The-Canon-PowerShot-A710-IS Review
December 31, 2008
An upgrade to the short-lived Canon PowerShot A700, the A710 IS received a design facelift and a few feature tweaks, the biggest and most welcome of which is that the new model adds optical image stabilization. In addition, upgrading from 6 mega pixel to 7 mega pixel provides for improved image quality. Is the A710 IS a worthy successor to the popular A700?
Here are the main features:
* 7.1 Megapixels
* 6x optical zoom with optical Image Stabilizer (35-210mm equiv.)
* DIGIC II, iSAPS, 9-Point AiAF, FlexiZone AF/AE
* Digital Tele-Converter and Safety Zoom
* 2.5? LCD with wide viewing angle and real-image optical viewfinder
* 20 shooting modes
What else has changed?
Although a better looking camera, the A710 IS is more than mere style, with the addition of the optical image stabilization system, the only downside of which is the slight decrease in battery life. Still, one can get an impressive 360 shots from a good pair of rechargeable AA NiMH batteries.
Additional changes include?.
* 60fps (QVGA) movie mode
* MyColors effects in playback mode
* Playback overexposure warning
* 3:2 overlay on live view
* SDHC card support
* Underwater scene mode (for use with new optional 40m underwater case)
* Slightly reduced continuous shooting speed (1.7fps vs 2.0fps)
* 10g (0.36oz) heavier
Here are the full list of features and specifications:
* Sensor: 1/2.5? Type CCD, 7.1 million pixels
* Image Processor: DIGIC II with iSAPS technology
* Image Sizes: 3072 x 2304, 3072 x 1728, 2592 x 1944, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480
* Movie Clips: 640 x 480 ? 15/30 fps, up to 1 GB or 1 hour. 320 x 240 ? 15/30/60 fsp, up to 1 GB or 1 hour (15/30 fps) or 1 minute (60 fps). 160 x 120 ? 15 pfs, up to 3 minutes. AVI motion JPEG.
* Lens: 6x optical zoom, 35-210 mm equivalent, F2.8 ? F4.8
* Optical Stabilization: Yes (shift type)
* Focus: TTL auto focus, AF illuminator, 9-point AiAF or 1 point AF (any position or fixed center), 1 cm macro mode
* Metering: Evaluate, Center-weighted average, Spot (center or linked to focusing frame)
* Shooting Mode: 13 different modes, including Night Scene, Shutter Priority AE and Aperture Priority AE
* Shutter Speeds: 15 ? 1/2000 second
* Apertures: F2.8 ? 8 (Wide) F4.8 ? 8 (Tele)
* Exposure Compensation: +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments
* Sensitivity: Auto, High ISO Auto, ISO 80 ? 800
* White Balance: 8 settings, including underwater
* Image parameters: 12 different settings, including photo-stitch
* Continuous: Continuous (1.7 fps) until memory is full
* Flash: 5 modes, including red-eye reduction. Range: 55cm ? 3.5m (wide) / 2.5 m (tele)
* Storage: SD, SDHC, MMC compatible. 16 MB card included
* Viewfinder: Real-image zoom, optical viewfinder
* LCD Monitor: 2.5? P-Si TFT, 115,000 pixels
* Connectivity: USB 2.0 Hi-Speed, AV out
* Power: 2x AA batteries (alkaline included, but NiMH recommended), optional AC adapter
* Optional Accessories: 3 lenses, high-power flash, waterproof case
* Dimensions: 97.5mm x 66.5mm x 41.2mm
Generally, users of this camera give good reviews, citing the advantages of using 2 batteries over 4, the convenience of using SD disks, date/time feature, overall quality and ease of use. Some users find that using the zoom feature indoors lowers image quality and the limits of the 1 GB file (about 8 minutes of video) and the limited storage capacity of the provided 16MB card.
The camera retails for around $300 US……Bargain!
Why Not Create An Digital Photo Occasion Book For A Great Gift
December 28, 2008
Do you have tons of digital photos on your computer and do not know what to do with them? Then why not create an Occasion book to give to loved ones as a great gift.Unlike clothes it's sure to fit and last a life time.
The first thing to do is plan. Make a list of the people you want to create the occasion books for. Think about the types of photos they would like in the book. Some people are quite easy grandparents would like to see plenty of pictures of their grandchildren. If you have a son they might like an occasion book full of cars, planes and boats. If your wife likes flowers why not take the digital camera and snap some pictures of her favourite flowers and put them in the photo book.
You can also create an occasion book on some major events in your friends or familys wife. For example your childs first birthday or christmas snap plenty of pictures with your digital camera, take some notes for each picture so you can add some text to each picture to tell a story in your occasion book.
Weddings make for a great occasion book. The bride and groom will have photos professionaly taken these can then be scanned to placed in a photo book, not only that but you could also take photos at all the informal parties to add to the book as well.
Creating an occasion book is quite simple.What you need to do is sort out which photos you would like to use then use one of the online printing companies to create your photo book.The books can be created in hardcover, softcover and even in linen. It is very easy and you should give it a go.
The-HP-PhotoSmart-E337 Review
December 27, 2008
As digital cameras go, price is often an indicator of quality. But there are a surprising number of lower-end cameras tailored to the skills of new photographers that perform on par with or even better than their more expensive competitors. The HP PhotoSmart E337 is inexpensive, but users are full of glowing reviews ? provided that you don?t expect too much out of the camera.
What should you expect from the HP PhotoSmart E337? Customers who have used the camera rave about the intuitive button layout and menu navigation. In fact, this camera is so easy to use that many customers have bought a PhotoSmart E337 for their children or parents. (Younger children should get digital cameras made specifically with kids in mind; the PhotoSmart E337 has a rather flimsy and insubstantial body that would break if tossed or dropped.)
Most customers bought this camera to have a simple point-and-shoot device for parties and special events. Others purchased bundles of the cameras to give as Christmas gifts for the younger photographers in the family. For what it is, the HP PhotoSmart E337 is an adequate camera. Its color and image clarity are on track with similarly priced competitors, and its ease of use even surpasses some of the more expensive models out there.
In keeping with the competition in its price range, the HP PhotoSmart E337 has plenty of internal memory (16MB) so that it can be used without a memory card. The camera comes with a USB port and cable for easy photo sharing. It?s also got leading-edge internal red eye removal. Windows Vista fans will appreciate that this camera comes fully Vista ready. It is also fully compatible with Mac OS X v10.3.9 and 10.4.
The HP PhotoSmart E337 runs on two AA batteries. Other camera features include motion video and direct printing to any PictBridge certified printer. The camera comes with a 90 day limited warranty and 24/7 customer support. It also has a hand strap, user manual, and software CD.
So what are the drawbacks of owning an HP PhotoSmart E337? Unfortunately, there are a few. As mentioned before, the camera isn?t the sturdiest on the market. It?s light and feels rather fragile. Image quality has been described as ?acceptable?, but not great. The camera is best used for point and shoot pictures; it has no optical zoom. Finally, the 1.5 inch LCD preview screen has been described as small and grainy. Kids and novice photographers would probably have fun with this camera, but real photography enthusiasts are advised to look elsewhere.
The HP PhotoSmart E337 can be found wherever digital cameras are sold. It retails for about $80 US.
One-two Punch Eradicates All Blinking In Your Photographs – Read Review Here
December 27, 2008
Do you want to stop blinking in all your photographs? Sound preposterous? Impossible? That’s what I thought, so when I heard about a Blink Eradication System, I HAD TO REVIEW IT.
One of the biggest dilemmas for any photographer is no matter how hard we try, there’s never been a way to eradicate blinking, short of performing hours of post-production editing.
After getting my hands on a copy, I put it through its paces. There are 6 parts to this review…
I. What is Their Approach?
The Blink Eradication System uses a 2-Step Approach that can address any situation:
Step #1: Minimize Blinking Before the Pictures
They provide good photo tips in the following categories:
- Equipment set-up
- Preparing the subjects
- Preparing the environment
- Posing tips
Step #2: Eliminate Any Blinking After the Pictures
If any blinking made it into a picture, their software tool would easily eliminate it.
II. How Well Does It Work?
For Step #1, they do a better than expected job; although, honestly, this step alone would not justify buying the Blink Eradication System.
However, Step #2 does, because of the SOFTWARE! Not only is it simple and quick to get the hang of but it includes animated tutorials showing how to eliminate blinking from your pictures. And, the software functioned flawlessly during the 10 times I tested it.
III. Does the Blink Eradication System Work as Described?
The simple answer is an unequivocal “Yes.”
IV. Are There Any Drawbacks?
The major shortcoming I found is that the software will only operate on PCs that use the Windows XP operating system.
The primary reason I consider this major is because after using the Blink Eradication System, I believe most photographers would want to have their own. Unfortunately for MAC owners, they won’t be able to.
If you’re using Vista on your PC, the Blink Eradication System provides several good ideas for work-arounds.
V. Is the Blink Eradication System Worth the Cost?
If you only take landscape photographs, the answer is “no.” But if your photographic pleasure includes taking photos of people, especially groups; the answer is an emphatic YES for this inexpensive (under $30) system.
You’re getting, a bargain. In addition to what has been mentioned, they throw in two “Cheat Sheets” listing everything to remember. One sheet is for Indoor, and one for Outdoors. Anyone who doesn’t have a photographic memory will find these helpful.
And, as is the custom of online digital offers, they provide a few bonuses to sweeten the deal. And their bonuses actually provide some value.
Plus, if you do buy the Blink Eradication System, you risk nothing because of their 100% satisfaction guarantee. When I began the review, I had to keep it short. But, if you’re interested and want to see more, review the blink eradication system.
VI. Final Conclusion
The Blink Eradication System is a product that I wish I had 10 years ago. For what they’re charging, all I can say is get it before the price goes up. Additional products can be found here.
The-Sony-CyberShot-DSC-T20 Review
December 25, 2008
Of all the top-rated digital cameras, Sony’s CyberShot series consistently performs at or above industry standards. The Sony CyberShot DSC-T20 has long been a favorite choice for intermediate digital photographers. It ranks near the top of all digital cameras given as holiday gifts in recent years. Users love its quality photos and many useful features.
The Sony CyberShot DSC-T20 is an 8.1 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom. Pictures are taken in JPEG format. The camera’s ISO equivalencies are 100, 800, 400, 200, 80, 1600, and 3200. It has both programmed and automatic exposure settings for a variety of picture-taking situations and lighting conditions.
A slim and trim little digital camera, the Sony CyberShot DSC-T20 weighs a mere 4.5 ounces. Its physical dimensions are 2.2 in x 3.5 in x 0.9 in (HxWxD), making it an easy camera to slip into a shirt pocket for a day of photography.
The Sony CyberShot DSC-T20 also has a video mode for those who want to capture motion and sound rather than still photos. The camera uses Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick Pro Duo recording methods. It comes with A/V and USB cables, and is covered by a one year warranty.
So what are Sony CyberShot DSC-T20 owners saying about the camera? They have nothing but praise for the picture quality. Photos are bright and clear, and the camera has a very bright flash. It is a very small camera, though. While some users like the super-slim dimensions, others find themselves worrying that the device will break. This concern could be unwarranted, however; none of the many customer reviews mentioned having to replace the camera due to physical breakage. It?s not recommended that this camera be given to small children, though; not only is it small and light, it?s also a little on the pricey side. Besides, with so many digital cameras made especially for kids, children would probably prefer a sturdier, more colorful camera anyway.
Another caveat for beginners: this camera has a lot of features. Users describe feeling a little lost due to the sheer number of settings, modes, and options. If you’re the adventurous type, jump right in and start experimenting. But if you’re the cautious sort who likes a straightforward camera, you could find a better fit with another brand.
The Sony CyberShot DSC-T20, like many cameras in its price range, is good for beginners and intermediate photographers. When a particular camera series has a large and loyal following, it?s usually for a good reason. Sony?s CyberShot series gives users plenty of cool features at a fair price.
This camera retails for about $300 US, and can be purchased wherever digital cameras are sold.
The-FujiFilm-FinePix-A900 Review
December 22, 2008
Seldom is a digital camera described as ’strange’ or ‘bizarre’. Yet those terms pop up frequently in professional reviews of the FujiFilm FinePix A900. Though this digital camera has good image quality, the unusual controls and specifications make it less than user-friendly.
To start with, the FujiFilm FinePix A900 is a 9 megapixel camera. That’s the good news. Most companies don’t even offer 9 megapixel models. But getting a high quality printable photo can be a little tricky with the FujiFilm FinePix A900. It seems that the while balance adjustment is hidden away in a maze of non-intuitive menu options. If users plan on printing their digital photos, they should adjust the white balance before they start shooting. Making adjustments in the middle of a shoot can be frustrating with the camera’s odd menu layout. While common scene modes like ‘landscape’ are hidden, unusual ones like ‘baby’ can be found right on the camera’s dial ‘ just another strange quirk in the A900’s layout.
One very nice feature of the FujiFilm FinePix A900 is a long lens which gives this camera a 4x optical zoom. Similarly priced cameras only offer 3x zoom capability. The camera also has an infrared sensor which allows it to transfer photos to other infrared-enabled cameras and mobile phones.
The FujiFilm FinePix A900 does not have the sleek, stylish body so common to modern digital cameras. In fact, it has been described as ‘clunky’, weighing in at a hefty 200 grams plus. This camera is larger than most of its competitors, and critics complain that it barely fits into a shirt pocket. Other sticking points are the shutter lag and relatively long wait time until a picture takes. The FujiFilm FinePix A900 was outpaced by nearly all of its peers in regard to speed.
Some users prefer the thick body and greater weight of this model. Men with large hands find it easier to deal with than some of the super-slim alternatives. Surprisingly, given the camera’s odd menu layout, many users find it to be a very straightforward device. It is lauded for the ease with which a user can pick it up and start taking photos. Beginners and younger children might have a lot of fun with this sturdy model.
And even the most ardent detractor has to give credit where it’s due: if you can figure out all the controls, the FujiFilm FinePix A900 takes beautiful pictures. Colors are life-like, faces are crisp, and even the high magnifications seldom show grain. For all its quirks, this is a quality camera.
The FujiFilm FinePix A900 comes with 10MB of internal memory and is compatible with SD or xD cards. It runs on two AA batteries. The A900 retails for about $150-$170 US.
Eliminate Photography’s #1 Frustration – No Blinking Breakthrough, Reviewed!
December 22, 2008
Eliminating blinking from pictures has always been a huge challenge for photographers. And as far as frustrations go, we can also add looking in the wrong direction, sneezing, and last-second movements to the list.
So when I the Blink Eradication System, I HAD TO EXAMINE IT. I won’t keep you in suspense until the end of this review…
What’s Their Approach?
I was ready to scream “waste of time,” thinking that the Blink Eradication System would consist of the usual… “make sure you count to three so they know when you’re taking the shot” type of “wisdom.”
Instead, they use a logical 2-Phase Approach that addresses every possibility:
1. Practical information for “Minimizing” blinking before taking the picture (They actually say Minimize not Eliminate, which gained credibility points, since eliminating it is impossible.)
2. A software tool that easily eliminates blinking afterward, if any blinking made it through
What Does the Blink Eradication System Do and How Well Does It Work?
For the “Minimizing” phase, it works pretty well. They begin with a scientific conclusion:
“For groups smaller than 20, divide the number of people by three if there’s good light and two if the light’s bad. That’s how many shots you need to
take.”
Then, they address considerable information on how to minimize blinking BEFORE taking the photograph. Categories include equipment set up, preparing the environment and subjects, and even some posing tips. I give this phase a 4 out of 5.
For the 2nd phase, they knock it out of the park! The software worked flawlessly during the 9 times I used it. Even though they didn’t write the software, they were very upfront about all aspects of it.
Two animated tutorials are provided that eliminate the need of reading Help files. This phase gets a 5 out of 5.
Conclusion
Does it Function as Described?
Yes, and quite well, with an overall score of 4.5 out of 5.0.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
Note that I can find drawbacks to anything. With that said, the only point to be aware of is the software only operates on PCs that use the Windows XP operating system.
Given the state of Vista, that may not be an issue anymore. If you do use Vista, and would still like to use the software, they provide some ideas for workarounds. The simplest one is to maintain 2 operating systems on your PC (sounds very scary, but after using their software, you just might be tempted).
Does The Value Justify The Cost?
If you take nothing but landscape shots, the answer is “no.” But if you take pictures of people, especially groups larger than 2; the answer is an unmistakable “yes.”
For what you’re receiving, the Blink Eradication System is a bargain. In addition to what I’ve mentioned, they throw in a clever way to remember everything required prior to taking any pictures — two “Cheat Sheets;” one for Indoor, and one for Outdoors. Anyone who doesn’t have a photographic memory will find these helpful.
And, as is the custom of online digital offers, they provide several bonuses to sweeten the deal. Their 5 bonuses actually provide some value. Plus, they stand behind the Blink Eradication System with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Final Conclusion
Imagine I’m shouting: major photography breakthrough! The Blink Eradication System is a product that I wish I had 10 years ago. At what they’re charging, all I can say is get it before the price goes up.
Getting New Photography Gear? The Secret To Getting Great Deals At Bargain Prices
December 21, 2008
The time will come that you’re going to want to replace/add to your photography accessories. The primary reason people procrastinate is because of the daunting process they imagine is required to get the “right stuff” at the “best price.”
Though understandable, this kind of logic is really not necessary. I know because I used to do it myself for 16 years. During that time, I learned a lot, made a few mistakes, and discovered several extremely clever approaches to finding a “good deal.”
If you’re not shopping for new photo equipment just yet, that’s OK. Just do yourself a favor and keep the following advice so it’s handy when you are ready. Although this article is geared toward photographic gear, most of the content could easily address non-photographic purchases as well.
Understand What Your Goal Is
People don’t just roll out of bed one morning and think: I’m going to get a new camera today. Instead, something kicked off the desire; typically wanting to do something that is beyond the capabilities of their current gear.
Before taking the plunge, it helps to know which camera features are important to you. For that, you might want to consider examining a list of camera features before getting new photography gear. Ya think?
The first thing to do is decide on what specific gear to buy. The next question is about getting the best deals at great prices. That answer has 3 parts:
You Don’t HAVE TO Buy Retail
You want to buy from an online merchant who you trust. Trust! Who might that be, you wonder? If you want to figure it out yourself, go to PriceGrabber’s Merchant Rating Service and read the reviews given by other buyers.
When dealing with online merchants, be alert for certain warning signs. If you notice any, that should indicate it’s time to look for another merchant. Just two of the numerous possible red flags are: a pushy sales representative; and having great prices on the main item, but have it bundled with accessories that are over-priced.
The Big Guys Are Big For a Reason
There are numerous excellent cameras on the market today… part of why it takes so long to reach a decision. So unless you want to spend a month deciding on a brand, bottom line – go with either Canon or Nikon.
Do You ALWAYS Have To Buy NEW?
If you’re OK buying used photo gear, you can get some great deals. In addition to eBay, there are plenty of outstanding sources for used photo gear.
Craig’s List is especially good because it’s local and therefore you can actually meet the seller in person and therefore test the equipment before you buy it. Find a local area of Craig’s List, by “Googling” them.
eBay and Craig’s List are not the only choices. There are several other online options…
- Some photography stores carry NEW and USED gear, often providing a 30 day (or more) warranty. Check for a Used Equipment section on their sites or search Google for online merchants who dabble in used
- Search Google for online stores dealing exclusively in used gear
- Photography Forums, such as Fred Miranda have an active Buy/Sell service
After obtaining your perfect photo gear, it’s time to focus on your ultimate objective and find out how to capture some amazing photographs with it.
The-Canon-EOS-40D Review
December 21, 2008
The Canon EOS 40D is a 10 megapixel SLR digital camera that saw a lot of hype prior to its release. According to users who have bought this camera, it lives up to the hype ? and then some. Its DIGIC III image processor and large 3 inch LCD make it a favorite among casual photographers and professionals alike.
Users have nothing but lavish praise for this camera. The Canon EOS 40D consistently gets 5-star ratings and plenty of glowing reviews from owners. Some laud the camera?s impressive light sensitivity and its hefty size. The camera feels substantial, not like something fragile that might break with rough treatment. With the EFS 17-85 IS in place, the camera weighs in at two and a half pounds! But it does fit into the photographer?s hands naturally, and handles very well.
Professional action photographers use this camera for outdoor work and enjoy its sharpness and color identity. The camera even cleans itself every time it is turned off, thanks to an automatic sensor cleaning feature.
Some users feel that the Canon EOS 40D is more suited to advanced camera users. The sheer number of features can be intimidating. Customers recommend a lot of patience and exploration, or even the purchase of special training DVDs to help new photographers learn the ins and outs of the 40D.
Here are just a few of the Canon EOS 40D?s many features:
* 10.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
* DIGIC III Image Processor
* RAW, JPEG File Format
* Canon EF/EF-S Lens Mount
* Auto and Manual Focus
* Auto and Manual Exposure
* ISO 100-1600 (3200 Enhanced)
* 3.0-inch LCD
* Compact Flash Memory
* Lithium-ion Battery
* USB Cable
* Video Cable
* Neck Strap
* Battery Charger
The Canon EOS 40D is an SLR professional grade digital camera with image resolutions of 3888 x 2592, 2816 x 1880, and 1936 x 1288. It has a minimum shutter speed of 30 seconds, and a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds. Pictures can be snapped rapid-fire for excellent action shots. The EOS 40D does up to 75 images in burst mode. Its exposure controls include Auto, Manual, Daylight / Sunny (Preset), Cloudy (Preset), Fluorescent (Preset), Tungsten (Preset), Shade (Preset), and Flash (Preset).
A few critics voice disappointment that the camera kit doesn?t come with a lens hood as would be expected from a camera of this caliber. But complaints are few and far between. The Canon EOS 40D would be a great gift for a photography student, journalist, or anyone who is ready to move away from point-and-shoots. This is a real camera for real photographers.
The Canon EOS 40D retails for about $1,200 US.
Digital Photography – New Versatile and Technique of Capturing Photos
December 20, 2008
Digital photography is a simple and easy way for you who like getting out and about and taking photos. The technology applied in digital photography will allow you to experiment with your camera indoors and take pictures of your family or pets as much as you like. Just click and click, and you’ll immediately like being involved with digital photography.
The utilize of digital photography offer you with lots of profits which you cannot get with a regular camera. Using this digital technology will make you save lots of money, for you do not have to purchase new film all the time. Moreover, there is no need for you to pay for the processing expenses involved with conventional cameras.
Great and Suitable Way for Beginners
Even if you are new to taking photos, digital photography is a good bet for you to get started with. Because you know that there will not be any film wasted, you will find that you become better at experimenting with taking pictures. You can just delete the already-taken picture that you do not like from your camera.
As opposed to using a film, digital photography takes a memory card, meaning that you have total control over what you like to keep on the card. The interesting fact is that a single card can take hundreds of photos at a time, so you can enjoy all the benefits of digital photography without the expenses involved in processing.
Getting on Your Computer
You must have this kind of experience with your regular camera, when you recognize that the pictures you thought as good turn to be looking rather disappointing once they come back from the developer. Out of twenty-seven or so exposures, there might only be a dozen or so that you really want to put in the photo album.
With digital photography, such thing will not happen. You can immediately see what the picture you have taken looks like by looking at it on the screen on your camera. If you like it, you keep it on the memory card and then download all the pictures you have taken onto your computer. Therefore, digital photography often results in a bigger collection of photos than you would have otherwise. Nevertheless, what you need to do is only keeping them all on your computer and then printing the ones you like directly on your own printer.
With digital photography, you will have much more control over how your finished photos turn out. You can do whatever you like with this camera, whether you like to print the pictures in normal sized or much larger (more like a poster). You can also play around with the colors and tones used. Digital photography is a new versatile and exciting way of taking photos. Don’t be surprised if once you start, you definitely will not want to stop!
Are you still at sea of knowing more about digital photography? Just look around and click the links your best answer herein!
FREE Digital Photography Guide
Blogroll
Latest Posts
- Is Digital Better Than Film?
- Access To Flip UltraHD Camcorder
- Waterproof Cameras – Which Are The Best?
- Keeping Your Images Safe When Travelling
- Digital Camera – You Should Look For An Adequate Amount Memory
- How To Photograph Art
- How To Select A Digital HD Camcorder
- Guide To Buying The Casio Exilim Digital Cameras Online
- The Best Digital Camera Is One That Fits Your Requirements
- Photo And Film – How To Get Free Photography Resource Tips