Olympus SP-590UZ 12MP Digital Camera with 26X Wide Angle Optical Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7 inch LCD Review

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(More customer reviews)*Updated 18 July 2009
I bought this camera to replace my Olympus SP 565UZ. Overall the SP 590 out performs the 565 with the exception of its much higher price.
Zoom: I think most people who are looking at this camera are doing so because of the 26x zoom feature, so I will remark on this first. In my armature opinion the zoom on this camera is awesome. Obviously when you are stretching out to the full length of the zoom you are going to want some kind of support (such as a gorilla pod if you're a backpacker like me) because dual image stabilization can only do so much for you to prevent blurry pictures of something that is miles away. I have been able to capture some pretty good photos of objects that are not easily viewed by the human eye. I do recommend using light filters, but I definitely give this feature 5 stars
Physical features: As a previous reviewer noted, right out of the box this camera feels pretty cheap due to its larger size and remarkably light weight. After handling it for a while I defiantly think it is more durable than the 565 was though. Its access doors are much beefier than the 565's and it has an aluminum casing around the lens that you can grab onto. I like this feature because the 565 had almost nothing to hold onto in the front when you wanted to add that extra two handed stability to your shot. Once you throw some batteries into the camera the weight does go up and the cheap feeling goes down.
Battery life - I love the fact that the SP 590 takes AA's instead of a Li-ion batteries (this was a deciding factor in me not getting the Nikon P90) because it guarantees that I can just pick up another set of AA's on long trips or camping where you're not around a reliable power source long enough to recharge your batteries. I just took this camera on a two week backpacking trip and I went through two sets of Sony 2500 mAh Ni-Mh batteries. Conservatively speaking I took well over 1000 Pictures and about 40 minutes of video on just those batteries. I give these batteries and this camera's use of them 5 stars.
Operating software: A note on some of the software features. The SP 590 has a built in "beauty" feature and a few other "picture fixing" programs, these features seem mostly like a gimmick because it takes a lot of time for the camera to process the images, and it's something that is more suitably done on your computer with photo editing software. If you are in "beauty mode" don't plan on taking any quick shots because you can expect a 10 or more second delay between shots.
Manual features: As I've said before I am an armature at photography but one of the major reasons I bought this camera was because I had mastered what few manual controls there were on most point and shot cameras and I wanted to take the next step. The SP 590 offers plenty of room for me to grow in this department. This is no DSLR but it is a good in-between camera. I do wish that there was some way to use a manual focus, like there is on the SP 570uz, because when you are using the zoom it's hard to get the camera to auto zoom on the item you are trying to capture especially when there are items like power lines between you and the shot you want.
Media Card: I've said it before and I'll say it again, it finally seems as though Olympus gotten over their proprietary high horse when it comes to XD media cards. The SP 590 and all other new Olympus cameras come with adapters to allow the use of Micro SD cards. The problem with previous cameras was that if you wanted to take a panorama picture you had to have an OLYMPUS brand XD card. This is not an issue with the SP 590 as it allows you to take panorama shots with any card or even just the internal memory. The 590 also recognizes the higher write speeds of Class 4 and Class 6 Micro SD cards. Which has solved one of the major headaches associated with VGA videos on the previous models.
Video: The SP 590 offers VGA video recording size of 640x480 at 30 frames per second. Because the 590 recognizes the higher write speeds of the class 4 and 6 Micro SD's you can now record 20:00+ min videos without having to purchase a high speed XD type M+ card. Another major complaint of Olympus cameras has been addressed with the zoom feature in video mode. The SP 590 DOES allow you to zoom in and out while taking video, a feature that is not common on previous models.
Megapixels: This camera does take up to 12mp shots which is great if you plan on blowing all of your photos up to a poster size image or larger. But I usually print no bigger than an 8x10 and I don't want to fill my computer up with picture files (a 12mp picture uses over 2.5mb of space) so Leave my camera at 5mp (which only uses about 1mb of space).
Over all: Even though I feel the price is a bit high right now I give this camera 5 stars. It fits well in the hands and takes very good pictures. It's compact enough to take around on trips and you don't have to worry about having extra lens as with DSLR's, but you still get some of the desired features as a DSLR.


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The SP-590UZ offers the advanced manual controls that experienced photographers demand and find on a digital SLR (single lens reflex). At the same time, users can easily set the camera to operate like a simple point-and-shoot with automatic scene modes. It offers the compact body of an ultra zoom with the flexibility of high-performance optics usually found in interchangeable lenses for DSLR cameras, a 12-megapixel image sensor, Dual Image Stabilization, Face Detection, Ultra High-Speed Sequential shooting and a bright 2.7-inch LCD.FEATURES:Capturing It All--Near, Far and Wide - Optical precision is the foundation for creating quality images. The bright, f2.8-5.0 lens provides the equivalent of 26-676mm focal length. Users can get close to the action with the compact 26x super telephoto zoom and at the same time, the wide-angle (26mm) lens captures more in each frame. Its super-macro capabilities capture the subtlest details. The compact lens construction combines aspherical lens elements and extra-low dispersion (ED) lens elements to deliver edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity. Whether it is capturing fast-action sports or everyday snapshots, this sturdy compact body with a wide-angle and telephoto lens provides the versatility to get the job done.12 Megapixels for Superior Image Quality - The SP-590UZ has a 12-megapixel sensor that enables consumers to achieve consistently sharp and vivid images when producing large-format prints or cropping/enlarging a portion of an image.Unleash Your Creativity with New Artistic Scene Modes - Olympus\' ultra zoom cameras have been known for being the perfect, versatile solution for dual households; providing flexibility and manual controls for experienced shutterbugs, while being as easy and approachable as a point-and-shoot for novice or even first-time users. The SP-590UZ takes this to a new level with pre-capture scene modes: Multiple Exposure, So

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Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1 9.1MP Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom with Super Steady Shot Image Stabilization and 3.0 Inch LCD Review

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(More customer reviews)I was looking for a new digital camera to replace my Leica V-Lux 1 which a bought a couple of years ago. I sold the Leica and was planning to use the money to buy a current camera. My dilemma was whether to stay with a super zoom camera (flaws and all) or take a step toward an entry model DSLR. I also wanted a 2009 model as I wanted the most current technology available so I would be less inclined to feel the need to buy an "upgrade" in another year or so. Ultimately, I narrowed my search down to the Sony HX1, Canon SX1, Panasonic G1 and Sony a300. For me, build quality and feel, size (travel convenience) and lens versatility were my main priorities (not necessarily in that order). I think it is very important to figure out exactly what you really want out of your camera so you get a good fit that matches your expectations. So for me, low light picture quality was not a major concern as I expected to use the camera mostly outdoors or in good lighting situations. And in-door shots were probably going to be portraits or museum shots so again it was not a big concern for me.
Initially, I really liked the form factor of the SX10 (SX1 was not out yet) and its feel in my hands and layout. But I did want a reusable intelligent battery vs. AAs and I was not that impressed with the screen resolution and EVF. Reviews of the SX1 were also a little disappointing so I decided to pass on the Canon. I next explored the DSLRs. I really liked the Sony a300 but in the end couldn't justify the cost (this is a minor hobby for me and kids are teenagers so there are a lot less Kodak moments for m) and I didn't want to lug lenses around as I did that most of my life when I had old fashioned film cameras like the Nikon FE2 / N6006. The G1 was very intriguing but I was leaving on a summer vacation in early June and did not want to wait too long as I wanted to be completely familiar with the camera before the trip and know how to "work" the camera so I got good results (experience has taught me that there is a learning curve on getting descent pictures from a particular model) so I passed on the G1 as its release date was in June. In the end, I "talked" myself out of buying a DSLR system for one main reason - I simply was not ready or committed to traveling around with all the lenses I would want - wide angle and zoom. Basically I went with convenience / ease of use over picture perfection. For ME the step up in picture quality was not worth the trouble of walking around with all that gear. I do a fair amount of camping and scenic trips so I like to keep my load light. HD video was not an issue at all as I have the Canon HV30 which is simply an amazing camcorder. It also takes incredible video in low light situations. I highly recommend it.
In the end, I decided on the HX1 because of the features that I thought were cool and would inspire creativity on my part. For me, convenience is a big factor. At some point, my enthusiasm drops off in direct relationship to whether or not it is a PIA to do something. This is a character flaw for me but worth considering if you have similar tendencies over time. Interestingly, this also happens to be my first Sony camera although I have had several Sony camcorders in the past - so I don't believe that brand loyalty or familiarity with Sony played a part in my decision (aside from my confidence that Sony products made in Japan are exceptionally well made). The panoramic picture, twilight and anti-blur features and burst picture mode (10 frames) ultimately swayed. I thought that all of these features, despite some valid weaknesses added value to the camera and would enhance my digital camera experience. I also really liked the build quality, menu structure and ergonomics. As for the features, the panoramic picture feature works well once you understand how to use it and recognize its limitations. So far I have been very happy with the results. I am working on sharpening the picture as I think it is a little soft for my tastes. But it is so easy to use and I use it often just for fun! I find myself exploring options - something I would not do before and certainly not during post production when I am trying to tweak the 100s of pictures that I have taken during some adventure. Same for the twilight and anti-blur features. I find myself trying out each feature and comparing the results. Again, I am very happy with the results. Is it exceptional - no, but pictures turn out better than if you did not have the option and I am not overly critical as it looks great on the screen or 4x6 print out. Even 8x10 is respectable. Quite frankly, it's really nice not to have to do all that editing in "post production". (I use Adobe CS.) I think the lens quality is exceptional and like the way the camera lens extends out when you power up the camera - as it pushes off the lens cap. A small cute feature that everyone seems to have overlooked in their reviews. But quite easy to get used to - like all the little auto on features in your car (and the lens has a strap so it safely hangs by the side of the camera). I am not sure if that is an intended result but I love it.
I wish the initial start up was a tad faster but it's not slow - I just wish it was faster. Zooming in and out is average. Nothing to write home about but not necessarily slow. My recollection is that the Panasonic Z26 I had at one time was faster. I also wish the lens was slightly wider than 28mm but it will have to do. (I am spoiled on this point as my son has a Nikon 10.5mm lens on his Nikon D2H and it is amazing when taking close ups of flowers, etc. - I love the distortion). But on the flip side the zoom is amazing on the HX1 and the anti-shake feature seems to do the job. I love the way I can pull a subject in to fill the screen! So overall I am very happy with the lens' performance. The EVF is small but has nice resolution. The 3" screen is beautiful and much better than what I saw on the SX10. The Sony screen reminds me of HD TV - it is that smooth and the colors are fantastic. It appears to have a very good anti-reflective coating. Hopefully it will last. I wish it had a swivel mount like the canon so I could turn in the screen to protect it when it is put away but the articulating stem is better than nothing.
Menu navigation is relatively easy for me with the HX1 and I prefer it to the Canon menu for some reason - even though I have HV30 camcorder. I think Sony started from scratch on this menu or adopted the basic scheme from the a300/a350 series and it makes sense and is intuitive. I like it better than the menu tree on my past Nikons, Canons and Panasonics.
All in all, I am extremely happy with the HX1 (only had it for a week so far) and strongly recommend that you check out the camera in person as I read every (and I mean every) pre-sale review on it and found that a lot of the criticisms were overly hyper-technical or ultimately less significant during my test of the camera.


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Sony Digital Still Camera with 9.0 MegaPixel / 20x Optical Zoom

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Olympus SP-800UZ 14MP Digital Camera with 30x Wide Angle Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0 inch LCD Review

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(More customer reviews)I should say right from the outset, the most important factor in buying a digital camera for me is the camera's zoom capability. Several years ago, I began my digital camera collection with a cheap Samsung (S630), followed the year after with the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ-8 (432mm zoom) and the next year with the FZ-18 (504mm).
It seems each year, camera companies try to outdo one another with the biggest zoom for the buck. Several weeks ago, I bought this camera with a mind-numbing 840mm zoom. Don't be surprised if the 1000 mm zoom comes out next year. Surprisingly, for a camera with this kind of capability, it is light as a feather and differtentiates itself from the other ultrazooms out there by eliminating the Electronic View Finder completely in favor of a 3" screen monitor (I suspect this omission may cost them sales). The instruction manual can be downloaded from the Olympus web site. The camera's software can be downloaded by connecting the camera to your computer (make sure your memory card has been removed to download software)
What also differentiates it from the others out there is that you can edit the still pictures you have taken using the special effects function from reducing red eye, shadow adjustment, adding/reducting color saturation, and cropping. Some of these functions were available in my Samsung S630, but in none of the more expensive Lumix models. With most digitals, if you want to edit your pictures, you would have to download them to your computer and use the camera's editing software or Photoshop.
By using Panorama function you can take up to 3 shots manually or automatically and the camera's computer "stitches" them together into one panoramic wide angle shot. quite a technological achievement.
Also differentiating this camera from its main competitor, the Fuji HS 10, a rather affordable price tag of $349 vs. $499 for the Fuji. The HS10 also has a smaller manual 720mm zoom and uses 4 AA batteries as its power source, which I consider a disadvantage in taking motion pictures. The SP 800uz has the capability of adjusting the focal distance during film recording in some modes, not always available in cameras of this class. Unlike the Lumix cameras, there is no hood lens included to take shots in bright sunlight, a slight disadvantage. There is no thread on the barrel for attaching wide angle or telephoto lenses, but with an 840 mm telephoto lens, why would you need one?
The camera comes with cables to connect to your computer and your HDTV to playback still and movie pictures in 720i high definition. A rechargeable lithium battery pack is offered instead of the Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries in Olympus' previous models. If you take a lot of motion pictures, alkaline or rechargeable NiMH batteries must be replaced or recharged at more frequent intervals than most Lithium battery packs, or you could continue to invest in 12 packs of disposable alkaline cells.
The rating for the included standard Lithium battery pack is 900 mAh. Imported batteries with a rating of 1400 mAh are available from 3rd party suppliers. A higher Mah rating means you get more usage between charges since the battery has a higher storage capacity, similar to having a larger gas tank on your car. Battery capacity is important if you use your camera frequently or take motion pictures which drains the battery...and your memory card.
Another factor to consider is the camera's 2GB internal memory, making it possible to store many pictures without the use of a memory card. The camera has an app to transfer the pictures taken from the camera's internal memory to the memory card. The camera accepts SDHC cards up to 8GB, an important consideration if you take a lot of motion pictures.
There are several shooting modes available and the camera has a small user-friendly internal manual to explain each mode and what flash, ISO, aperture, white balance settings are available for each mode, making taking pictures almost foolproof. There is a manual pop up flash for low light conditions. For shots taken with the digital zoom you should use a tripod to avoid camera shake at the far ranges, a problem endemic to a lot of ultrazoom models, not just this particular model or manufacturer.
This is a great camera if you take sports pictures from the nosebleed seats, go on whale watches frequently, or want to take unobtrusive shots of your subjects from a distance. With an impressive ISO of up to 3200 sensitivity (unfortunately, the higher the ISO, the higher the distortion and graininess when enlarged for prints) you can also take excellent shots of moving subjects.
I rate this camera highly.



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OLYMPUS 227665 14.0 Megapixel SP-800UZ Digital Camera

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