Friday, June 29, 2007
Digital cameras that give you the ability to make large high quality prints.
If you are using high end photo processing software such as Photoshop, or Fireworks you can create some really sharp, good looking images suitable for framing.
You can go for the full sized SLR style camera, favored by high end professionals, but there are many good cameras on the market that have 4 mega pixels or better and are much more affordable than the high end SLR cameras. Let’s take a look at some of the top choices on the market right now that range in price from $299 to $499.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ10PP-S
First up on the list is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ10PP-S which features a fast 12X zoom lens with a good feature set built into the camera. While the FZ10 has a user friendly design which provides good performance the image quality is only in the middle of the range for this level of camera. It features a slightly larger LCD screen than its prior model, the Lumix DMC-FZ1S.
The down side of the camera is the slightly lower image quality and its poor ability to auto-focus in dim lighting conditions.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ10PP-S sells for $480
Buy the FZ10 here
Read the CNet Review of this camera for the full scoop
Canon PowerShot A80
Canon has a wide range of digital cameras to choose from in the consumer marketplace including one of the best choices in the digital SLR range of cameras, the Canon Rebel. Here we look at a more affordable option for consumers interested in quality, the Canon PowerShot A80.
The PowerShot 80
The good: Speedy and efficient; accepts accessory lenses. The bad: Small LCD; Memory compartment has a flimsy-feeling cover. The price: $299
A great mainstream camera for snapshooters who want room to grow creatively. Though it's not the cheapest of Canon's A-series PowerShot models, the 4-megapixel A80 delivers the best combination of features, image quality, performance and price that we've seen in any recent camera. The A80 improves on the A70 in almost every way while maintaining a great balance between snapshot ease and room-to-grow sophistication. Just don't let the many options scare you away..
Buy the Canon here Read the expanded review on Cnet here:
Canon PowerShot S410
Our next choice for you to consider is the Canon PowerShot S410 Editors' rating: 7.8 out of 10 The good: Small; low-shutter-lag Quick Shot mode; excellent image quality. The bad: Small viewfinder; few manual controls. The price: $399
This pocket camera offers few manual controls or special features but delivers solid image quality and performance. Although the Canon PowerShot S410 lacks the manual controls that serious photographers demand and some of its competitors offer, it has enough shooting options to please those in the point-and-click crowd who just want a good basic feature set and high-quality snapshots. This 4-megapixel PowerShot's major new feature is a Print & Share button for easier direct printing.. Buy the Canon PowerShot S410 here
Read the expanded review on Cnet here: Canon PowerShot S410
Nikon Coolpix 4300
Editors' rating: 7.8 out of 10 The good: Ergonomics; versatile battery options; accepts lens converters. The bad: No audio in video mode; many settings hidden in menus. The price: $350 The Nikon Coolpix 4300 warrants strong consideration by sophisticated snapshooters looking for high quality and versatility at a reasonable price. Easy operation, comfortable ergonomics, and excellent photo quality make the Nikon Coolpix 4300 an appealing buy. The camera offers more than simple point- and-shoot functionality. If you like to rely on your camera to take care of the basics but want the flexibility of fine-tuning your photos, the feature- rich Nikon Coolpix should be on your short list...
Buy the Nikon Coolpix 4300 here
Read the Cnet review here:
http://www.great-digital-cameras.com/digital.html
Camera Cell Phones -- More uses than you could have imagined
I was shopping in the large superstore with my five-year-old daughter, perfectly unaware that in the next few minutes I would be living through every parent’s nightmare – in an instant my child would disappear from my side. She had been looking through the little dresses right beside me and, when I called her to go try one on, she was no where to be found. I loudly called out her name, trying to keep the panic from my voice, as I frantically looked all around.
I rushed to the front of the store to inform security and the first thing he asked me was, “What was she wearing?” Wearing? What was she wearing? We had dressed quickly that morning, looking forward to a Saturday spent shopping for clothes she would soon wear to kindergarten. Next Tuesday would be her very first day of school. In my panic I couldn’t remember what I had pulled from her closet that day. Was it her blue shorts set…no, she had worn that yesterday. I simply couldn’t remember.
As I fought back the tears of an anguished parent, I saw my precious little girl walking toward me, holding the hand of an alert clerk who had found her wandering toward the back of the store. When I asked her why she had left me, she innocently explained that she had seen someone who looked like her grandmother and she had simply followed her.
As I hugged her through my tears, I noticed that she was wearing her purple checked shirt and green shorts, and that I had braided her hair that morning before we left home. In my fear over not being able to find her, I had forgotten all those little details about her appearance. And, even worse, I had left my large purse at home with my other wallet that held my most current picture of her.
Later, as my husband and I were discussing what had happened, he mentioned one of his customers had told him the last time he had taken his four children to the theme park, he had lined them all up at the entrance and taken each one’s picture with his wife’s cell phone camera. That way if one of them became lost, he could instantly show security his child’s picture, complete with the very clothes they were wearing at the time they disappeared.
The day of my ordeal, my camera-equipped phone had been in my bag around my waist the entire time. It had never once occurred to me to snap my child’s picture in the parking lot as we walked toward the large store. Honestly, I hadn’t used the camera feature that much, and had purchased the phone more for some other features than the fact that it could take a picture.
Camera cell phones were first introduced in the US about two years ago. Since then, their popularity has skyrocketed. Industry officials estimate that 12% of all cell phones sold in 2003 were equipped with a camera and that figure is steadily increasing. The camera cell phone may well be the most popular electronic device this holiday season.
Concerns over picture quality are diminishing rapidly as the digital electronics in cell phone cameras become more and more advanced. One and two megapixel models are readily available and, according to an independent study released this past summer, pictures from these tiny cameras make “significantly better” 4” x 6” prints than those from both digital and traditional film “one-time-use” cameras.
Convenience of obtaining prints from cell phone cameras is still something of an issue, as it may be difficult to print from the camera itself. But as more consumers purchase and use the digital devices, manufacturers will no doubt fill that need with inexpensive, convenient and high-quality printing options.
You would think that a camera in a mobile phone wouldn’t be much different than having a small, stand-alone digital camera. In reality, however, the phone is always at your side while the camera may not be. And, the photo can be immediately transferred to anyone with the click of a button.
Phones are being used to document accident scenes, take pictures of car license plates and even potential attackers. Just last month a Nashville man was accosted by a man with a knife, later identified as James Robert Baker, who demanded money. The victim snapped the assailant's photo with his camera cell phone as the mugger made his escape. Police used the photos from the camera phone to broadcast an accurate description of Baker and his red GMC truck. A police officer stopped the truck and arrested Baker approximately 10 minutes later.
Camera phones are finding favor with small business owners who are using them for any number of uses that range from verifying that the correct repair part is ordered to documenting the satisfactory completion of a job. Real estate professionals can quickly inform prospective buyers of a hot property just on the market, insurance agents can speed accident and damage claims and contractors can quickly verify building details without leaving the construction site.
Recent developments in cell phone applications include using the camera as a bar code scanner enabling savvy shoppers to instantly download coupons, product information and perhaps even suggesting alternative locations where the item may be found at a better price.
Given the enormous popularity of camera phones, it is not surprising that there is even more exciting mobile technology on the horizon. Nokia has introduced a phone (Model 3650) that can take video clips as well as photos.
Since that incident with my daughter, it has become our morning ritual to snap a quick picture of her as we head out the door in the morning. I think she understands now that she is never to leave my side in a public place for any reason without permission, but children are apt to do the most unexpected things.
The next time you are shopping for a cell phone, you may wish to consider the many options available, and give an extra long look to the camera phone models. That camera cell phone that you thought was just a passing fad may be a much more practical purchase than you would have ever imagined.
About the author:
Elizabeth Edwards is a successful freelance writer, providing consumers with tips and helpful advice when purchasing camera cell phones, family cell phone plans and motorola cell phone accessories. Her numerous informative articles provide online shoppers with the tools to make smarter buying decisions. Read more about the latest in cell phone technology at Camera cell phones
Digital Cameras Go Disposable
Ritz Camera offers an affordable digital alternative.
Buying a digital camera doesn't have to be a big investment. This week, Ritz Camera Centers unveiled a single-use digital camera that will cost you only $11.
The Dakota Digital Single-Use Camera is available in select Ritz Camera and Wolf Camera retail stores in 14 U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington D.C.
David Ritz, Chairman of Ritz Camera Centers, says the Dakota Digital is ideal "for anyone who wants an inexpensive, single-use camera and is interested in trying digital for the first time."
The camera could help users get past one of the biggest hurdles in digital photography: Despite its increasing popularity, less than 19 percent of digital pictures are printed because of the complexity, cost, and time requirements of home printing, according to the Photo Marketing Association.
"For $10.99, customers have an opportunity to try digital technology without investing in a pricey digital camera," says Ritz. (By comparison, a disposable film camera from Kodak or Fuji costs about $8, according to Ritz.)
The Basics
The Dakota Digital, which was developed by San Francisco-based Pure Digital Technologies, captures up to 25 snapshots and uses a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensor. The camera has 12MB of internal memory, Simon Fleming-Wood, Pure Digital's vice president of marketing says. He could not disclose the camera's image resolution. In comparison, you can buy a standard 1-megapixel camera with an LCD from companies like HP and Kodak for under $100. Such cameras, however, will tend to be older models.
The camera runs on AA alkaline batteries (which are included) and features an automatic flash and a self timer. Although the camera has no LCD for viewing images, it does include a delete button. This means that unlike disposable film cameras, the Dakota Digital allows users to delete a bad photo--for example, when users know a subject has inadvertently moved or blinked. However, users can only delete the most recent photo.
Get the Picture
After capturing 25 pictures on the Dakota Digital, users return the camera to a Ritz or Wolf lab that has the equipment to process the images. The camera uses a proprietary image format (Pure Digital Imaging Platform) that works only with Pure Digital's machines. It cannot be connected to a PC to transfer photos.
Ritz/Wolf charges about $11 for processing 25 4-by-6 prints and a photo CD. By comparison, the company charges $14 for developing film (from a disposable camera or a standard roll of film) for the same quantity and size prints and a photo CD. Processing takes about an hour in either case but depends on the lab's workload.
On the photo CD, users have two viewing options: Small Photos, which shows a few thumbnails on screen, and Large Photo, which shows a single image on screen.
From the photo CD, users can rotate images and edit captions. The software allows shutterbugs to e-mail pictures, save them on the PC by automatically creating a folder on the Windows desktop called Photo CD, print photos, and create a slide show.
Once the prints have been developed, Ritz/Wolf returns the camera to Pure Digital for recycling. Much like the method for film disposables, Pure Digital refurbishes each camera for resale.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,111841-page,1/article.html
Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Film Scanner
- Impressive 7,200 dpi resolution
- Costs less than $400
- Removes defects, dust and scratches
- Only for 35mm film and slide pictures (but you really want a dedicated film scanner)
- Scanning is slow at highest resolution while using defect and dust removal
- Cannot use defect removal on black and white film
Description
- Preview speed of 5.6 seconds
- Scan speed range of 36 seconds (3,600 dpi) to 68 seconds (7,200 dpi)
- Uses USB 2.0 high speed connector
- Bundled with SilverFast image editing software
Guide Review - Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Film Scanner
Who Should Get the Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Scanner
- Professional photographers or company offices who need high quality film scans with large image file sizes but have a limited budget.
- Photography hobbyists who have a collection of film images they would like to preserve at a high quality level.
Who Should Not Get the Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Scanner
- Professional photographers or companies who need to scan high volumes of film with dust removal capabilities, or who have a lot of other picture formats, such as medium format film, to scan.
- Casual amateur photographers with a tight budget who simply want basic image scans and don't need large file sizes.
Scanning with the Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Scanner
This scanner is easy to use, and it has cartridges to hold either four slides or six film frames. The speed is impressive without high resolution and without defect removal, but slows dramatically with those features used. This is not an issue for lower volume scanning.Quality of the Scanned Images
The great thing about this scan is that the images produced are dazzling. Unless you are a high level professional photographer, you will find few complaints about the image production from this film scanner. Images are crisp, and it does a fine job removing dust and scratches.Bottom Line on the Plustek OpticFilm 7200i Film Scanner
In most situations, it will be hard to justify spending two times, three times, maybe even more for another high resolution film scanner. It produces great digital images, and that's the ultimate test.http://cameras.about.com/od/photoprinterreviews/gr/plustekfilmscan.htm
Digital Photography Tips: Shooting Fireworks Pictures
Fireworks displays are certainly stunning and colorful. Capturing those moments with a camera is a challenge, though. Often times, you'll end up with shaky, blurry messes that hardly resemble what actually happened. This year, get stellar fireworks pictures.Watching fireworks go off on the 4th of July is always fun to do, but photographing them can sometimes be your biggest headache. Here are some digital photography tips for shooting fireworks pictures.
Use a tripod
I know, I know, I hate carrying those things around too. But when it comes to fireworks, you need them! They make a world of difference getting rid of camera shake, especially when using a long exposure time. Also, if you have a some sort of shutter remote, use it. Anything you have that will keep the camera still will improve your photos.
If you don't already have one, get some tips on "Choosing the Right Tripod for Your Digital Camera."
Find a spot
Finding an area where to set up is another major factor in how your pictures will turn out. Try to arrive early and scout the area out. If possible, see if you can find out where the fireworks will be launched. This information will give you idea of where you need to be. While looking for a good spot keep in mind to avoid obstructions and weather, especially wind. Remember that wind will blow the smoke somewhere, so try to keep it out of your photos.
Also, try to avoid where a lot of people might be joining you. I'm sure you don't want the backs of heads in your photos or someone bumping into or kicking your tripod while you're tying to work. Try to stay away from the street or city lights. They can possible cause lens flare in photos. Make sure you don' have anything sneaking into your photo. Tree branches are especially good at that "Where's Waldo" thing.
It's all in the timing
Exposure/shutter speed is something you need to stay on top of when shooting fireworks. Usually, 1 to 4 seconds is good depending on what you're trying to do with the photo. Anything shorter and you may not get the full effect or the full bloom of the fireworks and anything longer you may just end up with a washed out image. You can keep your shutter speeds down by compensating on the ISO. Try to stay in ISO 50 or ISO 100. If you go higher, you'll start to introduce film noise and grain into photographs.
Stay focused
Setting your focus to infinity or landscape mode is also advisable if you don't want to take the time to manually focus your pictures. If your camera is equipped, put the setting to fireworks mode.
See the light
Bring a small flashlight. This will save you from losing your temper while trying to fiddle with your camera in the dark.
Don't get flashed
Turn your flash off. If you're camera won't allow you to turn it off, use some tape to cover it.
Memory for memories
Bring your memory cards! You don't want to run out of memory before the grand finale. While you're grabbing the extra memory cards, you may want to grab extra batteries.
Quality is crucial
Use your highest quality setting on your camera.
With these tips, you won't just walk away from Independence Day with memories, but with memory cards packed with high-quality images.
http://cameras.about.com/od/cameratips/a/fireworks.htm
Top 7 Camera Bags for Digital Point-and-Shoot Cameras
1. RoadWired Podzilla Camera Bag
Compact yet functional, this camera bag features more than 20 pockets and compartments in a tight 9"x9"x6" bag. It can be used to hold a digital camera or an SLR, with extra space for loads of memory cards, cords, a cell phone, batteries or whatever you can tuck in somewhere. All in all, a handy and attractive bag (coming in choices of five colors) that uses its available storage space well.
Buy Direct
2. Sumdex SlimPack Camera Case
This versatile little bag is great for shooting around town or even while traveling. You can wear it as a waistback or over your shoulder. It has a zippered and separate accessory pouch underneath for extras (and you won't need to worry about them rattling around or falling out when you get your camera in and out). It also has an extra pouch to hold a cellphone.
Buy Direct
3. Sumdex Double Horizontal Camera Pouch
This two-sided bag is especially appealing because you can store your camera in one side, and a wallet or cell phone in the other. It almost looks like a purse, made of a suede-like material and coming in four colors. This is a great bag for travel.
Buy Direct
4. Eagle Creek Padded Hip Case
This attractive hip camera case is well-padded and roomy. Use one pocket for your camera, and another for a CD player or mp3 player. The audio pocket has a handy headphone portal.
Buy Direct
5. Mountain Gear Focus II Camera Bag
This rugged and useful little bag will hold your camera in water-resistant fabric with a coated zipper. The fleece lining will protect the camera, and the outer and internal pockets are great for stashing little extras. It also includes the option of attaching it to your belt. This camera bag is ideal for outdoors excursions.
Buy Direct
6. Lowepro D-Res 20 AW
This bag is sturdy and copes well with bad weather. It isn't very large, but you can store your camera in the main compartment and batteries or memory cards in open pocket on the front. Wear it on your belt or over your shoulder.
7. Kiesel DC110 Pouch Style Camera Bag
There's nothing fancy about this bag, but it's cheap and functional. It will hold your camera, and there is a front pocket for extras. A velcro strap attaches it to your belt, or the shoulder strap can be used.
http://cameras.about.com/od/accessories/tp/pasbags.htm
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Understanding Nikon Multi-CAM 2000 Autofocus
Nowadays, our cameras are getting smarter and smarter. So many things can be well accomplished by camera automation, including autofocus, that it's now easier than ever to get professional results.
The Multi-CAM 2000 Autofocus (AF) sensor module in the Nikon D2H, D2Hs, F6, and D2x gives us a powerful tool for professional or advanced amateur use. But, it's imperative that the user of these fine cameras take the time to learn about the four modes of operation in Multi-CAM 2000. It can seem complicated when reading the manual, but is not too difficult if you'll spend a little time testing the various modes. Then you'll understand the best settings for your own style of photography.
We'll discuss Multi-CAM 2000 from the standpoint of the Nikon D2x, since this is considered Nikon's top professional model digital camera. There are some slight variances in custom settings found in the other cameras using Multi-CAM 2000. But, these are only minor differences, so it should pose no problem using this article to understand Multi-CAM 2000 in cameras other than the Nikon D2x.
It may be a good idea to have your D2x manual in hand, as well as your camera. We'll refer to both often in this article. Let's proceed!
http://www.cleanimages.com/Article-UnderstandingNikonMultiCAM2000AF.asp