The Best Super-Zoom Digital Cameras of 2009
June 6, 2009
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Topping the list with the highest optical zoom is the Olympus SP590UZ Digital Camera, which provides a whooping optical zoom of 26x. A high optical zoom is not the only functionality of this camera; it includes a wide margin of light sensitivity as well as 18 shooting modes. Along with the standard USB interface an additional HDMI interface is also provided enabling you to watch the photos and videos on any high definition television. Plus it includes Olympus' Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technologies for better photographic output. The only possible drawback is its weight which happens to be 435 grams. However, the weight can be ignored as it provides a high 12 mega-pixel image resolution and some great functionalities. |
| Following the Olympus SP590UZ right on heels is the Kodak EasyShare Z980 Digital Camera with an optical zoom of 24x. This Kodak camera is similar to the Olympus one on many grounds. It also includes a wide ISO range as well as the Face Detection technology. The Shadow Adjustment technology has not been incorporated in the Kodak Z980. The camera can be connected to any HDTV for viewing the captured videos and photos. A unique feature with this digital camera is the dedicated Share button on it. With the help of this Share Button, you can share the photos and videos on YouTube or the Kodak Gallery. Cropping and resizing the pictures can be done in the camera itself. It has a weight of 415 grams, however the vertical grip is detachable. With a 12 mega-pixel picture resolution, this is also a camera with great zooming ability. | ![]() |
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Next in the line is the Canon PowerShot SX10 IS Digital Camera that has an optical zoom of 20x. For faster and accurate zooming, an Ultrasonic and Voice Coil Motor has been incorporated in this gadget. Furthermore, the DIGIC4 image processor is used that provides great picture quality and excellent noise reduction along with faster processing speeds. The Face Detection technology ensures perfect focusing for portrait photographs while the i-Contrast feature alters and adjust the brightness levels to match the surrounding conditions. A wide range of shooting modes has also been provided for user's convenience. They range from a completely automatic mode to a fully manual operation mode. Priced currently at £399, this one offers an image resolution of 10 mega-pixels. |
| Neck to Neck is the 18x optical zooming facility provided by the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 Digital Camera. It is the successor of the Panasonic FZ18, it doe boast of some great functions. The camera's light sensitivity allows you to shoot optimally in challenging light conditions. The Panasonic's Venus Engine IV image processor provides faster processing speed and excellent noise reduction ability along with exceptional picture quality. Panasonic's iA mode will choose the best mode to match the condition. With an image resolution of 10 mega-pixel and a weight of 370 grams, this is one camera which is a must have for a great photographic experience. | ![]() |
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A close competitor is the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ7 Digital Camera, which exhibits an optical zoom of 12x. It comprises of LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens system with this large enlargement factor. Its macro mode is a function that is a must try one. You can shoot objects that are just 3cm with great precision and clarity. Furthermore, it makes use of Venus HD image processor that not just delivers faster processing speed but also lower power consumption. Its HDTV compatibility allows you to watch pictures and videos on any high definition television via the HDMI interface. The camera's 10 mega-pixel image resolution provides sharp and excellent quality images. This compact camera with advanced lens system is sure to enhance your shooting abilities and its weighs just about 206 grams the lightest among all the five. |
Although, many super-zoom cameras are being introduced with each passing day, the first half of 2009 has seen these five as the most popular ones. As time passes and technology advances, things are bound to change and tomorrow you can expect to get what you had only dreamt of having once upon a time.
Top Digital Cameras that can be Taken Along on a Vacation
June 5, 2009
Taking along a comfortable digital camera is not just enough. You need to ensure that it is dust and water resistant as well as light weight, because you definitely do not want to worry about the camera getting spoilt due to dust or water. Also the camera needs to have a sturdy and tough body. This is because a slight slip can send the camera crashing to the floor while destroying the fun and frolic of your vacation. Hence it is important to carry a more robust and indestructible digital camera. A few of the tough and rugged digital cameras that is best suited to accompany you on your holiday have been listed below.
| Olympus Tough 8000 Digital Camera : - This is a very rugged digital camera which is crushproof up to a pressure of 220 pounds, so you really need to work hard if you are planning on damaging this gizmo. With a weight of just 1825 grams it also boasts of being waterproof up to 33 feet and shock-proof up to 6.6 feet. It is a highly durable camera that offers a total picture resolution of 12 mega-pixels and 3.6x optical enlargement ability. This can be nicknamed as a tough and sturdy travel companion who will let you play free and snap away all those most important moments no matter whatever the terrain. | ![]() |
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Olympus MJU 6000 Digital Camera : - Being the younger brother of the Olympus Tough 8000, it boasts of being waterproof up to 10 feet and shock proof up to 5 feet. With a weight of just 149 grams it is a slim and light weight camera that offer a sensor resolution of 10 mega-pixels and 3.6x optical magnification factor. Furthermore, its advanced Face Detection technology and Image Stabilisation technique aids in delivering the perfect snap. An intelligent Auto mode is a highly efficient tools for amateurs who need assistance in shooting the optimal way. A great camera with exceptional underwater shooting abilities. |
| Canon PowerShot D10 Digital Camera : - Being Canon's first waterproof, shockproof and freeze-proof digital camera, this one features a 12 mega-pixel sensor resolution and a 3x optical zoom. It is waterproof up-to 33 feet and shockproof up to 4 feet. Additionally like all Canon cameras it uses the DIGIC4 image processing engine that helps in maximum noise reduction and great image quality with faster processing speeds. It advanced Face Detection and Scene Detection technologies work hand in hand with the camera's lighting and contrast effects to deliver exceptional photos. | ![]() |
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Pentax Optio W60 Digital Camera : - This camera is waterproof for up to 13 feet. It is a slim and sober gadget with great waterproofing capabilities. Additionally it boasts of having a 10 mega-pixel resolution and a great 5x optical zooming ability. Furthermore, it allows you to shoot in high definition 1080 pixel resolution. It also features an external memory card slot in addition to its internal memory of 36.4MB. It includes the advanced Face, Smile and Blink Detection technologies for added shooting convenience. It is a neat and affordable digital compact camera that is capable of capturing and preserving your memories. |
| Panasonic Lumix FT1 Digital Camera : - Also known as Panasonic TS1, this is the company's first entrant in the field of rugged digital compact cameras. It is waterproof up to 10 feet and shockproof up to 5 feet. With a brushed steel body, this one comes in attractive and flashy colours. With a weight of just 162.5 grams, it features an image resolution of 12 mega-pixels and an optical zoom of 4.6x. An external memory card slot has been provided in addition to the camera's 40MB of internal memory for you to keep shooting away without the need to worry about the saving ability of the device. One of the most unique features of this camera is its AVCHD Lite mode that allows you to record high definition videos with twice the recording time. | ![]() |
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Pentax K200D Digital SLR Camera : - If you prefer the digital SLR cameras to the compact ones then the Pentax K200D is the answer. With a solid and weather resistant body and outstanding dust reduction capabilities it is a powerful camera that can be taken along. It features a 10.2 mega-pixel sensor and an in-built image stabilisation technique. The DSLR's penta-mirror viewfinder is yet another useful functionality. It helps you in shooting optimally in the most challenging weather conditions. |
In case you are not interested in picking up a new digital camera then you consider investing in a silicone camera skin or an underwater camera housing case. You can fit the silicone cases that best fits your camera model. This is an inexpensive method of protecting your expensive digital camera. Although the underwater camera housing cases are a little expensive compared to the silicone skin, it is worth the extra price when it come to the safety and protection of your priced gadget. Hence, with so many different cameras and camera skins available in the market today, you can go and enjoy your holidays while preserving it forever in the form of photos and videos.
UK’s Top 10 Compact Digital Cameras for the year 2008
January 14, 2009
Canon IXUS 980 IS Digital Camera
This Canon piece is one of the few compact cameras to feature a viewfinder. It features a 14.7 mega-pixel resolution and 3.7x optical zoom to produce good quality images. It uses the DIGIC 4 processor and a complete manual mode that gives better creative control. Additionally this Canon IXUS 980 IS Digital Camera includes Face detection technology, anti blur technology, Auto Red-Eye Correction, Motion Detection Technology and a high light sensitivity factor.
Ricoh GX200 Digital Camera
This Ricoh GX200 Digital Camera features a 12 mega-pixel resolution, a 3x optical zoom, a 4x digital zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD display screen along with a Smooth Imaging Engine III processor. Its positive points include a good and sturdy build, an excellent macro, fabulous portrait mode and easy AF/AE adjustment. This camera gives a higher light sensitivity up-to ISO1600 for sharper images. The only disturbing feature of this camera are that it does not have an in-built viewfinder, however there is a provision for attaching an external viewfinder.
Canon Powershot G9 Digital Camera
This compact digital camera is a favourite amongst a few professional photographers. It features a 12.1 meaga-pixel resolution, 6x optical zoom, a DIGIC III processor, automatic red-eye correction and 25 shooting modes. Its advantages include a good macro range, the facility to be able to add a lens adapter for more creativity and sturdy camera exterior. The drawback is that few of the shooting modes do not function very effectively. However this features most of the functionalities desired by the consumer.
Nikon Coolpix P6000 Digital Camera
The Nikon Coolpix P6000 is a performance based camera that features a 13.5 mega-pixels of picture resolution, a 4x optical zoom, a 4x digital zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD display. It has an in-built GPS unit that records the locations as geotags. Its exclusive functions include Face-Priority feature and a D-Lighting function. It also includes LAN connectivity for faster uploading of images. Overall this camera comes with easy to navigate menus and produces better colour effects. The only possible drawback of this Nikon Coolpix P6000 Digital Camera is the instructions are a little complex to interpret initially, but once you get used to the navigational functions it is a child's play.
Samsung NV9 Digital Camera
Samsung has managed to incorporate many new technicalities in the NV9. It primary features include a 10 mega-pixel picture resolution, 5x optical zoom, 11.4x digital zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD display. Its additional features include Dual Image Stabilisation, Face Detection technology, Blink and Smile Detection Technology, Automatic contrast adjustment, a Beauty Shot option wherein the camera automatically adjusts the sharpness and lighting effects to produces beautiful images. However this camera has a slow shutter lag and at higher ISO's it produces noisy images. Apart from these two disturbances, this Samsung NV9 Compact Digital Camera is a great device to play with.
Sony Cyber-Shot W110/S Digital Camera
The W110 is yet another addition in the Cyber-Shot Series. This Sony Cyber-Shot W110/S Digital Camera features a 7 mega-pixel picture resolution, a 4x optical zoom, a 8x digital zoom and a 2.5-inch LCD display. Its functions include Face and Smile Shutter Detection Technology, High Light Sensitivity of ISO 3200, automatic Scene Selection, Auto Red-eye correction and multiple language support along with Bionz processor for superior quality blur-free images.
Olympus 1030SW Digital Camera
Olympus has introduced a water-proof, shock-proof, crush-proof, dust-proof and freeze-proof compact digital camera. It features a 10 mega-pixels picture resolution, a 3.6x optical zoom, 5x digital zoom and 2.7-inch LCD display. This Olympus 1030SW Digital Camera includes a host of features such as recording higher resolution images of fish and underwater fauna, includes many automated features and scenic modes. As it is completely automated, this may not be the ideal device for you if you prefer to have manual modes.
Panasonic Lumix DMC - FX35 Digital Camera
The Panasonic FX35 features a 10 mega-pixels picture resolution, a 4x optical zoom and a 2.5 inch LCD display screen. Its features include MEGA O.I.S lens-shift stabilization, PictBridge Compatibility, a Venus Engine IV processor, 21 scene modes and Face Detection Technology. The distinctive feature of this camera is its capability to record 720p HD motion picture and it enables you to watch HD motion pictures on large screen high definition TV by a direct output function. The only possible drawback of this camera is that it is fully automated; hence this Panasonic Lumix DMC - FX35 Digital Camera offers very few manual modes to choose from. So if you are looking out for a camera to experiment with, then unfortunately this is not the one but the functionalities offered by this camera gives you value for your money.
Fujifilm FinePix F50FD Digital Camera

The F50FD comes with a 12MP image resolution, a 3x optical zoom, 8.2x digital zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD display screen. Its features include Face Detection Technology, Dual Image Stabilisation, Higher Light Sensitivity of ISO 1600 and Continuous Shooting Mode. This Fujifilm FinePix F50FD Digital Camera also features Aperture and Shutter Priority modes. The drawback of this camera is that it does not perform very well under low light conditions. However if you try its low ISO settings, it is able one of the best images.
Ricoh R8 Digital Camera
Ricoh R8 is a camera with a lot of advanced functionalities. It includes a 10 mega-pixel resolution, 7.1x optical zoom and 4.8x digital zoom, a 2.7-inch LCD screen along with imaging engine III processor. It includes a Face Recognition function and provides CCD Shift vibration that reduces blurred images. This Ricoh R8 Digital Camera comes with a 1cm macro and AF and AE spot control technology along with continuous shooting facility. The drawback however is that all the continuous shots get recorded as a single image and this camera also produces some nasty noise. But overall a decent camera that can produce some exceptional images.
UK’s Top 10 Digital SLR Cameras of 2008 for Professional Photographers
January 11, 2009
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Topping the list is the Nikon D3 Digital SLR Camera. It is slightly on the expensive side; however it includes the brand new Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 N-series lenses and Nikon's incredible 14-24mm N-series wide-angle zoom. It provides a continuous shooting modes at the rate of 9 to 11 frames per second. The light sensitivity range offered by the Nikon D3 is also higher at ISO 200 to ISO 6400. It provides more colour option, lesser noise rate and higher sharpness in the images. With its 14-24mm zoom this camera will not miss out on any of the finer details. The only flip side is that this camera offers a picture resolution of only 12 mega-pixels while many other professional SLR's offer much higher. But the other positive functionalities of this camera out-weigh this factor; and 12MP is still a lot. | |||
| A close competitor is the Canon EOS 1D Mark III SLR Camera. Canon has managed to incorporate a lot many features in this camera. This comes with a picture resolution of 10 mega-pixels and a 3-inch LCD screen for pre-viewing images. Almost every single factor of this digital camera has been re-designed to suit a professional photographer. Canon has decreased the number of operating buttons and switched to a dial mode. With the Mark III Canon has introduced a Live mode option that helps you in capturing realistic images. It includes a fabulous range of menu options for customising the camera to suit personal requirements. It has also introduced a new S-mode that is a silent shooting modes for a quieter shooting environment. The images need to be shot in RAW mode for getting the maximum benefit of this camera. The flip side is however the price of this camera, which falls in the higher bracket, but anyone who would want to have a lot many professional features, is sure to take this one. | ![]() |
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Following on heels is the Olympus E-3 Digital SLR Camera. Though the camera is a little bulky, it feels good in the hands of a professional photographer. It comes with an anti-dust technology that prevent the dust from accumulating on the camera lens. This has been designed to withstand the stress and strain of a professional photographer. The Olympus E-series have been a favourite amongst professionals as all of them have been designed to deliver high quality images that can satisfy a proficient user. It comes with new auto-focus system, a powerful sensor, a faster continuous shooting speed and a higher shutter speed. It includes the TruePic III image processing engine that provides better colour effects and improves the tonal details of images. It also includes a higher light sensitivity for sharper images. | |||
| Close behind them is the Pentax K20D Digital SLR Camera. This camera offers a photo fanatic with a lot of novel features. The Pentax Real Image Engine makes the camera an ideal widget to be used in low light conditions. This imaging engine combined with the Pentax Shake Reduction system, helps deliver blur-free and noiseless images even in low light conditions. A dust alert function provided with this camera checks the dust accumulation in the sensors. A new custom image function allows you to provide finishing touch to an image. It offers a picture resolution of 14 mega-pixels which is a lot. The only flip-side with this camera is its clumsy controls and complex interface. But for these factors this camera is sure to receive a 5-start rating from its users. |
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Following them is the Canon EOS 450D Digital SLR Camera. For anyone on the lookout for an SLR with a lower price tag, this is the one. Packed with stunning features this camera provides users with 12.2 mega-pixels of resolution to play around with. It also has a unique functionality which keeps the noise level low and the image quality high. It uses Canon's famous DIGIC III processor that helps deliver smoother and well saturated images. These images however require some level of sharpening. But this can be overcome by shooting images in RAW mode. After shooting images in RAW mode users can process them using the Digital Photo Professional software. It comes with a Live View feature which is instrumental in delivering realistic images. However the Live View mode puts a strain on the batteries. | |||
| Neck to Neck is the Nikon D300 Digital SLR Camera. This is one gizmo that has been designed to deliver maximum satisfaction to professionals. This is a compact piece compared to the others in the market. It provides a picture resolution of 12.3 mega-pixels, that delivers images with finer details. It is a user friendly device with easy to access menu settings and flexible buttons. It has a self-cleaning sensor that maintains the sensor and lens area dust free. The light sensitivity ranges between ISO 200 to ISO 3200, which produces clear and sharp images. Additionally it comes with advanced Scene Recognition Technology that modifies the shape, position and contrast of the image before shooting. However one feature that Nikon could have included in this camera is an automatic self timer and a better white balance performance modes. Still it provides great value for money. | ![]() |
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Right on heels is the Samsung GX-20 Digital SLR Camera. This camera features a 14.6 mega-pixels resolution, a CMOS sensor and an excellent design. It provides one of the fastest image processing, an optical image stabilisation technique and a high precision 11-point auto focus system. This camera is sturdy, thus making it compatible to be used in wet, sandy or dusty surroundings. It is also water resistant and features a Dual Dust removal system, which prevent dust accumulation on the lenses. Images can easily be switched to be shot in the RAW mode with a one touch RAW button. Images can be shot continuously at the rate of 3 to 9 frames per second. However Samsung could have incorporated a quieter shutter release function and auto-focusing system which is a bit noisy. Also the aperture and shutter speed cannot be changed once the camera is activated. Notably a good piece in the mid-range SLR camera market. | |||
| Another device that is the result of Nikon's imaging technology is the Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera. This camera provides the option of editing photos in the playback mode. You can capture an image in the RAW mode and later change the image to JPEG mode and take another shot. It comes with an eye sensor that switches off the LCD screen once you place the viewfinder to your eye. It includes Vibration Reduction function which produces blur-free images. It provides sharp and realistic images. Nikon has incorporated the active D-lighting function that automatically adjusts the contrast and exposure settings in case of very low light and high lighting areas. This camera with its compact design and large lens is best suited for beginners who want to try out various functions but it may be a little irritating for a professional as all the functions need to be adjusted time and again. | ![]() |
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Next is the Sony A350 Digital SLR Camera. Introduced by Sony this camera has been roaring with some innovative and clever features. For amateurs venturing into the professional field this is an ideal camera. It comes with a tilting 2.7-inch LCD screen and a Live View mode for realistic images. It provides a 14.2 mega-pixel resolution along with SteadyShot image stabilisation technology. This technology enables additional exposure to deliver blur-free images. The BIONZ processor used in this camera includes a D-range optimiser. This is useful in adjusting the contrast and exposure in very low light and high light areas to produce realistic images. The major advantage of this camera is its price tag, its processor and picture resolution. However the flip sides include clumsy controls, low-grade plastic body and a flappy shutter noise. However it can deliver excellent images. | |||
| The last position is occupied by the Fujifilm S100 Pro Digital Camera. This one provides a resolution of 11 mega-pixels along with an optical zoom of 14.3x. This means that the images shot can be magnified up-to 14 times its size without any loss to image quality. It offers Face Detection technology and image stabilisation function. This camera delivers sharper images owing to the higher light sensitivity of ISO 3200. Also with its 28-400mm wide angle lens, no image or shot will go un-shot. However the camera needs to be made weather proof to be able to withstand the stress and strain of a professional photographer. | ![]() |
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