Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-T300 First Impressions Summary

Sony premiered the Cyber-shot DSC-T300 at PMA 2008 in Las Vegas. As the successor to the ultra-compact T200 point-and-shoot, the T300 maintains touch screen abilities and sleek design. The 10.1-megapixel Sony camera caters to repeat digital camera buyers looking for more advanced features in a super small camera. The T300 updates Sony�s face detection system with a new Child and Adult Priority mode, more picture effects, and new image management functions. The camera will retail for $399 when it ships in March. Read on for a first impressions review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T300.

Overall Impressions


Value

At the same original retail price as the T200, the Cyber-shot DSC T300 retails for $399. That�s not inexpensive for a digital camera, since budget point-and-shooters retail for as low as $150 new. But gadget lovers will shell out the big bucks for its thin body, touch screen abilities, HD output, face detection system that actually works, and built-in editing tools. It certainly is one of more feature-rich point-and-shoots we�ve seen, but it comes at a price.

Who�s this Camera For?

• Point and Shooters � The T300 is geared toward advanced point-and-shooters who are likely upgrading from an existing digital camera. New beginners can use the camera too, but might be overwhelmed by the number of menu items.
• Budget Consumers � Not so much. At nearly $400, the camera is on the higher scale of point-and-shoot cameras.
• Gadget Freaks � The camera is absolutely geared for techno socialites - think the same demographic as iPhone users.
• Manual Control Freaks � The Cyber-shot T300 doesn�t have enough manual control that this segment craves.
• Pros / Serious Amateurs � Professionals tend to go for SLRs with PASM modes. The T300 may be considered by a serious shooter as a backup fun camera or gift, but there is no way it's going to replace an SLR.

Summary

Likes

• Attractive, ultra-thin design
• 3.5-inch touch screen LCD
• Easy-to-read icon and text based menu system
• Plenty of fun Retouch editing tools
• Movie zoom possible
• Face detection really improved
• Easy all-in-one connection cable
• HD Output support

Dislikes

• Poor lens placement
• Difficult zoom control
• Complicated navigation
• Little handling support
• Need for additional HD dock or cable for high definition support

As the replacement to the T200, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T300 brings with it improvements on existing technologies. This evolutionary camera follows the T200 and the T100, which won the DigitalCameraInfo.com 2007 Select Award for Best Ultra-Thin Camera. The 10.1-megapixel camera has some impressive features that will win over advanced point-and-shooters who are upgrading from an existing, lackluster camera they already own. The camera carries over from its predecessors a 5x optical zoom lens with image stabilization and touch screen LCD. The camera improves autofocus, including face detection and post-capture editing. The camera looks beyond just the shooting process; the T300 makes advancements in what you do after you take the pictures with editing and sharing. Some of the tools like Happy Faces and Smile Shutter are gimmicky, but it will win over those who are willing to pay the near-$400 price.

Olympus Stylus 1030SW First Impressions Summary

Olympus has introduced another tough digital camera with its Stylus 1030SW. They claim it can handle a drop from 6.6 feet, a dunk in water 33 feet deep, temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit, and crushing weight of up to 220 pounds. The 10.1-megapixel 1030SW improves upon its predecessor, the 770SW, with increased shock absorption capabilities, more resolution, a slightly larger LCD screen, and a longer 3.6x optical zoom lens. It will retail for $399 when it goes to market in March or April.

We checked out the Stylus 1030SW on the trade show floor at the 2008 Photo Marketing Association show in Las Vegas. We couldn�t dunk it in a 33-foot tank or stick it in a 14-degree freezer on the show floor, but we did get to handle it and play with its features for a few hours. Read on to find out if this is the camera for your next trip to Everest.

Overall Impressions

Value
The Olympus Stylus 1030SW now sits as the flagship of the waterproof series and as such, is also the most expensive. Its $399 price tag puts it above the $349 770SW and $299 790SW and 850SW. The 1030SW is the most expensive waterproof on the market � the rival Pentax W30 sells for $299 � but it is the most versatile and can go the deepest, too. The Pentax W30 can go underwater to depths of 10 feet and isn�t shock, crush, or freezeproof. The 1030SW does have many of the same great features from the 770SW, but flaunts more resolution, a bigger LCD, and a slightly longer lens. Is it worth it? It depends on what matters to you. I wouldn�t buy the 1030SW for its resolution; the 770SW�s 7.1 megapixels is plenty. But the longer lens and bigger LCD might attract some consumers.

Who It�s For

• Point-and-Shooters � This camera will be great for point-and-shooters who are constantly on the move and venture into extreme conditions.
• Budget Consumers � The $399 price tag dashes any hopes for the budget consumer.
• Gadget Freaks � This isn�t the Holy Grail for gadgeteers, but is pretty close with its shockproof, waterproof, dustproof, crushproof, freezeproof status and perks like a flashlight and manometer.
• Manual Control Freaks � There aren�t many manual controls on this digital camera, so these consumers will look elsewhere.
• Pros/ Serious Hobbyists � Perhaps professional climbers or divers will look into this camera, but its imaging and performance capabilities have yet to be evaluated.

Summary
Likes

• Toughest camera ever
• 3.6x lens longer than its predecessor�s
• Skinny body
• Pre-capture movies
• Thorough Playback mode

Dislikes

• Slow Burst mode
• $399 price
• Weak flash
• Poor handling
• Confusing menus

The 10.1-megapixel Olympus Stylus 1030SW now lets casual divers record higher resolution images of fish and underwater fauna. This digital camera is the toughest on the market � even tougher than the 770SW. It can be smashed, dunked, frozen, and dropped and the warranty will still be valid. You won�t get that from any other digital camera.

As far as the camera�s inner features go, the 1030SW is solid, but won�t satisfy you if you want manual control. It is brief with controls and instead opts for lots of automated features and a long list of Scene modes. Still, it�s an easy-to-use point-and-shoot.

We�ve been wowed before by Olympus� waterproof cameras, only to be disappointed by its poor performance in our imaging lab back at the office. We can�t judge this part of the Olympus Stylus 1030SW on the show floor; we have to wait until March or April to put it to the test. We hope it overcomes its predecessors� poor marks.

The Olympus 1030SW is so unique that it hardly has any competition with its sturdy body. If you need a sturdy, waterproof digital camera, this might be the one for you. If you want a standard point-and-shoot, the $399 price might be a too much. The real verdict will come when we get this camera into our imaging lab.

Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi First Impressions Summary

Entering an increasingly crowded market for consumer digital SLRs comes the entry-level Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi, which premieres at PMA 2008 in Las Vegas, Nev. The XSi is the third in Canon�s budget DSLR series, updating the Digital Rebel XTi.

This new version of the Rebel is marketed toward the photo enthusiast who might turn in his or her point-and-shoot for a consumer DSLR. Canon promises the XSi is its best Rebel yet, borrowing features from its flagship professional line, including faster processing, improved autofocus, Live View, and an expanded spot metering, in addition to higher resolution, larger LCD screen, and updated menu system.

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi has a MSRP of $899.99 for the kit with the new EF-S18-55mm f/3.5 � f/5.6 IS zoom lens (which includes optical iamge stabilization), or $799.99 for the body alone when it ships in April 2008.

Overall Impressions

Value
The anticipation for the Canon Rebel XSi, or previous Rebels for that matter, has photo nerds� hearts racing. Buyers in the market for a consumer SLR are most likely dropping a good chunk of their savings on this camera, as customers move up from a point-and-shoot and venture into photography as a serious hobby and potentially as a business if they upgrade into higher-end models. So is the $900 worth it? With the added features, it�s a sweet deal. That�s not to underline the fact that almost every other manufacturer this week at PMA 2008 under-priced the XSi: the Nikon D60($749), the Sony Alpha A300($800), and the Pentax K200D($799). The point is that yes, the Digital Rebel XSi costs more than its competitors. The reality is, though, that consumers won�t care. The Rebel series has consistently been Canon�s top seller, and we anticipate it will remain so.

Who�s this Camera For?

• Point and Shooters � The EOS Digital Rebel XSi is far from a point-and-shoot, but Canon is actively marketing its new SLR to this segment. The XSi suits point-and-shooters who want to buy a DSLR to pursue more creative control in photography. With personalized background menus, larger font, and automatic modes, the XSi does fine to suit new DSLR users.
• Budget Consumers � The lowest original MSRP in the digital SLR market for a kit is about $750 new. Nikon, Sony, and Pentax each offer bundled DSLR kits (with included lens) that retail for the price of the Canon XSi body alone. While the $899.99 kit price on the Digital Rebel isn�t the least expensive, the sub-$1000 is still affordable. It fuels the democracy of photography that puts more DSLRs in the hands of more average consumers.
• Gadget Freaks � The XSi lacks certain gadget favorites like a touch screen, true Movie modes, or Wi-Fi capabilities that SLRs have yet to employ; these features are more typical in point-and-shoot cameras. Techies in pursuit of a DSLR, however, might be drawn to the Live View, which is becoming increasingly popular among Olympus, Nikon, and Panasonic SLRs.
• Manual Control Freaks � The Canon XSi brings with it a few more manual controls over the XTi, including an additional spot metering setting and expanded Auto Lighting Optimizer. Although the camera could use more incremental stops in ISO sensitivity, the Digital Rebel will satisfy Canon users.
• Pros / Serious Amateurs � Hardcore addicts would normally lean toward Canon�s higher-end professional models, such as the 1D Mark III or 1Ds Mark III. They would, however, consider the XSi as a backup camera to their existing line of EF lenses, since it is priced at a budget $800 price tag for the body. The smaller body and lower price tag is tempting for pros to take the XSi for traveling or parties.

Summary
Likes

• Live View added as the first on any Rebel
• Includes image stabilized lens with the kit
• Fast burst of 3.5 fps -Now includes Spot metering
• Larger 3-inch LCD screen
• Sturdier body when compared to XTi
• Improved grip with textured rubber for easier handling

Dislikes

• Tiny AF points through viewfinder
• Redistribution of back button layout
• No CompactFlash memory support
• Price isn�t as competitive as other PMA 2008 DSLRs

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi joins a successful line of Rebels that rank as the manufacturer�s top seller. This 12.2-megapixel entry-level DSLR is the third in the series. The XSi incorporates features borrowed from its flagship professional cameras, mixed with functions targeted for its PowerShot customers to cater to the point-and-shooter upgrading to an SLR for the first time. With its added features of Live View, Spot metering, improved autofocus, and faster burst shooting, combined with an image-stabilized kit lens, the Digital Rebel XSi is sure to do well in the market. It still faces competition from Nikon, Sony, and Pentax, all of which undercut the XSi�s near-$900 kit price. Despite that, we anticipate Canon�s brand recognition and history of the Digital Rebel will make the XSi a favorite among entry-level DSLR consumers.

Olympus SP-570UZ First Impressions | Summary

The megapixel war may be raging onward elsewhere, but the Olympus SP-570UZ is claiming a victory among the competition in the ultra-zoom digital camera market. Its 20x optical zoom lens is the longest on a compact digital camera. The resolution isn�t a slouch either at 10 megapixels. The new SP-570 is redesigned to look more like a DSLR and less like a compact camera with its retro zoom ring, more designated buttons, and sturdier body. The Olympus SP-570UZ will retail for $499, the same initial price of its predecessor, the SP-560UZ.
The camera we looked at for this First Impressions Review is a pre-production model, so the specs and performance may change by the time it goes on sale in March.

Overall Impressions

Value
The Olympus SP-570UZ costs $499, the same as its predecessor. This is pricey for a compact digital camera these days, but Olympus knows it. At this price, they know they�re competing with low-end DSLRs, said product manager Sally Smith Clemens. They are vying for consumers who want "the all-in-one solution" of the versatile lens, instead of carrying around a chunky DSLR and three lenses in a huge bag. The SP-570 is less expensive than buying a DSLR and three lenses, certainly. It�s pricey, but comes with some of the biggest features on the market.

Comparison to Olympus SP-560UZ
The SP-560UZ has less resolution on its 8-megapixel CCD, but it�s paired with the same image processor, so many of its performance features are the same as on the new model. For instance, the normal-speed Burst mode is still 1.2 fps. Face detection is included once again. The same wide array of exposure modes are available. The SP-560�s lens is one millimeter narrower and also shorter with its 18x, 27-486mm range. The lens has the same sensor-shift image stabilization system that pairs up with Olympus� older digital image stabilization technology. The LCD screen is slightly smaller, at 2.5 inches, but the resolution is just the same at 230,000 pixels. The Olympus SP-560UZ doesn�t seem to offer any advantages over the SP-570, but still appears on the manufacturer�s website with the same $499 price. This will likely fall when the superior SP-570 becomes available.

Who It�s For
Point-and-Shooters � The newly-redesigned SP-570 looks more like a DSLR, and will scare off these users even if it does have a tutorial-like function guide.
Budget Consumers � At $499, the SP-570 isn�t built for those on the cheap.
Gadget Freaks � The Olympus SP-570UZ will make those who like to brag about the size of their lenses very happy. It doesn�t have any brand new gadgetry, but has old favorites like face detection and dual image stabilization.
Manual Control Freaks � There is a fully Manual mode, but with no jog dial to easily access the shutter speed and aperture, options are tougher to get to than on most DSLRs.
Pros/ Serious Hobbyists � The SP-570 has a versatile lens and can sync with wireless flash systems, making it a good option for hobbyists

Summary

Likes

• Retro DSLR look
• Great handling
• 20x zoom lens
• DSLR-like buttons
• Lots of in-cam editing
• Multi-Firework mode
• Fingerprint-less LCD

Dislikes

• xD compatible up to only 2GB
• Can�t have audio AND zoom in movies
• Zoom ring isn�t very sensitive
• Slow burst

We looked at the Olympus SP-570UZ at the PMA show and here�s what we can tell you. It has a very cool retro DSLR look that fooled many eyes and made many people think Olympus may have put out yet another DSLR. Its design is not only classy but comfortable with its rubber surfaces and excellent handling.

This camera is packed with features, features, features. It has 10 megapixels, a whopping 20x optical zoom lens with a manual zoom ring, and an exposure mode for every person on the planet � including the very cool Multi-Firework mode that snaps several exposures and merges them into one image file.

I have a few major complaints, the main one being that the awesome optical zoom lens doesn�t fully function in the Movie mode. You have to choose whether you want audio or zoom: you can�t have both. But if you aren�t going to shoot video with the SP-570, then this isn�t a big deal.

All in all, the Olympus SP-570UZ looks like a winner with its excellent redesigned body, long and versatile 26-520mm lens, and scores of cool features.

Casio Exilim S10 First Impressions | Summary

The new Casio Exilim S10 snaps 10.1-megapixel images and can record videos in a format that makes it easy to import directly to iTunes and YouTube. The S10 is the world�s smallest and thinnest 10.1-megapixel digital camera, according to Casio. It just might be, with its trim 0.6-inch width. The Casio Exilim EX-S10 makes it possible to record a video and watch it on your iPhone or iPod minutes later. It will retail for $249 when it is available in March.

Summary

The Casio Exilim EX-S10 has a lot of cool features and a very sexy body, but a few very unfortunate characteristics. The ability to drag and drop into iTunes will be convenient and the YouTube uploading program will save a few minutes for budding videographers (who happen to use tiny Casios). There are scores of editing features and effects, but if your fingers don�t get chopped off by the sharp zoom ring, then they will get confounded by the awful multi-selector. The buttons are too small and the camera is so skinny that you have to pinch it to keep from eating the pavement. Yes, being skinny is cool. But a little meat on the bones is a functional thing, too. Handling is a painful endeavor on the S10.

The S10 has some speed issues. The Burst mode and autofocus systems are very slow and the face detection system doesn't come through as promised. Granted, this is considered a preproduction camera because it doesn�t come out until March. There is still time to fix these problems. But almost all of the features on the S10 were fully functional at the show � as in, nothing froze up and no dancing bears appeared on the LCD when I recorded a video (the only exception was the manual focus that turned on the tracking autofocus). We have to give Casio the benefit of the doubt though when it comes to performance, and we don't have our imaging labs in our pocket when checking cameras out at conventions. Performance aside, though, the tiny buttons and horrible handling are enough to scare me off � even if the $249 price tag is tempting.

Likes
- $249 price

- YouTube video

- Lots of editing

- Picture effects

Dislikes
- Worst multi-selector ever

- Weak flash

- Cheap 3x lens

- Painfully small controls

- Slow Burst mode

- Jack on bottom

Look more information at http://astore.amazon.com/cameras-lowprice-20

Canon PowerShot A720 IS | Summary

Canon launched the PowerShot A720 IS with optical image stabilization in August 2007 as a full-featured camera at an economic price. The PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon�s entry-level A-series with image stabilization. In addition to increasing the resolution to 8-megapixels, the camera features 6x optical zoom and an updated Digic III processor with upgraded face detection technology.

Summary

With its 6x optical zoom with optical image stabilization, updated face detection system, and abundance of manual functions, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS makes a strong case for new point-and-shooters. Like almost all Canon point-and-shoots released this year, the Canon A720 IS has fantastic color accuracy, and, as an added bonus, excellent white balance accuracy using either the auto or preset settings. The accurate colors coupled with the solid resolution performance make this camera a great value in terms of image quality. The image quality isn�t perfect, however, as photos will be plagued with noise at high ISO settings, as well as limited dynamic range. Unlike other competitors, though, the PowerShot A720 IS lacks the sleek design of flat 3x optical zoom cameras in favor of a protruding right hand grip that allows users to comfortably shoot for extended amounts of time. The camera is also missing the range of built-in editing functions, characteristic of other point-and-shoots. If users can sacrifice looks and editing controls, the A720 IS�s virtues, namely the long optically stabilized lens and excellent color reproduction, are too good to pass up. Overall, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS is worthy of its price and should be considered a strong contender.

Likes
- Easy handing with ergonomic hand grip

- Optical Image Stabilization included in a budget camera

- 6x optical zoom lens and option to buy accessory lens converters for extended zoom

- Plenty of manual control

- Fantastic color accuracy

- White balance accuracy

- Good resolution

- Organized software for photo, video, and audio editing

Dislikes
- Bulky body design

- High noise levels, especially at 800 and 1600 ISO

- Poor dynamic range above 80 ISO

- Annoying Playback mode switch

- Out-of-date, ugly menu system

- Slow burst rate

- Limited built-in editing functions

Look more information at http://astore.amazon.com/cameras-lowprice-20