When upgrading from our 2MP Sony DSC camera the obvious choice was to upgrade to the latest version to avoid buying memory cards. After reviewing this camera alongside a Kodak and Nikon the Sony won.
The reason that we chose the Sony was for the pixels, easy setup features for exposure settings (snow, low light etc) and size despite the Sony being slightly more expensive.
The theory about not buying memory didn't work out due the size of the photographs at the highest resolution. The camera came with a 32MB card which gave me 9 pictures. Therefore there was a requirement for more memory.
Despite the extra outlay the picture quality is superb. The difference is very noticable with our old camera and my parents 4MP HP.
For a keen amature photgrapher who wants to try different things without going to the expense and learning how to use a Digital SLR this is a good compromise.
The dials and controls are easy to use and with a Large LCD it makes the taking of pictures effortless. The zoom of 3x is adequate for most general picture taking and there is an extension device available if you need extra zoom which I haven't invested in yet but might do if the photo taking gets more serious.
The is a manual mode for those who know what they are doing with settings for different effects but for those who are learning there are some presets that are easy to select through the menu structure, they include snow scenes, beach, activity, landscape, portrait and night-time options. We have used the snow mode and the pictures came out very well.
The battery life is very good, only downside is that the battery is a rechargeable unit that you need to charge. There isn't the option of keeping a few AA batteries or the like in your case as emergency spares.
In summary did we make the right choice. Yes. The pictures are great including enlarging on the PC, battery life is good, settings and features are easy to use. The cons of the camera are that the memory required is large and memory stick which only Sony's use although the card sizes are increasing and the prices are dropping. The buttons maybe too small for older users I would recommend that you check this out at your local retailer before buying.
I would recommend shopping around for the camera and memory there are some good deals out there not only on-line but in the high street aswell.
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by (86%):
06.05.2006 01:08
welcome to ciao
05.05.2006 21:53
An impressive first review. Maureen
05.05.2006 10:41
Hi and welcome to Ciao - a good first review - Cat x x