Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Posted on 31-05-2009 What Features Are Just Fluff With Digital Cameras?

Why is so difficult for camera companies to come up with one good all around digital camera that’s perfect for all occasions? I suppose it’s not really in their best interests to encourage consumers to only own one perfect camera, when they can sell them several. If I were more of a conspiracy theory advocate, I’d suggest they do it on purpose. But, I’m not, and I do believe there are other factors at work here. With all that being said, it doesn’t mean we can at least try to find the most likely candidate for best all around digital camera.

The release of the 450D is basically an upgraded version of the Canon EOS 400D, which was of course an upgrade from the Canon EOS 300D. Being one of the best selling models in the Canon line, a major overhaul would have been crazy on Canons part, both from a sales number perspective, and a user experience perspective. They have however added several smart new features. Not the least of which being Live View.

Smaller sized camera designs are very portable, but usually affect ease of use and image quality in negative ways. The smaller a camera is, the smaller the controls are, which makes them harder to use. Single control buttons and wheels are often used for multiple functions which can increase user confusion. Smaller cameras often mean, that features like viewfinders get left off in the effort to add bigger LCD screens. Smaller often means zoom lenses are less powerful, and overall lens quality suffers. The most successful small sized cameras I like are the Canon SD1000 Digital Elph, and the Olympus Stylus 790SW.

Another thing not to get too excited about with the PowerShot A650, is the wide range of ISO formats available. While it’s true, that you can shoot up to 3200 ISO, in reality, any images at 400 ISO or above are going to be excessively noisy. Depending on the image subject, and what your going to do with the images you may be able to push your luck a little here.

The ultimate in image quality usually means big bulky SLR cameras with a case load of lenses and controlled lighting for different types of shooting environments. SLR photography also involves micro managing of all the various camera settings such as aperture, ISO settings, white balance, f-stop and so on. You really have to know what your doing. The Canon Rebel XTi Digital SLR, or the Nikon D40 are good cameras in this category that don’t break the bank.

Last but not least is price. The suggested list price is currently $799 for the body and $899 with the lens kit (also improved). Looking to hit the streets around April 2008. If your reading this after the expected street date, then hey lucky you. The EOS 450D is an amazing camera for sure, but there’s never a camera better then the one in your hands right now. See ya, I’m off to take some pictures.

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