Getting Your Photos Ready for Sharing

One of the main reasons people buy digital cameras is so they can share their photos with others. Even if you are just going to print your photos for yourself, you will want them to look their best. Here are some tips on getting your images ready for sharing or printing.

1. ORGANIZE YOUR PHOTOS

Delete the ones you don’t like or those that are near duplicates of others. No sense in clogging up your hard drive or CDs with junk. Use a good photo management software program like ACDSEE 7, Adobe Photoshop Album 2.0 or Jasc Paint Shop Photo Album 5 to view, organize and name your images. These programs also let you batch rename so you can give more descriptive file names to a group of photos at the same time. You can add key words and tags to make finding your photos easier. Be detailed in your photo descriptions, not just “John and Laurie.” You’ll probably have hundreds of photos of your kids and it will be harder to find the one you’re looking for. Better to say “John and Laurie waterskiing on Lake Powell, May 2004.”

2. BACK UP YOUR ORIGINALS

Mistakes can happen. It is a good idea to back up all your images to a CD before you start editing or changing them. That way you always have the original to go back to if you accidentally save over an image or made changes to a photo that you later decide you don’t like. CDs hold lots of photos, making it cheap insurance.

3. ROTATE IMAGES

Trying to look at a sideways photo is annoying. Use your photo management or editing software to rotate photos as needed. And if you have any images that are a little crooked, you can fix that using your editing software. Most photo editors have an automatic “straighten” function, or you can manually rotate the image a few degrees to straighten the horizon line.

4. REMOVE RED-EYE

Even with your digital camera’s auto red-eye reduction function, your subject’s eyes may still have red-eye. Use your photo editing software to remove it. Zoom in on the eyes and it will be easier for you to correct the red-eye. I’ve tried a number of red-eye correction tools and find that the one that comes with ACDSEE 7’s photo editor is among the best. It zeros in just on the red eye and doesn’t darken the surrounding eye area like some other software does.

5. CROP YOUR PHOTOS

Crop out unnecessary or distracting backgrounds and focus in on your subject. Most photo editing programs will keep the aspect ratio, so when you draw a box around the area you want to focus on it will crop it as 4×6 or whatever you have specified. That way you won’t end up with an odd size photo. Kodak EasyShare Gallery also has a very good cropping tool for maintaining the proper print size. It comes with its free photo editor.

6. ADJUST LIGHTING AND CONTRAST

Some of your photos may have come out washed out or too dark. You can automatically adjust the color, brightness and contrast of your photos. The better programs like Photoshop Album 2.0, Jasc and ACDSEE also have tools for making manual adjustments for fine-tuning. Be careful not to overdo it, though, or your picture could come out grainy.

7. PREPARE TO SHARE

There are a number of ways to share your images. Several programs, like Roxio Photo Suite 7, ACDSEE7, Photoshop Album and Paint Shop Photo Album allow you to create digital photo albums or slide shows, complete with music, transitions and captions. You can burn them to CD or resize and optimize for emailing directly from the program.

Online photo services such as PhotoWorks, Shutterfly, Snapfish and Kodak EasyShare Gallery also let you share your photos on line, for free. You simply upload your images to their server into your own photo albums and add captions if you wish. Then email your friends with a link to your albums. With most of the online services your photos stay on their servers as long as you have an account with them, for free. Signing up for an account is free, you only pay for photos you choose to purchase.

For hardcore photo sharers, there are also dedicated photo sharing applications such as PiXPO v1.5.0, which lets you share photos right off your hard drive. This is a peer to peer software application that allows you to connect directly with your friends and family to share and view pictures online with no uploads. Unlike traditional photo sharing services, you have unlimited storage and you don’t have to upload your photos to a distant server or wait for friends to log onto some photo sharing site. The application is easy to install and use and it’s inexpensive, around $30. PC Magazine rated it an Editor’s Choice in their January 3, 2005 issue.

Valerie Goettsch publishes the digital photography website http://www.digitalphotos101.com featuring reviews of photo editing and album software and digital photo printing services.
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Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens
Includes 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 Lens / Uses F mount lenses / SD Memory Card Slot / USB 2.0 / 2.5-inch LCD / 3D Color Matrix Meter Up to 2,700 images per battery charge - High-Efficiency power systems featuring reduced power consumption and Real-Time Fuel Gauge with Nikon’s EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable battery Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering. Nikon’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II instantly and accurately evaluates brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area and subject-to-camera distance information, referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Vary the size of the center-weighted area reading and spot metering readings correspond to 11 focusing points 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions 2.5 LCD screen ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) - 100 to 1600 In-Camera Image Editing with Retouching Menu Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander option Shooting Modes - 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode - approx. 3 frames per second; 3) Self-timer; 4) Delayed remote mode; 5) Quick-response remote mode Images are stored on SD digital memory cards Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) - Approx. 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 inch; Weight - Approximately 1 lb. 5 oz.
Amazon Price: $1,065.20
Customer Review: Glad I took back my Pentax K10D and bought this
I did a lot of research and bought a Pentax K10D. Right away the Pentax bothered me because it was really loud when taking pictures. It sounded like a little hammer was banging around inside it every time I took a shot. Also, and more importantly, after a week of owning it I just was not happy with image quality. It took very soft pictures, even with one of the prime lenses (though I have been told I just needed to work with the images and fix them up. I didn’t relish the thought of having to ‘fix’ all of my images). I also started to get a little worried about ever being able to upgrade to a better camera and use my lenses. At any rate, I took it back and got a D80. What a difference! For starters it is much quieter, while focusing and shooting. It also takes crystal clear photos right out of the box, even in RAW form. If you are trying to decide between this and the K10D I would recommend you go with the D80. It is easy to use, has intuitive controls and takes great pictures. I know it is more expensive but if you want to get serious about photography IMO you will be more happy with the D80, especially if you want easy access to lenses, camera upgrades and to shoot clear pictures right away.
Customer Review: Nikon D80 Camera
This is a very good camera for the money. The pictures are fantastic. It is very ergonomic in the hands and a ease to use. I am still working on trying all the features as they are numerous. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone that currently uses a 35MM SLR in either a digital or Film format. For anyone currently using one of the small compact Digital cameras, this camera might be a bit daunting but with practice, anyone can become accustomed to the many features the camera offers.

Canon Digital IXUS 65 - Digital camera - 6.0 Mpix - optical zoom: 3 x - supported memory: MMC, SD
With its slimline body and striking two-tone finish, the Digital IXUS 65 stands out from the crowd. The innovative Touch Control Dial makes it easy to access key functions and scroll through images. A 6.0 Megapixel CCD sensor captures every scene with enough fine detail for large, photo quality prints. A massive 3.0 inch LCD reduces eyestrain for pleasurable framing and playback. The screen’s wide viewing angle allows for easy group viewing. Quick-bright gives instant screen brightness in outdoor conditions. Night Display mode improves visibility after dark. An Ultra-High Refractive Index Aspherical (UA) 3x optical zoom lens helps deliver crystal-clear performance in an exceptionally compact form.

Nikon Coolpix P5100 12.1MP Digital Camera with 3.5x Optical Vibration Reduction Zoom
Unleash the photographer in you with the CoolPix P5100 12.1 Megapixel Digital Camera. With the 3x zoom NIKKOR lens, you’ve got the quality optics to capture a great image, while the 12.1 megapixels ensure high resolution for large prints and images. The VR Optical Image Stabilization minimizes the effect of camera shake for a shot free of motion blur. Pictures are further improved by the Nikon In-Camera Innovations features - Red-EyeFix to eliminate red eye, D-Lighting to compensate for underexposed images or insufficient flash and Face-Priority AF, which automatically finds and focuses on up to 12 faces for greater clarity. The P5100 comes with 52 MB internal memory, but can also accept SD and SDHC memory cards and can connect via USB to either your Windows PC or your Mac. Bright 2.5-inch High Resolution LCD and Optical Viewfinder make it easy to compose and share your pictures SD/SDHC memory card compatible - Internal memory approx. 52 MB (1 GB memory card recommended) Program, Aperture, Shutter and Manual Exposure Modes give you greater creative control over camera operation Auto adjusts up to ISO 3200 (5MP or lower) -keep shooting, even in lower light Nikon In-Camera Innovations - Red-EyeFix, D-Lighting to compensate for underexposed images or insufficient flash and Face-Priority AF, which automatically finds and focuses on up to 12 faces Hot Shoe for i-TTL compatible Nikon Speedlights USB connection to both Mac and Windows based computers Unit Dimensions - Approx. 98 x 64.5 x 41 mm (3.9 x 2.5 x 1.6 in.) excluding projections Weight - Approx. 200 g (7.1 oz.) without battery and SD memory card
List Price: $399.95
Amazon Price: $319.64
Used Price: $402.58
Customer Review: My best purchase ever
I bought this camera, it was the best purchase I ever did, I want to thanks every review I read before the purchase, I read one about the slow process when you take a picture, I went “Ohh what I did”, I read it after I bought it and before I received it, but when I shot at 12M with all features at high and with a regular SD card, it was quite quick in my opinion, I don’t know if he was comparing it with another camera, taking videos is good with this cam, and pictures are great, this camera for the price is a most!!! I recommend it 100%
Customer Review: WOW!!!
I have no complaints about this camera. I am in Iraq right now and this camera is holding up better then I was expecting. The quality of this camera extremely good. I have some combat camera friends and they said it is on the professional level. I would recommend this camera for anyone that is looking for a high quality camera for a really reasonable price.

Travel and Scenic Photography 101

When you’re driving through the mountains somewhere, and you notice a car parked half off the road and some guy leaning to the left to avoid a branch with his Rebel 2000 camera in the act of focusing, you’ve met me. I do this because, to me, a trip isn’t fulfilling unless I’ve preserved that beauty for posterity. I’d like to share some of the techniques that make scenic photography such a wonderful artform - simple, yet elegant.

First off, equipment. As much as the cheapo disposable camera beckons, get real. These cameras have fisheye lenses which I call “spam” lenses. They cram everything in, with equal blurriness and boringness. Good photos are sharp, unless you use blur for artistic effect. Sharp comes from an adjustable lens. It can be a fixed lens or a zoom, but it must focus specially for each picture. Fixed lenses are limiting for scenic pictures, where to frame the shot you may need to move long distances. Imagine using a fixed lens on the Washington Monument, when you’re half a block away! Zooms get my vote, even though they often don’t have as wide an aperture, which limits their capabilities in low light situations.

Practically speaking, an SLR is the absolute best. They are lightweight, and can be used with top quality lenses. Film SLRs tend to be less expensive, but have the limitations of film, meaning you have to get it developed and so forth. Digital SLRs are VERY expensive, so for the budget conscious either go with a film SLR or a high quality basic digital camera. With digital, resolution is also a critical factor, so look at the specs before you buy.

OK, we’ve got the camera, emotions are running high, and that’s great, but not too great! Sometimes I find a spot that is so wonderful, I start shooting like a madman, only to be disappointed by the pictures. What happened? Emotions. When you experience a place, there are sounds, aromas and breezes as well as the visuals of the spot. Needless to say, you can’t photograph all of these elements, only the visual. When overwhelmed by the spectacle of a scenic hotspot, we are often overwhelmed by all of these elements.

So what to do? Look through your camera. The viewfinder does not lie (usually). Try to see what you are looking at as the finished picture. Most people perfunctorily take pictures, hoping that somehow the shot will come out great. If you wonder how the pictures came out when you are on the way to the drug store to get them, you’re doing something wrong. At the moment you click the pic, you should know exactly what you will get. (Of course with digital, that’s not a trick!).

Now, I was a tad dishonest in saying that you can’t capture all of the elements of a scene. You can hint at them. For starters, motion. Yes, even in a still picture, there is motion. Something happened before, during and after your picture. In a mountain vista scene, you may find something that hints at motion, whether it be a branch of a tree that has been swaying in the breeze, or a river flowing through the valley below. These add a sense of motion.

Then there’s the “rule of thirds.” When you place the main object of the picture smack-dab in the middle, it is static and boring. Place it one third of the way from either side, and you IMPLY motion. Put the horizon in a landscape photo a third of the way up or down, not across the middle.

Remember, when a person looks at a picture, their eyes move. You want to frame your photo to help that movement. If you can find some lines in the scene, such as a skyline, cloud formation, path through the forest, etcetera, use it interestingly, and with the rule of thirds to draw your viewer’s eyes into the picture.

Avoid “summit syndrome.” You get to the top of Mount Washington and shoot the majestic vista. Great. The pictures come out … boring! How? No PERSPECTIVE. Big vistas will be flat unless you have an object in the foreground, such as a rock or a tree, to give them perspective. Then the eye really grasps how big this scene is. People enjoying the view is a real winner, because the viewer may identify with their emotions, giving the image real impact.

Cheese! Yes, you do have to take the family photos. It’s obligatory. But when you do, make sure that they show the LOCATION of the photo. Otherwise, you might as well do it on your driveway. Frame the scene in context, with landmarks as part of the picture. Find a way to tell as story in the picture, such as little Sara climbing up the rocks by the waterfall.

Finally, any element in the picture that hints at more senses than just the visual will make it remarkable. Actor headshots for example, tell a story about the subject. You can almost hear them saying their next lines. If you photograph a garden, the viewer may experience the aroma of the flowers. A tourist street with an accordion player on the corner may have your amazed friends whistling “Dixie.”

In summation, picture taking on travel is recording the experience in a satisfying way. Use motion, perspective, sensory, storytelling and so forth, to bring your photos to life. Oh, and needless to say, make your job easy and go to great places! See you at the overlook!

Seth Lutnick is a photographer, composer, and performer. He has taken thousands of scenic photos, recorded two albums of original music, and appeared on stage, TV and film. Visit his website - www.getitdone.biz - for more detailed plans on photography, music, health and education, and extensive product links for the resources to fulfill your goals.

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List Price: ?109.99
Amazon Price: ?80.98
Customer Review: Brilliant Entry level Action camera
This is a fantastic unit that contaiins everything you need to make easy, fun movies of your action. Perfect for kids as it is so simple to use. You really do just press and go. The software is very user friendly too, and lots of cool clips of Tony Hawk in action. I bought one for my boyfriend for snowboarding and it has since been used BMXing and just as a webcam! The photography is not going to win any awards but it’s been fun to email friends footage of their snow mishaps!
Customer Review: Great Camera for the price
Ok so the picture you get isn’t going to be great but it’s as good as the video from a normal digital stills camera but not as good as a proper digital video camera. You can buy better cameras for ?hundreds but bearing in mind your strapping it to a helmet that your assuming your going to need (ie get bashed) do you want to risk loosing that expensive cam in an instant ? The camera is light and easy to use, its compact and well designed it takes 2 AAA batteries and an SD card, it also has a laser pointer to target what you are recording.
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List Price: ?14.99
Amazon Price: ?8.99
Used Price: ?6.18
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Used Price: ?229.99
Customer Review: Great Camera
I purchased this product in the US about six months ago and the most useful facility that is not mentioned in the spec; is the email facility. When activated, the camera takes a normal picture at whatever resolution you have selected and stores a seperate picture in another folder for emailing. So without any further effort you end up with your full photo e.g. 1600 x 1200 @ 800 -900kb and a duplicate picture for emailing of 320 x 240 @ 15 - 17kb. An ideal facility if you intend email your photographs to others. The only down side is the camera does not come with a viewfinder (can be purchased as an accessory), so you have to use the LCD, but once you get used to it, its fine and the camera as enough other benefits to make it a worthwhile purchase.
Customer Review: Brilliant product from Sony - lots of fun!
I just bought this product last week and I can’t believe how much fun it is. The main reason why I bought it was because of the CD-RW feature. I also have a CD Writer in my computer so I don’t even have to finalise the CD to read it. I can just take it out of the camera, and put it onto my computer and copy the files over. It’s really easy to use. The software for video editing that comes with it is also great. I took a 1 minute mpg of my newborn nephew and copied it over to my computer. I was then able to edit audio, cut and splice frames and add in my own text affects. There are lots of features to produce it including output to a video. There are just so many possibilities with this camera and though I sometimes wonder if I should have bought the MVC-CD300, I still think this is a great product. If you’re thinking about buying this product, you should also think about the Starter Accessory Kit too.
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Sony DCR-SR52 Hard Disc Drive Camcorder With 2.7” LCD Screen
HDD HANDYCAM 30GB H/DR 1/6 1 M/PXL 25 X OPT/ZM2000DZ NS

Customer Review: poor tech support
The camera itself is superb and i cannot fault it…however the software is a different matter. As soon as i loaded it onto my desktop it wouldnt work, so i loaded it onto my laptop.(both running windows xp home edition(genuine))..on my laptop it worked perfect so i knew it was a set-up problem.When iu eventually got through to sony technical support i explained everything to them and was told that the problem was “your desktop computer isnt a manufadtured model, the problem is because it is a custom build”…..What a load of rubbish, but they would not change their opinion and offered no more assistance. i eventually had to take my computer to local pc shop where it was established that the sony software will not work if you have samsung mobile phone software installed as well…simple as that.. I have also now notices aproblem with my nero software since installing the sony software..

Customer Review: look out…not mac compatable
luckily I havent got a mac, this has scored low with mac users for an obvious reason, but it isnt fair to knock the product if you dont check it out properly. Two reasons why I havent given it 5 stars, 1) no carry case 2)the battery supplied is the bottom end of the ones they do—- you are naughty Sony—-still, it looks good, is really small, really easy to use, the touch screen menu takes a little getting used to but I have played with it all weekend and I can get around it without much difficulty now, looking forward to taking it to my mates wedding next month and capturing some embarressing moments…I’m off to give low scores to mac pcs now for not being compatible with Sony Handycams

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Amazon Price: ?797.34
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60GB Hard Disc Drive. 1.7 megapixel CCD. Carl Zeiss? Vario Tessar lens.
Amazon Price: ?354.20
Used Price: ?289.99
Customer Review: DCR-SR72
Ordered the camera on Sunday arrived at my home on Tuesday. Easy to order and good service from Amazon. Have taken some videos and photos and plyed them back on TV. They are good quality and setup is very easy. I’m having difficulties with viewing the videos on the computer, the photos are visible but the video clips dont seem to be playing on Microsoft media player. It probably something I’m doing wrong but if anyone can help, id appreciatr it.
Customer Review: Seems a decent camcorder
Easy to use, compact, excellent image quality. My only problem is that i can’t figure out how to get it to work on windows movie maker. I would recommend and amazon was cheapest when i bought it a few weeks ago.
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Reviews:Samsung VP-DC175WB DVD Camcorder 2.7″ LCD Screen 34x Optical zoom Samsung s user friendly DVD camcorders let anyone discover their creative side. Super Powerful Optical Zoom Lens * Samsung DVD Camcorders 34x optical zoom lenses are unrivalled in magnifying power and quality. Reach out and effortlessly capture even the most distant subjects in perfect close-up without sacrificing image quality. 2 Discs in 1 Dual Layer * Don t miss the graduation or the last prom. 8cm DVD+R dual layer offers nearly double the recording capacity of a regular disc, so you can capture the entire event without worrying about the remaining length of the DVD. SP Mode Recording * Single Layer Disc: 1.4GB (about 30min), - Dual Layer Disc: 2.6GB (about 60min) DVD+R Dual Layer * Double the recording capacity of a regular disc! 8cm DVD+R dual layer discs offer 2.6GB of recording space compared to the 1.4GB of space available on standard DVD+R discs. With dual layer technology, you ll be sure to capture it all on one disc. DVD-RW / -R / +RW / +R(dual layer) * No more confusion over disc formats. With Samsung’s advanced technology, you can choose any type of recordable DVD. Real 16:9 Recording & Viewing * Samsung s 16:9 recording option lets you compose in wide format on the 2.7 wide LCD. And what you see is what you get. Captured in 16:9 wide screen format, your movies are ready to view on your wide-format HDTV screen. 4-in-1 Multi Memory Card Slot * The versatile 4-in-1 multi memory card slot offers you the option of Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, SD Card or MMC. Use your existing cards or choose the type and size of memory card that best suits your needs. Features * DVD +RW/+R/-RW/-R * Dual layer recording (+R) * 2.7″ wide LCD * 34x Optical Zoom * SD/MMC slot
Amazon Price: ?242.54
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Lowepro Apex 100AW Shoulder Bag For Digital Cameras/Camcorders - Black

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The ultra-compact stylishly-designed AVCHD HDD Handycam with ClearVid CMOS Sensor x.v.Colour and Carl Zeiss? Vario-Sonnar?T* lens. Featuring 100GB HDD it records 1080i HD movie for up to 38 hours. Number of Pixels Gross (K): 6.1 Megapixel still image recording and 4.3 Megapixel Dual Rec while recording movies Built in Microphone: Dolby Digital 5.1ch Creator for Surround sound recording with built in microphone LCD: Size (inch): 2.7 Wide Clear photo LCD plus screen with touch panel Minimum Focusing Distance: 5.4-54 USB Streaming: TBC 16:9 Wide (Full): 16:9 Mode ; 40-400 / 4:3 Mode ; 49-490 Optical Zoom: x 10 Digital Zoom: x 20 Focus: Full Range Auto: SteadyShot: Super (Optical) Flash (Automatic Pop Up): No Memory Stick Compatibility: Memory Stick Duo Supplied Accessories: AC Adaptor AV Cable Rechargeable Battery Pack Handycam Station USB Cable USB Driver Editing SoftwareBattery Life (Mins): STAMINA up to 5 hours 55 minutes (with optional battery using view finder) Warranty: 1 Year
Amazon Price: ?889.85
Customer Review: Excellent - beautiful camcorder
I replaced my old tape camcorder for this and immediately it struck me - no more would I need a mountain of tapes that are a pain to copy for editing and then don’t have the courage to tape over and re-use. Forget hoping that the tape wouldn’t run out at the critical part in the wedding or fiddling with an tape insert and a biro to try and keep some semblance or order to the holiday films. OK enough about my bad habits and old woes. This camcorder is glorious, I play the footage back through a 720p projector and its crisp ,sharp and mind blowingly detailed. The sound is clear and with the added bluetooth wireless mic that I bought afterwards allows the recorded sound to really follow the action. The unit fits comfortably in hand, the build quality is sturdy and the weight makes for a steady shot without feeling like you’re carrying a lead bar. The fold out screen is bright and very highly detailed. Indoor low light performance sucks - that was until I bought another add on - the light attachment - now its great. Best of all - is the ‘easy’ button which handles all the settings and I haven’t felt the need to change it yet. The price is a serious investment and the add ons are steep as well (I do recommend the light and extended battery) but if you have any HD equipment or are planning to upgrade why would you want to watch your once only memories on anything less? As for the format - don’t worry so much about editing - Sony Vegas Platinum 8 (Customer Review: Great - as long as you don’t plan to use the footage for anything.
This camera *IS* good - but there is a problem that renders it about as useful as a brick to the home-moviemaker. The AVCHD Codec. At the time of this writing - the ‘direct to digital’ format that this camera makes its movies in is unreadable by standard windows machines. If you want to be able to use the movies you’re going to have to shell out for expensive converter software *in addition* to the money you’ve already spent on the camera. If you expect ‘out of the box usability’ (*cough* Sony Customer Service *cough*) I’d either steer well clear of this camera or wait until the codec technology catches up.
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Zennox Jupiter Digital Video Camera 2.0″” TFT Display. Features Digital Video Camera - Video Recording with Sound MPEG4 Video Format 10 Mega Pixel Output Digital Still Camera with 3.1 Mega Pixel CMOS Sensor 16MB Internal Memory MP3 Recorder / Player Web Camera Macro Mode 8x Digital Zoom SD/ MMC Card Compatible TV/ VCR Output with Sound Flash with Red Eye Reduction Inbuilt Microphone and Speaker Self Timer - 10 Sec Delay Colour TFT 2.0″ TFT Screen USB 1.1Plug-in-Play Performance Calendar Power - Rechargeable Li-ion Battery Contents in Box Jupiter Digital Camera CD-ROM USB / TV-OUT Cable Rechargeable Li-ion Battery Wrist Strap User’s Manual Earphone AC Adaptor Also Includes: Zennox Digital Imaging Disc. PC-CDROM. Technical Details photo studio, photo printer, panarama maker collage creator, greeting card creator photo montage, make presentations, make cds & dvds Edit videos
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Mustek DV-8200 Digital Camcorder/Camera is an ideal gift for novice/casual photographers. It takes still picture, record high quality movies (with sound), and playback music!
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W55 Digital Camera - Silver (7.2MP, 3x Optical Zoom) 2.5” LCD
by Sony
Technical Details
Product Description: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W55 - digital camera
Product Type: Digital camera - point and shoot
Dimensions (WxDxH): 8.9 cm x 2.3 cm x 5.7 cm
Weight: 116 g
Colour: Sleek silver
Supported Flash Memory: Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo
Integrated Memory: 56 MB
Sensor Resolution: 7.2 Megapixel
Shooting Modes: Frame movie mode
Lens Aperture: F/2.8-5.2
Focus Adjustment: Automatic
Min Focus Range: 50 cm
Focal Length: 6.3 mm - 18.9 mm
Optical Zoom: 3 x
Digital Zoom: 6 x
Camera Flash: Built-in flash
Red Eye Reduction: Built-in
Viewfinder: Optical - real-image zoom
Display: LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.5″ - colour
Supported Battery: 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery ( included )

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Use this portable USB card reader to transfer data (pictures, ringtones, videos, documents etc.) from your digital memory card to your laptop or PC. This is by far the sleekest looking card reader on the market. The card reader has four openings containing slots for all the digital memory cards listed. Some cards have to be inverted to fit the slot. This device is the perfect way to transfer files from your phones digital memory card to your PC and vice versa. Suitable for a wide range of phones including Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, Motorola etc. This compact unit connects to your computer via the high speed USB 2.0 lead provided. It will also work with USB 1.1 ports. The card reader will read and write data to and from the following memory cards: CF (Compact Flash) / CF 1 Ultra-X / CF 1 Elite Pro / CF 1 Extreme / CF 1 High Speed / CF 1 Picture /CF 1 Pro /CF 1 Pro II /CF 1 Ultra II / CF 1 Extreme III /CF 1 WA /CF 2 /SD (Secure Digital) /SDElitePro / SD Ultra / SD Ultra II / SD Extreme / SD Extreme III / SD High Speed 150X / SD Pro / XD (Extreme Digital) / MMC (MultiMedia Card) / MMC 4.0 / MMC mobile / MMC High Speed / MMC plus 200X / RS MMC / RS MMC DV / RS MMC HS / Magic Star / mini SD / SMC (Smart Media Card) / XD-M type / MD (Micro Drive) / RM MMC 4.0 / RM MMC High Speed / T-Flash (Trans Flash) / MS (Memory Stick) / MS Duo MG High Speed / MS Pro MG Extreme III / MS Duo / MS Pro Duo MG Ultra II / MS Pro MG Ultra II / MS Pro Magic Gate / MS Pro Duo Magic Gate / MS ROM / MS Pro / MS Pro MG Extreme / MS Duo MG High Speed / MS Pro Duo / MS Pro Duo MG High Speed / MS Magic Gate / MS Duo Magic Gate / MS Memory Select Function
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The CoolPix L10 high light sensitivity up to 800 allows you to tackle low-light scenes and situations far beyond the capabilities of conventional compact cameras. The CoolPix L10 has a large 2.0-inch LCD, perfect for viewing and sharing images. You can shoot sharper, clearer and without blur with Nikon’s ingenious Vibration Reduction. Detects and corrects for camera movement to give you rock-steady results time after time. The CoolPix L10 features 15 specially programmed modes to automatically handle focus, exposure, white balance and other adjustments that help you take great pictures easily. To ensure superb portraits with crisp focus, select Face priority AF (in Portrait Scene Mode). This feature automatically finds the subject’s face and focuses on it. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix This in-camera feature automatically fixes most typical occurrences of red-eye. ISO sensitivity - Approximately equivalent to ISO 64 (auto gain to ISO 800) System Requirements - Macintosh Mac OS X version 10.3.9, 10.4.x, Windows Vista (32bit), Windows XP Home Edition & Professional and Windows 2000 Professional Dimensions - Width 3.5 x Height 2.4 x Depth 1.0 inch (89.5 x 60.5 x 26mm) excluding projections Weight - 4.1 ounces (115 grams) without battery and SD memory card
List Price: $119.99
Used Price: $89.99
Customer Review: Made a very nice gift, but plan to buy memory, too.
Between the price and what you get, this made a very nice gift for my boyfriend. The downsides: It’s not the most user-friendly camera; you’ll probably need to sit down with the manual before shooting much. It also only comes with internal memory, so you get about seven shots out of the box. You’ll have to buy memory to get any more.
Customer Review: I HATE THE NIKON L10
Dont get the nikon l10!!!!!!!!! please save your money, i wish i would’ve. ok i bought this piece of junk and the buttons were cheap, it was a battery sucker, and the screen cracked in its case!!!!!!!!!!!!! i would not recommend this product please listen to this review. i always just listened to the perfect 5 star reviews,so i paid the price($100 to be exact) just dont get this product. save ur money!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Canon IXUS 70 Digital Camera - Silver (7.1MP, 3 x Optical Zoom)
by Canon

Technical Details
Product Description: Canon Digital IXUS 70 - digital camera
Product Type: Digital camera - point and shoot
Dimensions (WxDxH): 8.6 cm x 1.9 cm x 5.4 cm
Weight: 125 g
Supported Flash Memory: MultiMediaCard, SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card
Sensor Resolution: 7.1 Megapixel
Shooting Modes: Frame movie mode
Lens Aperture: F/2.8-4.9
Focus Adjustment: Automatic
Min Focus Range: 30 cm
Focal Length: 5.8 mm - 17.4 mm
Optical Zoom: 3 x
Digital Zoom: 4 x
Camera Flash: Built-in flash
Red Eye Reduction: Built-in
Microphone: Microphone - built-in
Viewfinder: Optical - real-image zoom
Display: LCD display - TFT active matrix - 2.5″ - colour
Supported Battery: 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery ( included )
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Digital Photo Workshop
List Price: ?29.99
Amazon Price: ?22.96

Digital Photography For Dummies? (For Dummies)
If you are fairly comfortable with the concept of photography but find the digital part a stumbling block, Digital Photography for Dummies should get you over the hump. Julie Adair King, a photographer and graphics-software specialist, deftly explains such concepts as resolution, f-stop, and compression.

King is also refreshingly up-front about the differences between film-based and digital photography, spelling out the shortcomings of the latter in the early pages of the book. Her advice, from the most basic to the more advanced aspects of the field, is well thought out and simple without being condescending. She informs readers, for example, that you needn’t use high pixel resolutions simply for placing images on a Web page. Such tips come as a relief to fledgling photographers on a budget, or novices who may be led to believe they have to use the highest-quality settings at all times.

Aside from the technical concerns of working with the camera and computer, King also provides sound tips on composition and lighting. And since retouching is one of the principal benefits of digital photography, King spends a fair amount of time discussing photo-editing software. And while most of the examples are in black and white, the most important examples are included in a 16-page colour plate section in the middle of the book.

For those of you considering jumping into the world of digital photography, you will be hard pressed to find a better guide to getting started than Digital Photography for Dummies. –John Frederick Moore, Amazon.com
List Price: ?16.99
Amazon Price: ?8.49
Used Price: ?2.04
Customer Review: Excellent book for beginners
I love this book, before buying it, I could not understand what all the technicalities of digital cameras are about. Now I know, and this book makes you understand everything that you need to know to start using a digital camera. It also gives you great tips and ideas on how to take a great photo and how to adjust the settings of your camera to perfection. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is thinking about buying and using a digital camera.
Customer Review: It’s Cool for Real Beginners
1. Have you recently bought a Digital camera? 2. Are you tired with washing out the films and printing them..and want to get to the Digital Medium for Photography? Digital Photography for Dummies is for you. The Dummies book speaks about basics of Digital Photography, and is absolutely impressive, as all the Dummies Series Editions, in the language and presentation. Anyone who has a basic understanding of Photography, will get a good idea of the Digital Version of Photography, and How-to’s of getting the best out of Digital Camera. For those who haven’t yet got their Digital Cam yet, but wish to - Chapter 3 is your guide. Decide the Cam based on your exact requirements and the recommendations presented here, and You’re sure to get it right. The basic techniques of performing all adjustments to fine tune your Digital Photos are clearly summarized. Flash Adjustments, Lighting Arrangements, Exposure Control are all very clearly explained. “Focus on Focus” is pretty good and in depth. The book also explains moving the shots to the Computer Medium, and maintaining them as albums pretty well. The Common Picture File Formats are well explained, with tips to tune each element of the Photo, using Software Applications. People who prefer to have ‘Hard’ Photos on hand can find all the print techniques required to generate the closest Print Version of the Digital Collection. Chapter 10 which speaks about Some basic Shooting Techniques is the most impressive QuickReference, exposing the ‘Secrets of the Trade’ - Just put them to work, and you’ll find yourself picking a ‘Professional’ touch! So…If you’re on for Digital Imaging…Here’s your First Bible….Happy Clicking!

Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-55mm ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens
Includes 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 Lens / Uses F mount lenses / SD Memory Card Slot / USB 2.0 / 2.5-inch LCD / 3D Color Matrix Meter Up to 2,700 images per battery charge - High-Efficiency power systems featuring reduced power consumption and Real-Time Fuel Gauge with Nikon’s EN-EL3e Lithium Ion rechargeable battery Nikon 3D Color Matrix Metering II, plus Variable Center-Weighted and Spot Metering. Nikon’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II instantly and accurately evaluates brightness, color, contrast, selected focus area and subject-to-camera distance information, referencing the results against an onboard database of 30,000 scenes from actual photography. Vary the size of the center-weighted area reading and spot metering readings correspond to 11 focusing points 11-area AF system with Wide-area Center Segment and Auto-area AF functions 2.5 LCD screen ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) - 100 to 1600 In-Camera Image Editing with Retouching Menu Built-in Speedlight with Nikon i-TTL flash metering and two-group Wireless Commander option Shooting Modes - 1) Single frame shooting mode; 2) Continuous shooting mode - approx. 3 frames per second; 3) Self-timer; 4) Delayed remote mode; 5) Quick-response remote mode Images are stored on SD figital memory cards Unit Dimensions (W x H x D) - Approx. 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0 inch; Weight - Approximately 1 lb. 5 oz.
Price: $1,199.00
Customer Review: So far, so good but filters will reflect light off the lenses
So far, so good, but if you use a UV filter you will find that shots taken in low light or those involving prolonged shutter exposure will cause light to reflect off of the lenses. If it was possible for me to attach an example to this review I would attach about 100 pics I shot within the past 2 weeks. Other than that this camera is easy and fun to learn. Metering off of objects is a breeze and many photo editing options are built in to the camera. The only drawback to camera operation is that sometimes the autofocus does not know what to lock onto if there is too much sky or solid color in the picture, which will prevent the camera from taking the picture unless you switch it to manual operation.
Customer Review: Nikon D80 camera
This is an excellent camera, easy to use for the intermedate to experienced photographer. May be a little overwhelming for a novice, but only because of its’ extensive capabilities. This is a hobby for me, although I hope to have my work published before too long and this camera makes that a great possibility. I would definitely recommend this camera to anyone who enjoys stepping out of the box and using their imagination to create great photographic works. This is an investment worth your time and money. Enjoy!

Sony DCR-HC47 Handycam Mini Dv Camcorder With 2.7” LCD Screen
MINIDV CARL ZEISS 2.7 LCD 1/6 1 M/PIXEL CCD25X OPT.ZM NS

Customer Review: Great Little Handycam
I love this camera. Bought as a replacement for my JVC which died suddenly I went for the HC47 on the basis of various reviews I’ve read. It’s easy to operate, a good selection of features and if you buy the infoLithium battery you have up to five hours recording time available. The only let-down is filming in low light conditions, but I was aware of this when I purchased it and that’s the only reason I have given it 4/5. I haven’t tried to use the i.LINK, i download the movies via a USB cable and edit the films using Sony Vegas Movie Studio which is a dream to work with.

The only problem I have is that I can’t put it down, it’s just so much fun to use!

Customer Review: lovely camera but cant download films!!!!!
I bought this camera in May and again in August!!!! Why, because cant get the darn thing to download via IIlink to computer.

Amazon first class service, refunded no probs, but I really want this camera, or one that does work. We tried it on our computer, my brothers 3 computers and none of them could find the camera on the Ilink.

Reported it to Sony who advised us to download updates for software, which we had already done about 5 times all to no avail. So back it goes again. Fortunately my brother has made our films (daughters wedding!!) into DVD’s for us through his canon. What shall we do, do we persevere and try again or just try a different camera. Also have bought loads of tapes and 2 extra betteries for this model.

Anyone else had this problem or know a solution?? Or recommend a different make and model .

P.S. Have now bought another one from local Sony centre (different batch obviously) and it is fine. Lovely camera, cant do better for price and Amazon provides a top class service.

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Samsung DVD Camcorder with 2.7″ LCD Display
Amazon Price: ?179.99
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30GB Hard Disc Drive. Maximum recording time: 37.5 hours. 1.07 megapixel CCD.
Amazon Price: ?289.95
Customer Review: JVC Everio GZ-MG155
Ok this is my first ever review so bear with me. First impressions of the camcorder, amazing very small maybe not pocket size but pretty small never the less definitely palm size. The buttons and switches are all ergonomically placed so that basic/auto functions can all be done easily with one hand. My only gripe is that it has a plastic feel. I’d prefer a heavier metallic finish but I know many of you prefer the lightness of plastic to heavy metal, and let’s face it who needs a titanium camcorder at a wedding or birthday party. It comes with a battery, a docking station, basic leads and all the paper work/CD. Filming, I have only ever had mini DV camcorders before so this is a first time on a HDD camcorder and boy was I impressed! Against all my fathers lectures I never really read the manuals before use and just jump into the deep end. So I charged up the battery and gave it a go… Really easy I’m talking about as easy as turning it (which takes approx 6 seconds) after I recorded a few minutes (x32 zoom before the quality deteriorated) it was pretty easy to see what was recorded through the user-friendly menu system, see how much was left on the HDD and the % of battery used. Connected it straight to the TV with the docking station tuned to the AV channel and there was the recording! Later I played with the manual features (which I don’t know much about) so it was only a real basic trail e,g filming in b/w and sepia which worked well the thing I liked about the manual mode is that you can use it as SEMI-AUTO for instance have focus auto but have the manual shutter speed etc.. But I rather just use full-auto mode… Getting the DVD, to be honest I’ve read some people say they had problem with the software etc… my answer was simple I didn’t install it I just used my regular film editing software (MAGIX on windows XP) which I highly recommend and it found the camera faultlessly (I used fire wire connection) and from then on it was the same capture procedure as if it was a mini DV. Quality, ok so I got the DVD (filmed on the highest quality setting) put it in the player and watched… ok the quality isn’t Hollywood standard in fact not as good as DV standard but good enough! however you can tell it is filmed to a HDD and when you make a fast sweep with the camera the reproductions looks slightly pixelly with slight micro or even nano second slow downs… but having said that no one else that was watching noticed I think I was really looking for faults. The Colour capture was spot on and sound real good. Although I filmed my test movie on a bright sunny day I have also filmed in house “bulb” light conditions with good results. Things you should know, Night/Very low light video recording is absolutely rubbish no night vision and just a silly little built in lamp that tries to reproduce the sun (that isn’t going to happen) so if you want night vision go for a Sony as this camera doesn’t do it! The battery that comes with the camera is small and has about 1 hour recording time however I found it adequate for what I use the camcorder for to be honest, although every one else hates it. The lack of a viewfinder does mean you have to have the little display open all the time which sucks energy out of the battery so you should really think about an extra battery… I did buy one a generic BN-VF815 which gives hours of recording; however you have to connect it to the camcorder with a little wire (going from the battery to the DC camcorder connection) which I don’t like at all!!! Not sure if the official battery just slots into the battery space. This cable also gets in the way when using the docking station therefore can’t be used at the same time as the docking station. Another grip is that the recording seems to be a little shaky I know its not the cameras fault its mine.. But I don’t really have shaky hands so I’m guessing its over sensitive to movement this shakyness continues even with the anti-shake ON… but really its not to bad, I just have the bad habit of looking for faults and a more steady image would have be welcomed by me. Although I haven’t even tested it yet and don’t think I ever will it does have a stills camera incorporated which records to a SD card, but from experience camcorder still cameras are real bad no matter the make or model, and prefer to use my digital camera for photos, Camcorders take bad photos as digital cameras take bad films. Final thoughts, I liked the camera I really liked the camera and thus I will be using it from now on and leaving my faithful DV in the closet gathering dust… I recommend it, and if you are looking for a HDD camcorder (that doesn’t cost an enormous amount) you should think seriously about this one! I’m not sure how superior the Hi-Def version is or in fact how good the competitors are but for my uses this camcorder is great! I can see my self perhaps upgrading for a newer model in 3/4 years to give you some impression of longevity of the unit only as I like new technology, otherwise I can’t see why I’d change it. In short I’m happy I bought it! Well thanks for reading I hope it wasn’t too long Happy Recording
Customer Review: I CANT BELIEVE THIS….
Having looked for ages at HD camcorders i finally went for the JVC 155 (knowing that i could return it if it didnt do what it said on the box.) All I can say is ….JVC IS NEVER GETTING THIS BACK. Its fantastic. Even my 8yr old daughter operates it and she didnt even read the instructions (which i had to). Colour, sound, zoom, functions, software, ease of use, watching on TV, transfer to PC and DVD is all soooooo easy. Anyone who has a problem with this piece of kit is clearly a person to avoid in all ways. Right…enough said….its movie time…again and again and again……
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MINIDV CARL ZEISS 2.5 LCD INA 40X OPT. ZM 2000X DIG. ZM NS
Amazon Price: ?162.00
Used Price: ?146.99
Customer Review: Compact and good value
A great little standard definition dv camcorder which fits comfortably in the palm of the hand and produces good quality footage for general home&family use. The supplied software from Sony will only allow capture to PC via Firewire/iLink which means you have purchase an extra cable because its not included in the box. However you can capture video to PC via USB (cable included), just turn on the USB Streaming option through the onboard menu (set off by default) and then use a suitable third party program which can detect it (I suggest Virtualdub, its free and fully featured). I definitely recommend this camcorder to anyone on a sub ?200 budget - from my own research, I could not find another model that could beat it for value in this price bracket.
Customer Review: Sony Software does not support USB Streaming
The Picture Motion Browser software that comes with this doesn’t have tool to download video using USB streaming. The only option that comes with it is iLink . So, if your PC doesn’t have iLink then this handycam is useless. Even the iLink cable is not supplied by Sony. I was really surprised to see that USB streaming is not supported. Sony used to supply Picture Package software previously, which had USB streaming and it was really good and now their latest handycams with latest software doesn’t have this feature. So don’t go this if you rely on only USB2.
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Sony DCR-SR72 Hard Disc Drive Camcorder With 2.7” LCD Screen
Stylish compact HDD Handycam camcorder featuring a 60GB high capacity hard disk drive for long recording times 1 megapixel CCD for great images and a 25x optical zoom Number of Pixels Gross (K):1070 Built in Microphone:Stereo LCD: Size (inch):2.7 Picbridge:Yes Focusing Distance: 2.5-62.5mm USB Streaming:No 16:9 Wide (Full):Yes Optical Zoom:25 Digital Zoom:2000 Focus: Full Range Auto:Yes SteadyShot:Super ElectronicFlash (Automatic Pop Up):No Memory Stick PRO Compatibility:Yes Supplied Accessories:AC adaptor Multi AV cable Rechargable battery pack Handtcam station USB cable USB driver picture motion browser 21 Pin Adaptor Battery Life (Mins):90 mins Warranty:1 years warranty

Customer Review: This camcorder seems to work fine
I’m very pleased with this camcorder, which I’ve now had for a couple of weeks. However, here are a couple of bits of feedback:

1) The manual is not very helpful when it comes to connecting to your computer and installing the software. The Handycam station should ideally be plugged into the mains, and the camera should click into position on the station otherwise the connection is not properly made. Once it is made, you should see a range of connection options on the camcorder screen, including two for Computer. Select the one on the left. This is what is meant by “choosing the connection mode”.

2) After I’d done this I was able to install the software and burn a DVD. This in spite of the fact that I use a two-year-old VAIO. It’s very strange, when I first rang Sony support they told me that the camcorder is not compatible with the VAIO. However, in a subsequent call the SONY computer technician kindly spent a lot of time taking me through the entire process over the phone and everything works fine. So, if you’ve got one, this thing about the VAIO seems to be incorrect after all. If you make sure you’ve done everything right in 1) above, all should be fine. It was for me, at any rate.

Customer Review: Brilliant!
This camcorder is so easy to use, we learned how to use it very quickly in less than an hour, and the quality of the videos is fantastic. I would agree that you need to buy the longer lasting battery if intending to take this camera on holiday-which is what we did and we never ran out of battery as long as both were charged every couple of days at the hotel.Well worth the money, and the spacious hard drive meant instant recording without worrying about discs/tapes or running out of space.

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Sony HDR-SR7E 60GB High Definition Camcorder
The ultra-compact, stylishly-designed HDR-SR7 Handycam comes with ClearVid CMOS Sensor, x.v.Colour and a Carl Zeiss? Vario-Sonnar?T* lens. Also featuring 60GB HDD that allows you to record 1080i HD movie for up to 22 hours.
Amazon Price: ?704.99
Used Price: ?681.99
Customer Review: Superb for amateur/home footage, not for the pro though.
Despite my title, this is a great little camera. If you want superb picture quality for your home movies and have a HD TV (or are switching to HD) and you like lots of recording time without faffing about with tapes, then this is the camera to go for. However, for the pro (and by pro I mean you need high-quality images for films/documentaries), the high compression values of these consumer hard-disk-based-storage camcorders is a serious compromise. Given that a pro/semi-pro HDV camcorder such as the Sony V1 or Canon XH-A1 store around 16GB of information per hour on DV tapes, and this camera even at it’s highest quality setting only does 7.5GB per hour, you can clearly see that significant picture information is being discarded to achieve these storage ratio’s. At the lowest quality setting, you are only getting 2.6GB per hour, which is very marginal and image quality will undoubtdely suffer. This really defeats the object of having a high-definition camera. For pro use, tape based storage or uncompressed professional hard disk storage are the only option. Additionally, editing the files generated with these camcorders can be tricky, sometimes requiring access to pro-grade advanced editing software, or limiting you to the software provided with the camcorder (which can be very basic). But if you are not into the detail and just want to be able to take good holiday/family shots, then buy this camera. And use the highest quality setting…. you wanted it for the High Definition capability anyway, didn’t you?
Customer Review: I didn’t think I would buy a SONY
I just bought the camcorder from Amazon for my honeymoon trip next august and it’s so cool….I love it even though its expensive but worth it because it will live longer with you due to its new technology … usually I am not satisfied with Sony products because of its lack of features but I liked this one … you should buy a big battery with this one if you want to have more free time and what I did is bought a charger coz if you charge it in the camcorder it will take all day but with the charger it will take 4 hours or less depending on the size of the battery…also try to get the wide angel lens and the tele lens if you want to take nice shots … Upsides: small, elegant, manual focus, high quality still images, HD or SD recording modes, HDMI output ready for hd TVs Downsides: price, batteries is 90 mins only, lack of mini HDMI cable, in HD recording mode you only can see the clips in the camera, PC, and a blue-ray hd dvd players

Sony HDR-SR8E 100GB High Definition Camcorder
The ultra-compact stylishly-designed AVCHD HDD Handycam with ClearVid CMOS Sensor x.v.Colour and Carl Zeiss? Vario-Sonnar?T* lens. Featuring 100GB HDD it records 1080i HD movie for up to 38 hours. Number of Pixels Gross (K): 6.1 Megapixel still image recording and 4.3 Megapixel Dual Rec while recording movies Built in Microphone: Dolby Digital 5.1ch Creator for Surround sound recording with built in microphone LCD: Size (inch): 2.7 Wide Clear photo LCD plus screen with touch panel Minimum Focusing Distance: 5.4-54 USB Streaming: TBC 16:9 Wide (Full): 16:9 Mode ; 40-400 / 4:3 Mode ; 49-490 Optical Zoom: x 10 Digital Zoom: x 20 Focus: Full Range Auto: SteadyShot: Super (Optical) Flash (Automatic Pop Up): No Memory Stick Compatibility: Memory Stick Duo Supplied Accessories: AC Adaptor AV Cable Rechargeable Battery Pack Handycam Station USB Cable USB Driver Editing SoftwareBattery Life (Mins): STAMINA up to 5 hours 55 minutes (with optional battery using view finder) Warranty: 1 Year
Amazon Price: ?889.85
Customer Review: Excellent - beautiful camcorder
I replaced my old tape camcorder for this and immediately it struck me - no more would I need a mountain of tapes that are a pain to copy for editing and then don’t have the courage to tape over and re-use. Forget hoping that the tape wouldn’t run out at the critical part in the wedding or fiddling with an tape insert and a biro to try and keep some semblance or order to the holiday films. OK enough about my bad habits and old woes. This camcorder is glorious, I play the footage back through a 720p projector and its crisp ,sharp and mind blowingly detailed. The sound is clear and with the added bluetooth wireless mic that I bought afterwards allows the recorded sound to really follow the action. The unit fits comfortably in hand, the build quality is sturdy and the weight makes for a steady shot without feeling like you’re carrying a lead bar. The fold out screen is bright and very highly detailed. Indoor low light performance sucks - that was until I bought another add on - the light attachment - now its great. Best of all - is the ‘easy’ button which handles all the settings and I haven’t felt the need to change it yet. The price is a serious investment and the add ons are steep as well (I do recommend the light and extended battery) but if you have any HD equipment or are planning to upgrade why would you want to watch your once only memories on anything less? As for the format - don’t worry so much about editing - Sony Vegas Platinum 8 (Customer Review: Great - as long as you don’t plan to use the footage for anything.
This camera *IS* good - but there is a problem that renders it about as useful as a brick to the home-moviemaker. The AVCHD Codec. At the time of this writing - the ‘direct to digital’ format that this camera makes its movies in is unreadable by standard windows machines. If you want to be able to use the movies you’re going to have to shell out for expensive converter software *in addition* to the money you’ve already spent on the camera. If you expect ‘out of the box usability’ (*cough* Sony Customer Service *cough*) I’d either steer well clear of this camera or wait until the codec technology catches up.

Sanyo Xacti C6 Mini Camcorder [6.0MP, 5xOptical) 2" Polysilicon TFT]
Customer Review: So small youll probably use it
I bought mine in Singapore but Amazons UK price is now pretty similar. Its a beautifully made bit of kit and so small youll feel like taking it with you. If youre like me, a bigger camcorder rarely leaves the house except for holidays, this will slip in a trouser pocket! As it records on to an SD card you probably need to get at least a 2GB one to have enough room. Files are saved as Quick Time movies to view on a PC but can be viewed on a TV too. As a 6MP still camera its pretty good quality and has different scene settings though a stand alone camera would be a better bet and give more adjustment options. Operation is very simple and it even talks to you to tell you which camera mode you are in; still or movie. If you are an irregular camcorder user I think you will find this a fun and useful product but I agree with the previous reviewer that big hands would be a problem.
Customer Review: Very combo camera - a bit fiddly to hold
A very good still and video camera. Lovely little thing, but that is also its problem; if you have big hands avoid, otherwise buy now.

Canon MD140 Digital Video Camcorder (35 x Optical Zoom) 2.7″ Colour LCD
Amazon Price: ?199.99

Digital Cameras - Low prices, great brands
We stock all kinds of digital cameras including Digital SLR Cameras and great brands such as Canon, Nikon, Sony and Pentax plus photo equipment, including Photo Printers and Memory Cards. We also stock a great range of accessories including: Camera Bags and Cases, Camera Batteries and tripods and monopods.
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The CoolPix S500 offers light sensitivity up to ISO 2000 giving you great exposures in significantly lower light. Anti-reflective coating makes it easier for everyone to see and enjoy your images. The larger LCD lets you make smooth, sharp movies and great looking stills. Shoot sharper & clearer pictures without blur using Nikon’s ingenious Vibration Reduction. The CoolPix S500 features Optical VR Image Stabilization to detects and corrects for camera movement to give you rock-steady results even in lower light. Underneath the stylish stainless steel body, the CoolPix S500 conceals fast start up time at an amazing 0.6 seconds and shutter lag. Image sensor - 1/2.5-inch type Built-in Flash - Wide Range 0.6 to 5.4m (1 feet 8 inches to 24 feet 7 inches), Telephoto Range 0.5 to 4.0m (1 feet 8 inches to 13 feet 1 inch) System Requirements - Macintosh OS X version 10.3.9, 10.4.x, Windows Vista (32 bit), Windows XP Home Edition/Professional, and Windows 2000 Professional Dimensions - Width 3.5 x Height 2.0 x Depth 0.9 inch (88 x 51 x 22 mm) excluding projections Weight - 125 grams (4.4 ounces) without battery and SD memory card
Customer Review: Fragile LCD — cute but looks are deceiving
This camera looks like a little tank, and I bought it to replace a Canon Elph that really had been a tank. I had tossed that old camera in briefcases, backpacks, pockets, and it had always been fine. When looking for a new pocketable camera, I was drawn to the S500 because it reminded me of my trusty old Elph. The Nikon had similarly rugged looks. But it fails to live up to the promise. I know what you’re thinking—”Another Amazon customer who got a rare defective product, so I can disregard his negative review and look at the positive ones.” Well, that’s how I usually feel, too. I’m writing this review because, after my camera broke, I did a quick google search and saw others who had also bought this same new model who have had the same mysterious problem. Caution seems appropriate, maybe instead looking at a more established model until Nikon figures out how to make these new ones correctly. About 45 days into owning the camera, I pulled out the S500, clicked the power button, and saw a white screen LCD with black splotches. It seems that the LCD panel had broken at some point in the prior week. I hadn’t taken the camera anywhere stressful. It had either been in a pocket or in the small pocket in a student backpack, the part where you put pens, a cell phone, an iPod, etc. Those seem like natural habitats for a “pocket” camera. I have carried lots of electronics around (phones, iPods, etc.), and nothing had ever been damaged. But this little camera is now completely worthless. (Since it lacks an optical viewfinder, and since the menu is all on-screen on the LCD, it’s really just an expensive little doorstop now.) I’m still investigating what my options are under Nikon’s warranty. Based on some quick web searching today, I expect to be told that I’m at fault for the LCD damage and that I should always carry these cameras inside a protective case. If that’s so, then why bother buying a pocket camera? The protective case (and I bought the Nikon-branded one) won’t fit in your pocket, and without a case, you’re apparently just waiting for the little thing to shatter. Nikon, are you listening? Does this happen to your other cameras, too, or is this one an outlier that consumers should avoid?
Customer Review: Very small & includes optical vibration reduction
I believe this is one of the smallest cameras on the market with optical vibration reduction (VR). I have a VR lens on my larger camera and find it invaluable and now consider it a must have feature. It also has a very fast startup/shutter response and the stainless steel exudes a quality feel. I own a Nikon D80 DSLR and was looking for a small P&S to use when taking the larger camera along wasn’t practical. Although it has very little advanced controls I believe it is exactly what I needed. I also like that it has a more powerful flash than most other cameras in its class.
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Features Clear Photo LCD (2.5 Hybrid) 5.1 Effective Mega Pixels 3x Optical Zoom, up to 12x Smart Zoom, 6x Precision Digital Zoom Macro 1cm (in Magnifying Glass Mode) Quick Operation (Start-up 1.1 sec, Shutter Time Lag 0.24 sec, Shutter Release Lag 0.009 sec) Stamina Battery Life (approx 240 shots by CIPA standard) Slim and Compact High Quality Alminum Body Real Imaging Processor 16:9 Mode for Wide Screen TV Internal Memory 32MB 100% LCD Field of view MPEG VX Fine with Audio AF Illuminator Histogram Indication USB 2.0 High Speed Transfer Scene Selection Mode PictBridge Compatible Tripod Socket 15 Menu Languages (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Russian, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Polish, Hungarian, Czech)
Customer Review: Great camera - wrong memory stick
Great camera! BUT… don’t listen to the technical data for the memory stick [....] You need a Memory Stick Duo, and NOT the Memory Stick Pro as advertised
Customer Review: Disappointing
I’ve been a big fan of Sony digital cameras since I bought my first DSC P72. However, the P72 has, after three years, run out of steam. So prior to my recent holiday in Italy I took the plunge and invested in a DSC-T5 because it had good reviews and it was slim enough for me to carry around everyday. The experience of actually using the camera is great. Like the P72 it is incredibly simple to use, feels well built with a straight forward physical and electronic interface. The screen is also a great asset being a very generous size. It was on the screen that I frst noticed that photos didn’t appear quite as sharp as I’d expected. Once I’d returned home and downloaded my pictures to my Mac (a very easy and straight forward process) I was disappointed to find that the sharpness of the images was no where near as good as my 3 megapixel P72. It’s all very well having an extra 2 megapixels to zoom into but if the image is blurred, as they invaribly are with this camera, it rather defeats the point of the extra pixels. Now I accept that I may not be a great photographer, but my shots looked respectable with the P72. Subsequent tests with the T5 using different settings have failed to produce satisfactory results. I find the lens of this camera to be of similar quality to the camera in my girlfriends Sony Ericson K750 mobile phone. Not what I would expect from Sony. I can’t really recommend this camera. It seems that you sacrifice a lot of quality when you drop down to this camera size.
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Jessops is the specialist photographic retailer that sells a broad range of products and offers a range of online services. The 16,000 products include digital and traditional cameras, camcorders, printers, scanners, binoculars, accessories and consumables. Jessops offer a price promise, which ensures that you won’t find any Jessop photographic products cheaper anywhere else on the High Street. So if you are looking for value for money photography products that you can buy in confidence buy from Jessops!

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vivitar vivicam 3713 3 mega pixel camera.
vivitar vivicam 3713 3 mega pixel camera. Vivitar V3713 3 Mega Pixel Camera 3 mega pixels 4x digital zoom Exposure Auto/Manual: 1/3 EV step, -2.0 ~ +2.0 EV Storage memory Internal: 16Mb 1.5″ TFT LCD External: SDCard Storage capability File Formats JPEG(EXIF2.1), AVI, DPOF 3 Mode automatic flash Self-timer 10 sec / 10+2 sec delay Operating environment Windows 98SE/2000/Me/XP Mac OS 9 or higher 128MB RAM, 80MB hard disk space, USB port, CD ROM drive Software Photo Explorer and Photo Express Language support English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese Manual Language English, French, German, Spanish Connectors USB port (USB & AV out) Power 2 X AAA battery

Create your own Greeting Cards Deluxe (PC DVD)
List Price: ?14.99
Amazon Price: ?9.98
Customer Review: Ugh!
Despite a release date of “2006″, the software in this package is actually considerably older. And it shows. In the age of the iPod, there is no need anymore for software to be this unintuitive and clunky. It wouldn’t be so bad if the supplied clipart images were any good - but they’re not.
Customer Review: Good stuff !
A really generous library of images ! Just a little more image editing options would be desirable. But for this price it is great. I would in fact rate it four stars.

Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens
List Price: $549.95
Amazon Price: $479.99
Used Price: $470.00
Customer Review: What a bang for the buck!
I haven’t owned too many digital cameras, but I’ve researched more than most. I have however, been able to compare many picture files and prints between Canon and Nikon, and between the Nikon D40, Nikon D40x, Canon Rebel XT, and the Canon Rebel XTi, I was stunned by the amazing quality of the Nikon D40. I always thought that a higher megapixel resulted in better quality, especially the difference between 6.1 and 10.2 megapixels … not really the case here. For example, the picture quality between the D40 and the D40x is not much different. In fact, the pictures from the D40 had more warmth and body to those from the D40x. The D40x had slightly more depth, but if you compare full-resolution RAW picture images, there’s really not much difference in depth. And for the money, you can’t get a better product, hands down! The only complaint that I have is that the D40 Auto-Focus (AF) mechanism is not within the camera body but must be within the lens. The lenses therefore, are more expensive than what you would normally pay. You would have to purchase the Nikon D80 to have the AF mechanism within the body. Aside from that, this is an AWESOME camera and a definite smart buy!
Customer Review: Nikon D40
This camera was purchased after alot of research and it deserves all the praise given it by professional reviewers. Access to the menus is quick and its use is almost intuitive. The quality of the images is splendid, even at high ISO’s. The lack of depth-of-field preview has not presented any inconvenience, although I used the feature on my Nikon N 80. The editing features “in camera” are helpful. It is also very rugged. While travelling on a bus tour, the camera rolled out of my lap and bounced onto the floor of the bus and continued to roll for several feet without any apparent damage.I would recommend a slightly longer zoom lens.