 |
Product: Sony DSC-L1 Amazon Price: Too low to display Availability: In Stock |
Many times what determines whether you will use the technology alot is whether you have it readily available when you need it. This is particularly true for cameras, especially if you want to capture all those spontaneous moments in life. Size therefore plays a major factor.
In this camera, Sony proves that size doesn’t mean less capability. To be able to pack a 4M pixel camera with 3X optical zoom, and NTSC resolution full motion audio/video capture (with no time limit) in a form factor the size of a candy bar is pure genius.
The interface is easy to use. I picked up the camera and started using it without having to read the manual.
There are only 3 weaknesses with the camera:
1. the microphone is positioned on the top left hand side of the unit so it is easy to cover it up when you are holding the camera to take videos.
2. when in video shooting mode, zoom is fixed but autofocus continues to operate.
3. flash pictures in dark environments can sometimes yield lens flaring.
I just bought this camera and am extremely happy with it. I have already had the chance to use it under different lighting and it works great with the preset functions. I also bought the sports pack and am absolutely thrilled with it. I took it skiing on the weekend and the camera was perfectly safe. In summer I can take it to the beach and not worry about getting sand or water in it.
When I used it in the snow I used the preset “Snow Function” and the pictures were amazing. It really contrasts the individuals from the extremely bright backgound.
In all, a great camera the size of a candy bar.
The good: This camera is very attractive: compact and sleek. Pretty easy menu system and the most important functions are readily accessible. When conditions are right, it takes clear, beautiful photos. Rechargeable internal battery means you don’t spend a fortune in double A’s. LCD screen is a good size.
The bad: Focus problems!! In certain lighting conditions (e.g. fluorescent lights) you cannot take an in focus picture using the automatic setting. I missed so many potentially great holiday pics of my kids due to fiddling around with the settings. Mostly, I simply gave up trying to get a clear pic. I finally contacted Sony tech support and they acknowledged the focus problems under certain lighting conditions, including bright sunlight. They suggested changing the white balance and shutter speed- but when you’re a novice photographer, changing these settings is not so intuitive!
Bottom line: Buy a Canon elph. I wish I had. It would have been worth the extra money!