Digital Photography Blog: Digital Camera Reviews, Ratings, News, Tips and Tutorials.
August 2008
July 2008
April 2008
March 2008
January 2008
December 2007
November 2007
October 2007
September 2007
August 2007
July 2007
June 2007
May 2007
April 2007
March 2007
February 2007
January 2007
December 2006
November 2006
October 2006
September 2006
August 2006
July 2006
June 2006
May 2006
April 2006
March 2006
February 2006
January 2006
December 2005
November 2005
October 2005
September 2005
August 2005
July 2005
June 2005
May 2005
April 2005
March 2005
February 2005
January 2005
December 2004
November 2004
October 2004
September 2004
August 2004
July 2004
June 2004
May 2004
April 2004
March 2004
February 2004
January 2004
December 2003
November 2003
October 2003
September 2003
Many people are getting digital cameras for Christmas and as a result the number of times we've been asked in the last few days for advice on how to use them has been on the rise. So today I thought I'd compile a list of a few of the online tips resources that I've had good feedback on from readers. I hope you find them helpful.
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Canon Powershot S80 Digital Camera and writes - 'All in all the Canon PowerShot S80 is an extremely interesting digital camera. It seems a rather stubborn one, but definitely one that proves itself worthy. The PowerShot S80 is found on the top in its price range. Most changes compared to the S70 are for the user's benefit. A few minor changes (like the return of RAW format!) and the Canon PowerShot S80 will be one of the best versatile digital cameras currently available; it's absolutely a recommendable camera!'
Read more about the Canon Powershot S80
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot S80 8MP Digital Camera with 6x Wide Angle Optical Zoom
Pentax Optio WPi and writes - 'Personally I enjoyed working with the Pentax Optio WPi. The waterproof housing makes photographing in and on the water a real pleasure. In practice, handling the WPi camera is easy and delivers fine image quality. The resolution suffices to print some enlargements whenever you feel like it that can be edited in the camera prior to printing. The Pentax Optio will appeal to the average user and its water- and dustproof features make the camera interesting for use during holidays or weekend trips in and around the water. Photographing underwater is fun; a lot can be discovered and thanks to digital photography infinite images can be taken during snorkelling. All in all the Pentax Optio WPi is an attractive digital camera, recommendable for everybody who loves effortless shooting!'
Read more reviews of the Pentax Optio WPi
Get the Latest Price on the Pentax Optio WPi Digital Camera
Megapixel reviews the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 and writes - ' The colour reproduction of the R1 is excellent. With the camera set to its default setting for saturation, colours are true-to-life and the image processing avoids making colours overly vibrant. In part this is due to the fact that the Auto white balance is reliable and, works well under varied circumstances. Similarly, the One-Push white balance is very effective and extremely easy to use, thanks to a well-designed system to set a white point under ambient light.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Apple have just updated Aperture to a new version (1.0.1). The update addresses a few issues of reliability and performance. Some of the areas addressed include:
- White balance adjustment accuracy and performance
- Image export quality
- Book and print ordering reliability
- Auto-stacking performance
- Custom paper size handling
Read more about the update and download it at Apple - Support - Downloads - Aperture 1.0.1 Update
DP Review has posted an excellent review of the Kodak EasyShare P850 digital camera where they give it a rating of 'recommended' and write - 'Ultimately then, there is much to like here - the P850 is positively bristling with features, and is one of the few cameras in its class to offer easy, menu-free access to all the most commonly used photographic functions. On paper it also offers a very compelling feature set at a competitive price, including some (RAW capture, flash hot shoe) that are pretty much unique in this class of camera. But the poor low light performance (focusing and high ISO noise), the softness, the excessive noise reduction and sharpening and the fact that this is the first camera I've tested in years that actually crashed on me more than once (requiring the removal of the battery to reset it) means I can't unreservedly recommend it. And the idea (exposed in Kodak's publicity material) that this is a serious alternative to a DSLR is, frankly, to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak Easyshare P850
Get the Latest Price on the "Kodak Easyshare P850
infodigitalcamera.com points to a Korean Website that has pictures and rumors of a Samsung DSLR - the GX-1 (update: pictures now deleted)
It's in the rumor bin at present - but the main consensus among many in the know is that this is a re-branded Pentax DSLR (the Pentax * st DL) and represents the first step in the Pentax Samsung collaboration that we reported previously in October.
The collaboration between Pentax and Samsung will take Pentax further into the Korean market and is of obvious benefit to Samsung as they suddenly have themselves a DSLR.
We've posted more pictures of the Samsung GX-1 DSLR below the fold.
Samsung unveils its first digital SLR - the GX-1S
* 6 mega-pixels CCD
* Light weight and portable - only 505g
* Large bright 2.5 inch colour TFT LCD screen
* Pentaprism technology provides clear, bright viewfinder
* 11 point auto focus
* High sensitivity up to ISO 3200
Samsung is announcing its advance into the digital SLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera arena with the launch of the six mega-pixel GX-1S.
Launching in February, the new interchangeable lens GX-1S is Samsung's first digital SLR camera, developed in conjunction with Pentax. Samsung now provides a full offering of digital cameras to cater for the needs of everyone - from point and shooters to advanced enthusiast photographers.
Offering high portability and mobility through its compact design, the GX-1S will weigh just 505 grams and house a 23.5mm x 15.7mm CCD image sensor. The 3200 ISO equivalent allows high sensitivity shooting in indoor environments.
The GX-1S also provides a continuous shooting speed of 2.8 frames per second (up to eight frames in JPEG mode).
Lens The GX-1S will utilize the new advanced Schneider Kreuznach D-Xenon lens system and Pentax's lens KAF bayonet mount technology - all Pentax DSLR lens will be mountable on the GX-1S.
Viewfinder The large TFT colour LCD screen (2.5 inch and 210K pixels) and Pentaprism technology ensure a clear and bright view. The field of view is 95% with magnification at 0.95x (50mm F1.4 lens).
Focusing, Shutter & Flash Modes include AF Single (with focus lock) and manual focus together with continuous AF . Shutter speed is 30 ~ 1/4,000 sec. with Bulb. The flash is a built-in retractable P-TTL auto pop-up offering the following modes: Auto, Manual, Auto/Red-eye reduction, Manual/red-eye reduction. Angle of view coverage is 28mm wide-angle (equivalent to 35mm). Recharge time is 3 seconds.
Samsung announced its vision of becoming a world class digital camera manufacturer in May 2005. Since then, Samsung has seen strong success and rapid sales growth via the launch of innovative slim style cameras such as the Digimax i5 and i50 MP3. Its advanced technology was recognized again in the high-end camera Pro815 for semi-professional photographers.
Sigma have today announced that some of their lenses are not able to be used with the new Nikon D200 DSLR. THe lenses in question are their HSM equipped lenses. The good news is that Sigma is planning on releasing a firmware update to fix the current problem.
Following is Sigma's announcement.
Sigma News Release
Notice to end users of Sigma's HSM equipped lenses with the Nikon D200 Camera
To our valued customers,
Sigma HSM equipped lenses do not operate when the "AF operation button" on the back of the body of Nikon "D200" digital SLR camera (recently introduced to the market by Nikon) is used. We have determined that this problem is caused by a firmware "bug" in our HSM equipped lenses.
We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause our customers who own D200 cameras and we are committed to correcting this situation. We will start updating the firmware of these lenses free of charge in the near future.
Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma Service Center for further information
Please also note that if the camera's shutter button is used for AF operation of HSM equipped lenses, such camera and lens combination functions normally.
This problem occurs with HSM equipped lenses only. Non-HSM models of Sigma lenses function properly with the D200 camera.
Following is a list of HSM equipped lenses which would require an update for the D200 camera:
• Fixed Focal Length Lenses
- 14mm F2.8 EX ASPHERICAL HSM
- 30mm F1.4 EX DC HSM
- APO MACRO 150mm F2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO MACRO 180mm F3.5 EX HSM / APO MACRO 180mm F3.5 EX DG HSM
- APO 300mm F2.8 EX HSM / APO 300mm F2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 500mm F4.5 EX HSM / APO 500mm F4.5 EX DG HSM
- APO 800mm F5.6 EX HSM / APO 800mm F5.6 EX DG HSM
- APO 800mm F5.6 EX HSM / APO 800mm F5.6 EX DG HSM
Zoom Lenses
• 10-20mm F4-5.6 EX DC HSM
- 12-24mm F4.5-5.6 EX DG ASPHERICAL HSM
- 17-35mm F2.8-4 EX DG ASPHERICAL HSM
- APO 50-500mm F 4-6.3 EX HSM / APO 50-500mm F 4-6.3 EX DG HSM
- APO 70-200mm F 2.8 EX HSM / APO 70-200mm F 2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 100-300mm F4 EX HSM / APO 100-300mm F 4 EX DG HSM
- APO 120-300mm F 2.8 EX HSM / APO 120-300mm F 2.8 EX DG HSM
- APO 300-800mm F 5.6 EX HSM / APO 300-800mm F 5.6 EX DG HSM
CNET reviews the Fujifilm FinePix S5600 and recommends'Though small and compact, this SLR-styled 5-megapixel camera brings with it a 10x optical zoom capability. This should please general photography users who wish to capture out-of-reach subjects occasionally. However, handling the camera was a little tricky, especially when we kept mistaking the barrel for a manual zoom lens.... We were generally satisfied with the quality of images taken with the mini-SLR camera.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S5600
Get the Latest Price on the "Fujifilm Finepix S5600 (also known as the S5200)
Steves Digicams reviews the Sony CyberShot DSC-R1 and writes - 'The R1's Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonar lens is an impressive piece of glass, having an appearance more like a dSLR's interchangeable lenses than the fixed lens of a consumer digicam. It is also versatile, offering a wider field of view than most prosumer digicams at 24mm and a useful telephoto focal length of 120mm; this lens fits what most dSLR users describe as their "walk-around" lens. Its variable aperture is a relatively fast f/2.8 at its 24mm wide angle extreme, but slows to f/4.8 at its 120mm telephoto focal length. The lens produces very sharp results throughout its zoom and aperture ranges, but with a slight amount of edge softness at wide angle with small aperture settings, and at moderate to telephoto focal lengths with moderate to large aperture settings. Chromatic aberrations were well controlled, with only a slight amount of purple fringing present in very high contrast areas. The lens exhibits slight amounts of barrel distortion at wide angle and pin cushioning at moderate focal lengths, but no noticeable distortion at full telephoto. If your needs exceed the 24-120mm focal length range, Sony offers the VCL-DEH17R 1.7X Tele and VCL-DEH08R Wide End Conversion Lenses, extending the R1's range to 19-204mm; neither conversion lens was tested.'
Read more reviews of the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Imaging Resource reviews the Nikon Coolpix L1 and writes - 'The Nikon Coolpix L1 continues that trend with a 6.2-megapixel CCD and firmware goodies like Face Priority AF, D-Lighting and BSS while simplifying the user interface. The Coolpix L1 is a good choice for anyone who wants an easy to use camera that delivers good-looking pictures with pleasing color and plenty of resolution. For those willing to delve just slightly deeper than "just pushing the button," its extensive scene modes and unique framing-assist options greatly extend the camera's capabilities, making it easy to bring back good-looking shots of what might otherwise be difficult subjects. And if you forget what an option does, help is only a button press away with the Guide feature. While we liked The Coolpix L1's rich and very practically-oriented feature set, we would have liked the camera much more if it had done better under dim lighting, and if its shutter response had been a bit faster. '
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix L1
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix L1
Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T5 and writes - 'In our lab tests, the AF was quick and reliable. The bright red assist lamp may distract your subjects, but you can turn it off. The tiny flash doesn't do too much. At ISO 400, it covers just over eight feet (a few feet better than the T1).... About the only thing missing is some form of image stabilization. Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FX9 and Konica Minolta's DiMAGE X1 both include IS. But not for $350. And that leaves a little extra cash to splurge on the party.'
Read more about the Sony Cybershot DSC-T5
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cybershot DSCT5 5.1MP Digital Camera
Pocket-lint reviews the Fuji FinePix S5600 digital camera and writes - 'The 5600 provides just enough in terms of new kit and more advanced shooting options to make it a worthy upgrade of the 5500. The EVF is a nightmare, as was macro focusing, but the overall package, with its improved image noise suppressions and manual controls make it worthy of scrutiny if you’ve got £299.99 to spare on a digital camera.'
Read more about the Fujifilm FinePix S5600
Get the Latest Price on the “Fujifilm Finepix S5600 (also known as the S5200)
CNET reviews the Pentax Optio S45 and writes - 'The 4-megapixel sibling of Pentax's 5-megapixel Optio S55, the Pentax Optio S45 offers the same ultracompact body, large LCD, 3X optical zoom, and streamlined feature set as its predecessor. It also has a number of helpful and fun features that aren't as easy to find as they could be, so you'll need to read the manual to acquaint yourself with everything this camera can do. But for out-of-the-box use, the Optio S45 is snapshot simple.'
Read more reviews of the Pentax Optio S45
CNET reviews the Kodak EasyShare P880 and writes - 'Cameras made for advanced amateurs are often tuned for capturing high-quality images quickly and easily, and they're stripped of extraneous gimmicks, such as an overabundance of scene modes. The 8-megapixel Kodak EasyShare P880, at the top of the company's flagship Performance Series, offers a wide-angle zoom lens, as well as design elements, features, and specs that place the camera in that category but delivers them in an uneven and frequently disappointing implementation.'
Read more about the Kodak EasyShare P880
Get the Latest Price on the Kodak Easyshare P880
There's more news beginning to surface around the web of a new Pro DSLR from Fujifilm - the Fujifilm S4 Pro. A forum contributer at DP Review writes:
'The facts are that there is most certainly an S4 Pro in the final stages of development. This unit will be built around a Fuji adaptation of the Nikon F6 body. The AA battery configuration is being carried over. The comment from him about the battery decision is that this is set in concrete with Fuji because they have apparently had massive positive feedback on it with the S3.Of course there's no official word yet - but hopefully at some point in the new year there'll be more to report on with the Fujifilm S4 Pro DSLR.
The most tantalizing info, about the sensor, is info that he just won't part with. However, there are currently five internal "test" units each with a different sensor for extensive in the field testing.'
Trusted Reviews has posted a review of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 and writes - 'The Konica Minolta Dimage Z6 has an impressive specification, outstandingly good handling and above average performance, all for a very good price. There are few cameras that can match its zoom range, and the anti-shake system means that it’s usable even at full zoom. It would suit a birdwatcher, keen amateur photographer or anyone who appreciates good design.'
Read more reviews of the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6
Get the Latest Price on the Konica Minolta Dimage Z6
Creative Pro Reviews Apple's Aperture 1.0 and writes - 'You'll most likely develop a love/hate relationship with Aperture. The fact is, it's really fun to use. Or at least, it is unless an image doesn't convert well. And it's not so fun when too many edits bring your Mac to its knees. Nevertheless, for a version 1.0 product, the program has a stunning array of features, a very well-designed interface, and some breakthrough comparing and sorting tools. I recommend that you wait until the next version and see whether Apple addresses Aperture's major shortcomings. But if you relish being on the bleeding edge and buy it anyway, you'll find a program that's useful, though you'll probably need to adjust your workflow practices and buy more storage and a faster video card to get the most out of it.'
Read more about Aperture 1.0 from Apple
Get the latest Price on “Apple Aperture Post Production Tool for Photographers
Popular Photography reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1 and writes - 'This camera can handle most situations, including product and nature shots, with ease. The wide-angle lens and accessory-dedicated flash also make it ideal for real estate, insurance, and other business uses. But portrait and sports shooters won't be satisfied with the resolution and response of the R1's EVF, the limited scope of its built-in lens, or the shortcomings of its external flash system.'
Read more about the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-R1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-R1
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Nikon Coolpix P2 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The Nikon P2 is an excellent camera with a long features list, large LCD, above average movie mode, and wonderful wireless. With the exception of some hiccups getting wireless in gear and a strange and non-intuitive interface, I can recommend the P2 for its simplicity and picture quality.'
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix P2
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix P2
if you're looking for a little inspiration for your photography a good site to check out at the moment is TIME Magazine's Best Photos of the Year 2005 which has some stunning images of some horrifying situations from the past year around the globe.
The photography is quite amazing - the stories behind them remind us of the massive year that our world has just had.
After you've looked at the images vote for your favorite.
Be warned that some of the images are fairly graphic.
Photoxels reviews the Olympus FE-110 and writes - 'The Olympus FE-110 is an entry-level digital camera for those most particularly interested only in an affordable snapshooter. If you are into photography, and want to learn and grow in it, the Olympus FE-110 does not have the features or image quality you need for that. But if you are looking for an affordable present for a young child or an easy-to-use point-and-shoot for someone who wants to use it for their blogs, we would recommend that you look into the Olympus FE-110 instead of a “no-name” brand. Besides getting Olympus support, you would also get a quality Olympus lens, a well-built body, easy menu structure and peace of mind.'
Read more about the Olympus FE-110
Get a Price on and/or order the Olympus FE-110 5MP Digital Camera with 2.8x Optical Zoom
Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus SP-310 and recommends - 'When we first saw the specs of this model, it looked very appealing. And we loved its ergonomics, image quality, and versatile exposure modes. However the poor shooting performance and short battery life really brings it down and it is very hard for us to recommend this model. We feel the shooting performance suffers due to the very slow recording media (xD-picture card.)'
Read more about the Olympus SP-310
Order an Olympus SP-310.
Steves Digicams reviews the Olympus SP-350 and writes - 'Image quality was actually quite good for an 8-megapixel consumer model. The majority of our outdoor samples were sharp and well exposed, but I did see some noticeable edge blurring, like image noise, which can only be seen when viewing images at 100% and is very unlikely to be seen in any of your prints. Speaking of noise, I found levels were average at lower ISO speeds, noticeably increasing at ISO 200 and 400. Like many Olympus models, the SP-350's white balance and exposure systems work very well, with the Auto WB setting producing accurate color temperatures in a variety of lighting conditions. I was especially pleased with all of our outdoor people shots when using its dedicated Portrait scene mode. Our samples were tach sharp, well exposed, and showed true skin tones.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus SP-350
Order the Olympus SP-350.
Pocket Lint reviews the Casio EX-Z500 and writes - 'The Casio is a solid camera that will produce good results. The large screen will appeal to the party set that like to share the images straight after they’ve taken them and the end results are good for printing too. Things to bear in mind are the need to lug the docking station around with you if you are hoping to dock on the move and the fact that you’ll have to invest in an SD card from day one if you are looking to take more than three pictures at a time. '
Read more reviews of the Casio EX-Z500
Get the Latest Price on the Casio - EX-Z500 Digital Camera
PC Mag reviews the Sony Cyber-shot DSC N1 and writes - 'With its signature slick, stylish design and a large, 3-inch touch screen, Sony's latest Cyber-shot DSC-N1 looks very cool, but it has a lot more than good looks going for it. This 8.1-megapixel ultracompact doesn't unseat the current ultracompact Editors' Choice, the Canon PowerShot SD500 Digital Elph, but it has a lot of great features that make it an appealing choice for style- and performance-conscious shutterbugs.'
Read more about the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-N1
Get the Latest Price on the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-N1
Camera Labs reviews the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f4~5.6 IS USM lens and writes - 'At first glance the three lenses on test appear to deliver roughly identical wide-angle coverage, but look a little closer and there are differences. The 18-55mm EF-S unsurprisingly delivers a slightly reduced field of view, but interestingly the 17-85mm EF-S captures a slightly wider field than the 17-40mm despite having the same quoted wide focal length. The 17-40mm is the only one of the three which can also work on a full-frame body though, delivering considerably wider views and supporting possible future body upgrades.'
ePhotoZine reviews the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens and writes - 'I can’t help feeling that Canon have pushed the focal range a tad too far at the wide end of this optic because from the 20mm mark through to the 85mm end it is a cracking walkabout lens. It is only the widest few millimetres that let it down a touch. Having said that, with a little judicious work post processing images at that end, they are still very usable. The Image Stabilisation system is a boon in low lighting conditions and made pictures in those situations quite viable. For owners of the cameras that the lens will fit, it is a good addition to the camera bag.'
Imaging Resource reviews the Canon PowerShot A610 and writes - 'The Canon PowerShot A610 is an very worthy addition near the top of that line, offering a 5-megapixel CCD and a very good quality 4x optical zoom lens. It offers everything from fully automatic to fully manual exposure control, with a healthy set of scene modes thrown in to make it easy to bring back great-looking photos from what might otherwise be challenging situations. In the past, we've often found that 5-megapixel cameras suffer a little in the image noise department, but were quite pleasantly surprised by the A610's high-ISO image quality. ISO 400 shots from it showed a little noise when printed as large as 8x10 inches, but would certainly be acceptable to most consumers for typical wall or tabletop display. Bottom line, this is just an excellent “all around” digital camera, and an excellent bargain.'
Read more about the Canon Powershot A610
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot A610
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Canon Powershot A620 and writes - 'The Canon Powershot A620 is another excellent entry into the market from Canon. Along with its 5 megapixel brother, it makes an excellent upgrade to the model that it replaces, the A95. The DIGIC II processor makes for a much better shooting experience with quicker operation and better battery life. A larger LCD and a longer optical zoom also make this replacement attractive. The shooting modes of the camera are impressive as well, with multiple degrees of manual control and the fun My Colors mode (you can take a picture of your car in a different color).'
Read more reviews of the Canon Powershot A620
Get the Latest Price on the Canon PowerShot A620
Imaging Resource reviews the Kodak EasyShare P850 Digital Camera and writes - 'While somewhat more advanced than the typical EasyShare model, the new P850 offers a wide range of exposure and creative control without compromising usability. The P850 offers partial and full manual exposure modes for the more advanced consumers, but also maintains a healthy selection of automatic and preset shooting modes for novices. Plus, the P850 continues with Kodak's popular EasyShare features, including printer and camera dock compatibility, the Share menu for tagging images for printing, downloading, and emailing, as well as the Favorites mode for viewing a digital photo album. '
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare P850
Get the Latest Price on the “Kodak Easyshare P850
DCRP reviews the Olympus SP-350 and writes - 'I have mixed feelings about the Olympus SP-350. While I like the design, features, and photo quality, the camera always felt sluggish when I was using it. While I'm not asking for D-SLRs speeds, it would've been nice if the camera was at least as responsive as other cameras in its class. The SP-350 gets my recommendation, but with the footnote “not the best camera if you want to take or view pictures quickly”.'
Read more reviews of the Olympus SP-350
Order the Olympus SP-350 today.
Digital Camera Info reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 and writes - 'The Coolpix S4 is clearly a snapshooter’s camera, though one with an extended lens. It's not a DSLR replacement – there's no pretense that the S4 is a viable alternative to a Nikon D50 or a Canon Digital Rebel. It lacks the speed, image quality, and control of those cameras, and it doesn't offer the stuff strong ultra zoom cameras can lord over DSLRs: image stabilization and a useful video mode.'
Read more reviews of the Nikon Coolpix S4
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera
This Sigma 28-300mm F3.5-6.3 DG MACRO digitally optimized lens covers all the focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 300mm telephoto with 10.7:1 high zoom ratio as well as macro capability.
The new multi layer lens coating and lens design reduce flare and ghost, which is a common problem with digital cameras and also creates an optimum color balance through the entire zoom range. This lens features two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements and four aspherical lenses for excellent correction of all types of aberration and displays a high level of optical ability. The use of aspherical lenses in the construction of this lens not only corrects aberrations but also produces a very compact and lightweight lens design. The 28-300mm F3.5-6.3 DG MACRO lens has a minimum focusing distance of 50cm at all focal lengths and is equipped with a macro mechanism for close-up photography at 300mm telephoto, allowing a reproduction ratio of 1:3. This design allows for stability and compactness in design as changes in focus are made in an internal lens grouping. This also gives the advantage of a non-rotating front lens assembly, which is of great benefit when using polarizing filter and Petal-type hood. Petal-type hood (LH680-01) is included as a standard accessory.
Imaging Resource reviews the Fuji FinePix S9000 Digital Camera and writes - 'The Fujifilm FinePix S9000 makes a pretty compelling case for itself, offering an excellent 10.7x zoom lens (that extends to a very useful wide angle equivalent focal length of 28mm) and loads of resolution at a price a hundred dollars or more less than the least expensive d-SLR equipped with only a modest 3x zoom. It doesn't quite approach the quickness or low light/high ISO prowess of most d-SLRs, but certainly does well enough in these areas to suit the needs of most amateur photographers. A flash hot-shoe permits the use of powerful external strobes, and it even offers a threaded cable-release socket on its shutter button. (Why more digital camera makers don't offer this is beyond us, it can't cost more than a few pennies to add to a camera, and is very useful for all sorts of situations where you don't want to jostle the camera by pressing the shutter button.) Control-wise, the Fuji S9000 offers a full range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual, with program, aperture-priority and shutter-priority in between, as well as a good handful of useful scene modes. This is a camera that a pure novice can start with and grow into as their skills mature. No camera is perfect, and the S9000 has its own set of foibles, but on balance, it's a great choice for enthusiast photographers on a budget.'
Read more reviews of the Fujifilm Finepix S9000
Get the Latest Price on the Fujifilm Finepix S9500 (also known as the S9000)
CNET Reviews the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and gives it a rating of 6.0 out of 10. They write - 'Like a brother or a sister who might be mistaken for a twin, Nikon's new entry-level point-and-shoot digital camera is nearly identical to its more expensive sibling. Outwardly, the Nikon Coolpix 4600 and the Coolpix 5600 look exactly the same, but the 4600 has a 4-megapixel sensor instead of the 5600's 5.1-megapixel chip. And while the 4600 has the same video specs as the 5600, it doesn't record video with sound. Like the 5600, the 4600 has several novice-friendly features, including Blur Warning, D-lighting, and Best Shot Selector, which provide automatic solutions to problems you might otherwise solve with manual settings. This camera, however, doesn't offer manual settings because its likely owners aren't interested in fiddling with them. Add the Coolpix 4600's small size, solid construction, and 3X optical zoom, and you have a camera that's worth considering if you're a casual snapshot photographer on a tight budget. '
Read more reviews and ratings of the Nikon Coolpix 4600
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix 4600
CNET Reviews the Kodak EasyShare Z700 and writes - 'What makes the Kodak EasyShare Z700 a viable offering in the universe of low-cost, noncompact, non-EVF 4-megapixel cameras is what you get for the price. The surprising amount of manual control with programmed, aperture-priority, and shutter-priority modes, the 5X zoom lens with unexpected telephoto reach, and the Z700's decent image quality all exceed what you might expect from a camera in this class. And for just a little more than the camera-only price, you can buy it packaged with a handy Kodak Printer Dock 3.'
Read more reviews of the Kodak EasyShare Z700
Buy the “Kodak Easyshare Z700 4MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Zoom”
Photobird reviews the Canon PowerShot SD450 Digital Elph and writes - 'If you're looking for a tiny digital camera to take along with you wherever you go, then the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent choice. It has 5 megapixels, 3x zoom, and a large 2.5" LCD screen -- a group of features that hits the "sweet spot" of today's tiny digital cameras. The Canon PowerShot SD450 is very well built, easy-to-use, and takes excellent photos. The only thing I really missed was a protective covering for the camera, which you can easily find on your own. At about $300, the Canon PowerShot SD450 is an excellent investment that should provide you with thousands upon thousands of precious memories. '
Read more about the Canon Powershot SD450
Get the Latest Price on the Canon Powershot SD450
PC Mag reviews the Nikon Coolpix S4 digital camera and writes - 'Nikon's latest superzoom, the Nikon Coolpix S4, is designed so that the lens and the body can rotate independently of each other. This swiveling design was first introduced on the Coolpix 900 a number of years ago, and the last Nikon to have it was the 4X optical Coolpix 4500. It's a wonderful design, especially useful for Hail Mary shots or shooting over crowds. Unfortunately, we found the pictures taken with the S4 to be a bit disappointing.'
Read more reviews and recommendations on the Nikon Coolpix S4
Get the Latest Price on the Nikon Coolpix S4 6MP Digital Camera
HP today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire bilderservice.de GmbH, which operates PIXACO – a leading online photo services and products site in Europe.
The acquisition of the privately-held company will enable HP to rapidly extend the reach of its online photo services throughout Europe, building on the purchase of Snapfish earlier this year. HP plans to extend many of its Snapfish capabilities to the PIXACO service – bringing European customers greater choices for printing, sharing and storing their photos.
“This acquisition gives HP the ability to quickly become Europe’s largest online photo service, just as it is in the U.S. today,� said Ben Nelson, vice president and general manager, Snapfish, Digital Photography and Entertainment, HP. “Together, Snapfish and PIXACO have the experience and scope to provide a world-class online photo experience that will uniquely meet the needs of consumers in Europe.�
Today, Snapfish has 20 million registered users in the United States and United Kingdom and is adding up to 1 million new users every month.
The acquisition also is expected to foster the growth of Internet-to-retail digital photography services in Europe. Currently, Snapfish powers online photo services for more than two dozen leading retailers, Internet service providers and consumer brands in both the United States and United Kingdom, and will now look to align with similar partners throughout Europe.
Since PIXACO was established in 2003 by bilderservice.de, customers in 11 countries across Europe have come to recognize and trust the products and services made available through the PIXACO site.
“With this move, Europeans will now be exposed to a whole new level of digital photography services in addition to the best-value offering that they have come to expect from PIXACO,� said Karsten Schneider, chief executive officer and founder, bilderservice.de GmbH. “We look forward to providing our customers with a more powerful and sophisticated online digital photography experience.�
PIXACO customers will continue to enjoy the same benefits they receive today, along with new features and services from HP’s Snapfish portfolio of digital photography solutions.
More information about all of Snapfish’s products and services is available at http://www.snapfish.com.
Megapixel reviews the Kodak Easyshare P880 and writes - 'Featuring an 8-megapixel resolution, a super wide — 24 to 140 mm — 5.8 X manual zoom manufactured by Schneider-Kreuznach; a 2.5-inch, 115,000 pixel LCD monitor; and a 237,000 pixel electronic viewfinder, the P880 is aimed at users looking for more flexibility than is available with a point and shoot, short of moving to a dSLR.'
Read more about the Kodak Easyshare P880
Get the Latest Price on the Kodak Easyshare P880
Pocket-lint reviews the Pentax ist*DL DSL and writes - 'So, if you’re looking to upgrade from a compact or a first-time digital camera this is a good option. You will produce good images once you’ve set the camera up and you will have the flexibility of interchangeable lenses and external flashguns. If you’re looking for a good mid-range digital SLR then maybe you should think about something from the big two – Nikon and Canon - as their models are dropping in price and have better pedigrees, and in my mind are easier to handle despite their comparatively bigger sizes. '
Read more reviews of the Pentax ist*DL
Get the Latest Price on the Pentax *ist DL
I've just taken delivery of a Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens for my Canon EOS 20D have just spent the last hour out in the garden harassing every beetle and flower I could find.
Since buying the 20D a few months ago I had been finding myself enjoying photographing the smaller things of life using the zoom lenses that I'd bought so I thought it was time to get myself a purpose built macro. The 100mm lens gets wonderful reviews around the web so I placed my order.
I've included a few of the photos I took in the backyard above and below (click to enlarge). Note that these were rush jobs and handheld shots on a breezy day. They've not had any post shot production. Having said all that I think the lens has real promise.
100mm gives plenty of working lenth and allows you to get in nice and close. Focussing is fast (although it takes some practice to get a bug in front of a distant background). Contrast and sharpness seem good although I'm looking forward to using it on the weekend with my tripod attached.
The lens is a little bigger than I was expecting but not as heavy as some of my other lenses. I've heard it's a very good portrait lens also so this one might be regular feature on my 20D.
Watch bugs and beetles everywhere! Here's a couple more shots.
Compare prices on the Canon 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens
Buy the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM Lens at Amazon.
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Nikon Coolpix P1 Digital Camera where they recommend - 'The Nikon Coolpix P1 is the start of another whole new period: the time of transferring pictures through networks. For now it may just be a toy for the so-called 'early adapters' but soon this will be the most common thing to do in the world. Those who buy the Nikon Coolpix P1 now are prepared for the future and are able to make photos of excellent quality in the meantime. This makes the Nikon Coolpix P1 a truly recommendable digital camera.'
Read more reviews and recommendations of the Nikon Coolpix P1
Get the Latest Price on the