Recent
reviews and features
DETAILED PREVIEW:
GoPro Hero3
Good news for surfers, racers, divers, and just about everyone else
 GoPro released the Hero3 with a slimmer, lighter body, integrated WiFi, a better lens, better audio and numerous other improvements. The Hero3 has a new flat-lens housing that's compatible with all older mounting hardware. The Hero3 comes in three very different editions (white (US$199), silver (US$299), and black (US$399), so there's now a GoPro camera for everyone.
Read full illustrated preview and specs of the
GoPro Hero3.
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DETAILED REVIEW:
Nikon Coolpix AW100
Nikon's first underwater camera since the Nikonos
 The Coolpix AW100 represents Nikon's first underwater camera since the fabled Nikonos ceased production back in 2001. A sleek, elegant 16-megapixel camera, the AW100 has a 33-foot depth rating, can handle 5-foot drops, is freeze and dustproof, can do 1080p HD video at full 30fps speed, has a bright 3-inch display, and includes powerful GPS capabilities. ScubaDiverInfo.com tested the US$349 Coolpix AW100 on intense dive trips in the Sea of Cortez and off Isla Mujeres.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Nikon Coolpix AW100.
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DETAILED REVIEW:
Pentax WG-2
Is the 16MP/1080p Pentax WG-2 the toughest of them all?
 The Pentax Optio WG-2 represents Pentax's 13th generation of tough, waterproof cameras, and the maturity shows. Sporting a unique design, the 16-megapixel Optio WG-2 has a 40-foot depth rating, can handle 5-foot drops, is freeze and crushproof, can do 1080p HD video at full 30fps speed, has a wide-format 3-inch display, and is chuck-full of features and tricks. ScubaDiverInfo.com tested the US$349 Optio WG-2 on a week of diving and exploring in the Sea of Cortez.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Pentax WG-2.
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DETAILED REVIEW:
Canon PowerShot D20
Finally: Canon's second outdoor camera. Was it worth the wait?
 Three years ago, Canon introduced its first waterproof compact, the PowerShot D10. It was a good camera, but had a few areas that needed improvement. Canon listened and fixed everything with the PowerShot D20, introduced this year. It's a US$349 12-megapixel camera that is waterproof to 33 feet can handle 5-foot drops, temperature extremes, and can also shoot 1080p HD video. There's a terrific 3-inch screen, good battery life, and logical controls. ScubaDiverInfo.com tested the PowerShot D20 on a week of diving and exploring in the Sea of Cortez.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Canon PowerShot D20.
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FULL REVIEW:
GoPro Hero2
And how much better is the GoPro Hero2
 No sooner did we publish a big feature on GoPro and its tiny Hero high definition camera that's taken the world by storm than GoPro released the Hero2. Is the new Hero really twice as fast and twice as sharp, as GoPro claims? And have some of the issues we had with the original Hero been fixed? We gave the tough little Hero2 a full workout, both above and under water.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
GoPro Hero2.
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FULL REVIEW:
GoPro Hero
The GoPro phenomenon: what the world-beating little 1080p vidcam can (and cannot) do
 When we first got a GoPro, I was quite impressed with the small size of the camera (2.3 x 1.6 x 1.2 inches -- about the size of a matchbox) and certainly with all the included mounting hardware, but the GoPro didn't seem particularly elegant or high-tech. So, of course, I had to research this whole thing in more detail. The result is this rather lengthy report, and several dive trips that took us thousands of miles from home, and several hundred miles offshore.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
GoPro Hero.
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FULL REVIEW:
Bonica/JVC HDDV
Bonica supplies a full, high quality and reasonably priced HD video system in a handy travel bag
 This has become a world where we're taking pictures and shooting video of everything. YouTube, which started as a repository of stuff recorded on TV, is now full of clips people create themselves. A lot of those clips are done with just cellphones. Unfortunately, you can't take cellphones underwater (yet), and that's where Bonica comes in. Bonica is in the market of finding and creating good, inexpensive components for underwater video and then selling the packages with everything you need for a very fair price. In this review we're describing our experiences with one of Bonica's higher end packages that includes a JVC high definition video camera, an underwater housing, two lights with their arms and mounting hardware, filters and adapters, and a nice travel bag.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Bonica/JVC HDDV.
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FULL REVIEW:
Olympus E-PL1 with PT-EP01 Underwater Housing
Olympus reinvents the compact camera and offers an unbeatable combo to underwater photographers
 In this review we're looking at the US$599 Olympus E-PL1 camera and the optional PR-EP01 underwater housing that'll set you back an additional US$599. That's a lot by point & shoot camera standards, but not very much by digital SLR standards where a housing alone can cost you thousands. The pictures below are misleading because they make the camera look like a standard point & shoot, which it is not. Instead, the E-PL1 is an early representative of what's for now, and for lack of a better term, is clumsily named a "mirrorless interchangeable lens camera," or MILC, a moniker even Wikipedia quickly disqualifies as "terminology not yet standardized." Instead, they call it a "micro," a term that likely won't stick either. So what is the EP01, and why do we think it's so relevant?
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Olympus E-PL1.
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FULL REVIEW:
Contour HD 1080p
Camcorder and H20V Housing: A great choice for shooting video underwater
 A few months ago, while flying across the country, I ran across a camcorder in SkyMall magazine that really caught my eye. It was called the ContourHD 1080p and, apparently, had been created to easily record high definition video in extreme sports such as racing, mountain biking and skiing. Since snow skiing involves frozen water, I immediately wondered if this little camera would somehow be used for scuba diving. Back in the office, I dashed off an email to the company and asked if we could check it out. They were happy to oblige. Better yet, they also have a small and handy underwater housing for the little marvel.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
ContourHD 1080p.
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FULL REVIEW:
Panasonic Lumix TS2
Finally: Panasonic's shockproof and dustproof 14-megapixel 720p video Lumix now waterproof to 33 feet
 The Lumix TS2 is Panasonic's follow-up on their first waterproof and ruggedized camera, the Lumix TS1. While the new model looks almost identical to the one it replaces, there are some subtle and not so subtle improvements that are certain to elevate Panasonic's standing among manufacturers of waterproof and ruggedized compact cameras. The biggest news for divers is that the new model can now handle depths up to 33 feet, addressing the 10-feet rating that limited the TS1 to just snorkeling. Resolution has been bumped to a full 14.1 megapixel, the camera is more rugged yet, and you can still shoot glorious high definition video to play back on HDTV flatscreens.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Panasonic Lumix TS2.
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FULL REVIEW:
Canon PowerShot D10 at Thunderdome
We're giving Canon's first waterproof, freeze proof and shockproof digital camera a hefty workout!
 The PowerShot D10 is Canon's first entry into the waterproof/rugged camera space where it joins offerings from the likes of Olympus, Pentax, Fuji, Panasonic and a number of specialty manufacturers. The somewhat playfully styled camera is is a bit on the bulky side, but is also well equipped to handle most of the abuse it may encounter outdoors. It can be used in freezing weather (down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit), it is dust and waterproof, and it can handle being dropped from up to four feet. Editors at the Digital Camera Magazine sister site ScubaDiverInfo.com gave the D10 a good underwater workout and illustrated this review with numerous stunning underwater pictures. The list price is US$329.
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Canon PowerShot D10.
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FULL DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim EX-G1
Casio unveils world's slimmest waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant camera
 Given that Casio has been selling tough and rugged G-SHOCK watches for over a quarter of a century, one might wonder what took the company so long to enter the increasingly lucrative water/shock/dust/crush-proof segment of the digital camera market currently dominated by the likes of Olympus, Pentax, Canon and Panasonic. Whatever Casio's reasons were, Casio now has a tough waterproof camera of its own, the new 12.1-megapixel Exilim EX-G1
Read full illustrated review and specs of the
Casio Exilim EX-G1.
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FULL REVIEW:
Panasonic Lumix TS1
Panasonic offers a waterproof, shockproof and dustproof 12-megapixel digital camera that also records 720p high-definition video
 After years of building Toughbook computers, Panasonic has entered the waterproof/shockproof/dustproof camera market with the 12.1-megapixel TS1, available in silver, green or orange. The camera has a terrific folding 28-128mm equivalent zoom, can do 720p high definition video, has a very bright and vibrant 2.7-inch LCD display that is large enough and can be seen from any angle, and excels in picture quality. Max depth is limited to 10 feet though and the TS1 is pricey.
Read full review and specs of the
Panasonic Lumix TS1.
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FULL REVIEW:
Pure Digital Flip UltraHD
"Everyday camcorder" now with larger screen, high definition video, 8G storage, and HDMI interface
 Inexpensive high definition video is here, and it is simpler than ever thanks to the new Flip UltraHD camcorder from Pure Digital. The pocket-size UltraHD has a larger 2-inch display, records in 1280 x 720 pixel 720p high definition format, and can now connect to HDTVs directly via an HDMI cable. 8GB of internal memory allow for a full two hours of recording. A rechargeable battery lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Add to that the onboard FlipShare software, and you have an absolutely unbeatable US$199.95 package.
Read full review and specs of the
Pure Digital Flip UltraHD.
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FULL DESCRIPTION:
Olympus E-620
Advanced entry-level 12.3-megapixel dSLR with swivel LCD and a wealth of fun features
 The US$699 12.3 megapixel Olympus Stylus E-620 dSLR was introduced in February of 2009. It is representative of the digital imaging industry's effort to make digital SLR cameras smaller, lighter and more advanced while at the same time adding the kinds of entertaining and useful features and functions that up to now have primarily been available in consumer point-and-shoot cameras. Consider it an advanced entry-level digital SLR with more than adquate resolution and some very nice features, among them the swivel LCD, the 7-point autofocus and the multiple aspect ratio shooting.
Read full description and specs of the
Olympus E-620.
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FULL DESCRIPTION:
Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP
Fuji, too, launches a waterproof point-and-shooter
 Everyone seems to be getting into waterproof cameras! The very small 10-megapixel FinePix Z33WP, available in four bright colors, is Fujifilm's entry, joining Olympus, Pentax, Panasonic, Canon and a number of specialty manufacturers. The camera's maximum depth rating of ten feet makes it suitable only for very shallow dives, but it's great for snorkeling and other activities in and around the water. The Z33PW has a large and bright 2.7-inch LCD display, a 3x optical zoom, digital anti blur, and some fun features and functions. If the 10-foot depth limit or lack of ruggedness doesn't cramp your style, the list price of US$199 makes this new Fuji a fun and very affordable choice among waterproof cameras.
Read full description and specs of the
Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP.
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FULL DESCRIPTION:
Canon PowerShot D10
Canon's first waterproof (33 feet), freeze proof and shockproof camera
The 12-megapixel PowerShot D10 is Canon's first entry into the waterproof/rugged space. The camera is fairly large and heavy, but well equipped to handle most of the abuse it may encounter outdoors. It is dust and waterproof, and it can handle being dropped from up to four feet. Divers can take it down to 33 feet of depth, enough for many scuba adventures. The camera's controls are large and arranged so you can operate it with a glove. Optical lens stabilization reduces blur. Thanks to Canon's DIGIC 4 processor, the camera offers speedy operation, onboard image correction, and advanced face recognition modes. The list price is US$329.
Read full description and specs of the
Canon PowerShot D10.
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FULL REVIEW:
Bonica Snapper HDDV
High definition underwater (and above) video camcorder system at a low price
 Bonica offers a modular underwater high-definition video camera system that can record 1280 x 720 pixel video at up to 30 frames per second for very good 720p playback on a HDTV. A soft inner housing can be used for snorkeling and guards against flooding if the camera is used in its hard acrylic deepwater (180 feet) housing. Optional single or dual video lights have 30, 40 and 60 watt settings and can be easily adjusted via ball joints. The setup is very easy to use and can yield amazingly good video as well as decent still shots from its 5-megapixel CMOS imager. The inexpensive camera records on standard SD cards and needs about 2GB for each hour of video.
Read full review of the
Bonica Snapper HDDV high-definition underwater camcorder system.
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DESCRIPTION:
Olympus Stylus Tough-8000
Tough, waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof flagship camera now with 12 megapixel, dual image stabilization
 As part of its Winter 2009 lineup, Olympus introduced the 12-megapixel Stylus Tough-8000 as the new flagship of its renamed line of shockproof, freezeproof, crushproof, dustproof and waterproof (up to 33 feet) cameras. This is a camera you can truly take, and use, anywhere. Available in Black, silver and blue.
Read description and specs of the
Olympus Stylus Tough-8000.
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DESCRIPTION:
Olympus Stylus Tough-6000
Tough, waterproof, freezeproof camera now with 10 megapixel, tap control, dual image stabilization
 Like last year, Olympus offers cameras that are waterproof to 33 feet and thus suitable for diving, and others that are waterproof to 10 feet, but otherwise almost as tough. For 2009, the 10-foot slot is filled with the new Stylus Tough-6000, a modern 10-megapixel camera with an internal 3.6X optical zoom that starts wide, a terrific 2.7-inch LCD, dual image stabilization and a whole bag of features and tricks.
Read description and specs of
Olympus Stylus Tough-6000.
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REVIEW:
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
Adobe creates a comprehensive digital image workflow suite
for professional and serious amateur photographers
 In the olden days, the number of pictures we took was somewhat limited by the cost of film and making prints. Digital cameras eliminated that limitation as we can store hundreds of pictures on a small memory card and tens of thousands on a hard disk. How can anyone keep track of it all? Enter Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. It's a tool for professional and serious amateur photographers to simplify photography from shoot to finish, and a whole lot more.
Read review of
Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2.0.
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 1030 SW
The perfect all-around camera for outdoors: 10 megapixel, shockproof, freezeproof and waterproof to 33 feet
 The Stylus 1030 SW is the camera a lot of divers and outdoor lovers have been waiting for. It brings 10-megapixel resolution to scuba diving without the need of an underwater case. It's also the most rugged Olympus Stylus camera yet, being able to survive huge drops from almost seven feet and freezing temperatures. We tested the 1030 SW during a week of diving on Roatan island, Honduras.
Read review of
the Olympus Stylus 1030 SW.
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DESCRIPTION:
Nikon Coolpix S710
Advanced 14.5 megapixel Coolpix pushes the limits
 Nikon introduced the Coolpix S710 as part of its Fall 2008 lineup. With this camera Nikon pushes the resolution limit available in inexpensive consumer cameras even farther. You now get 14.5 megapixel, a number almost unimaginable just a few years ago. Compared to the 12.1 megapixel Coolpix S700 it replaces, the S710 offers a bit more in almost every respect: You get a 3.6X zoom instead of just a standard 3X. The display has grown to 3.0 inches. As far as sensitivity goes, the S710 can go up to an insanely high ISO 12,800. And the S710 offers Program, Aperture, Shutter, and Manual exposure modes in addition to the usual scene modes. Add to that the latest tricks and features and the US$379 S710 is a compelling buy.
Read review of
the Nikon Coolpix S710.
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DESCRIPTION:
Nikon Coolpix S60
3.5-inch touch screen and 5X optical zoom
 Ever since the Apple iPhone hit the market, touch screens have made a comeback. Nikon joins the party with the new 10-megapixel Coolpix that has a terrific high-res 3.5-inch touch screen that replaces all the hardware controls. The Coolpix S60, which comes in five eye-catching colors, has an internal 5X folding optical zoom to bring things close. There is optical lens-shift image stabilization to reduce blur, and you can shoot at up to 3200 ISO. Like most new cameras, the US$349 S60 includes a wealth of in-camera goodies and technologies.
Read review of
the Nikon Coolpix S60.
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DESCRIPTION:
2008 J.D. Powers Digital Camera ratings
Customer satisfaction survey yields ome surprising results
J.D. Power and Associates released its 2008 Digital Camera Usage and Satisfaction Study that shows the Canon EOS Digital SLR, Canon PowerShot G, Fujifilm Finepix S, Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ, Nikon D and Sony Cyber-shot T series ranking highest in customer satisfaction in their respective segments. See J.D. Power ratings for DSLRs, Point & Shoot, Premium Point & Shoot, and Ultra Slims.
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DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim Z150
The thinnest camera with 4X wide-angle zoom
 If you're not spoiled enough to automatically pass on a new camera with a mere 8-megapixel resolution, the Exilim Z150 from Casio has a lot to offer. It is an elegant little shooter that comes in five colors (silver, black, red, pink and green), has a very useful 4X wide angle zoom, a large and terrific 3-inch LCD display, CCD-shift anti-shake, and it comes with a list price of just US$199 -- a total bargain. Read description and specs of the Casio Exilim Z150 with 3-inch display and 4X wide zoom.
Read review of
the Casio Exilim Z150.
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DESCRIPTION:
Pentax Optio W60
Waterproof Optio now shoots deeper and at colder temperatures
 There are times when you don't want to have to worry about getting your camera wet or dirty. Pentax designed the 10-megapixel Optio W60 with that in mind. It's a tough but elegant camera with a fully internal 5X zoom that starts out wide and still gets you closer than 3X zoom models. The 2.5-inch display is sharp and very readable from all directions. The camera can record 1280 x 720 pixel movies. Best of all, the US$329 Optio W60 can handle up to 13 feet of water and you can use it even in freezing temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
Read review of
the Pentax Optio W60.
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DESCRIPTION:
Pentax Optio V20
Pentax Optio V20: big screen, big zoom
 The Pentax Optio V20 is an update to the company's sleek V10 model. The V20 has the same large and bright 3-inch wide-angle LCD display, but includes a longer 5X optical zoom. What you get here is a light and handy 8-megapixel camera with fun features like face, blink and smile recognition and a number of other tricks, all made more useful by the big and very sharp display and the long zoom. List price is US$279.
Read review of
the Pentax Optio V20.
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DESCRIPTION:
Nikon Coolpix S550 and S600
And two new 10-megapixel Nikon Coolpix cameras
 For those who want 10 megapixel resolution and are willing to pay a bit more for some cool features, Nikon inroduced the Coolpix S550 and S600. Both are very small and light and fit into any pocket. The US$229 Coolpix S550 has a 5X optical zoom, letting you get that much closer. The US$299 S600 has a larger 2.7-inch LCD, is among the quickest cameras around, has optical vibration reduction, and a 4X 28-112mm optical zoom that lets you shoot wide angle, and you get to go as close as 1.2 inches with the macro.
Read review of
the Nikon Coolpix S550 and the Nikon Coolpix S600 .
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DESCRIPTION:
Nikon Coolpix S210 and S520
Two new 8-megapixel Nikon Coolpix cameras
 Nikon introduced two new 8-megapixel S-series Coolpix cameras. The US$179 S210's primary claim to fame is its slender, sexy body that's just 0.7 inches thin. It also weighs next to nothing and fits anywhere. Yet, it has a large and razor-sharp 2.5-inch LCD that remains quite readable outdoors thanks to an anti-reflection coating. The design is clean and uncluttered, and the four available colors are quite attractive. The US$229 aluminum-bodied S520 is a bit thicker and heavier. It has active lens shift vibration reduction that eliminates most blur when you zoom and it can be used both for still pictures and for movies.
Read review of
the Nikon Coolpix S210 and the Nikon Coolpix S520 .
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DESCRIPTION:
Olympus Stylus 850 SW and 1030 SW
Two new tough and rugged Olympus Stylus models
  Olympus introduced two new cameras in its SW (Shock & Waterproof) series. The US$299 Stylus 850 SW is a 8-megapixel camera that's waterproof to ten feet, can survive drops of five feet, and freezing temperatures. It's designed for all sorts of outoors activities including skiing and snorkeling. The US$399 10-megapixel Stylus 1030 SW is tougher yet. You can go diving with it, down to 33 feet (and probably more), drop it from almost seven feet, subject it to extreme temperatures, dust, sand, whatever. It also has a terrific hi-res 2.7-inch LCD and a 3.6X 28-102mm optical zoom that enables wide angle photography.
Read review of
the Olympus Stylus 850 SW and the Olympus Stylus 1030 SW.
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DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim Pro EX-F1
Superfast burst mode and movies in 12X zoom
 Casio's corporate slogan is "Expect the Unexpected," but even so, few would have expected the Pro EX-F1 from the company famous for its attractive little ultra-slim cameras. What is the EX-F1? A fairly large 6-megapixel camera with a 12X optical zoom and, according to Casio, the world's fastest burst shooting performance. How fast? Up to 60 frames per second in full resolution burst mode, and up to 1,200 frames per second in high-speed movies! And also 1920 x 1080 stereo movies at 60 frames per second.
Read review of
the Casio Exilim Pro EX-F1.
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DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim EX-Z100 and EX-Z200
Two more new 10-megapixel Casios
 Casio added two more stylish and attractive 10-megapixel cameras to its lineup. The Exilim EX-Z100 and EX-Z200 come in a variety of colors, have a high-res 2.7-inch display, all the goodies of the latest generation of Casios (800 x 480 pixel movies at 30fps, auto-shutter, face recognition, and digital image stabilization. They have a 28-112mm 4X optical zoom that allows wide angle shooting. No manual modes, but 39 scene modes cover about everything. The difference between the two is that the US$299 EX-Z200 has CCD-shift active anti-blur technology and the US$279 EX-Z100 does not.
Read review of
the Casio Exilim EX-Z10 and EX-Z200.
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DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim EX-Z80
Even smaller and lighter than ever before
 The 8.1 megapixel Casio Exilim EX-Z80, available in six colors, replaces the EX-Z77 as the entry level model in Casio's "Zoom" series. It's even smaller and lighter than its predecessor, can record 848 x 480 pixel movies at 30 frames per second and uses H.264/AAC recording for easy play back on iPods and automatic upload to YouTube. There is advanced face recognition that can even detect a smile, and a special "auto shutter" mode detects movement and can automatically take blue-free pictures. The EX-Z80 lists for US$199.95.
Read review of
the Casio Exilim EX-Z80.
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DESCRIPTION:
Casio Exilim EX-S10
A sexy, ultra-slim 10 megapixel Casio
 The ultra-slim (just 0.55 inches) stainless-steel bodied Exilim EX-S10 is
Casio's first Card-series 10 megapixel camera. It's available in red, blue, black and silver, has a high-res 2.7 inch wide-format LCD, and can record 848 x 480 pixel movies at 30 frames per second. The S10, which lists for US$249, uses H.264/AAC recording and can easily play back on iPods and in iTunes/iLife'08. There are 36 scene modes (including YouTube and eBay), face recognition and a special "auto shutter" that shoots a picture when your hands don't shake or the subject stops moving.
Read review of
the Casio Exilim EX-S10.
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REVIEW:
Fujifilm FinePix Z100fd
Stylish, ultra-compact 8-megapixel camera with advanced features
With the Z100fd, Fujifilm offers its most advanced "Z" series camera yet. It is a small and slender 8-megapixel camera with eye-catching design and color options. The fully internal 5X optical zoom means no annoying lens barrel protruding from the camera. A combination xD Picture Card and standard SD card slot provides more storage options. The Fuji Super CCD HR imager makes for excellent picture quality, and the camera has both mechanical and digital image stabilization. The Z100fd lists for US$249.99, far less than older "Z"series top of the line cameras, but at the high end of 8-megapixel consumer cameras. Its performance and features justify the price.
Read review of
the Fujifilm FinePix Z100fd.
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FULL REVIEW:
Eye-Fi wireless 2GB SD Card
Brings WiFi to all cameras!
There are cameras with built-in WiFi, but wouldn't it be nice to be able to add wireless to any digital camera? You can do that with the amazing Eye-Fi card that combines 802.11b/g wireless with a nice 2GB of storage capacity. The bright-orange card looks just like a standard SD card and fits into any camera that uses the SD card format. The software loads automatically, has a browser-based interface, and you can upload to your PC or Mac and/or almost 20 photo sharing sites. How much does it cost? US$99.99 retail.
Read full review of
the Eye-Fi 2GB wireless SD Card.
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DESCRIPTION AND SPECS:
Nikon Coolpix S510 and S700
Nikon Style in stainless steel and brushed aluminum
Almost everyone now offers lots of megapixel and a slew of advanced features at very low cost, so manufacturers have been forced to differentiate low and high end cameras in different ways. The current approach is to have different "families" of cameras, with each appealing to a different group of customers. The new stainless steel 8.1 megapixel Coolpix S510 (US$299.95) and brushed aluminum 12.1 megapixel S700 (US$379.99), combine sophisticated elegance with advanced technology and speed.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Nikon Coolpix S510,
and the Nikon Coolpix S700.
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DESCRIPTION AND SPECS:
Nikon Coolpix S51C
Two Performance Series Nikon Coolpix cameras
The 8.1 megapixel Coolpix S51c is an elegant, small and handy camera with a fully internal 3X zoom. It offers an interesting feature in its built-in wireless connection that lets you send and store pictures. It primarily connects to Nikon's own my Picturetown service, which limits choices. The camera is small enough to fit anywhere, yet has a very large and razor-sharp 3.0-inch LCD that remains quite readable outdoors thanks to an anti-reflection coating. The design is clean and uncluttered,and the camera offers full voice recording, VGA movies with sound, and active lens shift vibration reduction that eliminates most blur when you zoom. It also includes a slew of Nikon's in-camera goodies and technologies.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Nikon Coolpix S51c.
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DESCRIPTION AND SPECS:
Nikon Coolpix P50 and P5100
Two Performance Series Nikon Coolpix cameras
Those who want more power and versatility than point & shooters offer will be interested in two new "performance series" cameras from Nikon. The Coolpix P50 (US$229.95) is a small and handy 8.1 megapixel camera with some manual control, face recognition, red-eye reduction and electronic vibration reduction. The 12.1 megapixel Coolpix P5100 (US$379.95) offers full manual control, a high-resolution 2.5-inch LCD and true optical lens-shift image stabilization. Both have optical viewfinders to complement their LCDs, have 16 scene modes, and fit into most pockets in spite of their considerable power.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Nikon Coolpix P50,
and the Nikon Coolpix P5100.
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DESCRIPTION AND SPECS:
Nikon Coolpix L14 and L15
Two inexpensive Nikon Coolpix cameras
If you want a really inexpensive Coolpix camera, the L14 fits the bill. It is simple and easy to use, yet takes good pictures. For a bit more you can get the L15 that has a larger, higher res LCD and optical image stabilization.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Nikon Coolpix L14,
and the Nikon Coolpix L15.
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REVIEW:
Olympus SP-560UZ and Stylus 790SW
An 18X ultra-zoom camera and one that's shock and waterproof
If you want to get maximum zoom AND get as close as possible AND get dual image stabilization and tons of features, the Olympus SP-560UZ delivers. The shock, freeze and waterproof Stylus 790SW is the perfect companion for sports and outoor use.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Olympus SP-560UZ,
and the Olympus Stylus 790SW.
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 820, 830, 1200
Three new elegant Stylus cameras
The Stylus lineup gets the 8-megapixel 820 with a big LCD and 5X optical zoom, the 8-megapixel 830 with dual image stabilization, and the 12-megapixel 1200.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Olympus Stylus 820, the
Olympus Stylus 830, and the Olympus Stylus 1200.
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REVIEW:
Olympus FE-280, FE-290, FE-300
Three interesting, inexpensive Olympus "easy & fun" cameras
As part of its Summer 2007 lineup, Olympus introduced the superslim 8-megapixel FE-280; the FE-290 with a big 3-inch display, 4X optical zoom and a wide-angle lens; and the 12-megapixel FE-300.
Read descriptions and specs of
the Olympus FE-280, the
Olympus FE-290, and the Olympus FE-300.
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REVIEW:
Pentax T30 and W30
Two more Optios, one with a touchscreen and one waterproof
Two more Optios complete the review of thee current 2007 30-Series models from Pentax.
The Optio T30 may look like just another sleek, elegant 7.1 megapixel digicam, but it sports an innovative touchscreen interface for fast, easy operation.
If you speend a lot of time near, on, or under water, the waterproof Optio W30 fits the bill.
Read reviews of
the Pentax Optio T30, and the
Optio W30.
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REVIEW:
Pentax A30, E30, and M30
A remarkable trio from one of the world's great camera makers
We review the entry-level 7.1 megapxel Pentax Optio E30 which offers a lot of bang for very little money;
the sleek and elegant 7.1 megapixel Pentax Optio M30 that looks like a million dollars;
and the remarkable 10 megapixel Pentax Optio A30 with face recognition, intelligent zoom, and superb blur-reduction technology.
Read reviews of
the Pentax Optio E30,
Optio M30, and
Optio A30.
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REVIEW:
Olympus Evolt E-330 with PT-E02 Underwater Housing System
Impressive, affordable digital SLR with Live View.
 Digital SLRs are getting better and less expensive, and they are getting lots of useful new features. The Olympus Evolt-330 is a 7.5 megapixel dSLR with a terrific wide viewing angle LCD that provides live preview. It also features dust reduction technology so you don't get specks and dirt onto the mirror when you change lenses. We extensively tested the E-330 not only on land, but also underwater with its optional waterproof housing.
Read
review of the 7.5 megapixel Olympus Evolt E-330 digital SLR and its underwater housing
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 770 SW
Waterproof, Shockproof. Temperatureproof. Crushproof.
 Don't want the bulk of a dedicated underwater camera housing? Then consider the 7.1 megapixel Olympus Stylus 770 SW that's waterproof to 33 feet, has a terrific wide-viewing-angle 2.5-inch LCD and is still small enough to fit into any pocket. And it's also shockproof, crushproof and can handle temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. We extensively tested the 770 underwater and took it down to almost 70 feet. No problem.
Read
review of the wateproof 7.1-megapixel Olympus Stylus 770 SW
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REVIEW:
Olympus SP-510UZ
For when getting close matters
 The Olympus SP-510UZ is a camera to consider when you need something fairly light and small that let's you get close, 10x optical zoom close. Reviewer Carol Cotton Walker says she'd quite likely put it in her purse and take it everywhere she goes. She also took some killer pictures with it. However, make sure you study the manual and spend an hour or so learning the many functions of this interesting camera. Both beginners and advanced photographers will like this ultra-zoom Olympus that grows on you the more you use it.
Read
review of the 7.1-megapixel Olympus SP-510UZ with 10X zoom
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REVIEW:
Casio Exilim EX-Z1000
What's it like to have a 10 megapixel compact?
 In April of 2006, the Casio Exilim EX-Z1000 was the first announced 10-megapixel compact. Apart from the stunning resolution at a very reasonable price it offers a terrific 2.8-inch wide screen, a sleek and slender body, and no fewer than 36 shooting modes. It also has great battery life and sports a frendly, ergonomic design. But did Casio truly take advantage of scoring this historic first? We've been shooting with the Z1000 for several months, so read our review of the Exilim Z1000 and find out
Read
review of the 10-megapixel Casio EX-Z1000
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STATUS:
Where digital cameras stand the end of 2006
With so many megapixels for so cheap, what separates digital cameras these days?
We get to play with hundreds of digital cameras every year. We review them all for you, so you can make more informed buying decisions. That is especially important these days where seemingly every digicam has 5 to 8 megapixel and costs very little. So what separates them? Read our overview to learn what to look out for when you buy.
Read
state of digital cameras end of 2006/start of 2007
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REVIEW:
Nikon Coolpix P3
A Nikon Coolpix with built-in wireless LAN!
 The Nikon Coolpix P3, a compact 8.1 megapixel digital camera that packs considerable power and some notable features such as an active vibration reduction mode and 802.11b/g wireless communication. That is the same wireless LAN notebook computers have and it can make transferring and printing pictures a lot easier. How does it work? And how good is the vibration reduction mode?
Read
Nikon Coolpix P3 review
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REVIEW:
Casio Exilim Z850
Casio messes with success: now more megapixel at a lower price!
 The Casio EX-Z750 won our last ultra-slim roundup of no fewer than 13 contestants with an almost perfect score. Last summer Casio replaced it with the Exilim Z850, which is part of their "Zoom" line of cameras. It looks almost identical, has 8.1 instead of 7.2 megapixel, longer battery life, and costs less. We've road-tested the Z850 for several months. Is it the same homerun the Z750 was?
Read
Casio Exilim EX-Z850 review
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REVIEW:
Fujifilm FinePix A600
Are 6-megapixel and a nice LCD and a low price enough to win you over?
 Fuji added the 6-megapixel A600 and the 7-megapixel A700 to its lineup of inexpensive entry level cameras. We spent time with the A600 and found much to like. It takes above-average pictures, has a nice 2.4-inch LCD and is ultra-simple to use. It has a few shortcomings as well, though. See if it'd make sense for you!
Read
Fuji FinePix A600 review
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REVIEW:
Casio Exilim S770
Casio's sexy card camera now with a 2.8-inch wide screen
 If you want the slimmest, sexiest digital camera around, take a look at Casio's "Card" series. We loved the stunning S500 and S600, but the Exilim S770 has a much larger, much higher resolution screen and a 7.2MB imager. Despite the big 2.8-inch wide screen, the S770 is just a little larger than its lesser siblings. What does it offer? A lot. Is it for you?
Read
Casio S770 review
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REVIEWS:
Fujifilm FinePix F650 and FinePix F20
5X optical zoom and giant LCD, or ISO 2000 plus high tech?
  We're reviewing two 6-megapixel cameras from Fuji, both in roughly the same price range. The FinePix F650 has a 5X zoom, an awesome 3-inch LCD and terrific ergonomics. The F20 is smaller and lighter, has "only" a 2.5-inch display and a 3X zoom, but steps up to bat with very high ISO 2000 sensitivity and lots of Fuji's highest technology. Read what each camera offers, then decide.
Read
FinePix F20 review and
FinePix F650 review
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REVIEW:
Samsung Pro815
SLR-style camera with giant LCD and 15X optical zoom
 With the 8-megapixel Samsung Pro815 attempts to blow the SLR-style competition out of the water. We're talking 3.5-inch LCD, secondary LCD, high-res electronic viewfinder, a powerful Li-Ion battery good for up to 450 images, and a huge 15X optical zoom that can go up to 60X via digital magnification. Can the big Samsung live up to expectations
Read
More...
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REVIEW:
Fujifilm FinePix S9100
9 megapixel and 10.7X optical zoom
 The Fuji S9100 is one of those cameras people constantly mistake for a single lens reflex model. It's as big as a SLR and looks like a SLR, but it's not a SLR. It's what could be called a fixed-lens SLR-style camera. What does the big Fuji offer and why should you pick it over a digital SLR, or not?
Read
More...
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ROUNDUP:
three inexpensive Olympus point & shooters
What do Olympus' 6-megapixel "Easy & Fun" compacts offer and which is the best?
Our flurry of Olympus digital camera reviews continues.
This time we did a roundup of three of the company's "Easy & Fun" FE Series models. All cost below US$200, all have 6 megapixel, a 3X optical zoom, and a nice 2.5-inch LCD. So what makes them different and which one should you pick? We found some surprising answers and a clear winner!
Read
More...
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 750
7.1 megapixel, big zoom, and dual image stabilization.
 Olympus offers the almost identical Stylus 740 and 750, both handy little 7.1 megapixel point & shooters that you can get an optional deepwater case for. So what's the difference between the
two and what do you pay fifty extra bucks for? That'd be the 750's dual image stabilization that really works!
Read
More...
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 740 with deepwater case
Thinnest 5X optical zoom camera in its class.
 The Stylus 740 is a terrific little camera in its own right. 5X optical zoom, very high res 2.5-inch LCD, light and handy. We primarily tested it 70 feet underwater, with an alligator swimming above us.
Yikes. All you have to do is get the optional PT-034 Underwater Case and you, too, can (try to) shoot like Jacques Cousteau did.
Read
More...
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REVIEW:
Olympus Stylus 720 SW with deepwater case
A sleek 7 megapixel camera you can drop and take underwater.
Underwater photography is a very special experience. You're taking pictures of things that most people never get to see at all in person and certainly
not through a camera lens. Taking a camera down under to shoot sea creatures, other divers, reefs, landscapes, wrecks, caverns -- it all ranks right up there among the very special things in life.
Read
More...
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ROUNDUP
11 Sub-$300 Cameras
Get a Lot For Very Little: We tested 11 inexpensive digital cameras.
The prices of digital cameras have come way down over the past couple of years. As a result, you can get more for your money than ever before.
We're testing and comparing 11 cameras under US$300 in a comprehensive roundup and discover some amazing bargains, some duds, and a unanimous winner.
Read
More...
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FEATURE
This iPod Does Video
Phenomenally successful music
player effortlessly morphs into a personal media player.
Next stop: Hollywood.
This is going to be hard. It's going to be hard to maintain
the standard editorial distance I am supposed to have
when I review a product. The new video-capable iPod is
astonishingly good. It just doesn't seem possible for
an object so slim and beautiful to do so much, so well.
It's just not right that it has so quickly become a part
of my life. This is going to be hard.
Read
More...
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ROUNDUP
Thin Zoom Digital Camera Roundup
The latest ultra-thin digital
cameras are marvels of technology.
"You can never be too rich or too thin," they say. Only
a fortunate (very) few ever get the chance to personally
form an opinion on whether one can indeed not ever be
too rich, but the thin thing is with us wherever we go.
Even with cameras. Unshackled from the limitation of having
to accommodate a comparatively huge 35-mm film cartridge,
the digital camera industry has apparently gone on a quest
to see just how thin a digital camera they can make.
Read
More...
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FEATURE
Answers To Your Top 15 Questions: DSLR Buying Guide
Ready to step up from point-&
shoots? Here's what you need to know.
Thinking of buying a Digital SLR with that spare thousand
bucks you have hanging around? Here are the top 15 questions
I get asked from readers who want to choose wisely. Only
cameras that have interchangeable lenses and through-the-lens
(non-electronic) viewing are covered here. Read on and
pick a camera that's best for your needs.
Read
More...
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TUTORIAL
How To Create A Still Life
Stay home, save gas, get creative.
When the weather outside turns frightful, stay inside
and shoot a still life. What's a still life? It's simply
a creative arrangement of objects which you design. You've
probably seen classical still life paintings such as flower
arrangements or bowls of fruit with fish or fowl in the
scene. While these are more traditional still life subjects,
yours should be limited only by your imagination.
At
newsstands 01/24/2006
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PICTORIAL
Jon's World
Looking for photographic inspiration?
Let Jon Cox take you on a world tour
Looking for photographic inspiration? Take a long look
at the work of Jon Cox, our friend and a longtime contributor
to DCM. This issue, we present his pictures without the
usual 1000 words. ~DM
At
newsstands 01/24/2006
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Full Features February 2006 Issue
ROUNDUP
LCD Flat Panels: 19" - 21"
The war is over and flat panels
won. Here are six contenders for your desk
As a photographer, whether you are a hobbyist or a professional,
the time has come to literally look at your computer monitor
in a new way.
Read
More...
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TUTORIAL
Create a Lulu of a Photo Calendar for 2006
Building the perfect photo calendar,
just in time for the new year
Calendars are great for showing off your pictures but
grinding them out slowly on an inkjet printer and laboriously
assembling each one by hand isn,t my idea of fun. It's
not cheap, either.
Read
More...
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TUTORIAL
Snapshots to Superb Shots
How to take the ordinary and
turn it into something extraordinary
It,s easy to fall into snapshot mode, especially when
you,re traveling. However, with a little effort you can
turn your snapshots into superb shots. Photographing people
on the go isn't as difficult as you may think.
Read
More...
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ROUNDUP
Long Zoom Digital Cameras
We tested eight mid-priced models
with 5x and greater zoom range
8 state-of-the-art big zoom digital cameras. All have 5X
optical zoom or better. Some up to 12X. Some are large,
some are small. All are quite affordable. We tell you
which is best overall, best for big zoom work, and best
to just take along with you.
Read
More...
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TUTORIAL
Brilliant Frame
Try a backlit picture frame and
watch people light up
I have a short, dark, hallway with no overhead lighting
nor any room for a table with a lamp on it. It's been
bugging me for years, especially since there's some wall
space at the end of it that would be a perfect place to
hang a photo.
Read
More...
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