcorders. The big difference compared to other camcorder systems is that DVD camcorders use recordable DVD discs such as DVD-R or DVD-RW. The big benefit to dvd video cameras is that they can be played on your home DVD player, and of course the quality is the best you can find.

Price comparisons

If you want to buy the cheapest priced camcorder go for a VHS analog camcorder, you don't get the same quality as digital camcorders however if you plan on filming family vacations this should be sufficient for your needs. Then there are DVD camcorders, they are the most expensive of digital video cameras, but at the same time, they are the newest technology offering the best image and sound quality. Lastly is the mini dv format, this is probably the best camcorder for the price and quality. Small in size and reasonably priced. Review top manufacturers such as Panasonic, Sharp, Canon and Sony which offer the very popular Sony Handycam.

About the Author:

Chris Vorelli offers info on digital video camcorders, camcorder reviews, Sony camcorders , Canon camcorders, & Samsung camcorders and more. Reprint permission will all hyper links intact. © http://www.digital-camcorders-reviews.net/

Camcorder - Features To Look For

2007-10-13T04:19:00.000-07:00

If you're on the look out for a new digital camcorder then you need to know what type of features to look for. It's easy to get confused and hard to make sense of all the specifications. Looking for the right features is the key in finding the best camera for your needs. While you compare digital camera recorder reviews and ratings, there are some items to consider.

You should have a general idea of what you need the mini dv camera for. Do you need a video camera for home movies? Or are you looking for a professional video camera, for your next feature film? Think about what you are looking for so your camcorder comparison shopping won't take as long.

Zoom

All digital video cameras have a zoom feature. Older analog camerass only had optical zoom, but new digital video cameras have both optical and digital zoom. There is a difference between these two types of zoom. Optical zoom physically lengthens the lens,and will still give your videos high image quality. However digital zoom basically blows up the scene in a digital format. The problem with digital zoom is that when you zoom in on a subject the video becomes pixilated and blocky with little squares giving the video a blurred and distorted look.

If you're wondering which zoom is better and more important, optical zoom. The more distance that your optical zoom can do, the more flexibility that you have when focusing in on a subject. I suggest a minimum of 10x optical zoom for most consumers.

CCD Sensors and Resolution

The video quality in a dv camera is dependant on the CCD, which is an abbreviation for charged-coupled device. The CCD is an image sensor that converts light into pixels to produce images; your digital camera works in the same way. You can find camcorders with one CCD or three CCDs. One CCD cameras are less costly however you will compromise the color quality in the video. 3 CCD cameras on the other hand provide the best color quality. The reason being is that there are 3 CCDs. Digital video cameras models with three CCDs (one each for red, green and blue) give your video the most vivid colors possible, but the price is more than 1 CCD video cameras.

Viewfinders & LCD Screens

It's important to find the best possible viewfinder when comparing camcorders. The viewfinder is the heart of the camcorder without it you can't see what you are filming. Viewfinders cam in black and white, if you buy a cheap video camera you will be stuck with a black and white screen. Personally I like my color screen, you can see the exact color and video quality as it will appear in the video. Sizes for LCD screen range from 2 to 4 inches across.

Digital Video Editing & Still images

Almost all newer digital video camcorders have FireWire (IEEE 1394). This feature enables you to transfer digital video footage from your camera to your computer system in the fastest possible way. The newest models even have the ability to take digital still images and video and transfer them to your computer for emailing to friends and family.

About the Author:

C Vorelli offers info on where to find the best digital camcorders. You can read ratings as well as reviews, on Sony, Canon, & Samsung and more. Reprint permission will all hyper links intact. © http://www.digital-camcorders-reviews.net/

Top 10 digital cameras

2007-10-13T04:17:00.002-07:00

There are a large number of top 10 digital cameras lists available on the Internet today. Each one of them is different and they all have different sets of criteria, on the basis of which these lists are compiled.

However, it is not necessary that a top 10 list by a particular site is the top 10 list for you. Since every camera user has his/her own preferences, it is not really correct to assume that one top 10 list works for everyone.

So, the best thing that you can do is to develop a set of top 10 criteria for yourself. Once you do this, then you will be able to develop your own top 10 digital camera list. So, now the question arises that how do you develop your criteria list.

The first and foremost thing to do is to determine the reason why you want to buy a digital camera. What are you going to use the camera for? How do you plan to use the photographs? And the most critical question of all, what is your budget?

Let us assume that you answer the above questions in the following manner :
You want a digital camera to take pictures of your family and during holidays.
You plan to use the photographs by printing them out to put into family albums, calendars and to post them on your web site.

Your budget for the camera is $200-300.

The above statements are enough to narrow down your choices quite a bit.

You specifically need to look at the battery life of the camera - since on vacation you will not be able to charge your digital camera at all times.
You also need to see the storage space available on the camera as it will not be possible for you to keep on transferring images at all times.
You need a camera with zoom options but whether you go for an optical zoom or digital zoom will get decided by your budgetary constraints.
You need flash since family photographs are normally taken indoors.
Your camera should be user-friendly, since it is likely that other/younger family members will be using the camera as well.
The camera should be sturdy as well, especially if you are on vacation with young children.
The camera should be compact and light-weight as it is not possible to carry big, bulky cameras while traveling.
A digital camera which can shoot good images to be put on a web site and in calendars needs to have a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. So this is another factor to be considered.
If you visit the beach while vacationing, then you might want to consider a water-proof camera. However, to fit this into your budget might be a bit difficult. Hence, there are digital cameras which come with water-proof cases and are cheaper. So, this might be the next best option for you.
You can also go for a digital camera which supports MPG files, so you can click mini-videos. This is a great option for those people who do not possess digital video cameras.

All in all you should examine top 10 digital cameras and find the one that fits your budget and style the best. We have found three cameras that work for us. A nice small compact Canon camera, a larger and more flexible Olympus camera, and a Nikon digital SLR camera we use for professional projects. A well rounded kit of digital cameras gleaned from the top 10 digital cameras on the market.

http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/top-10-digital-cameras.html

Digital video camera - using and owning one is now not an option

2007-10-13T04:14:00.000-07:00

The age of the digital video camera is here. Out with the VHS or SVHS camera you have stored away in the box. Those things are old school now. It is time to join the new reality. DV has come along and pushed it off the shelf. DV has been on the market for a few years now and has been sticking its toes in the waters of the video world to see if it was ready to make a splash. Well as a digital video producer let me tell you it is time. There are so many cool digital video camera products out on the market now, the technology is booming and pretty soon we are all going to be shooting in this format.

What can you do with DV that you can't with old tape formats? Well let me tell you there is so much to that question. Let's start with size. Everything is smaller and more compact which is a good thing. Then you have better quality, the ability to transfer the video into your computer for editing via high speed Firewire connections (also called IEEE ), and the quality stays with the video throughout the entire editing process unlike tape. Wow if your video is gorgeous going in it is gorgeous coming out and that is a wonderful thing.

I have taken the Sony PD 150 digital video camera on a variety of shoots that you would never take a larger more cumbersome camera. However that does not mean that I compromised the video in any fashion.

Take for instance the story I shot on a a female skier from Lebanon who was in Salt Lake City for the Olympics a few years back. We wanted to go on the mountain and interview her, see her being coached, and then see her training on the slalom runs. The PD 150 was small enough to take along in my backpack (padded of course in case of a fall) and yet powerful enough to take some wonderful video. I raced alongside of her as she zoomed through the slalom course, then ran the course myself with the camera down at snow level to give the ultimate feeling of speed. You could almost feel the chatter of the snow as my skis carved the hill. I had full control over my audio, exposure, and color balance so that the video came out looking terrific.

That story ended up having a great sense of the mountain, of the energy of the skier we were profiling, and all becasue the DV cam allowed us to go where we wanted without limitations.

http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/digital-video-camera.html

Buying a Digital Camera with Video Capture Capability

2007-10-12T05:06:00.000-07:00

If you want to create movies with your camera, one important feature to consider is video quality. This is made up of resolution and frames-per-second. It is important to note that the video resolution of a digital camera will usually be much lower than its image quality for normal photographs.

A move with high resolution and plenty of frames-per-second will look a lot nicer and more detailed on a computer screen, but will also use a lot more memory.

Another important feature to consider in the area of video capture, is whether your camera of choice supports sound. Some devices will feature a built-in microphone specifically to enhance this feature, but in many cases, you will need to attach some sort of external microphone if you want to record sound.

Other important components to look for in a digital camera are video length (how long a move can it record?), video format (a standard and easy-to-edit format like MPEG is ideal)Article Submission, and zoom (can you zoom in on things while recording a video?).

It is a good idea to ask about all of these features before buying a new camera for its video capture capabilities.

BOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeremy Maddock is an experienced webmaster and technology enthusiast who owns and operates Camera Reviews.ca.

Buying A Digital Camera: A Beginner’s Guide

2007-10-12T05:05:00.000-07:00

For any beginner photographer or a first time buyer of digital camera, choosing and buying a digital camera can become a task. There is so much that goes in to buying a digital camera for the first time. But you need not worry about that. For I provide you a step-by-step camera buying guide here:

Research: Talk to people

As a beginner you should keep certain things in your mind. First of all you should ask yourself, what are the features you need, what type of photos you are going to click with your new digital camera. There are a lot of features in a digital camera such as modes, zooms, lenses, flash, focus, viewfinder, resolution and timer. Decide which features you want in your camera. You can talk to your family and friends and other digital camera features to know their opinions on various camera features. This will help you jot down the basic expectations you owe from your new camera.

Price factor

Set a realistic budget for your first camera and look for cameras in that price range only. Prices of digital cameras have fallen greatly over the years. Still, a digital camera purchase is considered expensive to its 35mm counterparts purchase.

Next, gain a good knowledge about the models of cameras you are considering buying. Dont be a fool by going all by your friends choice. Be a proud owner of a digital camera that suits your needs rather than someone else's.

Satisfy your needs

As a beginner you should look for models that are easy to use and operate. Do not go for flashy models. They may not satisfy your needs.

Now decide on your printing needs. If most of your photos will be uploaded to a website or emailed, you will not need a lot of mega pixels in your camera. But if you are planning to make a lot of larger prints, you need a camera with a lot of mega pixels.

By narrowing down your options as per the needed camera features, you can decide which camera is best suited to you. Visit the stores and handle the devices personally. You should shop around for the best price. Pick up additional warranty if any. Take some great pictures.

Below are some of the great cameras for you:

1.Nikon coolpix 4100: It is a one easy to use camera. The camera is imaging wonder with 4.2 mega pixels and 3x optical zoom features to it.

2.Kodak Easyshare cx7330: This is a decent point and shoot camera that comes with 3.1 mega pixels and a combined 10x zoom features. The camera does not have much fancy features. But for a beginnerScience Articles, the camera is perhaps the best pick.

3.Canon Powershoot S410: This power shot camera from Canon is a four mega pixel camera. The camera is very stylish to operate and indeed offer all the basic functions of an average camera.

I am sure buying a digital camera is no longer a task for you.

http://www.articlesfactory.com/articles/entertainment/buying-a-digital-camera-a-beginners-guide.html

Nikon Digital SLRs

2007-10-12T05:03:00.000-07:00

Nikon is a camera brand, best known for producing SLR camera. As with the boom of digital cameras all over the world, Nikon joined the bandwagon by producing what they make best, thus the new era of the Nikon digital camera was born - digital SLR

One of the best in DSLR, the Nikon digital camera called Nikon D70 is 6-mega pixel Nikon digital camera. Coated with polycarbonate over its stainless steel chassis, this Nikon digital camera is furnished with a 50mm AF Nikkor lens that can combine with an 18-70mm kit lens and still be portable enough to be carried around. It has a 200-1600 ISO effective speed range, great for taking pictures both in the shade and under the sun. and why won't it be?! With its three frames per second continuous shooting rate and its 1/8000 second shutter speed, taking pictures is as easy as clicking away and having fun. this Nikon digital camera is supported with a Flash card.Another SLR from Nikon is the Nikon Coolpix 8800. An 8-mega pixel Nikon digital camera, the Coolpix 8800 has a compact body. Furnished with a 1.8 inch flip-out and swivel LCD, this baby is surely first rate SLR. This Nikon digital camera features an image stabilizer system to reduce camera shakes particularly on long shots since this gadget can zoom up to 10x (optical zoom) and can focus to up to 3cm in macro mode with its 35-350mm lens. Key controls are very user-friendly, with modes such as sensitivity, image size/quality and white balance - found directly with the mode dial. The image output quality is the middle name of this Nikon digital camera, with great detail rendition, color fidelity and saturation. a rather exceptional feature of the 8800 is the continuous shooting modes, where users can choose 1.2 or 2.3 frames per second. A bit bulky to carry around, the 8800 is perfect for shooting action and sports shots. The 8800 works with a Compact Flash card for storing up your images. Another digital SLR from Nikon is the Nikon D50. A 6.1 mega pixel Nikon digital camera, this gadget has 7 varied modes to shoot from using its AF-S DX Zoom Nikkor 18-55mm lens. These modes are Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close Up, Sports, Night Portrait and Child. To see the images that you took, this Nikon digital camera is furnished with a 2.0 inch LCD screen. How fast can this camera shoot? It has 2.5 frames per second and with uninterrupted shooting of up to 137 frames per second. This Nikon digital camera is not too bad, especially for novice photographers. This package also includes a software for touching up, editing and sharing your pictures. The software even enables you to burn your images to VCD or DVD format. One of the first point and shoot Nikon digital cameras is the Nikon Coolpix 4800. A four mega pixel Nikon digital camera, the old school designed 4800 is equipped with a 1.8 inch LCD screen for viewing your pictures. The 4800 is an 8.3x zoom Nikon digital camera with 6-50mm Nikkor Ed lens that zooms quickly and has continuous auto focusing (a feature where your lens is always trying to keep your pictures sharp). It also allows users to shoot, record and playback short movie clips with its assist and excellent scene modes - meaning that includes providing outlines for portraits (for tweaking purposes), exposure and sensitivity settings. These features are very helpful especially for novice photographers that want to try their hands at photography. Along with thatArticle Search, it comes with a 13.5MB SD card and the Li-on battery pack. Remember to check out Nikon's website at nikon.com or nikonusa.com to see the latest Nikon digital cameras.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
We provide free articles and information. Check us out at Free Articles

Kodak Easyshare CX7430 Digital Camera Review

2007-10-12T04:59:00.000-07:00

The Kodak EasyShare CX7430 is an excellent point-and-shoot digital camera that is currently selling very well. Just consider its features: 4 megapixel resolution, 3x optical zoom, 16MB of memory, as well as a movie mode. Given it’s low price (around $190), it’s an amazing deal. This camera is most suitable for beginners – it has all of the basic functions you need in a simple digital camera. Let’s have a look at its various features:

Design and Construction
Like all point-and-shoot digital cameras, the Kodak EasyShare CX7430 is designed to be compact enough to fit in your pocket. It’s silvery finish will certainly attract lots of attention too. Its dimensions are 4.0 inches by 2.6 inches by 1.25 inches (weight-height-depth), and it weighs only 6.3 ounces. There is a little 1.6 inch LCD screen behind the camera for viewing images. Initially, I found the LCD screen a tad on the small side, but I got used to it after snapping a couple of photos.

Optics and Resolution
The Kodak EasyShare CX7430 is equipped with a Kodak Retinar lens and offers with a 4 megapixel resolution. There’s also a 3x optical zoom for taking subjects faraway. What is interesting about this camera is its wide range of scene modes. Most point-and-shoot cameras have a handful (maybe 5) scene modes for photography under different conditions: macro, landscape, night photography, etc. The Kodak EasyShare CX7430 has 9 scene modes to choose from, which is much more than the competition.

I didn’t expect much in terms of manual control in the camera’s optics. If you’re looking to play around with shutter speed, aperture, white balance and other photography options, then this camera is not for you. Sure, there are some basic exposure controls but they are nowhere near the fine settings allowed in advanced digital SLR cameras.

That being said, the quality of photos taken by the Kodak EasyShare CX7430 were nothing short of outstanding. The photos, when printed out, were of extremely high quality. So if you’re the type you just whips out a camera and takes quick shots, with a minimum of fuss, then this camera will be great for you.

User Controls
The user controls in the Kodak CX7430 are located on both sides of the LCD and also on mode dial at the top surface of the camera. Those more accustomed to Canon or Sony models will find that the controls take a little getting used to. However, I did not have any problems reaching commonly used functions like flash control or image viewing.

Movie Mode
If you like to shoot some spontaneous movies with your digital camera, then you’ll be glad to know that the CX7430 comes with a movie mode. You can capture video at 13 frames per second (fps) at VGA size 640 x 480. The movie mode is continuous, meaning that the camera allows you to record movies up to the memory limit of your memory card.

Storage and Transfer
In terms of storage, the Kodak CX7430 comes with internal memory of 16MB. You’ll certainly want to purchase a SD or MMC memory card to add on to the amount of memory available. In terms of image transfer, the camera supports USB 1.1 ports. This is enough for fast image transfers between the camera and your computer.

Battery Life
The Kodak CX7430 uses AA batteries. The ones that come in the box are alkaline batteries – I’d recommend that you get some NiMH rechargables. They will pay for themselves very quickly. The support for AA batteries is a great bonus because AA batteries are easily found in any convenience store, even when you’re overseas.

Shortcomings
The bad points about the Kodak EasyShare CX7430? Well, here’s a few shortcomings I’d point out – Kodak would sell many more units if they were corrected:

* Videos taken by the camera are at very low frame rate
* The door covering the memory card slot doesn’t latch strongly
* The bundled software isn’t very impressive

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site at www.basic-digital-photography.com. Read his tips on digital photography and learn to shoot better photos with your digicam.

Photography Poses – The Missing Ingredient

2007-10-12T04:55:00.000-07:00

You've read all the "best digital camera" articles, got the best price on your first digital camera, and even glanced at its owner's manual. Are you itching to take some shots of your family, or what?

Slow down, soldier. Before you take 200 shots that seem great at the time, but then upon review of the final picture are less than what you expected, let's prepare. Prepare?!?! I'll bet you thought charging the battery was the hardest part of taking great photos, didn't you? Sorry to disappoint you, but if you want to improve your photo results 50% in 2 minutes, let's review some basic advice of the pros.

There are two categories of GENERAL ADVICE which applies, regardless of whether you're using a digital camera to take family portrait poses, baby pictures, pet portraits, group pictures, funny photos, or even maternity portraits. The first category is...

"Good Planning" Advice for Photography Poses

1) Prepare For The Event

Prepare for the event by thinking about every photograph you want to take and what kind of photography pose or poses you would like to capture. Consider who, where, how, and the type of environment.

2) Take Multiple Photographs

Take multiple shots of each pose (remember, digital memory is reusable, a.k.a. "free"). Regardless of what you say or do, people will blink. And don't count on spotting small problems on the tiny camera LCD screen (even on full magnification); which leads to...

3) Check LCD Screen

Check the digital camera's LCD screen for general framing of the picture, any movement, visibility of faces, and the histogram. Note that you can think up a fantastic photography pose; arrange everyone perfectly; and, have the photograph "frozen" (no blinking, and no shaking of the camera)...but, when you check it out in the LCD, you see 2 drunks fighting in the background! And, my favorite...

4) Funny Phrases

Have some funny phrases handy to use just before you take the photo. Don't use it when setting up for the shot. And, don't use the same phrase all the time. Throw in funny anecdotes, phrases, names, words that you know your family will find more amusing than "cheese." A natural smile looks four times better than a fake one. The second category is...

"Location" Advice for Photography Poses

Taking indoor family photography, is very different than outdoor family photograph (duh!). For INDOOR pictures...

1) Wide Angle

You will tend to use the wide angle more often than your telephoto setting. Pay particular attention to your "end people" (those farthest to the right and the left in your viewfinder), and verify there is enough space in picture, so that if cropping is required, the end people don't have to lose a limb.

2) The Flash

Flash considerations are critical. Do not be outside your "flash range." For example, if at ISO 100, your flash can properly illuminate 12 feet, don't attempt any photography pose that requires anyone to stand at 14 feet (unless, of course, it's evil cousin Ira who you want to appear in darkness).

3) Plan "B"

If you need to be further away than your flash allows, here are 2 things you can try...First, increase the ISO setting (but not so much as to produce to much noise), or second, move to a significantly brighter location.

4) Watch Your Background

If there are distracting features, change your settings to blur the background (see the Techniques page). The best photography pose in the world won't look right with a distracting background. And finally...

5) Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall

If there are mirrors or reflective surfaces in the background and you can't find a different location, only take the picture in such a way that the flash is not perpendicular to the surface, but at an angle (unless you want a nice photo of your flash).

Outdoor family photography has completely different issues. For OUTDOOR photography...

6) The Sun

Avoid photographing in direct sunlight, or in mixed light and shade, especially faces. Optimal lighting results from a slightly overcast sky.

7) Shade

When photographing in shade, use fill-flash (see terms) when necessary. And, really finally...

8) Beauty

If practical, take the picture at one of the beautiful natural settings near you. Imagine the result of a creative photography pose captured in a stunning environment. Can you say: "Over the mantle!"?

To see 5 different categories of poses with tips, scroll to the middle of Photography Pose.

Article courtesy of Best Family Photography Tips.comComputer Technology Articles, where you can see some sample pictures including more photography tips.

http://www.articlesfactory.com/articles/hobbies/photography-poses-the-missing-ingredient.html

Comparing Digital Camera Features

2007-10-11T02:40:00.000-07:00

More people are able to afford digital cameras because their prices are falling but the number of characteristics is rising so it is important to be able to compare digital camera features.

The first step in being able to compare digital camera features is to decide what you want to get out of your camera. If you compare digital camera prices you will see that for shooting family snapshots you can get a good basic digital camera for under $400, while a professional model is over $2,000. When you compare digital camera features you need to know the extent of the use you are going to get out of it.

It is essential when you compare digital camera options to understand the issues of image resolution, which is measured in megapixels. Basically, the more megapixels, the higher the resolutions of the final image but you definitely need to compare digital camera images with your actual requirements. This is best done if you compare digital camera resolution with the size of the images that you want to print and you will find that a 1-mg camera can create a 3-by-5-inch (7.5 by 13 cm) photo-quality print; a 2-mg camera will make a 5-by-7-inch (13 by 18 cm) print; a 3-mg camera will make an 8-by-10-inch (20 by 25 cm) print, and a 6-mg camera will make a 9-by-13-inch (23 by 33 cm) print.

One of the other points to consider when you compare digital camera prices is to look at the complete package that is offered. Some included extras to look for when you compare digital camera packages are if the camera includes a cable for your computer and if it comes with image-editing software that works with your computer. If these are not included it is still possible for you to buy them separately but you need to allow for this when you compare digital camera prices. Another important point to consider when you compare digital camera options is to choose a camera with removable memory in addition to built-in memory.

All of the cameras that you are considering when you compare digital camera features should have an LCD screen for viewing pictures, a built-in flash, a timer, and a time/date stamp on even the most basic camera. You should also look to compare digital camera packages that have optical zoom, not digital, if you need a zoom capability and most midrange cameras should have high-quality optical zoom lenses but it is still worth checking to make sure.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/comparing-digital-camera-features.html

Choosing A Digital Camera Printer

2007-10-11T02:39:00.001-07:00

There are so many types of digital camera printer on offer that finding the right one for your personal and business needs can be a very daunting task. However, there are a few main points to consider when choosing a digital camera printer that will help make the process a little easier.

It isn’t necessary to have a high-resolution digital camera printer to make great pictures. The higher the printer resolution you use, the more pixels you'll need in your original image file to produce a decent size print with your digital camera printer. The actual file size (in pixels) of the image from your camera, divided by the printer resolution (in dots per inch), determines the final print size. So, if the image file size is 1,478 x 1,280 pixels, and you print the file at 163 dpi with your digital camera printer, the final print size will be 9 x 7.8 inches.

If your digital camera printer resolution is 300 dpi, then you will have a higher resolution with more dots per inch laid down on the paper but a smaller print size. It is therefore important to ensure that you have the image file size to support the resolution of your digital camera printer.

The price of a digital camera printer is lowering whilst the quality is increasing. If you choose the right digital camera printer you can have your own photo lab, greeting card designing and sign making department with just your digital camera, some software and a printer.

The aim of having a digital camera printer is to produce photographic prints that look as close to real photographic prints as possible. This type of digital camera printer was once very expensive to buy and run, but technological advancements and competitive pricing have made them much more accessible to the average buyer. Ink-jet printers are now available that can produce excellent prints and a near photo-quality printer is much easier to find for people with a small budget. You will probably want to have a digital camera printer with a scanning feature built-in. If you want to produce same-size scans of photos you don’t need scan resolutions higher than 300 samples per inch for the scanner.

Your digital camera printer should also have the same interface that you already have on your computer. So if you have USB, then get a digital camera printer with USB, a Firewire printer if you have Firewire or a SCSI printer if you have SCSI. There should be no need to buy a digital camera printer that requires a different interface to the one you already have on your computer or it will cost you more to upgrade if necessary.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/choosing-a-digital-camera-printer.html

Repairing A Digital Camera

2007-10-11T02:38:00.001-07:00

It would be ideal if you never had to use a digital camera repair service but the chances are that you will have to find one during the life of your digital camera. If you have bought your camera carefully then it should have a lengthy digital camera repair warranty. Even if your camera is still within the warranty period for digital camera repair then you still have to ensure that you meet the requirements of the warranty.

No digital camera repair warranty covers damage caused by abusing the camera or incorrect use. You also need to check what paperwork you have to send off with your digital camera repair for it to be carried out under warranty, such as the sales receipt and completed warranty card. Your warranty will provide instructions for how to obtain a digital camera repair and the procedures to follow. It is important to use a digital camera repair service authorised by the particular manufacturer of your digital camera to ensure that you do not incur any extra costs. A digital camera repair carried out under warranty will not cost you anything unless the equipment needs to be returned to the factory, in which case there are shipping charges.

One of the most frequent problems that require a camera to be sent to a digital camera repair service is a zoom lens that will not zoom, because the lens is out of alignment. This may have been caused by rough handling or some type of impact which will not be covered by the warranty. If your camera is not able to focus then it will not fire and may print out ‘system error’ or not turn on properly. It is a relatively simple process for a digital camera repair service to realign the zoom lens or reset the zoom barrel guide pins that may have been pushed out of their slots, and this will then enable the lens to focus and zoom. The cost for this form of digital camera repair will vary from service to service but it should be a relatively quick job, as long as the digital camera repair company has the correct equipment onsite. It is worth checking before you decide which digital camera repair service to use that they have the necessary equipment and expertise to carry out the repair and not have to send it away.

The best digital camera repair services have skilled digital camera repair technicians that specialize in repairing certain types and brands of cameras, hundreds of specialized tools to properly service your camera and some may also have custom test jigs to help complete repairs more effectively and efficiently.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/repairing-a-digital-camera.html

Canon Digital Camera Guide

2007-10-11T02:36:00.000-07:00

Canon digital camera innovations have always been at the forefront of photographic innovations and their compact digital cameras package a variety of functions into a deceptively small Canon digital camera body. These are particularly attractive to a wide range of users because of their light weight, ease of use, high image quality and high functionality. Canon digital camera experts are highly experienced in camera manufacturer, leading-edge optical technology, ultra high-precision mounting technology, electronic device technology and color management technology amongst others. All of this experience and expertise is combined to produce the Canon digital camera PowerShot series and the PowerShot DIGITAL ELPH/DIGITAL IXUS series.

Throughout their continuing research, the Canon digital camera development team has collected a large amount of photographic data and also made broad statistical analyses of the frequency involved in taking photographs. This data led to the creation of the Canon digital camera Photographic Space which is a graphical database of information relating to the relationship between surrounding brightness and distance between a Canon digital camera and the subject relative to the focal length and position of the zoom lens when pictures are taken.

The Canon digital camera Photographic Space led to the development of a new scene-recognition technology called "iSAPS" (intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space) Technology. Canon digital camera iSAPS Technology analyses the scene to be photographed and makes optimal adjustments of a number of key functions, including auto-focus, before the shutter is pressed.

The Canon digital camera iSAPS Technology closely estimates the camera-to-subject distance based on the lens focal length, zoom position and surrounding brightness which guarantees the most accurate exposure and white balance settings for the overall conditions.

At the high end of the Canon digital camera range are their single-lens reflex, or SLR, cameras. The Canon digital camera company has created ultra-high-precision imaging elements and high-performance digital imaging engines so that their digital SLR cameras possess the same ease of operation as their 35mm film counterparts but produce exceptionally high-quality images.

The Canon digital camera imaging engine, or DIGIC II, creates image data from signals output from a CMOS, or complementary metal oxide semiconductor, sensor. The CMOS sensor is really the brain of any digital camera. Canon developed the Canon digital camera DIGIC II high-performance imaging engine directly due to the increasingly high resolution CMOS sensors. With the help of a high-capacity DDRS DRAM (double data rate SDRAM) as the buffer memory, the Canon digital camera DIGIC II processes high-resolution images at ultra-high speeds.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/canon-digital-camera-guide.html

How To Compare Digital Camera Prices

2007-10-11T02:35:00.000-07:00

Digital camera prices have been constantly dropping whilst the quality and complexity of the digital cameras has been rising rapidly. People who used to only dream of owning a digital camera because of the excessive digital camera prices may now be able to afford much better cameras than they realize. In fact, digital camera prices have changed so dramatically that a 5- or 6-megapixel point-and-shoot digital camera has dropped below what a 4-megapixel camera was selling for less than a year ago.

Digital camera prices of $200-$300 are now common for good point-and-shoot digital cameras that come with an image resolution of up to 5 mega pixels and a 3X optical zoom lens. It is important to recognize what the minimum features are to expect for this range of digital camera prices. Digital camera prices between $200 and $300 should include:

* 1.3 frames per second shooting capability

* 10 to 20 scene modes

* built-in flash

* lens openings from f2.8 to f4.8

* optical viewfinder and an LCD of 1.5 to 2 inches

* optical zoom lens with a range equivalent to that of a 35-115mm lens

* rechargeable batteries

* shutter speeds of 4 seconds to 1/2000 second

* solid plastic or metal housing

* video clip capture at 320 by 240 resolution with audio

Digital camera prices can vary and it is essential to know what the most useful features are. Obviously you want to take good pictures but don’t want to pay the inflated digital camera prices that the high-end cameras have. However, your priority should be to assess which features are the most important to enable you to take the best pictures. The higher the numbers of megapixels that the cameras have, the higher the digital camera prices are but this does not necessarily guarantee better pictures.

One of the most useful features to look for in the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices for point-and-shoot picture taking is scene modes. Digital camera prices are not affected very much by having scene modes but these allow an amateur photographer to take shots such as a fireworks display and sunsets without knowing how to adjust the camera settings manually. The majority of the better digital cameras within the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices have scene mode selections available. Another feature of cameras within the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices is that they are compact and will fit in a jacket pocket.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/how-to-compare-digital-camera-prices.html

Finding The Best Buy On A Digital Camera

2007-10-11T02:33:00.000-07:00

The best buy digital camera is not necessarily the cheapest, but the one that has the best overall package for your needs. It is important to check on the various functions and accessories before you compare prices to ensure that you find the best buy digital camera. The main reason that people want to buy a digital camera is for convenience rather than using a traditional film camera and there are a lot of best buy digital camera deals available.

The first point is to find the best buy digital camera with the highest resolution you can afford which will normally be at least 2 to 3 megapixels (2 million to 3 million pixels). If you will only output pictures to a computer monitor (for viewing, Web page use or e-mail) then the best buy digital camera will be one with a 640-by 480 pixel resolution and it will provide very satisfactory results. There are very few genuine best buy digital camera packages with high-resolution and the specified resolution may only apply to software interpolation rather than the true optical resolution. To print photographs on a good (at least 720 dots per inch) color printer you will need to look for the best buy digital camera with a high resolution.

Many retailers advertise their best buy digital camera as one with a plastic lens. It is better to buy a digital camera with a 100% glass lens for the best pictures. You should also look for the best buy digital camera packages with the most RAM that you can afford. The more RAM the camera has means that it can store more pictures and does not require downloading or erasing them as often.

When you are evaluating the best buy digital camera offers you need to compare optical, as opposed to digital, zoom capabilities. This is one of the most frequently used features of most digital cameras and you need to be sure that you have the capability to take the type of close-up shots that you want to.

Another issue that needs to be considered is whether the best buy digital camera offer actually includes the accessories that you require. If you find that you are going to have to purchase additional cables and software to be able to connect your digital camera to your computer then it is not going to be the best buy digital camera that you thought it was.

Finally, ensure that you have accounted for any shipping costs before you make your final decision over which best buy digital camera you purchase. A lot of unscrupulous retailers will advertise a price for a best buy digital camera but then charge high shipping costs.

http://wealthsmith.com/camera-articles/digital-camera/index.html

Digital Single Lens Reflex Cameras, what makes them special Part 1

2007-10-11T02:32:00.000-07:00

Some estimates for total digital camera sales during 2005 exceeded 80 million units. The growth is expected to be about 8 to 10% for 2006. There is one segment of the market, however, that is growing significantly faster. This segment is the digital single lens reflex, or dSLR for short, market. While estimates vary considerably, most agree that the segment will grow much faster than any other. The growth figures range between 25% & 50% growth for 2006.

It is clear to see in the PhotoTakers forums that the dSLR market is growing. More and more we see many questions with regards to which camera should be purchased. In order to help with this, I decided to put this article together, I hope it helps.

My intent here is to help people make an informed decision when looking at cameras. I will not give you recommendations on any particular brand, rather I will try to help you understand what certain features mean and how they will affect your photography. You will then be able to decide on which features you'd like in your camera. To avoid any misconceptions of quality based on brand names, I will categorize cameras based on a price range as opposed to names like "high-end", "pro" or "entry level".

Most of what I mention applies to film and digital SLRs. For the sake of clarity and ease, I will refrain from any discussion on film in this article. In essence film and digital sensors are just two different types of photosensitive materials.

Lastly, please understand that I cannot get into a great deal of detail on every comment. It suffices to say, that if you'd like clarification on any topic you can always ask in the forums and we will gladly clear it up.

Single Lens Reflex Cameras. What are they and what makes them special?

Single Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras are given their name because of the configuration they use. SLR's configuration uses a single lens that serves two roles. First the lens is used to compose and focus the image. Once the image is composed and focused, the photographer releases the shutter to record the image on the sensor through the very same lens. This dual role is accomplished by the use of a mirror within the camera. When the photographer composes and focuses the shot, the mirror reflects the image the lens produces up into the viewfinder. When the photo is taken the mirror is lifted out of the way so the shutter can expose the sensor.

The biggest advantage with using an single lens reflex digital camera is the ability of the photographer to see exactly what the sensor will see. The SLR allows you to confirm that focus, composition and depth of field will be correct. You are able to see what the sensor will see through your viewfinder. The second, and more commonly mentioned advantage of an single lens reflex camera, is the ability to change lenses to suit your needs. You are not limited to what the manufacturer decided to put on the camera. There are other factors that are usually ignored but should not be, I've outlined a few below.

* Viewfinder: Like I said, with the Digital SLR, you see what the sensor will see. This is actually very good because it gives you a brighter and clearer display than any electronic viewfinder can ever give you. Even if the P&S cameras have a separate viewfinder they are significantly smaller than the SLR and do not display any shooting data, typically.
* Sensor Size: All digital SLRs have relatively large sensors (physical dimensions, not pixel count) when compared to P&S cameras. Compared to the largest P&S sensors, the most common dSLR sensors have almost six times the area. This significantly increases image quality. The main reason for the increase in image quality is that noise is less of a problem on larger sensors. Another benefit of larger sensors is that shallow depths of field are more attainable. This makes it easier to get the blurred background effects. Ultimately, a P&S camera with a larger pixel count than an SLR will not produce as good an image as the SLR, from an overall point of view.
* Lens Quality & options: While the lens quality on today's P&S cameras are very good, the lens quality that is available for SLRs is usually superior. Of course there are exceptions to this, but in general, this is commonly the case. As mentioned above, the ability to change lenses is an advantage. This allows you to use purpose built lenses if you'd like. For example, in a P&S camera you might have a macro capability but with the dSLR you can attach a Macro lens. There is a significant difference in image quality.
* Shutter Lag: This is the time lag between the moment one presses the shutter and the moment the camera actually takes the photo. With SLR cameras this lag is basically non-existent. It is measured in millionths of a second. With P&S cameras, it can be rather long by comparison. It can cost you the ability to get the shot.
* Dynamic Range: This is the range of brightness levels that a device can capture. Simply put, it is the darkest to lightest levels of light where you can still see details in the printed image. In general, DSLR's have a greater dynamic range than do P&S cameras.
* RAW Formats: RAW formats (each manufacturer has their own standard) are image captures where the sensor data is saved without manipulation by the camera's internal software. This leads to the best quality image you can get from a digital camera. While some P&S cameras can capture in a RAW format, generally it is not the case. All dSLRs have the ability to capture RAW formats. While it is not something everybody will be concerned with, it is something that needs to be mentioned. JPG captures, by comparison, all are processed, to some extent, in camera and are compressed.

To be fair, there are disadvantages to dSLR cameras. First are the costs involved. The dSLR camera is much higher in price. This is especially true when one begins to add lens and accessory costs to the mix. Second is weight and bulk. They are simply larger. Again add optional lenses and accessories and this bulk increases. However, if the ultimate image quality is what you are after, then the dSLR is the way to get it.

http://www.phototakers.com/articles/articles/36.html

All the features of your digital camera

2007-10-11T02:29:00.000-07:00

Your digital cameras features and what they mean to you.

Price while obvious and not really a feature, it is worth mentioning for two reasons. First, it differentiates the cameras in this segment. Second, it is a significant investment.

With respect to the first point, many of the features listed here are available on many or all SLRs to some degree. However, realize that a $5,000 camera and a $1,000 camera cannot be compared head to head. The main reason is not the sensor. It is a range of details that come into play. Amongst those is build quality, convenience features, and performance/speed.

On the second point, since the price is high, it is not common for people to change dSLR cameras yearly. Your decision is one you will work with for some time. Spending a little time reading this can help.

Sensor Megapixels: This is the single most commonly quoted spec in a digital camera is the megapixel (MP) count. Unfortunately, because of the gross numbers involved (millions) much more is made of it than there should be. Surely you've heard it, "this camera has 2 million more pixels than that camera." If it were dollars we were talking about, fine, but in a digital image, it's just dots. In reality, when printed, the image from a 6MP camera is almost indistinguishable from that of an 8MP camera. The latter is only 10 to 12% larger on each side when printed. If you crop the image, for example to 8x10 or 5x7, you lose that. If you print on 8x10 or smaller, it makes no difference at all. It suffices to say that, in a given price range, today, the sensors from all dSLRs are about on par with one another.

Sensor Type: Sensors are available in two types today. CCD & CMOS. They are basically two different ways to make a photo sensitive digital device. Neither is clearly superior to the other. Each claims advantages over the other. The fact remains that both are widely used in today's digital market and both can meet the needs and demands of any digital photographer.

Sensor Size: Here we refer to the physical dimensions of the sensor and how it compares to the 35mm frame size. All dSLRs with the exception of two (as of 12/2005) use sensors that are smaller than a 35mm frame. Most of these have crop factors of 1.5x or 1.6x and some have a crop factor of 2x. Now that this has been mentioned, we should clear up a common misconception. The crop factor is sometimes referred to as a "lens multiplier" or a "focal length conversion". Regardless of the name, the smaller sensor does not change or add to the focal length of a lens. That is a physical characteristic of the lens. What is actually happening is that the sensor, since it is smaller than a 35mm frame, is cropping or ignoring the image edges that the lens produces. This makes it "seem" like a longer lens. Realize, however, that while this may be neat for the long lenses it is a problem for the wide angle lens. For more details on this, feel free to search the forums as it is beyond the scope of the article. So again here, all cameras in the sub $3,000 price range (as of 12/2005) have a crop factor and they are about equal.

ISO Sensitivity Range: The sensitivity of a digital sensor has been equated to the sensitivity ratings of film. This is actually quite good as it is a preset standard and it is something many are familiar with already. The International Organization for Standardization or as it is more commonly known, ISO, sets all sorts of international standards. The acronym "ISO" is derived from the Greek "Isos" or "equal". It is not an acronym for the name. As you can imagine, each country, based on language, would have a different acronym. So in the interest of "standardization" we get ISO as the worldwide acronym. ISO sets standards for photography in the film sensitivity area. The range of sensitivity that the camera can handle gives you an idea of the ability of the sensor to work in differing light. Most cameras have a good range. They start at ISO 100 or 200 and range up to ISO 1600 or higher. In general the lower the ISO rating the less noise (equivalent of film grain) you get in the image. The reality is that today's bodies have noise almost non-existent at or below ISO 400. All dSLRs start below ISO 400. The other side is the maximum. Again the higher the maximum the better, but in reality, most photographers rarely use ISO 1600 because the digital noise is obvious. However, to be fair, ISO 1600 film is also quite grainy. So, in short, most dSLRs have ample ISO range for the vast majority of photographers.

Image stabilization: While only one dSLR has image stabilization (IS) functionality built into the camera itself (as of 12/2005), it is worth mentioning. All other manufacturers put the IS capability into specific lenses. Image stabilization is a system that helps eliminate the problems associated with camera shake. This basically allows you to take pictures at slower shutter speeds and still get sharp results. This is helps a great deal with ambient light photography when not using a flash. Each manufacturer has its trademark name for IS, but the end result is similar, sharper pictures.

White Balance: All light has some color tonality to it and is categorized using a Kelvin (K) temperature scale. For example, sunlight has a different color tone than does florescent bulbs. Your eyes can adjust for the variations in the color of the light sources around you so that white is neutral, ie no color cast. Your camera cannot do this. That is where White Balance (WB) comes in. By setting the WB according to the light source, you can eliminate any color cast in your images. Most digital cameras today give you certain presets. Tungsten (common light bulb), florescent, sunlight and shade are common ones. Some cameras allow you to set a WB preset using a white subject or reference. Other cameras have the ability to set the K temperature to any K temperature value. Either one of these options gives you ultimate control and allows you to get accurate color in almost any light. To sum it up, common WB settings (sunlight, cloudy, shade, incandescent, etc) is good. Preset white balance using a reference, is better. Ability to select specific K WB temperatures is even better.

Minimum and Maximum Shutter Speeds: This refers to the fastest (shortest time) and slowest (longest time) shutter speeds the camera (or more precisely the shutter mechanism) can attain. These speeds are actually fractions of a second. So when you see 500 on the display it is referring to 1/500s. When looking at the maximum, the faster the shutter speed the better. The faster the shutter, the more likely you are to freeze any motion. However, in practice, one will rarely need anything near the maximum most dSLRs have today which is 1/4000s. In fact, you will find that in most cases you will usually be below 1/1000 or 1/2000 s. When looking at the minimum you will see full second amounts. In most cases it will be 30s followed by the term "bulb". The bulb setting is one that allows the photographer to shoot with exposures of any length. So long as the shutter release is held down, the camera will leave the shutter open. This is something that is used, most commonly, for night photography.

Built-in Flash: Most photographers, regardless of ability, are familiar with the idea behind the flash. A built in flash is very convenient. What many may not be aware of is how to differentiate one from another. The Guide Number (GN) for electronic flash defines its strength. This number allows you to calculate the maximum distance, for a given ISO sensitivity, that a flash can expose correctly. This GN is divided by the f-stop to get the distance. For example, if the GN is 80ft at ISO 100 then, at f/4, then the maximum distance you can be from the subject to properly illuminate it is 20ft. If you shot at f/10 it would be 8ft. If you take a great deal of photos that will require flash, and you do not plan on or like carrying a dedicated flash unit, then a built in flash is key. The higher the GN for the flash the better. However, be careful because not all GNs are equal. If the ISO quoted is not the same between two specifications then you need to apply some conversion. When the ISO sensitivity doubles, the GN changes by a factor of, approximately, 1.4. When the ISO is cut in half, the guide number changes by a factor of, approximately 0.7. For example, a GN of 100ft at ISO 100 is equal to a GN of 140ft at ISO 200 or a GN of 196ft at ISO 400.

External flash & Flash Sync: All dSLRs today have a hot shoe for mounting external or dedicated flash units. This typically sits above the lens on top of the viewfinder. These dedicated flash units vary in power and capability, but that is independent of the camera body. What is important is the maximum flash sync speed. Without getting into a huge amount of detail, this is the maximum shutter speed the camera can use that will permit synchronization with the flash unit. If you go above that speed, you run the risk of have one section of the frame darker than the others. With this, the higher the sync speed, the better. A good speed now is 1/180s and better would be 1/250s. Be aware, however, that some manufacturers say that there is no maximum, in other words it will sync at all speeds. This is usually only true when using their proprietary, current, flash technology. However, you should still consider the flash sync speed posted in the specs. One benefit to higher speeds is the better flexibility when using the flash as a fill light. This is done to lessen harsh shadows, for example. The faster the sync speed, the more useful the flash can be in fill situations when used outdoors. Another benefit is when shooting using other flash systems like studio flash units. The higher the shutter speed limit, the better you ability to lessen motion blur. This is particularly helpful when photographing children.

Depth of Field Preview: This is a feature most dSLRs have today. Few people use it. It is useful for letting you preview how the photo will look using the lens settings in place when you shoot the photo. When you press a button, the lens aperture is set to what it will be to take the photo. It will change the Depth of Field (DoF) you see in the viewfinder. Well some may ask doesn't the camera let you see this anyway? Isn't that the whole point of an SLR? Well yes and no. Yes the camera uses the actual photo lens to display the image in the viewfinder but it does it at the maximum aperture of the lens. That is done to keep the viewfinder as bright as possible which will aid in focusing and composition. The camera will shoot at the aperture that you or the camera determines to be necessary. The DoF button simply lets you check that the DoF is good by setting the lens' aperture to what it will be when you take the photo. With this, be certain the DoF preview is someplace that is comfortable for you to use. It is a really useful tool, when used.

Exposure modes: There are four common exposure modes most dSLRs have. They are Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Automatic and Manual modes. In the first three the camera's meter determines the proper exposure. How it is applied varies. In Aperture Priority mode, the photographer set the aperture they desire. The camera then sets the shutter speed to get the right exposure. In Shutter Priority mode, the photographer sets the shutter speed and the camera, in turn sets the aperture. In Automatic (Program) mode, the camera sets both shutter and aperture. The last mode, Manual, the photographer determines both shutter and aperture. In addition to these basic modes, there are certain options that some cameras have. They are quite helpful, particularly to beginning photographers. These typically include a Portraiture, Landscape, Sports and Macro mode. Some go into others like Night and/or indoor modes. What these do is basically "bias" the camera settings to get certain results. For example, Sports mode will keep the shutter speed as high as possible to freeze action. The Landscape mode will keep the aperture small (large number) to get more of the image in sharp focus. Eventually, if you have the inclination, you will likely bypass these, however, for casual quick shots where you do not want to set up a great deal these preset modes help a great deal.

Storage types: Compact Flash (CF) or Secure Digital (SD) are the two memory cards commonly in use today. For the most part, there is little difference in performance. The big difference right now seems to be capacity. The CF cards come in capacities as high as 8GB while SD cards max out at about 1GB. While this is a huge difference, most casual photographers will rarely use 1GB cards at this time. To give you an idea a 1GB card will fit over 350 8MP JPG images. This number of shots will likely more than enough for most. On the other hand, SD cards are smaller. The size difference is not really a big deal to most because most already feel CF cards are small enough.

Viewfinder Specs: These specs seem confusing and meaningless but should be looked at. Magnification, Eyepoint and Coverage are the three numbers you tend to see. Coverage is the percentage of the image that will be captured by the sensor visible in the viewfinder. In most dSLRs this is less than 100%. Again, most people ask "wasn't that the point of an SLR?" Yes but a 100% viewfinder is expensive to make. Hence they are usually found only in the top of the line cameras. The higher the coverage the easier it is to compose precisely. Magnification is how large the image in the viewfinder is when compared to the naked eye. This varies with the lens on the camera, however, most specs are based on using a 50mm lens. This is usually a number smaller than one. A 1x magnification would mean that the image in the viewfinder was just like looking at it with the naked eye. Again, here the higher the better, however, larger magnifications typically mean smaller coverage. The last is eyepoint. This is most critical for photographers with glasses. This refers to how far you can hold the camera from your eye and still see the whole images a data in the viewfinder. Here again, the larger the better. In general, the order of importance should be Coverage then Magnification and, lastly, Eyepoint. The only exception to this is with glasses. With those, Eyepoint becomes more important.

Viewfinder Information: This is the information displayed to the photographer when looking through the viewfinder. It is an important option to have and something that is easy for you to see and understand. Minimally you should see the following for the photo you are composing. Exposure Mode indicator, Focus Indicator, Shutter Speed, Aperture, Shot count or countdown, some sort of exposure meter, ISO sensitivity and a Flash Ready indicator. How the different manufacturers displays this will vary but they all include this. Some include some additional information. Ultimately how this is displayed is a matter of taste but make certain it is easy for you to understand or see.

LCD Size: Much is made about the size of the LCD on digital cameras. Don't get me wrong, having a good sized LCD is nice, but it is for reasons most don't consider. The biggest myth, "a bigger screen gives you better previews". I can't tell you how misleading this is. Even a 2.5" LCD is worthless as a display device to determine more than the most basic composition and the most obvious focus problems. The displays are simply not precise enough. The display on a dSLR is used to quickly review images for composition and basic lighting issues. For example, did you get everything in the shot? Are the shadows too strong? Was the subject completely blurred because of motion? etc. Another common use is to review the Histogram. This is simply a graph showing how the brightness of image is distributed. The last use is to set menu options or to perform common tasks like formatting cards etc. With all of these a larger display makes life easier.

USB and/or Firewire (IEEE 1394) ports: These are ports used to connect your camera to a computer or other device. The most common today is the USB port. The main issue to consider here is speed. USB has various standards and today's USB 2.0 is the faster option. If your computer has a USB 2.0 port, then this is something you can look for. Having said that, today, more and more users tend to have dedicated memory card readers on their computers. This makes the likelihood of connecting your camera to the computer smaller and thus USB connections on the cameras less necessary.

Metering Options: This refers to the most common metering methods. These are spot, center weighted and complete frame metering. Spot metering is the most precise of the options. In essence it determines exposure based on a spot you decide. This is usually less than 3% of the frame. Center weighted is the next most precise. It determines exposure by paying more attention to the center of the frame vs. the rest of the composition. The idea being your subject is there. The most general method is complete frame. This method takes the entire frame into account and determines exposure based on a set parameters. The last option has different names given to it by manufacturers but, ultimately, it is simply full frame metering.

Battery Type: This, today has come down to two options. They use Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) or Lithium Ion batteries. Currently most use the lithium cells. The big advantage is battery power and size. Lithium Ion batteries can be smaller and can accommodate high capacities. The downside to them is price. Lithium Ion batteries are more expensive which sometimes can be pricey if you plan on having second or third batteries.

Build: The build refers to how the body feels. Rigidity and balance are important. Better builds will take more every day use than lower quality builds. While weight is important for some users, realize this may come at the cost of sturdiness.

Dimensions & Weight: This is something that can come into play but has more to do with personal taste. For example, lighter bodies are great to carry but will feel awkward when you put a longer, heavier lens on the camera. Another example is dimensions. A larger camera body might be more comfortable for people with larger hands while a physically smaller package might be easier to handle for smaller hands. It is something to consider, however, the point is smaller and lighter is not always better.

AF System: This varies with each manufacturer. Many times you hear people refer to focus speed and this or that manufacturer having the fastest AF speed. Any AF system is good in the hands of a person that knows how to use his/her system. What differences may be important are focus sensor positions, number of sensors and AF options.

Image Formats: Three types of image formats have become mainstream in digital photography. Two of those are industry/computer standards. JPG (pronounced jay-peg) and TIFF are those two. The last is an image format that is proprietary to each manufacturer and those are RAW files. The two most common today in dSLRs are JPG and RAW. JPG files are compressed photographic files that are ready to go right out of the camera. They are "processed", so to say, by the camera. RAW files need to be translated first into something the PC can manipulate and then it is ready for output. In short, you process the RAW files. I feel most photographers are just fine working with JPG files. However many want the creative latitude offered by RAW files. Unfortunately this discussion is beyond the scope of this article. For the purposes of a camera choice, all dSLRs offer JPG and RAW files, so this will not be a decision point.

Ergonomics: This is a difficult on to cover but I mention it simply to bring it to your attention when purchasing a camera. With ergonomics I am referring to how easy the camera is to operate for you from a physical standpoint. For example, are the button sizes comfortable? Are the icons clear? Are the dials easy to access? Are the shooting parameters (aperture, shutter, ISO, etc.) easy to change? Are the buttons used to navigate menus comfortable? Is the grip comfortable? Is the shutter release in the right position? Unfortunately, in today's day and age, internet purchasing hampers the ability to "put your hands" on the camera so to say. So many times you have to rely on others. Ultimately, ask if that is your only option, however, if you can get your hands on a camera. Ultimately, this is something that you will be using for some time. The more comfortable it is, the more likely you are to use the camera.

Convenience Features: This is another commonly overlooked set of issues. With these I mean functionality that aids in the day-to-day use of the camera. For example, the histogram display which is a graphical representation of exposure. While all cameras have them they are displayed in different ways. Some are smaller than others, some are superimposed, etc. Some of the features that help in the day-to-day are: Automatic rotation of images that are shot vertically with the camera. The ability to zoom into the image on the LCD display is sometimes helpful to check focus. Custom setup storage to store common options help you by storing settings for differing conditions. LCD display of shooting data such as exposure settings helps you see what changes you can apply to get your desired effects. Highlight warning display tells you about potentially blown out highlights of the image.

Optional Accessories: I had to separate this out this way because options abound and it would be impractical to cover every single one. There are a multitude of accessories out there for cameras. For the case of this discussion, I will not consider a lens an accessory. What I will include are things like, battery expansion & vertical grip units, AC Adapters for the camera, remote control units and viewfinder accessories. Of course there are many others. These all provide advantages and more usability, however, some are quite pricey. Do some research, see if these options exist. Are they something you might use? For example, and battery expansion pack option allows for adding a second battery to the camera so as to extend battery life. In some cases they add a vertical shutter release. If you go to places where a second battery would help and you have limited access to power, this may be critical. You may want a vertical shutter release. In short, look into these options as well when making your decision.

http://www.phototakers.com/articles/articles/37.html

Kodak Easyshare C533 digital camera

2007-10-11T02:28:00.000-07:00

If you're in the market for a low-priced, consumer-level digital camera, you already know you aren't going to find top-of-the-line features. At best, your goal probably will be to find an average digital camera with a below-average price, and Kodak's Easyshare C533 comes pretty close to fitting the bill.

You'll find 5 megapixels of resolution with the C533, which is less than most newer digital cameras but is enough for making high-quality prints up to 8x10 inches (when shot under optimum lighting conditions). For the most part, image quality is good with the C533, especially compared to other digital cameras in this price range. You'll also have some noise in images and some focus problems on occasion -- especially with photos shot in low-light conditions -- but the unit works well for an entry-level digital camera.

The C533 includes a 3X optical zoom lens, which works well and is an average zoom lens for today's digital cameras. The C533 also performs surprisingly well when shooting close-ups.

Response times for the C533 are about what you'd expect for a budget-priced camera. Our tests showed you can shoot your first photo about 5 seconds after pressing the power button, which is disappointing. However, you won't notice shutter lag with the C533, and shot-to-shot delays range from 1-3 seconds, both of which are good response times for a model in this price range.

The LCD is a bit smaller than most newer models, measuring 1.8 inches, but it's bright and sharp, especially for a sub-$150 digital camera. You might have some problems seeing the LCD in bright sunlight, but because the C533 includes an optical viewfinder, you have a second option for framing photos.

The C533 is a little bigger than ultra-thin models, measuring about 1.4 inches in thickness, but it still should fit in a large pocket.

You won't find significant manual-control features with the C533, but this model is aimed at beginning photographers wanting point-and-shoot simplicity. The C533 lives up to the "Easyshare" part of its name, allowing users to easily store, share, and organize photos. Because this model can run from two AA batteries and includes 16MB of internal memory, a truly budget-conscious beginning photographer could operate the camera with minimal added expense.

http://products.howstuffworks.com/kodak-easyshare-c533-digital-camera-review.htm

Olympus SP-510 UZ

2007-10-11T02:15:00.001-07:00

Digital camera manufacturers always look to set their models apart in a highly competitive market. Olympus has achieved that goal by including a 10X optical zoom lens in a sub-$300 model, the SP-510 UZ.

That 10X optical zoom lens makes an amazing difference in the types of photographs you can take, especially nature shots. One slight problem with the SP-510 UZ occurs with its digital image stabilization (IS), which attempts to correct camera shake problems with software after you shoot the image. More successful IS technologies use hardware to negate camera shake as you shoot the image. With the SP-510 UZ's 10X optical zoom lens, camera shake is naturally going to occur when you have the lens fully extended, and the digital IS technology isn't as effective at preventing blurry photos as other IS techniques. The digital IS does a good job much of the time, but it definitely isn't perfect.

Outside of some blurred photos, the SP-510 UZ's image quality is very good. The unit's 7.1 megapixels of resolution will allow high-quality prints up to 8x10 inches -- or even 11x14 inches when taken under ideal lighting conditions. The high resolution and large zoom lens make a nice combination for a sub-$300 model.

Beyond those two features, the SP-510 UZ has some nice options. You'll find that the SP-510 UZ is very easy to use; Olympus has even included a built-in Shooting Guide to help you create the perfect photo. Response times are about average. Startup takes about 3 seconds, while shot-to-shot delays range from 2 to 4 seconds. Shutter lag can be a big problem with large zoom lenses, but the SP-510 UZ's shutter lag is better than expected at a maximum of one-half second. The unit's continuous-shot mode is below average, allowing for only two to four photos at one time.

One disappointment is with the 2.5-inch LCD, which should be sharper. It also can be tough to view in bright sunlight. Unfortunately, the SP-510 UZ offers only an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which won't appeal to everyone as it can be difficult to use in low light and it goes blank during continuous-shot mode.

The SP-510 UZ has a few features aimed at more experienced photographers, including several manual-control features -- although you can use this model as a fully automatic camera, too. Olympus even offers a couple of conversion lenses for the SP-510 UZ that provide wide-angle and telephoto capabilities. (We're not sure why you'd need a telephoto converter lens for a camera with a 10X optical zoom lens, but it's available.) Still, image quality could be better with the SP-510 UZ, and the digital IS doesn't completely cure the inherent problem of camera shake with a large zoom lens.

One other thing: The SP-510 UZ isn't going to fit in your pocket. It's a large camera body -- 2.8 inches thick -- with a big lens housing, which will cause some people to cross this model off their lists. Despite its occasional problems, finding a sub-$300 digital camera with good resolution and a 10X optical zoom lens is pretty rare, so, for the right person, the SP-510 UZ will be a great choice.

http://products.howstuffworks.com/olympus-sp-510-uz-review.htm

Olympus SP-510 UZ

2007-10-11T02:15:00.000-07:00

Nikon Coolpix S10

2007-10-11T02:13:00.001-07:00

Segmented digital cameras that allow the lens to swivel separately from the body have always been able to capture the attention of customers. Swiveling lens digital cameras look cool and allow you to easily make odd-angle shots. Nikon was among the first companies to create a swiveling lens camera in the late 1990s, and it continues that tradition with the new Coolpix S10 model. Because of the swiveling capabilities, the Coolpix S10 carries a higher price tag than most digital cameras with similar specifications, but the Coolpix S10 is a pretty powerful model.

This model's 10X optical zoom lens is impressive. Because the swiveling camera body can leave you holding this model in some awkward positions, it is especially important for the Coolpix S10 to carry good image-stabilization technology, and Nikon has included its own impressive hardware-based Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. You will rarely have a blurry photo caused by camera shake with the Coolpix S10, even when the 10X zoom lens is fully extended.

The Coolpix S10 offers 6.0 megapixels of resolution, which is plenty for high-quality prints of 8x10 inches. You will find quite a few digital cameras in this price range with more resolution, but 6.0 megapixels is as much resolution as most consumer-level photographers will ever need. Photo quality is outstanding outdoors and is more than adequate in low-lighting conditions, thanks in part to the VR.

The Coolpix S10's 2.5-inch LCD is bright and sharp in all lighting conditions. You have to use the LCD to frame photos, as there is no optical viewfinder. Response times for the Coolpix S10 are very good. You can shoot your first photo about 2 seconds after pressing the power button. Shutter lag can be a problem with long zoom lenses, and this model will have occasional shutter delays ranging from 0.5 to 1 second. Shot-to-shot delays with the flash never exceed 3 seconds, which is a very good measurement. However, shot-to-shot delays without the flash typically fall in the 1 to 1.5 second range, which is longer than we'd like to see.

This model includes 16MB of internal memory, which is handy, but you will need to purchase a memory card immediately. We'd also recommend purchasing a second rechargeable battery with the Coolpix S10 because its battery life is below average. You'll need to include costs for a battery and a memory card with your initial cost estimates for this model.

The Coolpix S10 measures only 1.6 inches in thickness when not in use, and it will fit in a large pocket. It is smaller than average for a 10X zoom camera. When you rotate the lens to 90 degrees of the body, the unit measures about 2.5 inches in thickness. Overall, the Coolpix S10 is a decent model that has some cool features. Shooting with the rotating lens will take some practice, but if you're someone who likes shooting self-portraits and other odd-angle shots, the Coolpix S10 will deliver. The starting price for this model is a little high, but it carries enough above-average features to make it a very good choice.

http://products.howstuffworks.com/nikon-coolpix-s10-review.htm

Nikon D40

2007-10-11T02:10:00.000-07:00

If you're ready to step up to an advanced-level digital camera, but you're not ready to pay $1,000 or more for one, Nikon might have a solution for you. Nikon calls its D40 model an "entry-level" digital single-lens reflex (SLR) model. It's not anywhere near the most powerful digital camera you'll find on the market, but for an intermediate photographer seeking the look and feel of a professional-level camera, the D40 delivers a great deal for less than $600.

Nikon sells the D40 both body-only and as a "kit," which includes a rechargeable battery and a basic lens that offers a zoom of about 3X and limited wide-angle capabilities. You can use some other Nikon lenses with the D40, but you'll have to buy them separately. One note: The D40 camera body doesn't include a focus motor, so any auto-focus capabilities must be built into the lens; such lenses are far more expensive than manual-focus lenses. You'll also need to purchase a memory card before using the D40.

The D40's response times are excellent. You can shoot your first photo a fraction of a second after pressing the power button. Shutter lag is not noticeable most of the time. We found shot-to-shot delays to be less than 1 second in most cases, although testing suggested that delays can extend to a few seconds when shooting with a flash over a long distance.

Unlike some digital SLR models, the D40 offers an automatic mode. You also can choose from several scene modes, or you can fully control the photo by using manual settings. This camera is a good option for those who are looking to learn more about photography because of its many manual-setting options.

The D40's 6.1 megapixels of resolution will be plenty for many photographers, but its pixel count certainly lags behind those of other similarly priced models. Most of those lower-priced models that offer more resolution, however, cannot match the image quality and sharpness that the D40 provides. You'll receive sharp, vibrant photos with this model, regardless of the lighting conditions. The D40's noise reduction setting improves photo quality in low-light conditions. We'll take a high-quality 6.1-megapixel output over an average-quality 8-megapixel output every time.

Even though you cannot use it to frame photos, the D40's 2.5-inch liquid crystal display (LCD) is very sharp and bright. It's great for reviewing your shots or for scrolling through the D40's various menus. Unlike most digital SLR models, the D40 isn't confusing to learn to use; Nikon has made a sensible menu structure with this model. We appreciated the D40's optical viewfinder, which Nikon says shows about 95 percent of the frame. It also has a focus slider.

The D40 weighs in at around 1.5 pounds with all of its necessary components. It is a comfortable model to use, with a good handgrip. It certainly won't fit in your pocket, but it is noticeably smaller and lighter than most digital SLR models. Considering its size and feature set, you almost can consider the D40 as a "lite" version of an advanced digital SLR camera. Professional and experienced photographers will almost certainly want more power, but if you're an intermediate photographer looking to try an advanced digital camera for the first time, the D40 is a smart choice.

http://products.howstuffworks.com/nikon-d40-review.htm

Fujifilm Debuts FinePix Digital Camera With Face Detection Technology

2007-10-10T05:03:00.000-07:00

Fujifilm introduces the SLR-styled FinePix S6000fd, the first digital camera in Fujifilm’s line-up with the company’s revolutionary new Face Detection Technology.

Face Detection Technology operates exactly as its name implies, identifying up to 10 faces in a framed scene. Once faces are identified and prioritized, the 6.3-megapixel FinePix S6000fd adjusts its focus and exposure accordingly to ensure the sharpness and clarity of human subjects in the picture, regardless of background. And since it is hardware rather than software based, Fujifilm’s Face Detection Technology works in as little as 0.05 seconds, faster than similar in-camera detection systems currently on the market or soon to be available.

Quicker operation is said to reduce the likelihood of missed or blurry photos, frustrations often associated with digital photography. The advanced Face Detection Technology system built into Fujifilm’s new FinePix S6000fd digital camera is based on the Image Intelligence technology found in Fujifilm’s Frontier Digital Lab Systems, used by photofinishers to produce large volumes of top-quality photo prints. Face Detection is a selectable option the camera user can turn on whenever human subjects are the focal point of a picture.

Face Detection Technology is the latest addition to Fujifilm’s suite of Real Photo Technology digital camera components that work together on the FinePix S6000fd to help produce the best possible photos. One of those components is i-Flash, the intelligent flash system introduced by Fujifilm earlier this year on the FinePix F30 compact digicam. The system reads scene conditions and adjusts its flash power output and exposure automatically, based on gathered information. The results are backgrounds with finer detail and sharp, accurate subjects without the ‘washed out’ look that often accompanies flash photography. Together, the Face Detection and i-Flash technologies is said to produce photographs with prominent subjects exhibiting pleasing, natural tones.

Like the FinePix F30, the FinePix S6000fd has a full-resolution ISO equivalency of 3200, a rarity in consumer-level digicams. Such high light sensitivities allow for faster shutter speeds, which reduce blurring caused by both camera shake and subject movement. This marriage of higher sensitivities with a faster shutter is the basis for Fujifilm’s Picture Stabilization, another feature found on the FinePix S6000fd. The easy- to- access feature (selectable on the mode dial) enables the FinePix S6000fd to automatically choose the correct light sensitivity and best-matching shutter speed for the scene.

Other helpful features found on the FinePix S6000fd for top-quality picture-taking include a Dual Shot Mode. In this mode the FinePix S6000fd quickly shoots two images in succession -- one with and one without the flash -- saving both. This convenient function lets the user perform an on-the-spot picture comparison and decide which photo is the most pleasing. The FinePix S6000fd also is equipped with a 28-300mm Fujinon 10.7X optical zoom lens with full manual control via the lens barrel. This high-quality Fujinon lens configuration is said to offer tremendous flexibility for either zoom or wide-angle shots.

http://www.popphoto.com/photonews/2624/fujifilm-debuts-finepix-digital-camera-with-face-detection-technology.html

Digital Camera Users and Shopping Tips

2007-10-10T05:01:00.000-07:00

When shopping for a digital camera, it’s important to first understand that there are many different styles and features in each segment. Once you determine how you plan to use your camera and the types of activities you plan on photographing, the next step is to do some research and determine which type of camera works best for you.

The J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study^SMshows that the reasons for purchasing a digital camera vary depending on the each of our four segments.

Point and Shoot cameras used to be the entry compact camera category with limited features and basic styling. But today digital cameras in this category offer good quality and performance along with many features previously found only in premium cameras. While price is still the key consideration in this segment (all of these cameras sell for under $230), picture quality and brand reputation are also important to these shoppers. People are the major subject of these camera users, as are general vacation shots, with this segment averaging over 90 photos a month.

Premium Point and Shoot cameras are compact cameras that typically offer more features than compact cameras, including more advanced technologies such as optical image stabilization, face-detection, etc. Sizes range from compact models to the larger DSLR look-alikes, without removable lenses, of course. The majority of these cameras sell below $400, but some can go for upwards of $600 or more. Zoom capability is a key feature of this segment, as are camera features and functions, as well as comparable picture quality. Do a side-by-side comparison with less expensive cameras to see exactly what the additional price is giving you. People and general vacation photos are the most likely subjects in this segment, with outdoor shots almost as common here as among upscale, DSLR users. Users average 150 photos per month.

Ultra Slim cameras hit the market 5 years ago and redefined style in digital cameras. By easily fitting in your pocket, these thin cameras are ideal for using on vacations. Not surprisingly, camera size is very important to consumers who purchase this camera, but picture quality is actually the most important reason for the selection. New Ultra Slim models offer high mega-pixel counts and optical zooms that were only available on larger compact cameras in the past. Average selling prices can vary widely with the majority selling in the $100 to $400 price range. Users of Ultra Slim cameras generally use them for taking pictures of people or for general use while on vacation, snapping over 140 photos a month on average.

Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR), are generally much larger, bulkier cameras with interchangeable lenses. Price points are generally between $1000 and $2000, with the study revealing that the average price paid is just over $1,100. Consider purchasing additional lenses (if not pricing them) when you purchase a DSLR in order to make legitimate comparisons to other camera models or brands. External flashes, tripods and other accessories are generally camera agnostic, so you can take your time in these areas. Despite these higher prices, overall satisfaction among these photo files is the highest of any camera segment. Nature or outdoors photos are as common as people photos and vacation photos among DSLR users, who take pictures at nearly a 400 photo-per-month clip.

The study shows that consumers find that camera manufacturer, consumer publication and retailer web sites are excellent sources of comparative information, so you can prepare for your shopping experience in advance. Asking others about their experiences is very helpful, and at least one in three respondents say they do just that. Salespeople and other in-store information can be helpful as well, but nothing substitutes for being familiar with the type of camera that interests you in advance. Although available to all, the study finds that trade publication newsletters and web sites are most commonly used by DSLR camera buyers, as is the web overall. At these price points, it pays to be cautious, no pun intended.

In any event, the study shows that, increasingly, consumers are researching cameras on the web and then performing hands-on shopping in camera stores or other electronics outlets, returning to the web to purchase their cameras at sometimes, significant savings. One caveat: consider your manufacturer’s warranty and where you can obtain repair or replacement service. Although relatively rare, if you use your camera a lot, you may want a convenient, if not nearby, location for warranty work. If you can survive without a camera for a period of time, then the internet will generally be your best source for lower prices.

2007 Highest Ranked Digital Cameras by Camera Segment based on Customer Satisfaction (Includes specific models included in our camera rankings)

Ultra Slim
Casio Exilim Zoom Series

Casio EXILIM EX-Z50

Casio EXILIM EX-Z500

Casio EXILIM EX-Z75

Casio EXILIM EX-Z1050

Casio EXILIM EX-Z700

Casio EXILIM EX-Z1000

Casio EXILIM EX-Z600

Casio EXILIM EX-Z850

Casio EXILIM EX-Z70

Casio EXILIM EX-Z60

Point and Shoot
Fujifilm FinePix F Series

Fujifilm FINEPIX F20

Fujifilm FINEPIX F410

Fujifilm FINEPIX F650

Fujifilm FINEPIX F700

Premier Point and Shoot
Canon Powershot SD Series

Canon POWERSHOT SD700IS

Canon POWERSHOT SD900

DSLR
Nikon D Series

Nikon D100

Nikon D200

Nikon D40X

Nikon D50

Nikon D2HS

Nikon D40

Nikon D70

Nikon D70S

Nikon D80

http://www.jdpower.com/articles/article.aspx?ID=156

Canon Powershot G9 Digital Camera Introduction

2007-10-10T04:59:00.000-07:00

Canon U.S.A., Inc. announced today that its acclaimed G-series has a new top-of-the line model - the PowerShot G9 digital camera. The PowerShot G9 digital camera offers serious shooters and value-minded professionals a feature-packed camera with many of the advanced photographic capabilities of a high-end Digital SLR camera, in a lightweight, compact package at an affordable price.

The PowerShot G9 digital camera features the same matte black, retro-hip design that G-series fans have come to appreciate, with a simplified control layout that is versatile yet easy to understand. This camera is loaded with Canon's latest and most advanced technologies, while raising the bar with the addition of RAW Mode, usually reserved for larger and more expensive SLR cameras. Advanced photographers also have the option of using RAW+JPEG simultaneous capture functionality, giving photographers the best of both worlds - JPEGs for immediate use and RAW images for faithful image reproduction, and extensive, non-destructive image editing capability.

The PowerShot G9 digital camera features class-leading 12.1-megapixel resolution for stunning, deeply detailed images that allow enlargements up to poster size with cropping. A 6x optical zoom lens brings the photographer right into the action, and by incorporating Canon's Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), excellent-quality images are assured in situations prone to camera shake and image blurring. So, whether you are shooting outdoors at dusk or inside without a flash, camera shake is detected and effectively canceled. Photographers will find it quick and easy to review and compare photos for printing with Canon's Image Inspection Tool. And, because Image Inspection is now linked with Advanced Face Detection technology, they can save considerable time while reviewing, because the main subject is automatically detected and enlarged, eliminating the need to zoom and scroll manually, while at the same time making it simple to determine if facial expressions are pleasing before moving on to the next photo.

"The PowerShot G9 digital camera brings our highest levels of performance and usability to the G-series," said Yuichi Ishizuka, senior vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A. "By combining RAW Mode with our other key technologies in this camera, we're providing a high-performing and affordable option to advanced photo enthusiasts who want the creative power of a Digital SLR in a smaller body form."

The PowerShot G9 digital camera comes equipped with 23 shooting modes, allowing for a myriad of different photo preferences and conditions including Automatic, Manual, Shutter-speed-Priority, Aperture-Priority, and two Custom modes as well as special scene modes such as Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene, Sports, Indoor, Beach and Snow, offering users Digital SLR-like capability in a compact digital camera. The PowerShot G9 also features Canon's powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, delivering superior image quality, ultra-responsive performance, extended battery life and advanced Face Detection technology, so users can be confident that the face they want, is the face that they capture. And, with a new large, three-inch PureColor LCD II screen and easy-to-access ISO and manual mode dials, customized shooting, reviewing and menu adjustments are especially convenient. The PowerShot G9 digital camera is also compatible with optional high-quality Canon wide-angle, telephoto and macro supplementary lenses, as well as EOS Speedlite flashes and a waterproof case rated to a depth of 40 meters/130 feet, giving photographers more robust photographic capabilities that are in line with professional and expensive SLRs.

True to Canon's industry leadership position, the PowerShot G9 digital camera gives consumers interested in the ease of a compact camera many of the technological advancements that are the result of Canon's 70-year heritage as an imaging innovator, differentiating it from competitive products.

New Canon PowerShot Product Lines' Standard Advanced Technologies
DIGIC III
The "brain" of this new PowerShot camera is DIGIC III, the gold standard on all new Canon digital cameras. The DIGIC III image processor accounts for the camera's higher performance levels, including faster start-up, faster autofocus and quicker shutter response times that leave long-lag competitors in the dust. The DIGIC III chip design improves image quality and offers more efficient power consumption, resulting in extended battery life under typical shooting conditions.

ADVANCED FACE DETECTION
With Canon's new Genuine Face Detection technology, the camera can detect, lock-on and track up to nine forward-looking human faces in a scene. The Face Detection algorithm automatically prioritizes and selects faces and not simply the closest object (based on Canon's Intelligent Scene Analysis/iSAPS technology). It will then optimize the focus, exposure and flash to ensure the best possible results. Using Canon's Face Detection, photographers can keep up to nine faces in focus at any one time no matter where they are within the image. The PowerShot G9 camera also introduces an exclusive new function called Face Select and Track. With this feature, when multiple faces are detected, photographers can select any individual face they want the camera to specifically track and be a primary focus. This feature is ideal for many shooting situations such as birthday parties or graduation ceremonies, where many people are present, but the photographer is primarily interested in just one of them. Working in concert with Face Detection, the G9's "Red-Eye Correction" feature helps to detect and correct red-eye during playback mode. Images can be corrected automatically or manually while viewing photos on the LCD screen. All in all, Canon's new Face Detection Technology makes for even easier picture-taking moments, helping users ensure in-focus smiles, and assisting in the elimination of over-exposed faces.

OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZATION (OIS)
The extended zoom range of the PowerShot G9 camera makes optical image stabilization (OIS) essential. Canon's lens shift OIS provides an effective antidote to camera shake, particularly at longer zoom lengths or during long exposures when even the slightest hand-held shake is magnified to picture-blurring proportions. Superior to electronic image stabilization systems that simply use software to mask movement, OIS actually shifts the lens proportionately to compensate for unwanted motion, making it easier to snap great images. The OIS found in Canon PowerShot digital cameras is based on technology developed for Canon's renowned high-end professional SLR cameras.

The steady effectiveness is further enhanced when paired with the new "Auto ISO Shift" feature which, at the touch of a button, can automatically increase the ISO speed setting as required to maintain fast shutter speeds when shooting in low light conditions without a flash.

PRINTING MADE EASY
All Canon PowerShot digital cameras work seamlessly with Canon's compact photo printers to deliver stunning high-quality borderless prints. Consumers simply connect their PowerShot digital camera to a Canon compact photo printer, press the Print/Share button, and moments later a brilliant, borderless 4" x 6" print begins to emerge; it's that simple. Canon's compact photo printers are PictBridge compatible, so they work with PictBridge enabled digital cameras to provide users with excellent image quality and ease-of-use, especially when paired with a Canon digital camera.

HIGH-CAPACITY MEMORY CARD CAPABILITY
As an added convenience, Canon PowerShot digital cameras also accommodate MultiMedia MMC memory cards, as well as standard SD memory cards and the new, high-capacity SDHC memory cards. This way, consumers do not have to carry around multiple memory cards in order to be able to continue to save those special moments during extended vacations or high-photo-taking adventures. Canon PowerShot owners can travel in sleek style.

Powerful Software
The PowerShot G9 is bundled with the latest versions of Canon's powerful digital imaging software, including ZoomBrowser EX 6.0 and ImageBrowser 6.0 for easy downloading, viewing and printing. RAW Image Task software is also supplied to facilitate high-quality processing of the PowerShot G9's new RAW images.

http://www.cameratown.com/news/news.cfm/hurl/id%7C4339