5 comments about Canon PowerShot S40 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom.

1. ...this is a good camera to start with. Especially if you use a Mac because it works great with iPhoto. If youre a beginner like me, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of features the S40 offers, but dont worry. Just put it on automatic and you will be able to take great pictures. It just takes a little practice to get used to the delayed response shutter button.

   Some of the things I like about it:
   1. It takes very nice pictures. Your pictures will look as good as anyones.
   2. It has a movie mode that I didnt know existed until recently. Saves the movie (with sound) in AVI format (QuickTime player will play it)
   3. Attractive small body (and who doesnt like attractive small bodies?)
   4. The LCD display is great for reviewing your pictures
   5. It takes gigantic pictures. At 100% they are about 20" tall by 30" wide. You probably wont ever print out anything this large, but this just means you have a lot of detail and resolution wont be a problem.

   What I dont like as much:
   1. Too many manual settings keeps me from experimenting too much. You would have to read the manual if you want to do any shooting besides automatic. And who wants to read a manual?
   2. You have to get pretty close to your subject. Taking group pictures from much further than 10'-15' will not turn out very good. If you can get up close you will have great pictures. Dont try to use this camera at a football game from the stands. I just dont think it has enough zoom power.

   Ive enjoyed using mine for the last year and a half. Like the reviewers before me, I recommend doing the following:
   1. Get an extra battery cause you never know when the battery will run out of juice. It will cost $25-$50 depending on what brand you get.
   2. Im not sure what size compact flash card comes with the camera, but its probably in the 16MB range which is pretty much useless. Being a 4.0 Megapixel camera, and shooting such a large picture, it eats up memory. Get a couple of 128MB's or even larger if you can and you will have room to take 100 or so pictures.
   3. I dont think it comes with Photoshop Elements, but if you can afford it, get it. If you do cropping and getting photos web-ready you will want to have this or the full Photoshop package (you better be very good if you want Santa to bring this)

   You will like this camera and all your friends will tell you that you take great pictures.




2. This is a great camera for anyone looking for advanced features at a compact size. Unlike Canon's "lower-end" models, the S40/45/50 series pack in all the adjustable/tweakable features seen in most "SLR" cameras at a lower cost. This camera is not as compact as some of Canon's and some of the other manufacturer's units. But the additional features offered by these cameras outweight the size/weight penalty.

   My only complaint with these cameras are their less than desirable lenses. The S40 has a 3x optical zoom (11x digital) and doesn't have the lens power of some of the other Olympus cameras. Then again, if you're looking for that type of lens capability, you're not looking at these cameras and are more apt to looking at the higher-end SLR versions.

   Overall, these cameras have the Canon photo quality and the construction quality. A great buy!




3. I've had the camera for a few months now and it's my first. I knew almost nothing about how to use a camera like this, and it does have A LOT of customization options. I did use the manual for the first day or so, but playing with it gave me the most knowledge.
   
   Anyway, on to my review.
   
   Pros:
   -Beautiful picture quality. Compression isn't spectacular at the highest resolution, but much detail is still represented in the photos.
   -Solid, sturdy design that is very pleasing to the eye.
   -More options than you'd ever think you'd use, but they are all fantastic. The numerous ways of manually adjusting the picture are probably my favorite thing about the camera.
   -Fast battery charging.
   -Easy access to memory card and battery.
   -Fast LCD response.
   
   Cons (if you notice):
   -Sliding lens cover hasn't broken, but it seems delicate.
   -Mushy "Set" button mainly used to delete photos (in my experience). You'll get used to it.
   -A little heavy.
   -Shutter response isn't fast.
   -Flash is a little too bright at standard settings, but is a cinch to adjust in most shooting modes.
   -Movie mode could be better, but that's not what you're buying this for.
   
   Recommendations:
   -Extra memory, of course. The provided 16 MB card will only hold about 10 pictures in fullsize at full compression.
   -An extra battery (or two, why not?). Go on eBay and find a knockoff battery. Search "NB-2L"
   -A case. Buy one that's protective, and not too tight, because putting the camera in the case could inadvertently open the lens cover.
   
   Overall: I highly recommend this camera, even if you don't know much about photography. If you care about how your pictures turn out, you will enjoy using this camera.



4. I like the fact that the camera uses compact flash. The compact flash cards come in sizes up to 4G so that is nice.
   Easy to use.



5. I actually own the SD30 which is the 3.2MP which is our very first DC. I got it for the birth of my daughter and has captured all her milestones but sadly after 3 1/2 years the sliding cover for the lens gave out and the lens is stuck and so the camera would not operate anymore. The cost of having it repaired in a Canon service center in IL is as much as buying a new one so I am just looking to buying a newer model (still a Canon of course) Canon has proven a name in the world of photography by the quality of pictures you to take with their camera.

5 comments about Sony Cyber-shot DCS-P30 1.3MP Digital Camera.

1. This was my first attempt at buying a digital camera and i've been quite happy with the picture quality of this Sony. A few quibbles I have are the fact that Sony addons (like additional memory cards and card readers) are Sony-specific and are thus very expensive in comparison to less exclusive brands. I would expect to buy about $50-100 in addons while buying the camera. The angle that one holds the camera is a bit awkward as well. Instead of putting it in the cradle of your palms, one puts it in the cradle of your index finger and thumb in somewhat of a L fashion on both sides. Theres a long lapse between clicking the shoot button to actually taking the shot when the camera is set in autofocus making it somewhat hard to capture split second events or motion although one could always turn this autofocus feature off.
   On the plus side, I was pleasantly surprised that the camera doesnt seems to eat up battery time as much as I expected. I'm slightly disappointed with the zoom of the camera in that its a bit lacking but this may be a problem with all 3X digital zoom cameras. I would definitely have to say that the camera is not the best for its money if you consider the addons (when compared to the A10) but it gives quite good pictures none-the-less which is, after all, the whole point; hence I gave it 4 stars.



2. In the world of electronics, you really cannot go wrong with Sony. I use this camera for work and travel, and it never dissapoints. Light, but clear, it will go with you and take great sharp pictures with ease. The nice thing about this, and other digital cameras, is you can pick what pictures you want to print and which ones to throw away. Easy to share pictures with family online, and keep on your computer for easy storage. I would recommend this camera for novices-experts.



3. I have pay for this camera, it came, but incomplete,
   This is the second time I have by a camera, in the two ocations came without cables, memory stick and no charger cables.
   How can I use it when there is no memory stick or the USB cables ???
   Please send your coments.



4. I've had this camera for almost two years now; have taken tons of pics both for the internet and for print. Using the best resolution it offers in normal light conditions, I've had perfect quality prints developed. You can't tell that they were taken with a digital camera - at least I can't and that's enough for me. :) Some minor problems do occur, though: if there's not enough light (for instance indoors) without the flash the picture becomes grainy. Also, it takes some time till it clicks. And a lot of pics were blurry when i used it in a party with a lot of flashing coloured lights around - but I guess that's not everyday use. :)
   As for the battery: I was surprised to read about these problems. I have inexpensive rechargable batteries and they last for a reasonably long period of time. I've never had a problem with them.
   I really like this camera, with the optical zoom and other features. Once you get used to the longer time it takes to click and if taking party-pics is not your main goal, it's a very good camera.



5. I bought this camera at a military exchange for pretty cheap. For my first Digital Camera I made a fine choice. You can never go wrong with Song first off. The camera is pretty basic, I didn't even read the instructions before using. It takes great photos and is pretty durable. Being in the military, I've taken this thing around the world and have had no ill effects. The only problem I can think of is that the delay is pretty long. This camera is no good for quick pictures, but I've worked around it. I also would recommend a memory stick upgrade. The one that comes with it only holds about 10 pictures. That's ok at home but over seas you have to have more memory. For a first time digital camera buyer, I most diffently recommend this camera.

No comments about Kodak EasyShare Z1015IS 10MP Digital Camera with 15x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom.

No comments about Nikon D40 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Lens & 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED AF-S DX Lens + Nikon 2-Year Extended Warranty.

5 comments about Panasonic DMC-FZ50S 10.1MP Digital Camera with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom (Silver).

1. I really didn't want to rate this product at this time. Not because of the product, but because of the poor service.
   
   They did not mail it out until the day is was due at my front door step. They had a glitch in their system, recognized it, and sent the product out at Two day-air. (wonderful). Then more glitches happened. They sent the package with a note insisting that I personally sign for it.
   
   They clearly should have asked me first. Like most people, I can't lose work and sit around for a four-hour UPS delivery window. I tried to contact them and get something done, but it didn't work. I called them several times (had to wait "on hold" for 30-45 minutes - BY THE RECEPTIIONIST, OR WHO EVER IS SUPPOSE TO ANSWER THEIR PHONE- each time). I consider that a rude way to conduct business. I also sent emails which to which they promptly responded. They offered serious apologies, but still no camera.
   
   FINALLY, about 7-10 days behind the delivery schedule, the camera arrived. By then I was so disgusted with the company that I refuse to accept this shipment. I was fed up with the vendor.
   
   Of course that called for another round of phone calls to which I was put on hold for over an hour - I finally hung up in disgust. Let me make one thing clear in their defense. The unbeliably bad phone call waits were just to get someone to answer the phone and conect me to the right department. The one or two times I actually got to peak with someone in the right ddepartment was otstanding. They are good people. That is why I waited more than month to offer my comments. They, I blieve, they did their best to get the camera to me. They had nothing to do with the UPS delivery system.
   
   I am still waiting for my refund!!! They don't answer their phone (try calling thei number). They also no longer answer my emails
   
   It's time for me to get Amazon involved. I want my refund!!!
   
   Anyway, I finally brought the camera from another store. IT WORKS WONDERFULLY. BUY IT!



2. Great deal on this camera. It offers so much in control, and yet will still take a snapshot. It arrived on time, in good order, just as advertised. I was hesitant as it was a third party vendor (Adorama), but it was an excellent deal and completely as advertised.



3. I agree in full with what everyone says about the image quality and ability to take raw pictures. It is a remarkable camera. One complaint I had was its ability to autofocus in low-light levels. Even manual focusing, which appeared on the screen to be in focus later turned out to be out of focus. I would recommend to them to use a white light focusing mechanism instead of the red light that comes on in low light, near object situations. Cameras I have used with this white light have always autofocused better for me. What confused me(and this is more of an observation that a complaint) was the inclusion of this camera in a 'point and shoot' category. By definition, it is a point and shoot in that it doesn't have a mechanical shutter like the SLR cameras. However, the camera is rather large, and if one is expecting to take this camera in a carry-on on a plane, please refer to the pictures I uploaded using 2 other camera types against this camera.



4. Purchased FZ50 a year ago, I have a small professional photog business. It replaced the excellent FZ30 (which replaced an FZ20). I also replaced the TZ3 with the TZ5 for a "personal" point-and-shoot camera, so have extensive experience with Lumix. Tried D-SLRs, and other prosumer (mid-range) camera brands. This is a prosumer camera. A good Canon or Nikon D-SLR will take better pictures in many cases, but only if you can wade through the complex menus and understand more than the basics of photography, despite their claims for auto mode. D-SLRs have more options in most cases, but several friends who went D-SLR, thinking they'd get just a fancier 35mm replacement, quickly became unhappy with the complexity, but where they could handle it, the pix were easier to handle in Photoshop 5.0, and a few with CS2. Lumix has an excellent ability to "read" in the auto/scene modes. The FZ50 does have some limitations with hard shadows (can mostly be compensated for), on occasion will be slightly slow in focusing, and its flash (typical in this price range) is barely ok. It's only slightly smaller than a standard 35mm SLR. It has difficulty with action shots: the faster the action the more likely you'll get blur (running, volleyball, etc.). Use of an Extreme III or Ultra II (or other brands' equivalent) helps by speeding up the "write to" cycle significantly, but it just isn't a great action camera. For less than fast action, especially for everyday sunlit or overcast pix, even with movement, it is exceptional. I get many compliments for my work, and with 6.0 or CS3, the color is marvelous, only a hair below D-SLR. The anti-shake helps my old hands (I was a pro 40 years ago). I love the 12X zoom, and while 10.1 Mp files are very large, the 8 Gb (over 4,000 pictures possible), and 16 Gb SDHC cards (over 7,000 possible) are more than most prosumers will need. My TZ5 (8 Mp) will also do over 4,000 with those cards (the counter doesn't go that high, just says "999"). The FZ50, while not a pocket camera, is reasonably light, if (like its 35 mm predecessors) slightly bulky, yet it fits my hand well, and rarely makes my hand/arm tired. Relatively simple menu makes it easier and quicker for those of us who aren't high "techies" or quite as fast as we used to be. Telephoto is quick and smoothe. I hope Lumix continues putting out such great and quality features for a substantially lower price than a D-SLR, I'll keep upgrading. For those who want better than point-and-shoot, but aren't quite ready for expensive complex pro, this a great camera.



5. I was really on the fence about purchasing this camera but I couldn't be happier that I did. I'm thrilled!! My camera needs were: everyday use, amateur landscape photography, and most importantly product photos for my online business.
   
   This camera takes beautiful product photos. Without even adjusting the settings you can showcase breathtaking details of your products while creating an attractive background blur. This camera delivers beautiful details at a manageable output that's easy to compress for web use.
   
   Things I love:
   
   The macro settings are fantastic! If you need detailed images this camera is perfect.
   
   Low light - My canon point and shoot completely died so I had to hurriedly take a bunch of photos the minute this camera arrived. I took a few hurried shots in low light without changing any settings. I was pleasantly surprised to discover how well the images turned out.
   
   Viewfinder - This has one of the most comfortable/larger viewfinders on digital cameras that I've ever encountered.
   
   LCD - I love how the LCD flips down for optional use and allows you to protect your lcd screen. That you can tilt the screen at angle is fabulous!
   
   Other notes: Definitely purchase a memory card if you don't already own a compatible one for this camera. Without changing file sizes or settings, you can only store 5 pictures with the memory card that is included in this package.
   
   If you love digital cameras but miss the details of your old 35mm camera then this digital camera is for you. Yes, this camera is larger but it's NOT a pocket camera. It feels just like I'm using my 35 mm print camera, something I never thought a digital camera under $500 could ever accomplish.

5 comments about Casio Exilim EX-Z40 4MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom.

1. I've been an avid digital camera buyer/user for years....When I bought the EX-Z40, it was with extreme excitement. I've been using this Casio EX-Z40 digital camera for 1 1/2 years and it is a disappointment to me. >:< Don't get me wrong, I love the size and I like all the functions on this camera, but I would gladly give those things up for better pictures.
   
   The only time a picture comes out decent, is if ithe subject is close to you (4 to 10 feet) or in its macro mode. Macro is good.
   Distances and outside pics, like telephoto...just forget it. Don't even bother because you will wind up deleting the pics anyway. Keep the camera very steady..it is a must. Alot of out of focus pics. I know how to hold a camera so alot of it was not my fault. Very Grainey pics too. Even the color is off at times. I use a High End digital Nikon and I love the colors with that one. I've seen small digital cameras take good pictures, not this one.
   
   I took several outside pictures 2 weekends ago of a beautiful creek with layered stones and water flowing over them. It was very very breath taking. I was so excited to put the pictures into my computer when I got home just to find out that they were mostly all terrible. How disappointed I was.
   
   I've been disappointed too many times with this camera. Maybe my camera is a lemon. :(
   JUST BE VERY CAREFUL ON CHOOSING YOUR NEXT DIGITAL CAMERA FOR QUALITY.
   I ordered a Kodak to replace this one...the Kodak V530, which I read up on and read great things about it. It was rated high! It's on its way to me and I can't wait to take the Casio out of my purse and put it into a drawer or sell it to someone who dosn't mind the pictures coming out funny like I do.
   
   BEING FINIKY MEANS YOU TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR PICTURES.
   
   Thanks all...D. Brinkley



2. I was a bit skeptical of the Casio brand but I liked all the features of this camera and read a positive up review in a photography magazine so I took the leap. I haven't regreted it a bit. This is a great "casual" camera with easy settings for picking just the shot you need.
   
   Mine has taken a lot of abuse and has never failed to perform. I highly recommend the leather belt pouch for protection during carry. The only problem I have is deciding whether to upgrade to the 6 or 7 megapixel Exilim!



3. The pictures were very high quality, when the camera was working. My only complaint there was that even zoomed in, the objects of most pictures at a distance looked ant like. The camera's zoom mechanism broke 3x. The first time I had fixed at my cost. I was not sure that I had not caused the damage. One day after getting it back, the problem resurfaced and the repair people fixed it again. This was the second long repair time. About 2 months later I was at a music festival, went to turn it on and guess what? Yep, the zoom mechanism was broken again. I am not going to bother fixing it. After I get the pictures off it (the only way now is directly from the SD card), this camera is going to that great camera in the sky.
   Tony



4. About 18 months ago, purchased the Z40 for my teenage daughter.
   It's a great little camera with a long battery life. Last month the lens jammed in the open position. Called Casio and would cost $200 to repair. Did a little research and found Casio has a problem with lenses jamming. Turns out the camera will accidently turn on in your pocket or purse and the lens cannot fully extend. These cheap plastic rings break and the camera is useless. I have just begun to fight and have even found a lawyer who is gathering info for a possible class action suit.
   If you are going to buy this camera, get the optional insurance. You will get the camera repaired for free but it could takes months. Good luck!



5. With 20 different "scene" shots this camera makes my pictures look semi-professional. The macro mode is incredible for close-ups and has vibrant detail in the resulting pictures. There's also a Sepia and Black and White mode for retro looking pictures apeasing the aspiring artist in us all. Along with the delay/firework setting, night shots of fireworks or lightning look stunning. I really can't sing the praises of this camera enough. I've owned it for 2 years and plan to replace it only with another Exilim. Don't hesitate buying one. Oh, and I can get over 400 shots WITH THE FLASH ON before worrying about recharging.

No comments about Olympus Evolt E-520 (262086) Digital SLR 10.0 MP Camera w/ Zuiko Digital ED 14-42 mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens + 8GB CF Compact Flash Memory Card + BLM1 Replacement Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery + Olympus Evolt Gadget Bag E520 BigVALUEInc Accessory Saver Bundle + MUCH MORE!!!.

No comments about Nikon D200 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body) + Extra Nikon EN-EL3e Battery.

No comments about Olympus Stylus 1010 10.1MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Zoom (Silver) + Spare Li-50B Battery + Card Reader + Compact Padded Camera Case.

No comments about Nikon D40 Digital Camera w/18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Lens - 4 GB SD Memory Card, Spare EN-EL9 Lithium-Ion Battery, Lowepro Holster-Style Case, Nikon DVDs on Photography.