Digital Cameras
Archive
Ansel in Your Pocket The design-conscious Germans didn’t invent the category of full-featured, full-sensor compact (that honor probably goes to Sigma, for last year’s DP2). But they do it better than anyone. The 12.2MP X1 uses a top-of-the-line CMOS sensor and a fixed 36mm f/2.8 lens of the first order,…
THE BIG EASYWithin its minimalist design, the 5.1-megapixel R707 packs some sophisticated imaging features. The adaptive light setting helped bring out foreground details in tough-to-expose backlit situations. To wit: I nailed the “Hell, yeah!” expressions of my climbing buddies at the foot of a wall in Skaha Bluffs, B.C.—a detail…
Why It’s CoolGot an existing arsenal of Nikon lenses? The 6.1-megapixel D100 will accept them all. 禄 It can fire at 1/4,000 of a second to capture true stop-action pictures. 禄 If you can’t find a power receptacle for the removable, rechargeable battery pack, the D100 will accept standard AA’s.
Less Is More The war for more megapixels is over. In the G11, Canon actually drops to a 10MP sensor from the 14.7MP sensor in this camera’s predecessor, the G10. But don’t call it a retreat. No quality is lost—the new sensor presents a clearer picture, even in low light.
1. The LX2 is one of the rare pocket digicams that offers the manual exposure control and instant shutter response required by serious photographers. Add a proven image-stabilization system, a high-res movie mode, an ultraclear LCD screen, plus sharp Leica optics, and the LX2 is a clear standout in…
Why It’s CoolIt’s tough, for one thing, owing to its magnesium body. But it’s also smart, with a 28-200mm SLR-equivalent Carl Zeiss zoom that’s very bright and supersharp. 禄 You can start firing within a second of powering up—and we’re talking full-size eight-megapixel shots at a screaming 2.6 frames a…
Giant Killer The long-awaited prosumer follow-up to last year’s GOY-winning EOS 5D Mark II, the 7D is $1,000 cheaper than that top-shelf DSLR but in many respects a better camera. While it lacks the pro version’s full-frame sensor, the 18MP 7D more than makes up for it with a responsive…
A LIGHTWEIGHT, WALLET-FRIENDLY DSLR A full-featured DSLR can be an awkward load when you’re traveling, especially in cities. Not the D40. I had no problem toting it through the streets of London and Barcelona. At just over a pound, the D40 is one of the lightest interchangeable-lens DSLRs around. But…
Why It’s CoolFive-by-sevens printed up at near-35mm-film quality, which is a real testament not just to electronics but to the quality of the f/2.8 lens. The bonus here is a 27mm-equivalent wide-angle, which is great for shooting landscapes, and a 110mm-equivalent 4x optical zoom. 禄 The videocam-style swiveling LCD preview…
Take action video and stills all day on the slopes, return to your condo, kill the lights, and project the images directly onto your wall. Gimmick? Not when it’s a well-priced 12.1-megapixel camera from Nikon, with image stabilization, 5x wide-angle zoom, and crisp (if washed-out) images. And not when there’s…
BEST FOR PORTRAITS Are you a people person? What separates this camera from all the other 6-meg point-and-shoots is a sensor that enables it to detect faces in the frame—up to ten at a time—and automatically set the precise focus and exposure for each one. I was skeptical, but at…
1. Hi-res still camera and hi-def videocam. Sure, digicams can shoot video. But not like this. Video is recorded through high-quality interchangeable lenses on a full-frame 35mm sensor, providing the type of manual focus and other controls previously available only to Hollywood DOPs. Stunning. And the .mov format makes…
Trust us: It’ll make you a better photographer. The simple, intuitive M8.2 demands that you actually turn the aperture ring and shutter-speed dial manually, not just fondle screens. Luddite madness? Or a call for patience and thoughtfulness? The latter, no question. After days of shooting in Vancouver,…
WEATHERPROOF POCKET CAM Thanks to internal gaskets, the slim Stylus easily fended off steady rain while I was shooting in a storm on the west coast of Vancouver Island—conditions that would have fizzled non-water-resistant cameras in less than a minute. My other favorite feature is its image-stabilized 5x zoom lens…
Super-zoom digicams have come into their own. Check out the ten-meg 565’s specs: RAW shooting, exposure lock, built-in image stabilization to reduce image blur, a 20x zoom that stretches from 26mm to a ridiculous 520mm, to name just a few of its SLR-like capabilities. Over a week in Mexico,…
Why It’s CoolGenerally speaking, the more you zoom, the less light you pull into the barrel. But Panasonic teamed up with Leica to get fab glass and the equivalent of a 35-420mm lens with a bright f/2.8 rating throughout the range. Translation: tripod-free, full-zoom shots in low-light conditions. 禄 Action…
DOUBLES AS A PHOTO ALBUM Sony has recognized the way people use digital cameras today—to show pictures, not just take them—and created a model well suited to the task. The DSC-N2 records each photo twice—once to the memory card and once, at a lower resolution, to an internal 26MB memory.
The LX3 has ended up in the pocket of more than a few pros we know. Why? For starters, it has a hi-res 10.1-meg sensor, can shoot RAW files—the best format for creative post-processing—like a DSLR, and features a tack-sharp Leica lens that zooms out to an ultrawide 24mm…
With its integrated lens and extensive exposure-control features, the R1 straddles the fence between point-and-shoot and D-SLR. The 10.3-megapixel sensor produces images to rival any top-end SLR, yet with the built-in lens (not interchangeable) the R1 is surprisingly light by SLR standards; it weighs just 37 ounces. And make…
LUXURY FOR LUDDITES Why go back to manual controls in an age of whiz-bang do-everything automatics? Two words: speed and creativity. The 7.5-megapixel Digilux 3 is pricey, but after a few days of street shooting, we found the perfectly-placed controls let us manually frame and expose shots just as fast…
Like the podium-topping Canon, the D90 shoots photos and HD video, but at less than one-third the price. Consider it the Corvette to Canon’s Lamborghini—i.e., it’s not the most luxurious, but it’s still one very sweet machine: 4.5-frames-per-second shooting, a 12.3-meg sensor, and a best-in-the-industry, super-hi-res three-inch LCD screen.
WHERE TO USE IT: One glimpse of Longs Peak’s 1,500-foot vertical east face and you’ll know why you came: This 14,259-foot Colorado mountain is no mellow slag heap. The 15-mile round-trip hike gains 5,000 feet and demands an alpine start; afternoon lightning storms are a given. You can also tackle…
What pocket digital camera takes the best quality photos both in and out of water?—MichelleMadison, WI
I need a camera tough enough for whitewater kayaking and canyoneering (i.e., water- and shock-resistant), one that can handle expedition trips off the grid (i.e., takes AA batteries). Last year we did an 18-day trip down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, and my boyfriend brought along a 12-pound solar power pack for recharging camera and camccorder batteries?no kidding! Problem is, it didn't work (long story). Oh, and if I could ask for one more thing, it would be a viewfinder in addition to the usual LCD screen. I've been looking in vain for this camera since my very old beloved Pentax Optio died. Does this camera exist, or I doomed to having only my memories to remember my adventures? Sharon Notre De, IN
Presenting nine foolproof rules to keep in mind when scouting for presents (or just a little swag for yourself), plus 67 great products we couldn't keep under wraps.
I was wondering if you knew of any high-def cameras that can zoom in to a six-foot-by-six-foot square on earth's surface from 60,000 feet and attached to a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle)? Paul Long Beach, CA
The tools and gadgets that made the cut for our second annual celebration of the best in design and technology.
Some cities are magnets for groundbreaking industries. Here are 13 that have put themselves on the map.
Whether you’re looking for a compact point-and-shoot or a high-end SLR, we’ve selected a sharp shooter for every photographer and budget. : Sony DSC-HX1 $500 (Photograph by Shana Novak) The cake: Ten frames per second, with a 28聳560mm optical zoom and HD video. The icing? A sweep mode聴for automatically spliced,…
My son will leave for Iraq or Afghanistan to serve in the army sometime this fall. What camera would be best for him to take along? He'll be carrying far more in his rucksack than you or I would on a month-long backwoods trip, so it must be compact and lightweight. Electricity is a problem on long patrols, so AA batteries are a must. And ruggedness? There is nothing more physically challenging than combat. Muted-color case would help (no pink or lime green!), and waterproof would be a plus. And of course good photo capability is a must. William Pittsburgh, PA
My family is going white-water rafting in Oregon this summer. Can you recommend a waterproof digital camera?
From African safaris to Indian trekking to Brazilian backpacking, the right gear will make the trip
I'm going on a four-day hike to Machu Picchu in May. I plan on taking my Canon Rebel XS digital SLR camera with me as well as a zoom lens. I'll be wearing a multi-day backpack for the hike. What would you recommend I use to carry the DSLR so that it is protected and still readily available for photos? I was considering a belt pack but was unsure how that would affect the backpack's belt straps. Rachel Newark, NJ
Dont’t want to lug around a large camera? Carrying the 14.5-megapixal Nikon Coolpix S710 is like having a full-size DSLR in your chest pocket ($380; nikonusa.com) Nikon Coolpix S710 聽 聽…
Waterproof (to five feet) and shock-resistant, Panasonic‘s SDR-SW20S can capture footage in conditions that would ruin other camcorders ($400; panasonic.com). Olympus Stylus 1050SW 聽 聽…
Olympus‘s waterproof and shock-proof 10.1-megapixel Stylus 1050 SW can take a beating. And a dunking. And a freezing. Plus all major functions can be accessed by tapping the housing, even with gloves on ($300; olympusamerica.com). Epson P-7000 Multimedia Photo Viewer…
Thanks to its upgraded f/2–2.8 aperture, 10.1-megapixel sensor, and mount for both flashes and a viewfinder, the D-Lux 4 puts a pro-quality Leica in the palm of your hand ($800; leica-camera.com). Panasonic SDR-SW205 Video Camera…
The 37-year-old Victor, Idaho, resident spends over 100 days a year in the field, often chasing the world's best skiers around in snowy ranges from Bolivia to Morocco. Here's what he usually takes along.
ON THE LEFT Columbia’s moisture-wicking Omni-Dry Mountain Tech Thermal Base颅layer. ($60; columbia.com) Few‘s acrylic Moa Hunter Sweater, for the bold. ($54; few.co.nz) Aigle‘s lightweight Polartec recycled-fleece Walker Track Jacket. ($105; aigleusa.com Obermeyer‘s insulated Tungsten Jacket is tricked out…
Forget theory. You want results. Our tutorial lays bare the tricks, techniques, and gear of our favorite photographers.
Is there a backpack out there that will house fragile camera gear as well as all of the other essentials for camping? Or do you have any suggestions for packing it so it'll stay safe and is still easily accessible? Ara Wichita, Kansas
The best new point-and-shoots, SLRs, and camcorders for the digital man
My son is a Geology major and is going on seven-week, field-study trip in Montana this summer. I saw the Bushnell outdoor camera and wondering what you know about it. My son is always climbing some mountain or going caving, so he needs a durable camera. Nicole Snellville, Georgia
What camera can take the abuse of an Everest expedition and a 10-foot dive at the local snorkeling spot? I would prefer a digital (maybe even a digital SLR). Osvaldo Mii, Florida
I want a waterproof digital camera that has a viewfinder. Any suggestions? Ashleigh Austin, Texas
Why we love gadgets: a crushproof camera, a portable weather station, and more
I鈥檓 looking for a camera mount that can be attached to my kayak and used for camcorders and/or digital cameras. Any ideas? Mark Hamburg, New York
I need a camera that鈥檚 water resistant (or waterproof), can withstand being banged around a bit, has a bit of zoom, and can be charged using a 12V solar power system. Lots of cameras out there seem to have a couple of these features, but not all of them. Do you have any suggestions? Rachael Springtown, Pennsylvania
Strange but true: It feels good to run all day. Prep yourself with this go-far gear.
In the Store: Don’t know what kind of arches you have? Dunk your foot lightly in some water and then step on a paper bag. See almost your entire foot? You’re an overpronator. See very little? You’re an underpronator (this is less common). 禄…
What's to love in 2006? How about 100 of the most newsworthy athletes, products, gadgets, bold ideas, and badass feats? From Lance's remarkable retirement (you try raising $500,000 for charity in one night) to a cell phone that logs your training run (and tells you where to turn) to a 33-item gift guide (check out Oakley's Bluetooth shades), here ar
Take your eyes off digital photography for six months and high-tech image making reinvents itself—again. Just in time for the holidays, we bring you the latest revolution in digicams, camcorders, printers, solar chargers, and more.
You trust 国产吃瓜黑料 Online’s Gear Guy to answer all of your pressing questions about buying, using, and rehabbing gear. Now get his advice on the best buys for your friends and family this holiday season.
I鈥檓 looking for a digital, waterproof camera that will perform well while I鈥檓 white-water kayaking. What鈥檚 your take on the Pentax Optio W20 and the Olympus 725SW? Michael Melbourne, Victoria, AUS
Are there any digital cameras that operate normally at temperatures below freezing? Besides just keeping the camera warm next to the body, can you recommend any equipment or techniques for using digitals below freezing? Hugh Santa Monica, California
My wife and I want to upgrade from our Canon PowerShot G5 to a more hiker-friendly digital camera. We鈥檇 like one that focuses quickly in a variety of lighting conditions, is capable of taking multiple exposures in rapid succession, allows for fast scroll between images taken, and is both lightweight and durable. Any suggestions would be appreciated! Devin Glen Allen, Virginia
The 4.9-ounce SONY CYBER-SHOT DSC T-30 boils 7.2 megapixels of blur-reducing digital muscle down to the size and weight of a deck of cards. You won’t notice it until you need it. $500; www.sony.com Sony Cybershot DSC T-30 Sony Cybershot DSC T-30…
Can you recommend a digital camera that is durable enough to survive the rigors of an extended trip covering a variety of terrain and weather conditions, is small enough to fit into a pocket, yet will still produce high-quality pictures of everything from landscapes to wildlife to action shots? All for $500 or less. Ryan Winnipeg, Manitoba
The new road-warrior electronics embrace the adventurer's creed: Do more with less. From a pocket cinema to an MP3 watch, these ten ultra-portable gadgets let you get lost in style.
Window shopping is nice, but there's nothing like wrapping your fingers around the sharp, hard edges of a new pair of skis to spark the urge to give (or get). To help you savor the mood this holiday season we present the year's best bounty in all its lust-worthy forms. From the slickest bike to the toughest laptop, these are the gifts you'll want to have—a
Last March you were not enthused about weatherproof digital cameras. Pentax's OptioWP looks promising. What are your thoughts? Tom Normandy Park, Washington
Which is the best solar charger for backpacking? For years, I have taken along my Canon Elph film camera on my adventures, mostly because I don't have to worry about battery life while on extended trips. Well, now I have the digital Canon SD20, so I need a way to charge its proprietary batteries with the sun. Rob Cambridge, Massachusetts
The makers of adventure gear and apparel had utility dialed long ago. Now R&D types are zeroing in on style.
If you want to chase tornadoes and the thunderheads that spawn them, you need adventure-tested tech and gear that can weather any tempest
I'm looking to purchase a digital camera for a road trip that my girlfriend and I will be taking this summer. Apart from being able to take nice photos (five megapixels, three-power zoom), I'd like something durable as I an avid hiker and climber. Can you recommend something for no more than $300? William Rancho Cuconga, California
I'm looking for a recommendation on a digital camera that is safe for the beach (i.e. sandproof). Scott New York City
Can you recommend a quality camera to use while spending the next two years in the Peace Corps? I'm open to either digital or film, but not sure which would be the best option. I also don't know if I'll be living in the middle of the jungle or in a metropolitan area. Matt Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Presenting our just-discovered Periodic Table of 国产吃瓜黑料 Elements, a breakthrough in mapping the scientific building blocks of big, bad fun. We've alchemized gold, steel, titanium, wood, leather, wool, silicon, plastic, and carbon fiber into an array of 56 high-design gifts that you'll definitely want to give. And, just as important, get.
