Digital Camera Fiend - A Camera Review

The Nikon D50 Digital Camera was released in 2005 as a direct competitor with Canon’s Digital Rebel XT. Nikon users will recognize it as a simpler, less expensive version of the D70. It retails for about $625.
DPReview outlined a few of the major differences between the Nikon D50 and D70.

• The Nikon D50 has improved auto focus, especially in the area of motion tracking (take a look at the “Photo of the Day: Jump Ball” blog post below, which was taken with a D50).
• D50 is slightly smaller and lighter.
• D50 has a lower resolution metering sensor, but the sensor is a newer generation.
• D50 has a larger LCD display screen (2-inches).
• D50 uses a SD card, while the D70 camera uses CF cards.
• D50 is missing several supperfluous features that come with the D70 in order to make it easier to use.

Originally uploaded by rybchen at flickr.com.

This is a simple underwater photo taken just below the surface with a Pentax Optio W20 underwater digital camera. The Pentax is fully waterproof, but is only pressure resistant up to five feet, making it a perfect camera for snorkling.

Unfortunately for snorkler photographers, most of their photos will have a “looking down” vantage point since they are floating near the water’s surface and all of their subjects (fish and plantlife) will be below. This photo is unique in that it offers a “looking up” perspective.

The contrast between the darkness of the water and shimmering surface is striking. The jellyfish is also appropriately framed.

Underwater digital photography opens a new world–and an entirely unique set of challenges for the photographer. About.com offers five underwater camera picks, and the Pentax Optio W20, which retails at around $300, heads their list.

It isn’t a camera for professionals, and it’s not recommended to take this digital camera deeper than five feet. But it gets the job done. It’s one of the few digital cameras that doesn’t require extra underwater housing–just use it as is. It’s completely waterproof, which means it’s also great for above water activities tha could get messy.

This 7-megapixel digital camera also has a large 2.5-inch LCD display screen, blur reduction mode, and underwater video capabilties. All in all, a good buy.

Digital Single-Lens Reflex, or digital SLR cameras, are typically used by the serious hobbyist or professional photographer who wants maximum manual control over his or her camera equipment.

Although more bulky and expensive than their compact cousins, digital SLR cameras generally produce superior photos due to their larger image sensors, faster shutter speeds, and adaptability. A digital SLR camera will often produce better photo prints than a compact camera that has a higher megapixel count.

SLR cameras, whether digital or not, are most easily recognizable by their removable lenses. However the true definition relates to a reflex mirror inside the camera which shows the image that is about to be captured through a viewfinder. The mirror flips up as the photo is taken, allowing image sensors to capture the picture.

When deciding whether to buy a digital SLR or point and shoot camera, it’s helpful to prioritize what’s important.

• Have you already mastered the settings in your point and shoot camera?
• Do you want more control over your camera’s settings?
• Are you willing to invest a bit more for an advanced camera and camera accessories?

If you answered yes to these questions, a digital SLR camera may be right for you. Check out models from Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Kodak, and Sony.

Digital Camera Fiend is your guide to photography and camera equipment. Pick up some useful photography tips, view our photo gallery, and learn about all types of cameras from digital cameras for kids to underwater digital cameras.

A Japan-based company founded in 1917, Nikon is generally acknowledged as one of the best camera manufacturers in the world. The Nikon Coolpix camera series has received impressive reviews from multiple digital camera buying guides.

The company also specializes in camera lenses and accessories, binoculars, eyewear, and high-tech microscopes.

Nikon digital cameras are preferred by many professional photographers and while the company focuses on developing sophisticated digital SLR cameras for professional use, it also offers top-quality compact cameras for the amateur photographer.

The Nikon Coolpix cameras are tailored for beginning and amateur photographers. The Coolpix series includes more than a dozen models like the new Nikon Coolpix P3, an 8.1 megapixel wireless camera with Wi-Fi built in. Other popular models include the Coolpix 8700 and Coolpix L4.

For more advanced users, Nikon’s digital SLR cameras cannot be beat. Check out the Nikon D70, a 6.1 megapixel camera which sells for less than $1,000, or the new Nikon D2Xs, a 12.4 megapixel beauty for the true camera aficionado.

Digital Camera Fiend is your guide to photography and camera equipment. Pick up some useful photography tips, view our photo gallery, and read reviews on all types of digital cameras and photo printers.