Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera Reviews

This is a fantastic camera, and a great first DSLR. I say that because if it is your first, you will not be comparing the control layout with your old XXD or XXXD, and that seems to be an issue with some. Most of my shooting is in M or Av mode. I find the controls easy to work with, and use the top LED and control buttons almost exclusively, but now and then I'll use the q-menu. Over all, I find the controls easy to use. The 18-200 kit lens is useful for outdoor shooting, but for indoor stuff you will want a better prime. I went with an older version of the "nifty fifty" with the metal mount and range meter. Since this is a crop sensor camera, a 50mm lens behaves like an 80mm, so I find myself needing to back away from my subject often. I think a prime in the 20-30mm range and f/1.4 would be useful in a lot of situations. In general, you should determine why you are buying the camera. If you want to take lots of outdoor shots (birds, wildlife etc) get the body only and buy a nice 300M zoom. If you are going to take lots of indoor shots (family gatherings, baby etc) get the body only and a wide aperture prime in the 20-50MM range (a wide aperture lets more light in so you don't need a flash as often, and yields that nice soft focus "bokeh" effect). If you want to be ready to shoot a variety of situations right out of the box and don't mind using the flash indoors, then pick a kit lens and go with it. I would not recommend the 18-55 kit lens though...you will bump against its limitations very quickly, even if you are a beginner like me. Video on this thing is amazing, and I didn't even consider that when I bought the camera! Beware file size though. 2 minutes of 1080 @ 30FPS left me with an 800+meg .mov file. I think there is a 4 GB limit on video file size, so figure you will get 5 minutes of continuous shooting at that definition and frame rate. That will be enough for most applications, unless you are filming a wedding or childbirth and don't want to stop shooting, in which case you could film at 720p or standard definition. Playback through the included cable is so so, so get yourself a mini HDMI to HDMI cable on Amazon or Monoprice (should cost $5-$10) and prepare yourself to be amazed by the resolution and image quality. I would also recommend a program called Any Video Converter, which enables you to change the resolution and format of your video to suit different hardware (iphones, droids, youtube etc). Imagine uploading a 4GB file to YouTube, for example. You can download the program for free, and then pay $40 bucks to be able to use the full menu set. The only negative about this camera is that the auto focus in video mode and live view mode is borderline useless. In live view mode, it is so slow that everyone else would have got the shot with their point and shoot cameras before the 60D settles down and takes the picture. As for Video, I don't think AF works once you start shooting, so if you zoom or your subject moves, you have to stay on top of it. I don't shoot in live view mode and I am getting the hang of manual focus during Video (it is actually a creative outlet) so I'm fine with these shortcomings. From what I can tell, they are software based and related to the video codec...so it is possible that a firmware upgrade will address these issues.

GoPro HD Helmet Hero Reviews

I bought this HD camera to replace a VholdR Wearable Camcorder (Black) which didn't survive getting run over by my SUV. The Hero is a well constructed camera, very solid feeling with quality construction. Pros: The camera has four modes - video (in several resolutions), still pictures, self-timer still pictures, and interval photos (pictures every few seconds). The lens gives a tremendously wide wild view which is nice for HD's 9:16. It will shoot 1080p, 960p 720p (at 30 and 60 frames per second), and 480 (at 60 frames per second) line resolutions. It uses standard SDHC memory cards and has an internal battery which recharges via a USB cable. The recorded audio is very good both inside and outside of the motor sports waterproof case that came with my kit. Video is relatively good, not as vivid as a dedicated camcorder but the resolution is good. My kit came with a variety of mounts and a suction cup mount for windows and car body use. The waterproof case comes with two backs, one that is watertight and one that is not for better audio when waterproof use isn't required. The kit comes with connectors for connecting the camera up to an HDTV monitor (component video) or a TV monitor (composite video). A neat feature in the menu is that you can flip both the video and still photos so you can shoot with the camera upside down without a problem. Cons: The quick release mounts have a bit of wiggle to them. The back of the waterproof case can be difficult to lock closed. The menu system is a bit troublesome to use as there are only two buttons and three LCD characters to use. Once set you'll not have to go into the menu very often. Future: There's a connector on the rear that GoPro plans on using for an external battery or a monitor. Neither are available at the time of this review but they are being worked on. In use on the trail the mounts worked very well. I used the suction cup primarily to mount the camera to my windshield, bumper, side body panel, and side window. Across rugged rocky trails the camera held firm and the video came out very well. The simple interface was easy enough to use. One button to turn the camera on and select the mode and another to stop and start the recording.

Canon PowerShot SX130IS Digital Camera Reviews

I first heard about the SX130is on August 19th- the same day I had decided that my final purchase decision would be the SX120is. After reading a few reviews, it had me convinced that this would be worth waiting for. I received my SX130is late this morning- and have to say, right from the box it was just amazing. Every time in the past when purchasing a new camera, it takes some adjusting and "breaking in" before fully great-quality pictures come, but with this one, literally from the first shot it has been wonderful. The HD video also records wonderfuly, and the sound is great as well- even with using all of the 48x digital zoom! The one "downside" to the video mode is that the image doesn't auto-focus as you zoom in, at times you have to re-focus using the shutter just as you normally would when taking a picture, but I personally didn't find that too annoying once I figured it out. The miniature and fisheye modes are a blast to use, and the smart-shutter mode (takes the photo when a smile is detected, without using the shutter) is neat too. The LCD is a nice big size, and has an auto-rotate for images in the playback mode, as well as an option to scroll through them when selecting. A fun fact which I also noticed is that it has a "screensaver," which displays the time to save the screen (as a computer would). Although some might consider it a bit "bulky" compared to most compact point and shoots, the size is perfect for someone like me who has bigger hands, allowing for a decent grip and non-clumsy hold. Overall, I just absolutely LOVE this camera (which I why I already give it 5 stars, hands down). Definitely recomend this to anyone; is well worth the money! After finally getting some Rayovac recharcable NiMH batteries, I can finally say that this camera is well worth the money. If you use regular AA (nonrechargeable) batteries, it will blow through them like crazy, so I learned the hard way. But the NiMH last much, much longer, plus are rechargeable. If you plan on purchasing this camera, I would highly recommend also getting the batteries- it is well worth the extra money.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 Digital Camera Reviews

I said "Depends on What You're Looking For" because everyone has their own expectations and needs. In my case, all my DSLRs have been Nikon, and all my small pocket cameras have been Canon. I was in the market for a new pocket camera since my others didn't have optical image stabilization. So I bought another small Canon, and for some reason, just not as pleased anymore (I ended up giving to my wife and she loves it). I must admit I'm picky on quality of the image, high ISO capability, and having some control over camera setting. A friend of mine had been looking at DSLRs, but bought the LX5 and asked what I thought about it. The more I reviewed and analyzed it, the more I liked it. So I bought one. It's close to a pocket size camera, but a little larger. Though the specs say 4.3 inch x 2.6 inch x 1 inch, that is true, but just for the body itself. The lens with lens cap adds another inch sticking out. So the body is OK, but a little bigger than I previously would purchase for casual carry around shooting. But, it's still not that large overall, and fits in jacket pockets, larger pants pockets just fine. So after using this camera, I changed my outlook. Why? Because this camera met my expectations of high quality images, high ISO capability, and having control over all aspects (but I found automatic mode produces outstanding images also, so it's a win-win on this camera). This camera is the first compact I ever owned that produces superb images which I don't find myself complaining about. The images actually look like the original scene. Exposure control is excellent, focusing is accurate, images look great, and the camera is easy to use. For being picky, I really haven't found a complaint yet. Lumix did a good job on this one. Even though this camera has a hot shoe on top for an external flash, I don't buy compacts for that reason, normally wouldn't care if one was there anyway. I would use my DSLR for that purpose. However, that's me, so I took my Nikon SB800 flash (which is 3 times the size of the camera) and stuck it on the LX5. I put the camera in Aperture priority mode, set the f/stop and set the flash accordingly. No problem. Everything worked very well. Though you can't expect to get a computerized camera to flash operation that a dedicated Panasonic flash would give you, it does mean you can use whatever flash you want on the camera and get good photos. (I posted one under customer images using the Nikon flash). So it does depend on what you're looking for in a camera that suits your needs, in my case, this camera does excellent and very pleased with it.

Celestron SkyMaster Giant 15x70 Binoculars with Tripod Adapter Reviews

I purchased these binoculars for night sky viewing. I had a pair of 10X50 Bushnell binoculars and I was impressed with what I was able to see through those so I bought these for even more in depth viewing and they have not let me down. They are ideal as supplements to a telescope or if you don't have a telescope, these are great for your first introduction to optics that will open up the night sky to you. They are much easier to use than a telescope and you can see all kinds of neat things. I viewed such things as the Orion Nebula, the Andromeda galaxy, the Pleiades, and double stars such as Mizar and Alcor in Ursa Major with relative ease and they looked stunning. Focus these binoculars in on the Milky Way and you will see tons of stars you wouldn't be able to see otherwise. I was even able to look at Saturn and with some steadying of the binoculars against my chest, could slightly make out the definition of the rings. These binoculars also do a magnificent job of viewing the moon. I had read some reviews that they are really heavy and bulky, but I found that they were surprisingly light and easy to steady free handed. They are quite large, which means that they will take up more space than a normal binocular, but this is to be expected. Mine did come with a carrying case and a tripod adapter (which I haven't used yet, so I cannot comment on its quality). Overall, for the price, you can't go wrong. I've used these binoculars in the daytime and they are great--crystal clear optics. They also seem very durable and with some care, will probably last you many many years. If you are new to stargazing and are considering a good pair of binoculars that will show you all kinds of wonderous things, look no further than the Celestron Skymasters--you will not be disappointed.

Kodak PlaySport Waterproof Pocket Video Camera Reviews

Kodak Playsport Zx5, is the more durable, weatherproof replacement for the first generation playsport, the Zx3, this one offers some new features better than the Zx3, yet leaves some features that i yearn they should have left on the Zx5. I am happy with the waterproof feature, its perfect for any summer holiday with your friends or family. However, dont drop it while your swimming because if it sinks deeper than 10 Ft., the pressure will force water through the seals (always use the included lanyard). Also, dont use it on normal beaches as the water usually isnt clear enough to be able to record anything, recording in swimming pools however, is entirely different. The clarity of a pool makes for some interesting recordings underwater that you dont usually see with regular camcorders like the Flip mino. The anti-glare feature is a nice touch, especially on the beach, its a software that artificially reduces the glare from your screen, but it does not effect the recording one bit, just the screen. The menu is pretty cryptic, no words, just alot of symbols which i am fine with, you are gonna read the instructions anyways, and most of the symbols are pretty self explanatory, the only real problem with this is that new people you let borrow the recorder might be a bit confused. Now, what does Kodak Zx5 offers to substitute the previous model? The first feature, sharing button system is created to simplify the video or image sharing process to popular social networks. With its new share button applied on the video camera, I just press a button and the video will be uploaded automatically. But to make it work, it has to be plugged into a computer with the software isntalled. Kodak has also added some new popular social network sites like Flickr, KODAK Gallery, and ORKUT. Second, it has macro mode, which enables me to shoot and focus small objects. This is an interesting feature and in my opinion this is a great main additional feature offered by Kodak. Great for recording small objects such as bugs or items. On recorders without macro, smaller items would just be blurred out of focus if the camera got too close. third, I can play out my creativity with its four capture effects. Theres black and white, sepia, bright colors and even the 70s film style. With this new feature, you can edit and trim your video with any style effects on the unit itself. fourth, the battery is not swappable unlike the zx3, so if you like carrying multiple batteries around for convenience, that's not possible. That sucks because with the zx3 the battery isnt all to expensive and you would carry around one or two extra ones in your bag for backup. For the Zx5, the battery has to be charged again until you can use it which will take a couple hours. For one charge, recording in 720p 64 FPS, i managed 137 minuutes which isnt all to bad, but that means when i go out for travel, i will need to bring the charger and charge at night, a bit of an annoyance, however, i am used to apple products being like this, and i have a usb charger in my car so its not a deal breaker for me. last, all the recorded video files are in .mp4 format instead of the previous .mov format, .mp4 is much more compatible with more programs and easier to edit (as i was so generously reminded by another reviewer). All the files are stored on the HC (high capacity) SD card, i have a 32 GB card in it right now so i can hold up to 10 hours of recording, not bad. Don't be surprised if HDMI cables and other related accessories arnt there as you will have to pay S&H for kodak to ship one to you. The other thing I found is, besides with its waterproof condition, Kodak announces this new model will be shockproof and dustproof too. The previous generation playsport only offered waterproofing up to 10 ft, but i guess if its waterproof, naturally, it should be dust proof too right? Overall, this is a great combination of HD recording filled with editing, social networking, and weatherproofing features. I bought these to help my little brother record his golf swing, i use the 720 64 FPS setting, which helps address parts of his swing that he is doing incorrectly, its no high speed camera, but its nice that such an affordable camcorder will suffice. I can pause at certain parts, and the swing will clearly stop with only little blur, 32 FPS cameras would skip some portions of the swing as there are not enough shots per second to capture many nuances of a fast golf swing. Specs: * Shockproof, dustproof, and waterproof up to 10 ft * Kodak's Share button lets you choose your favorite sharing destination, e-mail address, or Kodak Pulse Display * Full 1080p HD videos and 5 MP HD stills, with auto focus * Get sharper videos and less blur thanks to built-in digital image stabilization * On-camera editing * HD720 at 32 or 64 FPS * HD1080 at 32 FPS I am too contemplating buying this camera over Zx3. There are another 2 things according to the specs. One positive and one negative. Positive: You can shoot in MP4 format instead of MOV as ZX3 does. MP4 is easier to work with, more editing software available, smaller in size than MOV therefore easier to upload. Negative: The battery pack is not removable.You can not swap batteries like in Zx3. Once the battery is dead, you have to wait for 6-8 hours to charge it. That will be a major deal breaker for many. I have the Zx3 and it does a great job above water--below water you have problems for 2 reasons (1) The water must be VERY clear to get a good shot, and (2) you can't get close to smaller fish or other items, like coral, because the Zx3 will NOT focus close up. I didn't actually know about the 10 or 20 inch minimum distance of the older Zx3 until my recent trip where I shot a lot of underwater video and learned about it after the fact. I just used my zx5 for the first time on Saturday and I was expecting the first charge to take 4-5 hours like the instructions said, however it only took 2 1/2 hours! And when it died (which it seemed like it lasted awhile) I charged it again and it was only about 2 1/2 hours again. So both times I've charged the camera, it hasn't taken nearly as long to charge as I anticipated. missing some hard numbers on the battery. i just got mine. did a full charge overnight, and then recorded the entire day, never playing with the menu. around 100 minutes mark it showed the red battery on the top corner. another 35min until it shutdown. on maximum quality, that ate almost 50% of my 16gb card. (7.6gb) If you ever plant to use it underwater, spend another hundred and get a dmc-ts2. This one is not a underwater camera by any stretch of imagination. 3m is just to use in the pool or not get it damaged it it fall in the sea while using at the beach...

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera Reviews

I've been a Canon customer since 1978, when I bought the 35mm Canon A-1, and I've had a Canon SLR ever since. Getting the new flagship model every three or four years was something I did for a long time, but when D-SLRs came along, I began downsizing after the EOS 1Ds I got in 2004. In 2007 I moved to EOS 40D and, although losing the full-size sensor was a sacrifice, it was a step in the right direction. With my recent purchase of the T3i, it's another move away from the professional models. Why would I do that? It's not so much the cost of new cameras that has shaped my decisions to downgrade; it's the size. While professional equipment is important to me, so are professional looking photos. And the truth is, after the newness wears off a D-SLR, I tend frequently to leave the big gun behind and rely on an advanced compact or ultrazoom for most of my shooting. As a result, I have more point-and-shoot pictures than I do pro quality ones. This tendency has ended with the purchase of the T3i. The camera is modestly sized, and I never leave home without it. With the 18-55mm kit lens (very nice little lens for its specs) or 24-105L, it's not any bigger than the Fuji Finepix HS10 I leaned on for most of my shooting this past year. And while the HS10 is hands down the best ultrazoom camera I ever used, the difference in image quality, performance and even video between it and the T3i is night and day. The T3i may not be blazing fast like my 1Ds or the 40D, but 90% of the shooting I do is not that kind of photography, anyway. What the T3i excels at is image quality. I have a whole raft of photos that, eked and tweaked to maximum effect in Photoshop, are only a little better than average because they were taken with a point-and-shoot camera. This camera's image quality, I'm happy to say, is superlative! So are the videos. Rebel T3i is almost too good to be true. An articulating LCD is something I've come to insist upon, and this one is by far the best I've ever used. I don't use Live View every time, but I've certainly been in that mode a lot more frequently with this model than with the 40D! In review mode, the refresh rate is a bit slow when zooming in to look at details, but it's not as slow as reviewing pictures on, say, Panasonic DMC-ZS7. (I did test Canon EOS 60D at Best Buy and noticed that the refresh rate is much faster on that model--perhaps because of the larger battery--but it's really not enough of an issue to deduct a star.) The resolution of the LCD is superb, and because it can be tilted and twisted to advantage, it can be viewed even in strong sunlight. Although the nine-point autofocus system is getting criticism for lagging behind Nikon, focus is swift and accurate. At 3.7 fps, burst mode is cut nearly in half from my 40D's 6.5 fps, but so far this has not hampered my ability to catch fast moving subjects. I appreciate the Lighting Optimizer function and use it a lot under the harsh lighting conditions in the desert where I live. It is of incalculable value. I have yet to haul out the owner's manual, thanks to the on-board guide. Of course it helps that I've owned Canon D-SLRs before, but adjusting settings on this camera is a lot different than on my previous ones. There have been some settings I would have normally needed to consult a manual for, but it hasn't been necessary because the answers are in-camera. (I never shoot in Auto, by the way. I'm a manual mode kinda gal.) Because images are very clean up to ISO 1600 and are usable even at ISO 6400, taking along the Speedlight flash so far has not been necessary. Yet another plus with this Canon iteration. There's something about blown highlights that really sets my teeth on edge, but that has not been a problem, thanks to the T3i's Highlight Tone Priority function. Dynamic range is very good to excellent, even a hair better than my 40D. Colors are more accurate, too. I prefer the contrast one stop under the camera's default setting, which is, admittedly, fairly punchy and will result in a blown highlight here and there. Reducing contrast just a tad fixes that. Eighteen megapixel resolution is outstanding. Sometimes I think about the EOS 60D's speedier performance, more advanced autofocus system and that wonderful electronic level and wonder if I made the right choice. But then I remember the heft and bulk of that camera and all the times I've left my SLR at home for those very reasons, and I know the T3i was the right decision. I really, really like this new camera--and I take it everywhere!

Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera Customer Reviews

Part of my job, at a newspaper, is to rely on heavy cameras we have at our disposal, but when it comes to my personal stuff, I prefer to go very light. That's why for the last years I just kept ultracompact digicams with me that worked (and still work) fine fine. Recently I got some money from a gift, and decided to buy the new Nikon D3100 for taking better portraits of people in my life... to take quality pictures of what I'm used to do with my small digicams, in situations when I can comfortably carry the DSLR without worrying about the bulk. Basically, I bought this camera to use it exclusively with one or 2 prime lens I'll be buying in the near future.

After more than 1,000 shots with this camera in the last 2 weeks, I'm very glad with the purchase. This lightweight and fast device is a joy to use! Very lightweight, and great looking design.This Nikon feels great in my hands, the build quality seems sturdy and looks kind of pro even for it's smallness compared to bigger DSLRs. I love how I can set the func button to control ISO or other stuff like White Balance.

The lens included with the camera is very very sharp, so far I cannot complain. I'm amazed at the clean images I get with ISO 3200 indoors!! Wow, that's something that we couldn't say a few years ago with these cameras. I've already had pictures published in the newspaper set at those high Isos, and no problem... They look great!!

I also love the option of setting Picture Controls and Auto ISO. I usually set my camera to Portrait or Standard plus a little bit (1) of saturation.

I have already taken lots of photographs indoors without flash, portraits outside, candids indoors and outdoors, and even handed the camera to my brother (who knows nothing about operating DSLRs) for shooting parts of a concert and he got some beautiful pictures!! And that's one of my favorite things abut the camera: I can give it to other people to take pictures as a point and shoot, and they enjoy using it and taking nice photos without worrying about setting stuff.

I really don't care about video capabilities, nor liveview. I rarely use them but when I have done it, I've liked what I've seen. My only complaint is the battery, as I think it drains quickly compared with other cameras in the similar category I've seen.

So, for recording my life (and my family - friends - myself) in those moments I don't mind carrying something bigger than my ultracompact, the Nikon D3100 is perfect. I wouldn't bother to carry something bigger or heavier. This is the perfect balance.

My next buy will be the Nikkor 35mm 1.8 lens, and the small sb400 flash, that I will use all the time instead of the kit lens. I have nothing against the kit lens, but I love primes and the idea of getting the best quality possible for the least money. Then, in a few months, I may get a prime telephoto for complimenting the 35mm in the candid stuff. And that's all I think I will ever need for the rest of my life in personal photography.

I'm very very happy with my purchase, thanks Nikon!

Nikon D7000 DX-Format CMOS Digital SLR Reviews

My first DSLR was a D80 I purchased four years ago. The shutter went out a few weeks back but I had been planning to upgrade to the D7000 anyway so this just hurried things up. I bought the D7000 kit with the 18-105 lens but quickly sold that on Ebay. I was shooting with a Tamron 17-50 2.8 lens on the D80. For low light, it worked pretty well but greater than half the time I needed to use my SB-600 flash to capture my young kids doing what they do (move). The only downside to the Tamron, or combination of the Tamron with the D80, was that the images tended to be soft, especially when opened up. So I also upgraded my lens to the Nikkor 16-85. While this is a variable lens that maxes out at 3.5, it is amazingly sharp combined with the D7000. And the extra reach is great for getting better shots and also providing relatively shallow depth of field that otherwise would be lost with the slower aperture.

The reason I mention the lens change is that I wouldn't have gone to a variable lens had it not been for the amazing ISO performance on the D7000. I am now shooting flashless at very fast shutter speeds. I usually shoot raw and process with Lightroom and I'm seeing amazing results at 800 ISO even when fully blown up (1:1). At ISO 1600, I can see minor noise but Lightroom 3's noise reduction easily eliminates it. 3200 certainly isn't noiseless but again, Lightroom can clean it up very well in most situations. My old D80 had more noise at 400 than the D7000 has at 1600; I'd say 800 on it was equivalent to 3200 on the D7000. I could see printing 1600 shots at smaller sizes with no need for software cleanup. So while my results are preliminary (3 weeks in), I am astonished at the ISO capabilities of this camera. I no longer have d700 envy and am glad I can get great dx lenses for under $700 as opposed to $1500 for fx. Perfect for enthusiasts like me!

You've seen the stat that the D7000 can shoot 6 shots per second. The 6FPS shutter is in some ways overkill. But if you shoot HDR/Bracket shots in quick succession having such a rapid shutter can allow you to do so handheld in a pinch. This is really only possible because of the high ISO capabilities enabling very fast shutter times. And for sporting events and the like, it's nice to have the ability to rapidly fire off shots.

I have also noticed considerably improved metering and white balance on the D7000 compared to my old D80. Of the 350 or so shots I've taken, I am spending much less time adjusting lighting and white balance in Lightroom.

As others have mentioned, the ergonomics/design of the camera are quite good and I really enjoy the many direct access shortcuts for adjusting everything from focus to flash to white balance and much more. The two custom settings are very easy to set and perfect for your two most common profiles (e.g. indoor portrait and outdoor landscape). The screen is beautiful and moving in and around even RAW files is very smooth and fast. I went with two 16GB SD class 10 Transcend cards and while I'm currently using the RAW 1 / JPEG 2 option, I plan to use the second as a backup card once I go to RAW only.

I've only toyed with the video function but that was a part of my consideration since I dislike carrying two cameras, plus chargers and media, on family vacations. The tests I've done in 1080P have been very impressive, albeit large as you would expect. Auto-focusing while video recording is okay, as long as the background isn't too noisy or subjects too many. The biggest downside I have experienced is the built-in microphone picks up lots of auto focusing noise. I have not yet invested in an external mic but probably will need to.

All in all I am very pleased with the D7000 and see no major shortcomings. It's not cheap, but you get a lot for your money if you are in the market for a prosumer class DSLR. For users who won't explore and use the MANY options and capabilities of this camera, I would recommend considering the 3100/5100. For D80/90 users who are ready to step up big time in terms of performance, this is the upgrade you have been waiting for. Some will hold out for a D700 successor (D800 or whatever it ends up being called). I have no doubt it will be an amazing camera but cost wise, you're going to be looking at $2500+ for the body alone and pay roughly double for coverage equivalent lenses. So figure $4K just to get started. Too rich for my non-professional needs but certainly should be considered if your work or wants dictate that level of camera. And there maybe be a D300s replacement in the works too. Still, I'd urge anyone to consider the D7000, which in my opinion is the best cropped sensor DSLR to date.

Flip UltraHD Video Camera Customer Reviews

That is now my 3rd Flip camera (they're all still in operation, I just can't assist upgrading when a higher top quality merchandise hits the market). I generally fall in appreciate with my new Flip video camera and this one is no exception - I desire the design and style of the Ultra HD over the Mino because of the bigger screen, as well as new 3rd generation is noticeably thinner than final year's model which makes it lighter and less difficult to hold. Substantial Big Large improvement in video excellent around the 3rd generation model - picture stabilization and now 60 frames per seconds (FPS) compared to 30 FPS while in the earlier HD model. This 60 FPS effects in noticeably increased quality video as well as potential to zoom a lot more effectively. This model includes a rechargeable battery pack so you can charge by means of your usb port on your laptop or computer, or when you are traveling and do not have access to USB the Flip Ultra also enables you to put three AA batteries for videographers who are "on the go."
Yet another A++ item from the folks up in San Francisco who style this merchandise. Go out and get 1 - it is time for an Upgrade to the 3rd generation of Flip!!!! 

Canon PowerShot S95 10 MP Digital Camera Customer Reviews

I spent two or 3 months doing tons of study to change my old Canon SD870. Eventually a month ago I chose to purchase the S90 despite the fact that it did not have 720 HD video, it was a one-year old model, and several reviewers disliked the looseness in the handle dial. My S90 arrived inside the middle of August and over the course of numerous days I realized tips on how to use all of the features and was very pleased together with the final results.
And after that on August 19 Canon announced the upcoming release of your Canon S95. I promptly returned my S90 and anxiously awaited the arrival of its successor. Earlier today it was delivered and I've been using it all day.

I will need to say that I desired to really like the S90, however the smoothness on the body annoyed me. I figured I'd just have to get used on the slipperiness. But now that I have the S95 in my hands, I can't feel what a distinction the matte finish tends to make pertaining to secure dealing with. There's no way you could appreciate the difference when you haven't handled the two models on your own. Honestly, that element alone is really worth the somewhat increased selling price.
Control dial issues? No longer! Subtle click-stops have solved that problem.

Finger missing the shutter button on the S90? Nicely, the geniuses at Canon took care of that, also. You will not error the shutter button on the S95 for any other button as a consequence of the distinct and secure really feel.
I am in enjoy with this camera. I will not go into facts about image high quality because it really is as fantastic as its predecessor; there are actually examples all over the web. And naturally the S95's 720 HD video is often a huge improvement above the regular video on the S90.
Only one "con" I can imagine of: The new, smooth, elegant display to the back is no longer recessed consequently you'll have to become cautious if you location the camera face up on a flat surface. In that place it appears the display will come in direct get in touch with using the table's surface.

Canon EOS Movie Mode Digital SLR Camera Customer Reviews

I am a frequent upgrader and loyal Canon fan. I traded up from an XSi last year on the T1i, and now this year towards the T2i. I was within days of ordering the 7D right up until they announced the T2i, with the many characteristics I wanted from the 7D at half the price. I right away pre-ordered the T2i and have been possessing some fun with it more than the final 24 hrs. The verdict up to now? I am in like with this SLR.

I think the last few iterations in the Rebel series are comparable in top quality. The T2i shares significantly from the similar positives and negatives with its predecessors, and in the end, not a lot of has seriously altered. That mentioned, the incredibly minor points that did change have been big to me. I am major into video, which can be what received me wanting in to the 7D. Both the 7D plus the T2i have the stereo audio input jack. My T1i just had the built-in mono mic which was unacceptable for another person who is accomplishing over dwelling videos with this camera. So that feature, as well as complete manual control of video recording (not out there in T1i), and 1080/24p (and 30p if that's your preference) can make this a prevalent sense upgrade if you are critical about video. 720p/60 can also be seriously awesome for that silky smooth framerate, even though I personally uncover the movie-like feel of 24p video very best.

As for what the camera is seriously created for, still photography, it's nonetheless the king at (within the mid-entry-level DSLR class). 18 megapixels genuinely, definitely is more than any individual genuinely demands. My XSi from a couple many years back met all my requirements with 12mp, nonetheless, 18 produces for even greater bragging rights towards the general public. "How a lot of megapixies is the fact that thingy? Eighteen? OMG! You happen to be this kind of a professional!" Anyway, back on track now. The noise ranges in most images I've taken are fairly decent for 18 megapixels. It is comparable to your noise around the 15MP T1i from what I've knowledgeable up to now. 6400 ISO is now a default selection rather of an expanded setting (12800 ISO nevertheless is), which is great to possess, although you are going to hopefully never must use it.

The kit lens is needless to say exactly the same old 18-55 I've purchased virtually 5 times more than now. An excellent price range lens and outstanding worth, but I definitely can't go back to using it following shopping for a number of the improved lenses Canon has to offer you. If the money's there, you will not regret investing an additional few hundred dollars some better glass. Otherwise, the 18-55 is a superb lens to start out out with.

Only big complaint I have is definitely the white stability in incandescent lighting still is not as precise as I'd like. I also want they kept the exact same LP-E5 battery so the two I currently have would be compatible with the two of my cameras. In addition to a nitpick, the "Rebel" name is stupid, to become totally sincere. It need to be named "550D" since it is within the Europe marketplace. SDXC assistance is awesome, but I can't actually comment on it as I'll be applying SDHC cards for your foreseeable future. Oh, and the somewhat redesigned buttons really are a welcome modify. A bit extra ergonomic than prior to.

In conclusion, if you're thinking about upgrading from a T1i, there is not definitely a compelling cause to except if you happen to be okay spending hundreds just for the sake of owning the newest in gadgetry (what I do), Except if you happen to be in it for that video assistance, that is Incredible at this price tag point. You employed to possess to spend no less than a couple thousand on an expert camcorder to have the variety of video support you can now get inside a buyer DSLR at an incredibly sensible price tag. Thanks, Canon! Oh, and amazon got it to me super quick too!  

Canon PowerShot D10 Waterproof Digital Camera Customer Reviews

I purchased this camera for my trip to Maui, which I just came back from. This camera took terrific land and water photographs. I made use of quite a bit of the distinct scenery settings, which was good. The foliage pictures turned out terrific. The only disappointment I had was when I discovered a green gecko on a red plant (how amazing of the contrast is that), the particulars were great, however the plant looked far more orange than red in my picture. Landscape mode was fantastic for Iao Needle and Hana.

Underwater images had been good and the water wasn't too choppy to the surface. We went to Honolua Bay as well as the colors of the fish and coral had been vibrant underwater. It was wonderful, some photographs you can not even inform you have been underwater. You will need to get under the water and face the camera as much as get nicer images as well as although the fish had been swimming, you may still capture the clear image. The battery daily life for that camera is great! My pal had another Canon camera using the underwater case, his battery died after a couple of hrs. My battery was nevertheless sturdy and I had the camera to the complete time as you hardly ever know when that awesome fish will swim by.

We next went for the Ka'anapali Seashore outside on the hotel and sad to say the surf was a little rougher. Even so, there were turtles close to the seashore near Black Rock and I had the underwater setting so I took each photographs outdoors the water and during the water. The surf was kicking up a great deal of sand, so it was hard to get a clear picture on the turtle underneath the water. I was getting knocked over through the waves and I'm confident my camera was hitting the sand a bit as was I, nonetheless it had no issues at all.

One among my preferred photographs was employing the Sunset scenery setting. The sunset was vibrant orange as well as the specifics of the pictures turned out terrific. When you look within the LCD screen, it looked somewhat off, but immediately after you took the image, it was just magnificent. The colour high quality was a vibrant orange and you may see the reflection within the water and detail was just great.

That is an incredible all around camera for land or water. It is simple to use when you study the manual and it is a Canon (want I say additional). It is a acknowledged camera as it's brilliant blue and I really like the huge LCD screen. It really assists when your underwater taking pictures.

Need to buy an underwater camera and was worrying about the battery life since they are rechargeable. Would this survive an ALL DAY snorlkling trip? Say 8-9 hours? Need to buy soon and have to make a decision. I am used to Canons so sounds like a good choice if a bit pricey.

Foscam FI8918W IP/Network Camera Reviews

When you've got under no circumstances interfaced together with your router's program previously (and you also aren't brave!) than this may not be for you. It isn't tough to set up. You plug in its AC adapter and plug it into your router. Follow the instructions and wow.
The picture is superb. The movement alarm is excellent. We placed on of those within our barn across the street from our household, about 350 feet away. We extra an $80. antenna to our router from Hawking, also accessible on Amazon, and poof! I can now see what the many sqwak is at 2AM in my barn with out walking all of the way to choose from! Wow, wow, wow. The pan and tilt characteristics are really good. We setup another at our front door, and 3 "out door" types across the outside from the house. I don't understand how long this black "indoor" will final in the excessive temps and humitity of our barn and front porch, but that is certainly not Foscam's trouble. I will update with the end with the winter, or sooner if they die in the course of winter!

4/3/11 Well they made it as a result of the winter. We have been in a position to evaluate motion detection alarm triggered video clips that have been saved on our computer. We now have been in a position to remote pan across the barn to see who is making the many racket and why. It's beautiful to understand who continues to be on your porch whilst you had been sleeping! The cameras are superb. the there is certainly an antenna you can get on amazon that may extend you wireless cababilities. We view the within and outdoors of our barn across the street. These are good.

I am in need of a two camera set-up (baby cams actually). I think I saw the newest Foscam Surveillance App in action and it displayed up to 4 cameras at once. Does the Foscam Surveillance app play audio too, and does the split screen have audio? Or will the app auto scroll through all of your cameras?
Sorry for all of the questions, but I haven't reach much about that app, but it looks the most promising for iOS devices so far.

This particular model will transmit a reasonably decent audio feed to your desktop, unlike its predecessor, the F18908W. I have four foscams, and I can display them all on one screen in 4up mode. However, you'll only receive the audio feed from the camera that is currently "active", i.e., the camera you have currently clicked on. Two of the cameras that I own are made specifically for outdoor use (F18904W). However, I am using the "indoor" (F18908W) cameras outdoors as well since these have pan & tilt which is quite useful for the north and south locations of the house. I took care, however, to place these in protected areas (well under the soffits) to minimize the effects of the outdoors climate. So far, they have been holding up well. Understand that you need to have access to ac power supply, so in reality these cameras are not entirely "wireless". I haven't yet tested the external speaker connection yet, so I can't comment on that. A rather nice app for your cell phone is one which will allow you to check on your cameras while on the road. I purchased one of these for my Blackberry and it works rather well, although you can only view one camera at a time.

Reviews On Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera

Received this camera from my Japanese good friend as a birthday gift, and that is IXY 410F. I found  out that camera name in USA is ELPH 300 HS. Right after open the box and play couple days, the excess weight is super light as my old college Canon SD1000 as well as indoor image quality is simply not undesirable comparing with my present S95, so it catched my eyes instantly after we received it. Even it is SD1400 replacement from canon viewpoint, I've to say this small camera with S95 top quality.

ELPH 300 HS vs S95

ELPH 300 HS wins on 1080P film, weight (70% of S95), CMOS sensor, 24mm, 5x zoom, shooting speed (two time quicker than S95), price (62.5% of S95)

S95 is far better on the sensor size (1/1.7" as G12), Aperture F/2.0, RAW.

I'd say...

For sure S95 won on manual setting, but I used my Canon Rebel XS the majority of the time when searching for quality photographs, and S95 did not offer much more point-and-shoot positive aspects than ELPH 300 HS to me. CMOS sensor is much more sensertive comparing with CCD, so I cannot tell big big difference involving bigger size CCD and smaller dimension CMOS sensors even from individuals indoor very low light photos. Finish out, I traded the manual settings to modest size, light excess weight, and rapid shooting speed.

So, my S95 moved on eBay...... and IXY 410F (ELPH 300 HS) is in my wife's bag...... I have to wait for it to be readily available on Amazon to obtain another a single for myself.

Very interesting to hear that the 12MP CMOS performed well enough compared to the CCD in the S95. 

I wonder if this sensor is made by Canon or sourced from Sony because the Nikon P300 is also 12MP CMOS with faster f/1.8 lens at wide angle and manual controls. If it can compete with the S95 in IQ with added benefit of movie zoom+AF then it may be better option for compact camera. The 500 HS would be better with faster lens too.

The CMOS used in the Panasonic FZ100 did not seem to provide the performance that the CCD has in the FZ40. Some of that is processing, but I'm am curious to see how the new batch of P&S cameras perform. 

The S95 's I have seen at BB and at least one from Amazon had hardware issues with the LCD panel or zoom controller being loose. Not sure what is going on with Canon on that. A lot of people are also considering the SX230 now that it is released. The 500HS touch screen does not appeal to me.

I hate to say it, but the S95 is a far better camera. To people who disagree, you really don't know what you're doing. Which is fine. I love my S95 but I understand all the controls. My sister also bought an S95 and she doesn't like it because her pictures don't come out as good as mine and often not a whole lot (or not at all) better than the 300 HS. She has no interest in learning the intricacies and quite a few people won't. That being said, if you want good pics that are simple to shoot, go with the 300HS. If you want great pictures and are willing to tweak the settings, the S95 is the way to go. Neither are in the same league as my T2i, but this really is a pretty good pocket cam. 

Kodak PlaySport (Zx3) HD Waterproof Pocket Video Camera (Black) Review

I shot this utilizing the Kodak PlaySport even though snorkeling off of Ixtapa, Mexico. The water wasn't the clearest, but I did get fairly superior final results. It looked really terrific within the pool. In addition, it looks wonderful above water! I use it at my son's baseball video games and I've been amazed at the excellent. Hands down the top point about this camera will be the size. It really is so simple to slip in a pocket and just carry all around. Great minor vacation camera. My only complaint is that the management wheel is often a minor tiny. I would often accidentally cease recording although trying to zoom in or out. You receive utilized to it however and it's a minor annoyance. I extremely advocate this camera.

The hinges inside of the battery/SD slot cover and also the charging/hdmi port covers are metal so if you don't rinse it off well or submerge in freshwater, there's a good chance you'll start to see some corrosion on those parts. Mine was fine until it died on me due to internal condensation. I had used it about a dozen times before it died while in French Polynesia. It died in the middle of my honeymoon. Disappointing to say the least. And Kodak support was pretty horrible. I opted to return for a full refund. I don't want to have to deal with a dead Playsport that's outside of the warranty/return period. It's not worth it to me even for $150.

What class SD card did you use and did you program the SD card first? I've been reading in other reviews that users have had problems with the video locking up and being unresponsive to any control buttons and eventually having to disconnect the battery and reinstall just to have found they've lost what they recorded or what they did record won't upload onto their computer, etc. Did you experience any problems like that while using this camera? Please share what class SD card and the brand of card you were using if you didn't experience this problem.

How well does this camera operate in cold, rainy weather? The Cascade Mountain Range is generally considered impassable in the wintertime (unless the roads have been cleared of snow, and you have, perhaps, snow tires). I need some shots of a layer of ice floating on the top of a swimming pool. Yes, I will have a wetsuit, so I can climb down into the water, and shoot from below. I have a friend with an oxygen tank and mouthpiece. Hey, it's his swimming pool. (Or can I simulate sheets of ice by throwing styrofoam sheets on the pool?)

And does the lens have threadings around the aperture? Or should I expect to use  some scotch tape to put more lenses on? I already have a bunch of 37 mm lenses, and some 30.5 to 37 mm adaptors.

What I hear in the video is alot of crackling....I don't know if this is suppose to be this way? Or is a quality issue. I like the video aspect of it, it's exactly what it's like snokeling and how frustrated you were with the water in the snorkel and mask. I found it amusing! Your lucky if the mask fits your face  so the quality of the digital image is superb! I'd love to see it in clearer water.