One Clear Dot

I finally bought a new digital camera. I have been putting it off, because the digital camera I bought in 2000 actually takes better pictures than the newer cameras owned by my friends and family. I attribute that to the high quality of the Olympus D-490. It was pretty much the best of the best back in 2000. At only 2.1 megapixels (which was awesome back when I bought it), the camera takes amazingly detailed pictures with very low noise and quite accurate color. Plus, I am so comfortable with the camera that I use it to its full potential. I think that combination of quality and skill is what made my pictures look so great.

So, I was not fully motivated to spend money on a new camera, though I did really want one. My daughter is five and she recently began asking for a camera. I researched the cameras made for kids and decided they were not worth the money. Sure, they come with shock protective casing, but most of them also take pictures using a HALF of megapixel.

Last week I bought her an inexpensive, off-brand 8 megapixel camera. It was horrific! She took a lot of pictures and then I tried. The, two other people tried it. None of us got a single decent shot.

I returned it and told her she could have my D-490.

Then, I ordered myself an Olympus SP-570UZ. It’s got 10 megapixels, a 20x optical Dual Image (plus some more digital zoom, baby!), and duel image stabilization. It is in a class that is being called Super Zoom. You can use it like a point and shoot, or use it in a fully manual manner. The only thing keeping it from being almost exactly like a digital SLR is that there are some sensing features missing. That can allow for added noise on some shots. This is the top of the heap right now, without moving to full-on SLR. And, I am not ready for the full SLR right now. I still need to take the time to really learn how to use my old Pentax.

I only bought an M-type XD card (2 MG). I’ve read that if I want a better way to shoot fast, sequential shots as well as being able to record longer bits of video, I need to get an H-type card. That will be my next purchase.

It came today and I played around with it. I find that since I am used to the Olympus buttons and interface, it feels familiar. I found my way around quickly. And, I am so impressed with the pictures I am getting, especially the zoom pics and the macro shots. Wow.

I’m a happy camper, and both me and my daughter now have our own cameras for visiting my hometown of DC next week.

Posted on June 14th, 2008 by onecleardot
Filed under: Gadgets - Toys - Technology