Digital Camera Fiend - A Camera Review

It’s difficult to find a “classic” in an industry that evolves as rapidly as that of digital cameras. But Fuji may have found its gold standard in the Fujifilm FinePix F30.

This 6.3-megapixel compact digital camera garnered several awards after its release last year, with one reviewer saying it will be, “one of the rare few that are remembered after they have gone.”

What makes this little camera so good? Its image quality, pure and simple, and that quality is achieved largely through a superior ISO performance. Battery life and speed also factor in, but its the F30’s performance in all different types of light (ISO) that makes it unique.

Fuji cameras has recently announced an upgrade to their F30–the Fujifilm FinePix F31fd. There really isn’t much of a change between the two cameras: an updated processor, Fuji’s Face Detection technology, and a slightly modified grip. The F31 performs as beautifully as its predecessor, particularly in low light.

Why can’t they make all compact digital cameras with such class-leading ISO technology? Since most casual shooters will be using the camera in low light social functions, this is a great camera for the average user to get. Check prices and buy one here.

The Powershot SD600 is a sleek, compact camera that packs a big-time punch. Reviewers praise its usability and latest advances, like the DIGIC II Imaging processor which enhances picture definition, vibrancy, and quality. It also helps to increase the camera’s start-up speed, autofocus and shutter response. You can buy the SD600 here..

Some other specifics:

• Six megapixels
• ISO equivalent speed settings from 80 to 800
• A bright 2.5-inch LCD screen
• An unlimited movie mode with sound.

Also for the first time in the Powershot line’s history, the SD600 “My Colors” feature allows users to retouch captured photos directly from the camera without the need for software like Photoshop or Nikon’s Capture NX. Earlier models only allowed color adjustments while shooting.

The SD600 is also truly a “go-anywhere” camera. Check out Canon’s waterproof housing systems made specifically for the Powershot Digital ELPH cameras.

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.

The Canon Powershot A80, released in 2003, was an upgrade from one of the Canon’s most popular models ever–the Powershot A70. The major improvements in the A80 are a higher megapixel count (4.0) and the swiveling LCD screen–perfect for concert shots where you must hold the camera above your head to get a picture.

This digital camera received high marks from reviewers for its relative low cost, ease of use and photo quality. It also offers full manual controls and the ability to switch camera lenses.

Some have critized the Powershot A80 for being a bit too bulky–it definitely won’t fit in your pocket. However, it’s a great introductory digital camera for the budding photographer with enough options to keep an advanced novice interested.

Canon has continued to evolve its Powershot series and no longer manufacturs the Powershot A80.