tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2244795214928935812024-03-04T22:59:44.082-08:00Digital BinocularsDigital binoculars and digital cameras review.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-30246830217588676402008-05-24T14:57:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:32:59.589-08:00Sizing Up a New Species: Camera-Binoculars<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><strong>Sizing Up a New Species: Camera-Binoculars</strong>By DAVID POGUE <br />Why do bird-watchers get up so early? <br /><br />Yeah, yeah - that's when the birds are the most active, sure. But there may be another reason: if the bird-watchers in your family are the only ones in the field by 5 a.m., who could doubt their claim to have seen the elusive bittern, siskin, shrike or blue-footed booby?<br /><br />After all, bird-watching is an intensely private affair. It's just you and your binoculars. Nobody else sees what you're seeing. And once you've seen it, nobody else ever will.<br /><br />Or at least that's how it used to be, before the invention of binoculars with built-in digital cameras. The appeal to bird-watchers should be obvious: not only can you prove your sightings, but you can also bring home photos or digital movies in search of second opinions or comparisons with your stack of field guides. And it's not just bird-watching; these hybrid gadgets should also appeal to anyone who takes binoculars to sporting events, concerts, the opera and so on.<br /><br />(Apparently, the proper term is binocular, singular, as in, "Congratulations on the purchase of your new digital binocular." But frankly, that's just as pretentious as barbers who refer to a "quality scissor" or sales clerks at department stores who praise khakis as "a superior pant.")<br /><br />Now, the idea of camera-binoculars makes obvious, satisfying sense; as hybrid gadgets go, they rank right up there with the clock radio and the toaster oven. You should be warned, though, that the majority of digital binocs sold through catalogs in the $50 to $80 range are no-name models that take camera-phone-quality 640-by-480-pixel photos. If you really did see a buff-bellied pipit on your roof, you'd be better off drawing it with crayons.<br /><br />Fortunately, some of the big-name binocular makers have taken this category more seriously. The four models they submitted for review - the Bushnell Instant Replay and Compact Instant Replay, the Celestron VistaPix and the Meade CaptureView CV-4 - are excellent binoculars in the $160 to $425 range.<br /><br />As for the digital photo part - well, you get the distinct impression that these sporting equipment companies are still a little new at the game. The photo resolution is fairly low: two or three megapixels, suitable for 8-by-10 prints at best. A lot of typical digital camera features are missing, too, including optical zoom, rechargeable batteries and flash (not that a flash would be useful at 100 feet). These are fixed-focus cameras, too.<br /><br />Most alarming of all, the photo quality on some of these models ranges from mediocre - too many shots wind up blurry, a casualty of the camera shake that results from such powerful magnification - to worthless, especially when indoors and in twilight. If you're used to real digital cameras, your disappointment in the results will range from mild to hysterical. More on this topic in a moment (and at http://www.nytimes.com/circuits, where you can see some sample shots).<br /><br />All four models are ruggedly built and offer 8X magnification. All four let you turn on the camera portion independently (the binocs always work). All four take AA or AAA batteries, and munch through them in less than an afternoon. All four come with a carrying case, straps and a cable for showing your photos on a TV. All can easily transfer photos and movies to a Windows computer (described in the manuals) and Mac OS X (not mentioned).<br /><br />All but the Celestron can also film away as you watch, then store a digital movie - at the touch of a button - of only the last 10 or 20 seconds. This feature, called Instant Replay or Flashback, is so useful that it ought to make its way into digital cameras and camcorders.<br /><br />What's so smart about the idea is that it perfectly suits the kinds of situations for which you use binoculars. Waiting for that dark-eyed junco to emerge from its hole? Instant Replay throws away all the boring waiting-around footage and retains only the magic moment. Tracking your child on the soccer field? Tap the button to retain only the goal-making part. Not sure when your youngster's name will be called to collect the diploma or karate trophy? Start filming when the last names approach yours alphabetically; you'll store only the truly important one. <br /><br />This is a new product category, so there's no standard definition of a digi-binoc. It's downright charming to see how differently these companies have dreamed up their takes on the same task. <br /><br />The most oddball model, for sure, is the Meade CaptureView CV-4 8x30 (about $180), a two-megapixel model that in May will be joined by the 3.2-megapixel CV-6 with what the company says is improved low-light sensitivity. (The first number of specs for binoculars, the 8 here, indicates the degree of magnification. The second, 30, is the diameter of each lens; higher numbers mean a brighter image. As for the prices cited here: they come from Amazon.com, shopper.com and www.bhphoto.com. Cam-binocs are such a new category that it's hard to find them all on any one price-comparison site.<br /> Some of the Meade's eccentricities are extremely desirable. For example, it's the only waterproof model in this roundup. And when you connect the U.S.B. cable to your Mac or PC, the camera draws all its power from the computer instead of draining the batteries. (How do you know this? Because the flap that reveals the U.S.B. connector is also the top of the battery compartment, and opening it pulls the upper contacts away from the batteries.)<br /><br /> Other quirks are less delightful. The Meade's binocular focus knob, for example, is on the underside, where it's difficult to reach. All four models feature a tiny (1.5 inches) liquid-crystal display screen that lets you frame and play back your photos, but the Meade's screen is the only one that doesn't pop up. It lies flat on the upper surface of the binoculars (for waterproofness, says the company). To see the screen, you have to turn the binocs 90 degrees, pointing at the sky. So much for the yellow-rumped warbler you were trying to photograph on your suet feeder.<br /><br />The two-megapixel Celestron VistaPix 8x32 (around $160) has its ups and downs, too. It has separate, dedicated Photo and Movie buttons, which is more important than you might imagine; as the rare red-flanked bluetail alights on a fence post, the last thing you want to do is waste time burrowing into the menus to switch from movie mode to photo mode. (The Bushnell Instant Replay offers this feature, too.)<br /><br />On the other hand, the Celestron's eyecups extend only slightly behind the hard plastic body, meaning almost certain bruising for any but the most plastic-surged noses. And the Celestron's status as the least expensive model is clearly evident when you look at the fruits of its circuitry. The low-light photos are disastrous, and the movies have all the clarity of that old "Bigfoot in the forest" film. <br /><br />Bushnell's three-megapixel Instant Replay 8x32 model ($425) is big, black and military-looking. In the binocular department, it blows away its competition: the binocular image is the biggest and the brightest, focusing is easy and precise, and the controls are cleanly designed. <br /><br />Moreover, this is the only model whose camera sensor records exactly what the binoculars see; on the other models, the camera has its own separate lens, so the photos may not match exactly what you saw. <br /><br />Too bad about the photo and video part. The image quality is just so-so, both in the photos and on the pop-up screen; the manual's suggestion that you use the coarse, washed-out L.C.D. for focusing makes you mutter, "Easy for you to say."<br /><br />Clearly, Bushnell is capable of doing better, though, because its newer, smaller Compact Instant Replay (also called the ImageView) gets almost everything right. The screen is bright and sharp, and the 3.1-megapixel photos are nothing to be ashamed of, tying the Meade for best of breed. <br /><br />These are also the only binoculars that can take TV-quality movies (640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second), which is state of the art even by digital camera standards. Too bad you have to burrow into a menu to switch from movie to photo mode, but at least the menus are big, bold and easy to navigate. And the price - $220 from stores like cabelas.com - is right.<br /><br />Now, camera enthusiasts may be snickering already. "Three megapixels? Grainy photos? 8X zoom? Why, my regular digital camera takes five-megapixel photos that look sensational - and it's got a 10X zoom lens! Why would I buy a wannabe like these binoculars?"<br /><br />There's some merit in that argument (if you ignore the fact that digital cameras with 7X to 10X zooms cost a lot more). But just as you wouldn't want a pair of binoculars as your sole recording instrument at a family reunion, so you wouldn't want to use a digital camera for minutes-at-a-time watching. That's something that binoculars - with their big, bright, rubber-lined eyepieces - make comfortable and effective. <br /><br />And now, thanks to the integration of basic digital photo features, you can do more with these binocs than sit out in the bushes for hours at a time while the sun comes up. At last, you can bring home proof of what you've been up to.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T14%3A27%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> find the best buy on digital binoculars </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-59798961004950109522008-05-24T14:27:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.106-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxkPTIQdKnAvJFGAGuBIAr32AmoMR1GaOdmfR3U9vaGjYNAwLaUGgq8lKP76T_QkPKOp3fm4y7T_mLxTGABmtV57mR7ZO_u3D0K1l9INPSYDPNADd2jraxFAwcq9MY9kSwsFqA1P1dVIR/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxkPTIQdKnAvJFGAGuBIAr32AmoMR1GaOdmfR3U9vaGjYNAwLaUGgq8lKP76T_QkPKOp3fm4y7T_mLxTGABmtV57mR7ZO_u3D0K1l9INPSYDPNADd2jraxFAwcq9MY9kSwsFqA1P1dVIR/s200/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204063608587126418" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm41-1MKmHozyWJm0riq9lt3Vpq7UXcTNW6fEYlnrTxM0LhsMZzHjRr-cnCxa5dq4O3VAhdSIKoHhZroC-gNgH6vpBIDdjHbG3U_xhXaCMwuN4qa7sBJiVovoC1gv54EwFyLw39KbD1UXU/s1600-h/DB+Lake.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm41-1MKmHozyWJm0riq9lt3Vpq7UXcTNW6fEYlnrTxM0LhsMZzHjRr-cnCxa5dq4O3VAhdSIKoHhZroC-gNgH6vpBIDdjHbG3U_xhXaCMwuN4qa7sBJiVovoC1gv54EwFyLw39KbD1UXU/s200/DB+Lake.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204059829015905906" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxs4h8p347H4iYHmVfqhozkEITqtQYHwJ7t7ARNw24R_HgS7-u6qOBiMIHeNst-G_haCSIcT5kaLo8tYPG84OZQ2-T1komyGevx72-orVDx-UCzO9AKkh9tbnzdU7MQwogQbSaTo9qLrK/s1600-h/DB+humming+bird.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxs4h8p347H4iYHmVfqhozkEITqtQYHwJ7t7ARNw24R_HgS7-u6qOBiMIHeNst-G_haCSIcT5kaLo8tYPG84OZQ2-T1komyGevx72-orVDx-UCzO9AKkh9tbnzdU7MQwogQbSaTo9qLrK/s200/DB+humming+bird.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204059622857475682" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrnIdBQ7vA3Yp_39LRbuwAuSNXWw8YVrm5ZxLTC5BTmDoAi69SjGGIs0y6F2aS-92jDgWMWUjW1oCbAaZKGMApT8Qr60LE4D_5baUhtHq7ksNTXkKVX9Q5_Uu26SzDvrDxDJ17m6PdNyw/s1600-h/Bear.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrnIdBQ7vA3Yp_39LRbuwAuSNXWw8YVrm5ZxLTC5BTmDoAi69SjGGIs0y6F2aS-92jDgWMWUjW1oCbAaZKGMApT8Qr60LE4D_5baUhtHq7ksNTXkKVX9Q5_Uu26SzDvrDxDJ17m6PdNyw/s200/Bear.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204059403814143570" /></a><br />BearONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-28707726489825762032008-05-24T13:20:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.116-08:00Finding The Best Buy On A Digital Camera<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>Finding The Best Buy On A Digital Camera</strong><br />by: Steve Gargin <br />ra The best buy digital camera is not necessarily the cheapest, but the one that has the best overall package for your needs. It is important to check on the various functions and accessories before you compare prices to ensure that you find the best buy digital camera. The main reason that people want to buy a digital camera is for convenience rather than using a traditional film camera and there are a lot of best buy digital camera deals available. <br /><br />The first point is to find the best buy digital camera with the highest resolution you can afford which will normally be at least 2 to 3 megapixels (2 million to 3 million pixels). If you will only output pictures to a computer monitor (for viewing, Web page use or e-mail) then the best buy digital camera will be one with a 640-by 480 pixel resolution and it will provide very satisfactory results. There are very few genuine best buy digital camera packages with high-resolution and the specified resolution may only apply to software interpolation rather than the true optical resolution. To print photographs on a good (at least 720 dots per inch) color printer you will need to look for the best buy digital camera with a high resolution. <br /><br />Many retailers advertise their best buy digital camera as one with a plastic lens. It is better to buy a digital camera with a 100% glass lens for the best pictures. You should also look for the best buy digital camera packages with the most RAM that you can afford. The more RAM the camera has means that it can store more pictures and does not require downloading or erasing them as often. <br /><br />When you are evaluating the best buy digital camera offers you need to compare optical, as opposed to digital, zoom capabilities. This is one of the most frequently used features of most digital cameras and you need to be sure that you have the capability to take the type of close-up shots that you want to. <br /><br />Another issue that needs to be considered is whether the best buy digital camera offer actually includes the accessories that you require. If you find that you are going to have to purchase additional cables and software to be able to connect your digital camera to your computer then it is not going to be the best buy digital camera that you thought it was. <br /><br />Finally, ensure that you have accounted for any shipping costs before you make your final decision over which best buy digital camera you purchase. A lot of unscrupulous retailers will advertise a price for a best buy digital camera but then charge high shipping costs.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T13%3A20%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Find the Best Digital Camera for Your Needs and Maximum Enjoyment </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-53228855436833939242008-05-24T13:17:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.127-08:00Find the Best Digital Camera for Your Needs and Maximum Enjoyment<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>Find the Best Digital Camera for Your Needs and Maximum Enjoyment</strong> <br />by: Dave Saunders <br />Digital Cameras have become a common site wherever you go. If you're getting ready to purchase your first digital camera, or maybe you're looking to replace one you already have, it is best to familiarize yourself with the knowledge of what makes one digital camera different from another and choose the one that is right for you. In this article we'll cover one of the most significant factors in picture quality. This is the “digital film.” <br /><br />Just like with a film camera, the digital camera has a lens which brings light into focus on a bed of light sensitive material. In the digital camera, that light sensitive material is a circuit bed called a “CCD.” The CCD plays the same role as film in a film camera and the lens allows light to fall onto the CCD which is then converted into a digital image. The quality of the lens can make a significant difference in the clarity of that image. Very cheap digital cameras may even use a piece of plastic as the lens, which will usually have an uneven surface and light transmission. This will be noticeable in the picture but may not be an issue for a security camera or a web cam. Better quality digital cameras will have ground-glass lens and high-end digital cameras will even have interchangeable lenses as do high-end film cameras. The lens still plays the important role of bringing light clearly to the CCD surface for a distortion free picture. <br /><br />A CCD also provides an interesting advantage to the digital camera. It is possible to automatically adjust light sensitivity to improve contrast, shoot in dim light, or even take black and white, sepia or infrared and ultraviolet light pictures with the touch of a button. Because any of these images are stored as the same data on the memory card, a digital camera can offer unsurpassed versatility without the need to change film types. Not all digital cameras have these features built in, but they are options you may see in some cameras. While the possibilities are cool, ask yourself if you that is a feature you need in a digital camera. <br /><br />With digital cameras, CCD is a grid of light sensitive points which capture the image for conversion into a digital image. The number of points on the CCD is measured in terms of “mega pixels.” The mega pixel rating is a completely new bit of terminology and is unique to the digital camera. The mega pixel rating is a measure of the resolution of the camera, or its ability to store details of am image. For example, a digital camera with a maximum resolution of 1280 by 768 pixels (dots) comes out to a total of 983,040 pixels with which to describe the digital image. As each mega pixel represents one million pixels, we can see this isn't even one mega pixel. Some digital cameras have mega pixel ratings at 5.1 and even 7.1 mega pixels. What does this mean to you? The more pixels the more detail stored. If the image is going to be viewed on a screen or a TV, this isn't very meaningful because video displays have resolutions which are usually well below one mega pixel. However, when printing on a high quality photo printer, the difference between a 3 mega pixel digital camera and a 5 mega pixel digital camera can be very obvious. <br /><br />Some people will try to evaluate a mega pixel rating by how large a print can be made from the digital camera's image. The truth is that any digital image can be printed to any size. The real issue is what it looks like. Most people print their film to 4x6 prints and many are now doing the same with their digital cameras. Ask to see printed samples of pictures which are like the type you would normally take and compare the same prints between different cameras. Many stores will try to dazzle you with colorful still life images of piles of multi-colored fruits and hot air balloons. Do you take pictures like that? Probably not, so perhaps they're not the best images to be scrutinizing. If you take pictures of friends standing around, use each camera to take pictures of people standing around. Then use a demonstration printer at the store to make prints and look at the results. Do you see little dots in the middle of solid colors? Does the image look like it was taken with a poor quality film camera? Don't seek out the digital camera that happens to take perfect pictures in a perfect setting, contrived by the marketing department of the digital camera's manufacturer. Look for the digital camera that takes pictures you like in the settings in which you most commonly find yourself. <br /><br />Another issue to consider is that some digital cameras are designed for “point and click” use while other cameras are designed with lots of settings which must be manipulated for optimal results. In my personal experience, I have found that Kodak makes digital cameras which are ideally suited for simple “point and click” use and consistently take great looking pictures in a wide variety of settings. I have also personally found that digital cameras from Nikon work best when you set them to “manual” and do not rely on the automatic settings. This seems to be true of their film cameras as well. Does this make one digital camera better than another? Only if one fits your needs and skills, and the other does not. <br /><br />There are many magazines available on digital cameras today. Most recognize these differences in digital camera quality, based on needs and intended use of the owner. Before buying your new digital camera, pick up a few of these magazines and familiarize yourself with the latest reviews. Remember that the pros and cons are still written “through the lens” of the reviewer. If you see a negative about a digital camera that you otherwise like, ask yourself if that negative is meaningful to your needs. Next ask yourself if that negative might be meaningful to your needs as you become more experienced. If the answer is yes, ask yourself if you would still be using that camera as a more experienced photographer in the future or would you perhaps sell it and buy an entirely new digital camera? It's unlikely that the digital camera you buy today is going to be the only one you'll ever have. Buy the digital camera that most reasonably meets your needs and how you normally plan to take pictures. <br /><br />Memory cards and battery life are also consideration factors which will be covered in other articles. For now, I hope this information has taught you more about the workings of a digital camera and some of the factors to consider when choosing one. Take your time and learn a bit about digital cameras before your purchase. Sure, it's not like buying a car, but photography is a very personal experience and the right digital camera will truly make a difference in your enjoyment of capturing the moment with digital photography.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T13%3A17%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Get The Most Out Of Your Digital Camera Today! </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-45513351038605863242008-05-24T13:03:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.136-08:00Get The Most Out Of Your Digital Camera Today!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>Get The Most Out Of Your Digital Camera Today!</strong> <br />by: Kevin Rockwell <br />Point and click. The new life of digital cameras gives us all the opportunity to capture images as we go. Whether you simply hit the shutter button to take pictures of your friends and family or if you want to have your camera with you at all times in order to capture the beauty of life wherever you find it, getting the most out of your digital camera can be easy. <br /><br />Let's imagine ourselves with the perfect set up of digital camera and a few accessories to make things just right. My personal and professional recommendation is that we start with memory. Get more today. If you only have one memory card for your camera it is time to add to the collection. If you have more than one then good job! The more memory you have for your digital camera the less likely it will be that you get stuck wanting to take more pictures and have no more room on the storage. Memory is relatively cheap, takes up no space in your kit and gives you total control over creativity. <br /><br />Your camera comes with a variety of quality settings to work with when taking images. Don't use TIFF, leave it on one of the medium quality level settings and your camera will take fine images for you and not eat up all your memory. If you use the highest setting you will get very few images onto your card. They will for the most part be of very high quality but you would only want to shoot at that level of quality if you are intending to make high quality large format prints of your images. <br /><br />Now if that child of yours is just so incredibly cute and your wall is aching for a portrait of his or her shining face then by all means do it on the highest quality. The key will be to use good software to process the image and then a printer that can make a large format, high quality print of your image. They exist and for not unreasonable prices I might add. <br /><br />I was stunned at a recent art show in my neighborhood to be looking at a photographer's exhibit of large size prints (18x24 and up in size) to find out that he shoots exclusively in digital now. He was a former film photographer who switched over in recent years and now makes stunning prints from his digital images. His landscape images were simply amazing and to find out that he shot them on a good digital camera made me very curious about the process, but that is fodder for another article. <br /><br />Juice is the answer to your next question. Always have more juice. I spent 20 years in the TV news business and my mantra was always have extra batteries ready to go and an extra tape under the back seat in case of emergency. For TV cameras the batteries were always big and heavy rechargeable NiCads. Lithium batteries are the rage nowadays as they are lighter in weight, have no memory problems, and run longer. Digital still cameras can take advantage of Lithium batteries but the cost is often slightly prohibitive for most of us. Some camera systems use proprietary battery systems. I would recommend not buying into that sort of system. Try to buy a camera that uses universal types of batteries such as AA's. I use a camera that takes AA's and I have three sets of rechargeable batteries so I can rotate through them and never be caught short. Total cost for three sets of batteries is about $30, and they will last you several years if you treat them right. If you just buy regular AA batteries and shoot a lot of images your battery cost might triple that over a like period of time. <br /><br />Edison did it and now we consider him a genius. Experimentation is the name of the game. Digital images cost you nothing but time and a little battery life. Play around and take lots of shots of things, people, events, you name it. Look at magazines, newspapers and notice what images look cool to you. Try to take shots like that yourself so you can see how it is done. This will get you thinking about how to make your everyday shots better. Look for new and different ways to frame things, take both a vertical and a horizontal shot of the same thing and see how it changes perspective. Get closer to your subject, or get farther away to see which looks better. Find something unique about your subject and look for a way to exploit that for a better image. Here is and example, say for instance you have a great looking car you want a picture of, well don't stand across the street from it and zoom in on the car, get right up close with the sun behind you so the car is sparkling shiny and fills the whole frame of the image. Find it's best feature and center that in the shot say the awesome lines of front of the car or snazzy wheels. <br /><br />Print something from your camera every week to remind you of the beauty of everyday things. Take shots all the time, pick one and print it out and then put it in front of you for a day or a week. Live life as though you want beauty around you all the time. If you are madly in love then surround yourself with pictures of that love. If you live in a beautiful place then take pictures of it all the time to make sure you never forget how special it is to be there in your life. Don't let those images hide away and not be seen. Wallpaper on your computer can be another place to put your weekly image, change it regularly with images from your family, work, life, hobby and you will get more smiles and more joy out of your camera than you know what to do with. My current wallpaper takes me back to a wonderful day on a mountain lake this past summer paddling kayaks in the afternoon breeze. What about yours?<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T13%3A03%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Part 2 What digital cameras 4u? </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-76555987398508709712008-05-24T12:57:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.149-08:00Part 2 What digital cameras 4u?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br />What Aperture Lens: <br /><br />The smaller the number the better, it is always marked with "f", for instance aperture range: f2.8 - f4, if it is constant on the entire zoom range, let's say f2.8 on all zoon range - excellent, the longer the zoom range the harder it is to produce a small aperture number, for instance a zoom range of 36mm - 420mm (12 X) if it is f2.8 on all the range it is impressive. a camera with Aperture range of f2 - f3 Very good. Higher aperture than f5 will produce less desirable results. <br /><br />Zoom Range:(Optical) <br /><br />The longer the range the better, you can catch a distant object, make nice close ups and portraits, it gives you more accessibility, flexibility and creative options. A long 420 mm (12 X) is excellent range BUT, you need to understand that the longer the zoom range the bigger the amplification of any hand shaking with the camera, therefore it is recommended to hold your breath, be as stable as you can with your hands and body but even better yet to use a Tripod. I would even compromise a bit on the range to be 370 mm (10 X) " only ". Important feature on a long-range zoom is an Anti-Shake or Image stabilizer. These features compensate approximately one f stop or more on movements. <br /><br />I referred here to Optical zoom, there is a digital zoom in addition but usually the quality of it is very low, some salesmen tend to confuse the customers by multiplying the optical zoom by the digital zoon and claiming the camera to be 12 optical x 4 digital = (48 X)! Ignore such statements, refer just to Optical zoom. <br /><br />In the old Film cameras a long zoom range meant a very long bulge, in the current modern Digital Cameras it extends less than an inch and stops, all the rest is done internally by the Cameras optics. <br /><br />Wide Angel: <br /><br />Most Digital Cameras do not have wide angel! It is one of the their biggest shortcomings, 36 mm or even worse 37 mm is not a wide angel zoom, as a result when taking pictures indoor you will notice you cannot catch a better part of the scene or only part of the room, when shooting outdoor you will notice that only part of the landscape can be included in the frame. Not to worry, there is a solution! Wide Angel Adaptor, it is an add on which is placed over the existing lens. It can be (X 0.75) = 28 mm, it can be (X 0.66) = 24 mm which is excellent. There is an additional charge for adopters as they are produced either by a third party or the original manufacturer of the camera. Adaptors give small Distortions so as a rule of thumb it is much better to have the original manufacturer adaptor as it matches optically much better. There are even Macro ad on Adaptors available. <br /><br />LCD Screen: <br /><br />The bigger the better, average size is 1.8", but there are models with 2" and even 2.5", another feature is a swivel (flip-out & twist) LCD screens, you can show your kid His picture in real time, and it can help you take a difficult angel and access shots. The LCD screens have one big problem, that is, under sun light and outdoor conditions it is very difficult to see the picture on them. Therefore, if it has Anti Glare feature it's better. The more pixels the better. <br /><br />ISO Rating: <br /><br />This one is important to actually check in the store and observe the results carefully. The wider the range the better, both on the low and high sides of the scale. If it is less than 100 it means you will get very good results in bright day light sunny conditions ( Iso 50 or 80 ), if it is Iso 400 and up it means you will get excellent results on low light conditions. Some of Digital Cameras don't perform well in Iso rating of above 200, (e.g. you will see a lot of noise and snow flakes), this is why I recommended verifying it. <br /><br />Optics: <br /><br />The quality of the Glass Optics is Important, some of the Manufacturers wave with their Optics Brands well known producers like: <br /><br />Leica lens <br />Carl Zeiss lens <br />Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon lens <br />Nikkor Lens <br />Canon Lens <br />Etc’. <br />Additional points: <br /><br />Auto Focus - The more points the better - (9 Points is very good). <br />External Flash option via hot shoe a plus. <br />Lens Protective Hood - Better Light input + physical protection of the lens. <br />Who is the Camera manufacturer? <br /><br />Most of the Digital cameras are designed in Japan, it is very important to choose a reliable producer with strong and experienced knowledge of Cameras, with a large variety of models and commitment to service and excellence. Always think who is the manufacturer, is he coming from the film field, Printers producer, electronics or has he dealt with cameras from day one. <br /><br />Summary: <br /><br />The economy of the Digital Camera is not cheaper than Film Cameras. <br />The overall result of using Digital Camera is improvement in our recorded memories, we shoot much more, correct and delete bad ones and Store only the very best. <br />Examine and test the Camera at a real store only then compare prices in the Internet, buy only at reputable store. <br />Decide on a Budget and stick to it, Take into account all the accessories such as bigger memory card of at least 256 MB. <br />Aperture lens - The smaller the "f" number the better, Range between f2 - f3 is very good, f2.8 across all the zoom range is excellent. Especially if the zoom is long. <br />Zoom range of (12 X) or (10 X), with Anti Shake or Image Stabilizer is great, Consider adding a Tripod. <br />Wide angel adaptor is most important (0.75 X) or even better yet (0.66 X), original manufacturer adapters will give you best optical compatibility. <br />LCD Screen - The bigger the better, Flip out & twist, Anti Glare, High Resolution. <br />ISO Rating - Preferable range 50 - 800, settle for 80 - 400, Test It! <br />Optics - well known manufacturers will give you better quality output. <br />Auto Focus - The more points the better - (9 Points is very good). <br />External Flash option via hot shoe a big plus. <br />Lens Protective Hood - Better Light input + physical protection of the lens. <br />Well-known leader and experienced Camera manufacturer with good service backup. <br />A list of major camera manufacturers web sites: <br /><br />Canon USA <br />Casio-USA <br />Nikon USA <br />Fuji-Film-US <br />Hasselblad <br />HP-US <br />Kodak Photo <br />Konica-Minolta-US <br />Mamiya <br />Leica-Camera <br />Olympus-America <br />Panasonic-Cameras <br />Pentax <br />Samsung-camera-usa <br />Sigma-Cameras <br />Sony-US<br /><a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A51%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> How To Compare Digital Camera Prices </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-10866010545144558332008-05-24T12:51:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.160-08:00How To Choose The Perfect Digital Camera For You!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>How To Choose The Perfect Digital Camera For You!</strong> <br />by: Amit Laufer <br />The huge variety of Digital Cameras in the market is a great thing but it is making our buying decision a difficult task. The following buying tips will help you make a better, more educated, focused and rational purchase decision. Please take into acccount that there is no one perfect Digital Camera that contains all the requiered features and sells at a low price too, so it will be a compromise like many others we make in life. <br /><br />Do You Really Need a Digital Camera? <br /><br />To answer this compare the price of mid range digital cameras and devide it by the cost of a roll of film. How many rolls of film you need to buy before covering the cost of your digital camera? On average good mid range digital camera cost aprox $ 600. Film will avarage $ 2. you will buy 200 rolls of films before ever covering the cost of your new digital camera. Think about it, how much time in terms of years would it take to shoot 300 rolls of film X 36 frames? It is almost 11,000 pictures! Shooting ten rolls a year on average would take 30 years to spend $ 600 in terms of rolls of film and if the cost of the camera was only $ 200 then it will take " only " 10 years. Do you start geting the picture here? Don't forget that there is the cost of developing and the cost of the prints, but if you want to get simmilar quality prints as film camera then you will have to send your digital images to a mini lab printer as well. <br /><br />So please, don't buy into the idea you are saving money here... <br /><br />It is true though that with the digital camera you print only the best shots you like most and not all 36 pictures, so at some point everything begins to balance out. Another point to consider is that, many people don't print digital images, they store it on their computers or over the internet in digital albums, or they make a presentation with background music, burn it on a DVD disk, and share it with family and friends at their living room on TV. The truth is always somewhere in the middle. <br /><br />If it is not necessarily cheaper, Does the Digital Cameras give better quality results? The answer is short: NO! experts may even argue that film quality is better. <br /><br />There is the psychological aspect behind it all. Remember not having to buy film gives you the free feeling of taking as many pictures as you like, with instant satisfaction of seeing results immediately. Secondly,you always have the option to retake shots. <br /><br />Thirdly, people tend to store or print only the best pictures. The overall result is improvement in our recorded memories, we shoot much more, correct and delete bad ones and store or print only the very best. <br /><br />In addition, imaging software enables us to even further improve saturation of colors, Compensate for bad exposures, crop, rotate, make a collage from many pictures, add Artistic Graphics Text and style. <br /><br />To sum it all up, it is not true that the Digital Cameras are saving money, the quality is not higher than Film camera, in general the new better Digital cameras give you more manual control over exposure and shutter speeds. Psychologically we feel relaxed and free to shoot much more pictures. The end result is an overall improvement in recording our live memories. <br /><br />What Do You Need to Look for in a Digital Camera: <br /><br />Examine the Camera at a real store: <br /><br />First I would like to suggest that the whole buying process not be done over the internet even though it is convenient and tempting. In my view it is very important to see the camera, to hold it in your hands, and most importantly to try it and see the results. The features of many digital cameras look quite similar and it is hard to make a decision merely by feature comparisons . It might be very handsome nice looking camera on the internet but may be it is too small for your big hands? Did you know that some Digital cameras Have up to 3 seconds delay between pushing the button and the actual shutter Movement (Picture taking). In 3 seconds my son is out of the frame already... One warning, come prepared (after reading this article), listen to the salesman but with a critic ear, as objectivety may be abscured and profit margin goals may be at mind. You don't have to buy at the store, If you like a specific camera now is the time to go to the internet and compare specific model prices. buy only at a reputable and reliable store either virtual or not. <br /><br />Decide on a Certain Budget and Stick to it: <br /><br />Photo gear has a lot of wana haves, nice to haves and let me have that one as well, gadgets. most camera manufacturers provide a basic memory card of 16 MB, this will be good for only a few high quality pictures, I strongly recommend you will buy a 128 MB or even better yet 256 MB Memory Card. Since Digital Cameras use LCD screen, batery consumption is much higher than what you are use to in film cameras, it is recommended to invest in a battery charger. Allocate a budget for your camera, but make sure it includes the Camera + Memory Card + Battery charger + case and even consider Wide Angel Converter. <br /><br />Skin tone: <br /><br />Test the cameras quality by taking a picture of people, observe the skin tone (face, hands etc'), does the skin tone looks natural to you? Or is it too pale or yellowish? Is it too reddish or pink? Insist on a good natural result. <br /><br />How Many Mega Pixels? <br /><br />The very basic " Point & Shoot " models can start with 2 Mega and can give very good results but I recommend you choose 3 mega or even 4 Mega for prints of up to 5 x 7. If you don't need many enlargements it is high quality and sufficient. There are compact models with even 7 Mega pixels but for all practical reasons it is an over kill, I would invest in wider aperture lens and longer range zoom. Don't think if your neighbor bought a 7 Mega camera that his camera is better, It's not.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T13%3A03%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Part 2 What digital cameras 4u? </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-67593759669407332242008-05-24T12:47:00.001-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.178-08:00How To Compare Digital Camera Prices<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>How To Compare Digital Camera Prices </strong>by: Steve Gargin <br />Digital camera prices have been constantly dropping whilst the quality and complexity of the digital cameras has been rising rapidly. People who used to only dream of owning a digital camera because of the excessive digital camera prices may now be able to afford much better cameras than they realize. In fact, digital camera prices have changed so dramatically that a 5- or 6-megapixel point-and-shoot digital camera has dropped below what a 4-megapixel camera was selling for less than a year ago. <br /><br />Digital camera prices of $200-$300 are now common for good point-and-shoot digital cameras that come with an image resolution of up to 5 mega pixels and a 3X optical zoom lens. It is important to recognize what the minimum features are to expect for this range of digital camera prices. Digital camera prices between $200 and $300 should include: <br /><br />* 1.3 frames per second shooting capability <br /><br />* 10 to 20 scene modes <br /><br />* built-in flash <br /><br />* lens openings from f2.8 to f4.8 <br /><br />* optical viewfinder and an LCD of 1.5 to 2 inches <br /><br />* optical zoom lens with a range equivalent to that of a 35-115mm lens <br /><br />* rechargeable batteries <br /><br />* shutter speeds of 4 seconds to 1/2000 second <br /><br />* solid plastic or metal housing <br /><br />* video clip capture at 320 by 240 resolution with audio <br /><br />Digital camera prices can vary and it is essential to know what the most useful features are. Obviously you want to take good pictures but don’t want to pay the inflated digital camera prices that the high-end cameras have. However, your priority should be to assess which features are the most important to enable you to take the best pictures. The higher the numbers of megapixels that the cameras have, the higher the digital camera prices are but this does not necessarily guarantee better pictures. <br /><br />One of the most useful features to look for in the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices for point-and-shoot picture taking is scene modes. Digital camera prices are not affected very much by having scene modes but these allow an amateur photographer to take shots such as a fireworks display and sunsets without knowing how to adjust the camera settings manually. The majority of the better digital cameras within the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices have scene mode selections available. Another feature of cameras within the $200-$300 range of digital camera prices is that they are compact and will fit in a jacket pocket.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A47%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Making the Most of Digital Camera Memory Cards </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-51117966985785131522008-05-24T12:42:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.187-08:00Making the Most of Digital Camera Memory Cards<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>Making the Most of Digital Camera Memory Cards</strong> <br />by: Dave Saunders <br />Digital cameras are revolutionizing the world of home and professional photography, but they are married to memory cards just as traditional cameras are married to film. Making the best use of memory cards can have a very big impact on your enjoyment of digital photography. Choosing the right memory card for the job can be as important as choosing the right film for a traditional camera. <br /><br />If you are new to digital cameras, the digital camera memory cards are the most important parts of any digital camera, without which they may not work at all. So if you are handling a digital camera or planning a purchase, you must know more about the memory cards used in these cameras. <br /><br />Something many new digital camera owners find counter-intuitive is that bigger is not always better with a digital memory card. The actual response speed of your digital camera can depend greatly on the memory card it is using. The speed that your camera writes new pictures to the digital memory card is partially dependant on the transfer speed of the digital camera but is also dependant on factors in the memory card itself. Memory cards that have “buffers” can take the data into a faster type of memory and then transfer the data from there to the slower “flash memory” which provides the main storage of almost all digital camera memory cards. Some digital camera provide their own buffer memory to allow you to take your next picture while the previous picture is being transferred to the memory card. <br /><br />When you delete an image from the memory card of your digital camera, the flash memory is “reconfigured” because of special issues having to do with how this memory stores data. Normally this is an issue that you don't have to worry about at all. However, if you have a very large memory card and delete an image, you may experience a several minute delay while “house cleaning” is performed on the memory card. Because of this, do not delete images while you are taking pictures. Instead wait until you are at home, your hotel or in the car before reviewing your pictures and deleting the ones you don't want. Smaller cards take less time for this “house cleaning” so many experienced digital camera owners will choose to have more than one medium sized memory card instead of one very large one.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A42%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Repairing A Digital Camera </a> <br /><br />Now the question arises-how many memory cards are enough for your camera? On an average basis, you must have at least two memory cards for your digital camera. That is, if you are using it in a normal and average fashion. <br /><br />Most professional photographers choose to carry about four to six memory cards. This helps them shoot smoothly and constantly. If they run out of memory, they just take the loaded card out and insert the fresh one. Because memory cards can malfunction (just like traditional film canisters, but not as often), you should choose to have at least two memory cards at all times. By having at least two cards, you can work with one and keep the other in reserve for emergency. Having at least one extra memory card for your digital camera will also ensure that you have the backup protection needed if you run out of space on your first card or in the possible event of the first card malfunctioning. <br /><br />The next important issue is how to take proper care of these memory cards. The memory cards may seem like some small and fragile piece of technology, but they are actually fairly sturdy. The flash memory is encased in a stiff plastic shell which can withstand normal wear and handling. At one end of the memory card is either a set of little holes or copper strips. These are the sensitive part of the card. Any voltage source or a large jolt of static could corrupt the memory and probably cause permanent damage to the card. When the card is not in your camera, it is best to keep it stored in a protective case or in your camera case. Putting it in your pocket could cause a short (from your keys perhaps) or dirty the electrical contracts. There have been instances where the users have misbehaved greatly with them and the memory cards have yet survived and continued to function correctly. But, this does not mean that one should not care for them. <br /><br />When it is time to transfer your data from the memory card to your PC, it is best to have a memory card reader, or have a PC with a built-in reader. The data cables provided with most digital cameras are very slow compared to the speed of a “direct reader” and it is often easier to review, copy and delete images from a memory card when using a reader instead of through the data cable connection. <br /><br />When traveling, X-Rays have never been shown to corrupt the data on, or damage, a digital camera memory card. The memory card is also not magnetic in nature so the motors in the X-Ray machine's conveyor belt should not be able to cause any harm either. <br /><br />Armed with knowledge comes the power to benefit from that knowledge. If you have learned something new about digital memory cards, hopefully you will benefit by enjoying your digital camera more and finding more opportunities to take great pictures.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-82445549463005923822008-05-24T12:38:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.197-08:00Repairing A Digital Camera<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br /><strong>Repairing A Digital Camera</strong> <br />by: Steve Gargin <br />It would be ideal if you never had to use a digital camera repair service but the chances are that you will have to find one during the life of your digital camera. If you have bought your camera carefully then it should have a lengthy digital camera repair warranty. Even if your camera is still within the warranty period for digital camera repair then you still have to ensure that you meet the requirements of the warranty. <br /><br />No digital camera repair warranty covers damage caused by abusing the camera or incorrect use. You also need to check what paperwork you have to send off with your digital camera repair for it to be carried out under warranty, such as the sales receipt and completed warranty card. Your warranty will provide instructions for how to obtain a digital camera repair and the procedures to follow. It is important to use a digital camera repair service authorised by the particular manufacturer of your digital camera to ensure that you do not incur any extra costs. A digital camera repair carried out under warranty will not cost you anything unless the equipment needs to be returned to the factory, in which case there are shipping charges. <br /><br />One of the most frequent problems that require a camera to be sent to a digital camera repair service is a zoom lens that will not zoom, because the lens is out of alignment. This may have been caused by rough handling or some type of impact which will not be covered by the warranty. If your camera is not able to focus then it will not fire and may print out ‘system error’ or not turn on properly. It is a relatively simple process for a digital camera repair service to realign the zoom lens or reset the zoom barrel guide pins that may have been pushed out of their slots, and this will then enable the lens to focus and zoom. The cost for this form of digital camera repair will vary from service to service but it should be a relatively quick job, as long as the digital camera repair company has the correct equipment onsite. It is worth checking before you decide which digital camera repair service to use that they have the necessary equipment and expertise to carry out the repair and not have to send it away. <br /><br />The best digital camera repair services have skilled digital camera repair technicians that specialize in repairing certain types and brands of cameras, hundreds of specialized tools to properly service your camera and some may also have custom test jigs to help complete repairs more effectively and efficiently.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A38%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Things you should know before buying discount cameras </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-71627145412555696342008-05-24T12:35:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.207-08:00Things You Should Know Before Buying Discount Cameras<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br />Things You Should Know Before Buying Discount Cameras <br />by: Nicky Pilkington <br />Taking photographs has always been considered an enjoyable pastime. Photography is one of the best ways to capture a moment in time. It seems now the world has become obsessed with taking pictures. Everywhere you look there are advertisements for cameras. Probably one of the most significant innovations in the Digital Age has been the digital camera. At one time these cameras had one thing in common with their non-digital counterparts—an expensive price tag. In recent years the cost of digital cameras has dropped considerably; so much so that you can easily purchase a digital camera for less than $200. To find the best deal you will need to do some comparison-shopping. By arming yourself with some information about digital cameras, you will better prepare yourself for buying discount cameras. <br /><br />As most of the innovations in digital technology, digital cameras are considered more complex than they really are. When you shop for discount cameras, price should not be your only guide. It is a good idea to understand some of the basic features of digital cameras so that you can effectively compare the various models available on the market. <br /><br />If you’re interested in buying discount cameras, you undoubtedly are familiar with at least one buzzword associated with digital cameras: megapixel. Megapixel, which refers to the number of pixels per one million or how fine an image’s resolution is, is important to consider when buying discount cameras because megapixel directly relates to the image quality you are able to obtain. When you shop for discount cameras you will notice that there are a wide range of megapixels. At one time, a digital camera with 1.3 megapixel was standard and a camera with 5.0 megapixels was considered top-shelf. With the recent introduction of digital cameras with 9.0 megapixels, the standard in megapixels is changing. <br /><br />Buying a digital camera with the highest number of megapixels is not necessarily the best method of selecting a digital camera. Since megapixels relate to an image’s resolution, you should first determine your plans for the digital camera. If you want simply to take images for personal use, a median number of megapixels such as 3.5 may be sufficient. If on the other hand you intend to enlarge and crop images, you may want to shop for digital cameras with a higher number of megapixels. <br /><br />The number of megapixels that a camera uses is the primary selling point for digital cameras. However, it is the additional features that will have the greatest effect on price. Optional features that you may want to consider include video recording capabilities, an optical zoom lens, and a histogram. Most cameras include a zoom lens, but it is usually a digital zoom lens. This type of lens only appears to enlarge the image. An optical zoom lens is an ideal option if you will use your digital camera to shoot distant objects. Creating a digital movie is another popular option. If you want a digital camera with this feature, be sure to note the maximum recording time. A handy feature that is not used often, but is very handy if you are serious about digital photography is histogram. Once you snap an image you can use the histogram option to analyze the exposure. If an image is too bright or too dark you can reshoot the image. <br /><br />About The Author<br /><br /><br />Nicky Pilkington <br /><br />For more information about buying discount cameras, you can review a buying guide and offers for discount digital cameras at http://discount-digital-camera.biz/. If you are short on time, this website also offers some of the best deals in digital cameras on the Internet.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A35%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Using a Tripod with Your Digital Camera </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-64685136195672522922008-05-24T12:32:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.216-08:00Using a Tripod with Your Digital Camera<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s1600-h/hed+design+db.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBFNkYc5LaATDC3Obu1bDtMx-Om4RJb7_V6XUnved-NksaKigtsrXWb9xmHT7Ha8DvAnIpTdXHFFTToNsvvgbTy2NgpotPov584Ut290Xq9863JBnjjFDOfEVmhe4drNTExSA8tJvSmtgI/s400/hed+design+db.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204064343026534050" /></a><br />by: Dakota Caudilla <br />The purpose of using a tripod for digital photos is to reduce the chances of blurring the pictures. Even if for most parts, the image is clear, because of the slightest camera movement, the entire picture could be ruined. That’s why you will always see a tripod or monopod in a professional photographer’s camera bag! A camera tripod is extremely useful when taking pictures in dim light. When there isn’t enough light, the shutters are slower, therefore, increasing the chances of the digital image blurring out. A tripod can easily solve this problem. A tripod is also useful when you are planning to make large digital prints of the photos – a good support from a digital camera tripod will make a world of difference. <br /><br />Well, even if you don’t have a tripod handy, you can always use someone else’s shoulder for support – just so your digital camera won’t shake as much when you take the shot. Well, in any case, it’s always better to use a tripod if there was a choice. <br /><br />We see new models and types of digital cameras every single week, and the same thing can be said about tripods. The materials used to make digital camera tripods continue to change – the familiar aluminum tripod is now replaced with the lighter and more expensive carbon fiber tripod models. Although there’s quite a huge shift in pricing, some photographers think that investing in a lighter and more durable model of tripod is worth it – especially if they’re in the game for the money! <br /><br />Before you buy a tripod for your digital camera, the first thing you must consider is how you plan to use the camera. There are essentially three heights that you can choose from…maximum, minimum and collapsed. It depends on the kind of tripod you like. The maximum tripod can be a little bit unstable as with everything tall and lanky. The minimum tripod can be a slightly inflexible, but is especially useful when taking low shots and trying adjust the lens to eye level. The collapsible is the most preferred type of tripod. <br /><br />In professional photography, a tripod can help you take low shots on objects from the top. This can be done when you place the object on the floor and arrange the tripod on top of or slightly over the object, and then take a shot. Most of the high quality tripods come with a center column that enables you to adjust the height of the tripod according to your needs. Take your time and adjust the tripod height accordingly. To find the right angle, make adjustments to the tripod head. <br /><br />With a tripod, you can easily take professional photographs even if you’ve never taken a professional photograph all your life! That’s how big a difference a tripod can make.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T12%3A32%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> What is the best digital camera for me? </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-48315128000794581942008-05-24T12:30:00.000-07:002008-05-24T14:06:35.241-07:00What Is The Best Digital Camera For Me?by: Steve Gargin <br />There is so much to consider when looking for the best digital camera to suit your needs. It is important to decide what features matter the most to you. The main factors, apart from cost, in assessing which is the best digital camera for you are as follows: <br /><br />• Size and weight <br />• Resolution <br />• Level of Control <br />• Options and features <br /><br />The size and weight of the best digital camera for one person varies greatly to that of another. If you want a camera that is lightweight and will slip into a pocket or purse then a ultra-lightweight cameras will probably be the best digital camera for your needs. These are often the least complex of the digital cameras as they offer point and shoot simplicity and are the best digital camera for beginners. At the other end of the size and weight scale comes a bulky 1? pound SLR camera for the ‘serious’ photographer who wants the best digital camera with all of the accessories to take the perfect shot. <br /><br />The resolution you need can narrow down which is the best digital camera for your requirements. The resolution affects the detail of an image for printing quality and the higher the resolution the greater the detail. The best digital camera for printing standard size pictures has a lower resolution than if you want to create oversize prints. <br /><br />The best digital camera for being able to edit and manipulate your images is one with a resolution of 5 or 6 mega pixels so that you can crop the images with photo editing software and still print them out full size. <br /><br />The amount of control that you have available will also be an issue in finding the best digital camera. Some people think that the best digital camera is one they can use in an automatic mode and let the camera do the work. Others choose the best digital camera that allows them more input in the creative process by manually adjusting the focus, speed, aperture and other settings. A simple point and shoot camera is the best digital camera for people not wanting to make any setting changes but the range of manual controls available on other cameras varies with make and model. The latter will require more research to find the best digital camera to meet your requirements. <br /><br />The next part in deciding which is the best digital camera to buy is to assess what, if any, additional features you would like. Here are some suggestions: <br /><br />• Audio annotation to add commentary to your images. <br /><br />• Burst shooting which allows you to take multiple pictures in rapid succession for fast moving action shots. <br /><br />• Macro photo capability that focuses on extreme close-up detail for images of flowers, insects, etc. <br /><br />• Movie mode with audio to take short videos. <br /><br />• Panoramic stitching function, often included in a camera's software package, which joins individual images into a multi-photo panoramic picture. <br /><br />• Weatherproof casing <br /><br />The most important aspect in choosing the best digital camera for you is ensuring that you are comfortable using it and have some fun taking pictures.<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-24T11%3A27%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Bird Watching-Writing what you see </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-75592898079104345712008-05-24T11:27:00.000-07:002008-12-09T02:33:00.364-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTPaRBZMwMX2gDFDcwy6tm_b-NH9-KYXzT4wgUkZktmpe8gY3cLHnY69Kpix_idTroSBGDR_Ttb_Qh9TjhWhqnyC1sX8w1NVmZd60tu5TyzfefUr6jBR24nm1jnMAydDoP4dZbfWUITqw/s1600-h/site+map+for+digital+binoculars.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTPaRBZMwMX2gDFDcwy6tm_b-NH9-KYXzT4wgUkZktmpe8gY3cLHnY69Kpix_idTroSBGDR_Ttb_Qh9TjhWhqnyC1sX8w1NVmZd60tu5TyzfefUr6jBR24nm1jnMAydDoP4dZbfWUITqw/s200/site+map+for+digital+binoculars.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5204013494908716610" /></a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-86789468344042119362008-05-20T19:39:00.001-07:002008-05-23T18:58:16.125-07:00Bird Watching-writing what you seeBird Watching – Writing What You See <br />by: Richard Chapo <br />No bird watcher is complete without his or her bird watching journals. When you go bird watching, you need to keep your life list. <br /><br />The Life List<br /><br />If you are or become an avid bird watching enthusiast, you’re going to need to keep records. The reason for this is you want to keep a running list of the various bird species you’ve seen. Since there are a zillion species, the list can become quite long. Frankly, it becomes a life long project that is very enjoyable. Trust me, you’ll start planning vacations and trips around it. A business trip will soon evolve into a chance to see new species. <br /><br />Part and parcel to your bird watching life list is your journal. Some bird watchers combine these two while others keep them separate. The bird watching journal is used to fill out your sightings. Information kept in the journal includes things like where you were, whom you were with, the weather conditions, the lighting, time of day and your overall impressions from the sighting. <br /><br />When keeping your journal and lists, you are going to have sightings of species you’ve seen previously. Most bird watchers will add such sightings to their journals, but not their life lists. The reason for this is there may be peculiar or significant factors in the sighting. Perhaps the bird is not typically found in the area in question or perhaps it is exhibiting some unique characteristic. <br /><br />New Sightings<br /><br />When it comes to bird watching, there is no greater joy then sighting a bird you have never seen before. Often called “life birds”, the sighting can be added to your life list and is a feather in your cap. When you first start watching birds, you’ll obviously have a lot of new sighting. As time passes, however, they will become less frequent and you will come to enjoy and value them even more. <br /><br />Bird watching is an addictive hobby. Part of the thrill is watching your life list grow and reading through your journal of sightings. <br /><br />Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of writing journals. Bird watching journals are great bird watching gifts for bird watching tours and vacations.<br />More <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-20T19%3A39%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> A Primer on Digital Cameras </a>ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-18809034281067715112008-05-03T19:41:00.000-07:002008-05-03T22:59:35.336-07:00A Primer on Digital Cameras... Everything you need to knowby: Joe Leech <br />It wasn’t long ago that digital cameras were essentially for the rich and the geeks; if you spent just a few bucks you didn’t get anything worth having, and if you really wanted something good.. well, you’d better be in the book about the Rich and Famous. <br /><br />Technology and costs have changed drastically in the last few years, and it seems as if today that digital cameras nearly outnumber all the classic film cameras, and to all but the classic photography buffs, digital is the way to go. <br /><br />Even traditional photography studios use digital, often in combination, with film. <br /><br />Why? What’s the attraction? Instant availability and the ability to discard unwanted photos without cost penalty is one main attraction. The second is the ability to share, publish, store your pictures. <br /><br />The purist will still argue that for professional grade photography and the widest range of effects that film is the only way to go. If he were shooting today, it is doubtful that Ansel Adams would be using digital. <br /><br />For the rest of us, digital seems to be the way to go. <br /><br />Now assuming you have not yet made the plunge, the biggest question is "Where Do I start?" or "What do I buy?" or "How Do I Compare?" <br /><br />Articles have been written on just these subjects and if we were to expand on all, this article would be a text book instead of just a primer. You can do a search on any of the popular article sites to find many articles just on that subject, (one site for example is ArticleCity.com, but not to promote one over the other.. chances are you may be seeing this on an article based site). You can also use search engines. <br /><br />But sometimes it’s nice to have interactive expert advice. We suggest you read and research for background, but then for selection, visit you closest specialty photography or camera store. One where that’s all they sell.. not a general all purpose discount or department store that probably has that department "manned" with part time help.. but go to the specialty store. The person will know what to ask you and how to guide you. <br /><br />Your biggest question will end up being an ethical one: After you have been taught and guided, do you buy from that store, or take your knowledge and model to the internet or a discount store and make your buy. If you do, keep in mind that the full service store may offer just that.. service after the sale; maybe an upgrade trade in policy, and other intangibles that must be assigned value. <br /><br />Before you venture out, choosing the right camera begins with asking yourself "What do I want this for?" "What kinds of pictures do I expect to be taking?" "How many at a time?" (Addresses memory and storage issues). "What kind of light will most of my pictures be in?" "Will I be carrying this camera for long periods of time?"(Think of weight). And lastly, and this is important.. What kind of batteries does this camera use; how available are they, and what do they cost? Most digital cameras are real battery hogs, so it is important that batteries are readily available.. and possibly rechargable.. but if you are on a 3 week safari in Africa and you don’t have chargers handy.. what are your options? How many pictures? Memory cards available easily? Or do you have to dump and download often? On a long vacation you don’t want to shoot all day and fill up.. and then not have a computer handy to dump into? <br /><br />Compared to film where it’s just "pop a new roll" digital cameras purchased that don’t match the photographers needs can be a detriment, not an asset. <br /><br />Once you choose, then you need to know how to compare pricing and benefits.. but that’s the subject for another article. <br /><br />Choose wisely and you’ll love your new <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-03T19%3A41%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> camera!</a> <br /><br />About The Author<br /><br /><br />Joe Leech is a serious amateur photographer, not only shooting "snapshot" photos but also professional grade pictures for his eBay business. His free info site at http://digitalheadquarters.ouronlinebusiness.com is a great resource on the subject.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-12512125806305100942008-05-03T19:39:00.001-07:002008-05-03T23:02:01.598-07:00A New Digital Camera Is 'Braun'A New Digital Camera Is 'Braun' <br />by: Chris Thomas <br />The Braun D410 Digital Camera <br /><br />Pros <br /><br />A camera compact in shape and function – size of a packet of 20 cigarettes. Designed for simplicity in use and the ladies handbag with a neat case included 4MByte sensor – very respectable: and a three times optical zoom – a good lens. Simple to use and gives excellent results – prints of up to 10 x 8 inches are feasible on best settings <br /><br />Cons <br /><br />Only space for two AA batteries – but the case is small! – take some spares. Lacks an optical viewfinder, LCD display difficult to see on a sunny day. Flash is good up to 10 feet max – but then that is true of most on camera flashes The Braun D410 is a compact camera that comes compete with batteries and camera case – rare nowadays – and a set of leads for connection to your PC or to your TV. <br /><br />While this is a still picture and a movie camera, this review is more concerned about the still picture capability of the Braun D410. <br /><br />I was able to operate the camera from the box – but then I am a photographer. <br /><br />Reading the first few pages of the manual will get you going – and that will probably be all you require. As with all things electronic, there are many functions included, most of which you will never use. <br /><br />Indeed the camera manual – printed in 7 languages – is considerably larger and heavier than the camera – so leave it at home! Same applies to the CD Rom containing software for your PC. <br /><br />Inserting a 256Mbyte SD Memory card allows the camera to store in excess of 100 images at its highest resolution – 4Mega Pixels. This card can be used to transfer images to your PC or can be taken to a photo lab to get the images printed. The camera will take either Secure Digital or Multimedia memory cards – they are physically identical. The only difference is that the SD card has a small switch in its side to lock the contents of its memory. Take care when inserting batteries or cards. This is a small and delicate piece of equipment! The cards can be inserted the wrong way around – but the battery cover will not fit back into place! <br /><br />Switch on the Braun D410 camera by pressing the small button at the centre of the command dial at the top of the camera. The dial sets the mode of the camera – fully automatic or a range of options including landscapes, portraits, sport subjects (rapidly moving) and night photography. <br /><br />The controls are intuitive to operate starting with the upper toggle switch on the rear of the camera switching between wide angle and telephoto. The image you are focussing on is displayed on a small screen on the rear of the camera – there is no eye piece as such. <br /><br />Slight pressure on the picture taking button causes the camera to focus and calculate exposure – a full press causes the camera to take a picture – there is a small delay between pressing the button and taking the shot – so keep the camera still! Most users will use the fully automatic mode which involves no thinking or playing. The built in flash gun switches itself on as and when needed for individual groups or small portraits. Do not expect it to fill a hall though – this is a compact camera! <br /><br />The screen on the back of the camera is able to review <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-03T19%3A39%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> images</a> taken and stored in memory. Press the playback arrow button to go into review mode – press it again to go back to photograph mode. Use the lower toggle switch to step through the shots you have taken. Individual images can be deleted – and taken again – if required. I found the screen difficult to use on a very bright sunny day. <br /><br />A drawback of any small camera is that there is little room for the batteries. The Braun D410 accepts 2 AA size batteries. So take some spares with you as they soon run down should you be making use of the camera over a period. The motors for the telephoto lens, flash and other circuits drain the cells. <br /><br />I am not going to go through all of the options and control functions of the camera. The manual does that very well. So I would suggest that should you buy this camera you spend half an hour reading the manual and then put it to one side and take some photographs! The advantage of digital is that you are not exposing film – and you can delete the images you do not want to keep. <br /><br />The camera can take short bursts of video as well, but I am not going to describe that! <br /><br />In summary the Braun D410 is a very competent consumer camera which will delight the user in its simplicity and quality. Ideal for the ladies and their handbag. <br /><br />For more information on this product visit http://www.view-link.com/contact.html <br /><br />About The Author<br /><br /><br />Christopher Thomas is a keen photographer and company director at Viewlink Ltd based in Amersham, Uk. The company focusses on digital photo developing for both amateur and commercial photographers as well as a wide range of photographic supplies. For more articles by Christopher Thomas please visit the company website at http://www.view-link.com.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-63771463234702150502008-05-03T19:37:00.001-07:002008-05-03T23:03:41.528-07:00A Guide To Buying A Digital Camera EquipmentA Guide To Buying A Digital Camera Equipment <br />by: Steve Gargin <br />How to Buy Digital Camera Equipment <br /><br />There are so many digital cameras that it can be confusing trying to buy digital camera equipment. Here are some tips to help you decide which the best choice is for you and buy digital camera equipment that you will get the best results with: <br /><br />• The first step before you buy digital camera equipment is to set a basic budget on how much money you want to spend. You do need to be realistic about the fact you won't be able to get the best of every feature, as you may have to make tradeoffs when you actually buy digital camera equipment. <br /><br />• Your experience level has to have a big influence in your decision to buy digital camera equipment. There is no point in buying too much buy digital camera equipment than you can actually use. For a novice you should buy digital camera equipment that is point and shoot so that you don’t have to worry about manually changing any settings. Digital zoom is not as important a part in the process of choosing to buy digital camera equipment as you may first think. Basically it just means that the camera crops the picture and gives you the center piece of it. You do not need to buy digital camera equipment that does this as you can do it better yourself after you take the picture. You can usually move closer to the subject anyway and to buy digital camera equipment that includes an optical zoom can add a lot of unnecessary cost and weight to the camera. Of course, expert photographers will want to buy digital camera equipment that gives them more manual control over the exposure process. <br /><br />• Next you need to consider what you will use your camera to capture before you set out to buy digital camera equipment. A fast shutter speed is necessary for moving subjects. You can also buy digital camera equipment that has special features to enable you to take multiple pictures in quick succession for high-action pictures. <br /><br />• There are a number of helpful websites that give reviews on photographic products to help you decide on the best camera for your needs before you buy digital camera equipment. Of course, you can also ask friends and family about their digital camera choices. Price comparison websites are also essential to help you to buy digital camera equipment at the best possible prices. Remember that when you buy digital camera equipment there are often a list of extras that you may want to purchase, including batteries and memory cards. <br /><br />Don't be tempted to go for a trendy-looking, colorful camera if you really want to buy a less cool looking one that does more of what you want. Make sure that you have got as many of the features that you wanted to have in the first place and haven't compromised too much on them for the sake of a few extra dollars. It is important to ensure that you buy <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-03T19%3A37%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> digital camera</a> equipment that you are happy with and enables you to take the photographs that you want.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-46019228626498369412008-05-03T19:34:00.000-07:002008-05-03T23:06:17.509-07:005 Things You Can Do With Flash Memoryby: Lynn Chan <br />Got flash memory cards? They aren’t only for your<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-03T19%3A34%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> digital camera.</a> Probably the coolest yet overlooked ways to use your flash memory card is as floppy drive replacement. Think about it, a flash memory card is really a form of storage disk. <br /><br />Most notebook computers today don’t come with a floppy drive anymore. I’ve personally been in situations where I needed to share a file with someone and haven’t been able to because they handed me a floppy disk. <br /><br />If you already own a card or a digital camera, chances are you already have the necessary equipment to read the card and transfer files to and from them. If you don’t it’s easy. Get yourself a flash memory card reader – they are so inexpensive these days you can even pick one up free after rebate if you watch the deals. Hookup it up to your computer and pop in the card. It will show up on your computer as a new drive. When you’re ready to save data to it, just drag and drop. It’s no different than a regular floppy or hard drive. Once you see in this light there is a whole bunch of things you can use your flash memory card for and here are 5 ideas for you. <br /><br />1. Use as a greeting card. Hey there’s always an occasion around the corner. If you’re already thinking of sending a CD greeting card – use your flash memory card instead. With the large storage sizes you can afford to have multimedia in your ecards too and when that person gets tired of it, the card itself is a gift for their computing convenience. As if that wasn’t enough, you can probably get by with less postage too. <br /><br />2. Use as media storage. One of the best things about flash memory cards is how much its small physical size can pack in. With memory sizes up to several Gigabytes, you could use it to store your media like video clips, picture clips, audio files and just about any downloadable content. Its small size also makes it highly portable without taking up valuable space on your notebook computer hard drive. <br /><br />3. Sharing files or transferring files from one computer to another. If you need to do this often, here’s a quick tip. Carry with you a USB card reader. Many of them are very compact and no heavier than your cell phone. Doing this has advantages over carrying a flash memory drive. Flash memory cards are smaller and a tiny catalog of cards can offer you much more memory than a flash drive. Better carry two things than a bunch of drives. <br /><br />4. Build yourself an ebook library. Are you a book worm? One tiny flash memory card can store a lot of ebooks since most text based files are smaller than media files. You can store whole libraries of ebooks in various topics either on one card or dedicate one for each topic you are interested in. Again, they are easy to share and very portable – you’ll never run out of reading material again even when on the road. <br /><br />5. Run small software from it. Yes, there are tiny software that don’t need to be installed and can run from the card itself. This is particularly helpful when you’re using someone else’s computer. Now you can carry your software with you too. <br /><br />Now that you know – gather up those flash memory cards and start using them. Just because your new camera isn’t compatible with it doesn’t mean you should let it go to waste and the best part is, you won’t have to worry about obsolete cards anymore.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-22899948571060699352008-05-03T19:29:00.000-07:002008-05-03T23:08:12.434-07:00Canon Digital Camera GuideCanon digital camera innovations have always been at the forefront of photographic innovations and their compact digital cameras package a variety of functions into a deceptively small Canon digital camera body. These are particularly attractive to a wide range of users because of their light weight, ease of use, high image quality and high functionality. Canon digital camera experts are highly experienced in camera manufacturer, leading-edge optical technology, ultra high-precision mounting technology, electronic device technology and color management technology amongst others. All of this experience and expertise is combined to produce the Canon digital camera PowerShot series and the PowerShot DIGITAL ELPH/DIGITAL IXUS series. <br /><br />Throughout their continuing research, the Canon digital camera development team has collected a large amount of photographic data and also made broad statistical analyses of the frequency involved in taking photographs. This data led to the creation of the Canon digital camera Photographic Space which is a graphical database of information relating to the relationship between surrounding brightness and distance between a Canon digital camera and the subject relative to the focal length and position of the zoom lens when pictures are taken. <br /><br />The Canon digital camera Photographic Space led to the development of a new scene-recognition technology called "iSAPS" (intelligent Scene Analysis based on Photographic Space) Technology. Canon digital camera iSAPS Technology analyses the scene to be photographed and makes optimal adjustments of a number of key functions, including auto-focus, before the shutter is pressed. <br /><br />The Canon digital camera iSAPS Technology closely estimates the camera-to-subject distance based on the lens focal length, zoom position and surrounding brightness which guarantees the most accurate exposure and white balance settings for the overall conditions. <br /><br />At the high end of the Canon digital camera range are their single-lens reflex, or SLR, cameras. The Canon digital camera company has created ultra-high-precision imaging elements and high-performance digital imaging engines so that their digital SLR cameras possess the same ease of operation as their 35mm film counterparts but produce exceptionally high-quality <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-05-03T19%3A29%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> images.</a> <br /><br />The Canon digital camera imaging engine, or DIGIC II, creates image data from signals output from a CMOS, or complementary metal oxide semiconductor, sensor. The CMOS sensor is really the brain of any digital camera. Canon developed the Canon digital camera DIGIC II high-performance imaging engine directly due to the increasingly high resolution CMOS sensors. With the help of a high-capacity DDRS DRAM (double data rate SDRAM) as the buffer memory, the Canon digital camera DIGIC II processes high-resolution images at ultra-high speeds. <br />by: Steve GarginONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-14843137678199120352008-04-10T14:46:00.000-07:002008-05-03T23:10:12.492-07:00Binocular SalesNeed a new pair of binoculars. Looking to upgrade or just wanting some accessories for your binoculars. Make sure to check out the binocular sales. Do some comparison shopping for all your needs and wants, see what sellers have to offer you. Sales do not have to mean cheap. But remember you get what you pay for. <br /><br />Super Deals!<br />A little extra money saved on sales means you can get more things at discounted prices that you want.<br /><br />Sellers will try to get your attention by using some of the following selling techniques. Advertising a huge binocular sale, free shipping or even taxes included, are just some of the things sellers will do to attract you to their sale. They may offer great binoculars and accessories for a great price. No matter their method of selling it means a savings for you. Some will even have sales offering you the lowest prices guaranteed on your binocular needs whether it’s marine binoculars or binoculars for bird watching.<br /><br />What binoculars are the best to use? Depends on what you are using the binoculars for. Suppose you want them for antique collecting, astronomy, hunting, bird watching, or just for your viewing pleasure. Maybe the<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-04-10T14%3A46%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> binoculars</a> are for marine or military work. Different types of binoculars are better for different types of work.<br /><br />You can find a wide range of products from compact travelite binoculars, giant to mini binoculars or infrared and waterproof binoculars. Whether it is from a wholesaler, warehouse distributor or a store selling sporting goods you will find sales everywhere. Some Sellers also sell used binoculars at discount prices. In this case, you want to make sure that they are in good functional working order. <br /><br />You can find many accessories like cases, tripods, or straps at discount prices. Sales will range from make and models. Remember to check out the magnification level on different binoculars and all the different functions they have to offer before buying.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-62423278216275933432008-04-10T14:45:00.001-07:002008-05-03T23:12:54.902-07:00Buying WholesaleBinoculars at wholesale prices are extremely economical since the middleman is excluded from the transaction and you directly buy it from the producer. A wholesaler gives you a host of recognized names to choose from like Canon, Leica, Bushnell, Minolta, Zeiss, Pentax etc, but you need not shell a great amount of money. Again, discount binoculars will be a bargain but the best part is that they are on sale online so you can access it from the comfort of your couch. <br /><br />Talking of a quality binocular at wholesale, Pentax binoculars provide you with top class binoculars with a variety of magnifications, optics and styles. Whether it is for hunting or bird watching or for convenience during the entertainments, a Pentax binocular offers the best binocularity possible. <br /><br />A binocular's accessory is something that helps in the better functioning of a binocular and if you can get these accessories at wholesale prices, then there is nothing like it:<br /><br />·<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-04-10T14%3A45%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> Digital Binocular</a> tripods helps keep large size binoculars steady on the ground. <br /><br />· A binocular tripod case helps carrying your tripod as well as other objects related to the binocular like the batteries, lens filters, field guides etc.<br /><br />· Binocular mounts help to attach your wholesale binoculars to a tripod. These binocular mounts may/may not need a tripod, as it can be set onto a car window as well.<br /><br />· A good travel backpack would be a lot of help to carry your wholesale binocular and its accessories.<br /><br />· A lens cap helps protect your binocular's objective lenses, and eyepieces for optical comfort. <br /><br />· Compact Cleaner consists of appliances to clean your binoculars of the dirt and dust invisible to the eyes. <br /><br />These binocular accessories will enhance the performance of your binocular moreover you can use it on your wholesale binocular for maximum comfort and enjoyment.<br /><br /><br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-47935359087012977162008-04-10T14:44:00.001-07:002008-05-03T23:15:11.751-07:00Wind RiverFor the keen hunter or birder seeking the very best in high optical quality and value, there really is no better choice than a pair of Wind River binoculars. <br /><br />Exceptional Performance Guaranteed<br />Whether you are a hunter or birder, prefer woods, streams or wilderness – a good Wind River binocular will offer a solution to your optical needs at a fraction of the price of some of the leading brands, but with no compromise on quality. These binoculars also available as zoom binoculars will provide superior optical resolution and great performance.<br /><br />Designed and engineered in Oregon using nearly one hundred years of experience in producing quality <a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-04-10T14%3A44%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> optical</a> equipment and all featuring the pioneering waterproofing methods guaranteeing that whichever model of binoculars you should choose, they will remain 100 percent waterproof and fog proof; even if they should be accidentally submerged in a stream or river.<br /><br />The optical clarity and colour fidelity of these binoculars are also ultra enhanced with lens surfaces specially treated and multicoated for increased light transmission and prism options. These binoculars also include phase coated silver or aluminium enhanced varieties meaning you can be certain they will perform at excellent standards for your binocular needs all day long – even at dawn or dusk.<br /><br />Wind Rivers are available in a range of comfort style options and finishes including the Leupold wind river roof prism 10x50 binoculars. Binoculars with a shock-absorbing rubber armour coating designed for use in the most rugged of terrain, to fully camouflaged, extra powerful or compact models and ergonomically designed options that provide a comfortable fit for even those with the smallest hands. Leupold’s Wind Rivers really does have something to suit everyone’s binocular needs – and all with a lifetime warranty.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-19941106839665183692008-04-10T14:42:00.000-07:002008-05-03T23:17:21.446-07:00HuntingOregon based Leupold produces many fine pieces of sporting equipment, including the popular Wind River, Leupold Olympic binoculars and Golden Ring ranges of binoculars. A Leupold<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-04-10T14%3A42%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> binocular review</a> can help you decide which model is most suited to your needs. <br /><br />Leupold – For All Your Optical Needs.<br />For other independent Leupold binocular reviews, simply visit you local sporting goods store or ask a fellow enthusiast for their own personal review.<br /><br />The Leupold Golden Ring series of binoculars offer an Interpupillary Distance Lock to prevent scope movement, meaning they can be used one handed.<br /><br />The Golden Ring 8x42mm and 10x42mm binoculars also feature Leupold’s exclusive Index Matched Lens System whereby each individual coating is custom matched specifically to the type of glass used and to the placement of the lens within the binocular itself, resulting in an incredible level of clarity, brightness and colour fidelity. With a close range of just seven feet – and a field view range of 340 feet at 1,000 yards the Golden Ring binoculars generally gain a review of being ideally suited to the optical needs of almost anyone, ranging from butterflyers to birders.<br /><br />Leupold Wind River binoculars including the Mesa™ Camo binoculars with its 8x42mm and 10x50mm center focus also have generous twist up eyecups that allow even eyeglass wearers to use the binoculars for hours in perfect comfort. These Leupold binoculars are ideal for birders due to the enhanced optical performance afforded by the Porro prism lens system, meaning these binoculars transmit a clear three dimensional image useful in aiding bird identification. <br /><br />Ruggedly built, one hundred percent waterproof and with a tough outer armour, the Leupold Mesa™ binoculars are ideal for wetter locations and are guaranteed to provide excellent optical performance at all times.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-224479521492893581.post-77349383588718844102008-04-10T14:41:00.001-07:002008-05-03T23:19:20.493-07:00About LeupoldOregon based Leupold produces many fine pieces of sporting equipment, including the popular Wind River, Leupold Olympic binoculars and Golden Ring ranges of binoculars. A Leupold binocular review can help you decide which model is most suited to your needs. <br /><br />Leupold – For All Your Optical Needs.<br />For other independent Leupold binocular reviews, simply visit you local sporting goods store or ask a fellow enthusiast for their own personal review.<br /><br />The Leupold Golden Ring series of binoculars offer an Interpupillary Distance Lock to prevent scope movement, meaning they can be used one handed.<br /><br />The Golden Ring 8x42mm and 10x42mm binoculars also feature Leupold’s exclusive Index Matched Lens System whereby each individual coating is custom matched specifically to the type of glass used and to the placement of the lens within the binocular itself, resulting in an incredible level of clarity, brightness and colour fidelity. With a close range of just seven feet – and a field view range of 340 feet at 1,000 yards the Golden Ring binoculars generally gain a review of being ideally suited to the optical needs of almost anyone, ranging from butterflyers to birders.<br /><br />Leupold Wind River binoculars including the Mesa™ Camo binoculars with its 8x42mm and 10x50mm center focus also have generous twist up eyecups that allow even eyeglass wearers to use the binoculars for hours in perfect comfort. These Leupold binoculars are ideal for birders due to the enhanced optical performance afforded by the Porro prism lens system, meaning these binoculars transmit a clear three dimensional image useful in aiding bird identification. <br /><br />Ruggedly built, one hundred percent waterproof and with a tough outer armour, the Leupold Mesa™ binoculars are ideal for wetter locations and are guaranteed to provide excellent<a href="http://digitalbinoculars.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2008-04-10T14%3A41%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=1"> optical</a> performance at all times.ONLINE PRODUCTShttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12041784763105492778noreply@blogger.com0