Features

• Color prints, photo prints, copies, scans, and faxes
• Up to 30 ppm print speed, up to 4,800 x 1,200 dpi resolution
• Up to 30 cpm, reduces and enlarges 25 to 400%
• 2,400 x 4,800 dpi scan resolution, 48-bit color
• USB, PictBridge, and 802.3 Ethernet connectivity; PC and Mac compatible

Amazon.com Product Description

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel brings advanced digital performance and SLR controls to everyday photographers. Whether you're new to digital cameras, SLR cameras, or even photography itself, you'll find that the EOS Digital Rebel is powerful, yet fun and easy to use. It features a 6.3-megapixel sensor, automatic and manual controls, and compatibility with Canon's range of EF lenses. This model does not include a lens.

Optics and Resolution
A large-format, high-resolution CMOS sensor captures 6.3 million pixels to deliver up to 3027 x 2048 pixel images. Other resolution modes include 2048 x 1360 and 1536 x 1024. As it captures images, the sensor amplifies each pixel's electric charge, for ultra-fast image scanning. The large sensor also has a 3:2 aspect ratio, traditional to 35mm film, for a familiar compositional feel.

Canon's exclusive DIGIC image processor offers advanced signal processing algorithms that heighten precision and detail, smooth gradation in highlight areas, and create color reproduction that is as vivid as it is utterly natural. Additionally, the DIGIC's speedier processing improves the camera's battery performance, and adds to the camera's overall responsiveness and agility.

More Features
With the 1.8-inch LCD screen, you can zoom images from 1.5x all the way to 10x, moving up, down, left and right to see any area up close. You can even advance to the next shot in the enlarged view with no need to zoom again. The Digital Rebel also generates JPEG Small/Normal image files to make the image playback faster on the camera's LCD monitor.

Advanced controls will keep experienced photographers motivated and inspire beginners to flex their SLR skills. Creative Zone modes include A-DEP (automatic depth of field auto exposure) to set a "zone of sharpness," Manual, Aperture Priority AE to set the aperture, Shutter Priority AE to set shutter speed, and Program AE to let the camera select different shutter/aperture combinations while maintaining a constant exposure.

The camera's controls are intelligently arranged. A mode dial gives you easy access to shooting controls to make even one-handed shooting comfortable.

Other features include:

• Built-in, pop-up flash with an approximate 3-second recycle time
• Continuous shooting speed of approximately 2.5 frames per second with a maximum burst mode of 4 shots
• ISO speed range of 100 to 1600
• 7-point autofocus with the following modes: One-Shot AF, Predictive AI Servo AF, AI Focus AF (Automatically selects One-Shot AF or AI Servo AF selected according to shooting mode), Manual Focusing (MF)

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on CompactFlash Type I or II memory card; the Digital Rebel is MicroDrive compatible. The Digital Rebel does not include a memory card.

Images can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via USB 1.1, which means the camera can be connected to any USB-based Windows Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Power and Size
The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (BP-511, included). It measures 5.6 by 3.9 by 2.9 inches and weighs 19.7 ounces (excluding battery).

What's In The Box
This package includes the EOS Digital Rebel digital camera, rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack (BP-511) and battery charger (CB-5L), USB and AV cables, and wide neck strap. It also comes with Adobe Photoshop Elements and Digital Camera Solutions CD-ROMs with imaging software and USB drivers for Windows and Mac. ... Read more

Features

• Dazzling resolution: the 6.3 megapixel CMOS sensor
• The speed to capture the shots that won't wait
• Perfect white balance for clear, true color
• Reproducing and sharing your images is as exciting as creating them

Reviews (123)

Fast and Fun
My wife and I recently decided to take the plunge into the "digital" photography world, but we were really concerned with losing the functionality for special shots that we had with our old Canon AE. The Digital Rebel was exactly what we were looking for! Talk about functionality. This camera does more than we could have ever hoped for in a digital unit. It's easy to manipulate, and is lightning fast. No waiting for the shutter and missing that important candid shot. The images are clear and crisp and download to the PC (or straight to the printer) in seconds. The ability to cary one camera that does it all from close ups, to portraits, to landscapes and sports shots is wonderful. With a 512MB CF card, you can hold over 150 high quality photos at once (over 200 at reduced levels). No worries with having to sort the good from the bad now. Just snap away and sort them out later.
Now we are simply waiting for a telephoto zoom lens and we will have all the still photo capablility we need in one handy little bag. Yes, it's a bit pricey, but well worth every penny!

Simply an Amazing Camera
If you've been using a digital point-and-shoot for a while and you want to upgrade, you couldn't do any better than this camera. If you can operate a high-end P&S camera, you can operate the Digital Rebel. Simply choose your shooting mode (i.e. closeup, landscape, portrait, sports, etc.), press the shutter button halfway down to autofocus, then press the button all the way down. First you'll notice how fast the autofocus function is: you won't have to worry about missing shots. Then you'll see the photos, and you'll be amazed. If you use the "Large/Fine" setting, you'll have files which easily be printed at 16"x20" without any discernible loss of quality ... try doing THAT with the photos from your 3MP point compact.

But wait, there's more.

You CAN use this camera as a fancy point-and-shoot... or, if you invest a little time and study, you can get creative. The Digital Rebel allows you to control aperature, shutter speed, ISO settings, white balance, autofocus points, etc. It also allows you to use any Canon EF (autofocus) lens -- over sixty at last count. Telephoto lenses, wide-angle lenses, macro lenses which allow extreme closeups ... you're limited only by your imagination, and your accessory budget.

If you already own a film SLR and want to go digital, you're going to love this baby... especially if you own a Canon autofocus SLR. You'll be able to use your old lenses, flashes, and filters, and you'll be saving money on film and developing. Professionals may want to spend the extra $600 or so for the Canon 60D; it allows a bit more flexibility with light metering and has a more sturdy magnesium body which will better withstand the rigors of photojournalism ... but this is more than enough camera for anybody who isn't going to be using it to earn their daily bread.

One last bit of advice: get this one fast. Based on the buzz it's generated in various photo magazines, I'm guessing that the Digital Rebel will be flying off the shelves. Buy now before you get stuck in backorder purgatory.

Great entry level digital SLR for the masses
I got this camera about a month ago. I have two other digitals that are great cameras but are so slowwwwwwww you just can't shoot action with them very effectively. This camera, for the price point, is a good deal. For those used to film SLRs you won't feel like a fish out of water and if you've already got canon EF lenses they should all work perfectly with this camera body (it can also take the newer EFS lenses). Because of the SLR like shutter system and TTL focusing this camera lacks some of the functions available on traditional point and shoot digitals--there is no preview mode, no movie mode, no digital zoom and no panorama/stitch mode; keep your old point and shoot (or buy one) for those functions. <br /><br />This camera is fast! The responsiveness is nearly up to a film camera (I should know I've shot with film cameras for years). This camera offers 2.5 fps (in full quality mode) or 4 fps (in lower quality mode) continuous shooting--no point and shoot that I know of can match that--this is truly a low end professional digital slr body. The 17-55mm lens that comes with it is great for nearby shots such as at parties or when your subject is no more than 20 feet away. <br /><br />I suggest two other lenses for this camera that you won't want to be without. The Canon 28-135 IS USM III zoom and the 75-300 USM zoom (also available with IS if you want to spend the extra money). IS is a wonderful invention and gives you clear handheld shots at some amazingly slow shutter speeds (IS is a gyroscopic system in the lens that accounts for camera shake during the shot--really amazing what it can do). The 28-135 lense is widely considered the best "walk around" lense for just about anything. The IS system does suck batteries so I'd suggest you get a couple of extra batteries right away (ebay has the best price for them). If you can't afford a 20D this is the next best thing. The Rebel is really a striped down 10D, so if you're waffling between this and the 10D--I've heard the differences aren't really worth the extra money. The other big purchase you want with this camera is a 550EX or 580EX speedlight. The Rebel lacks IR focus assist but if you have one of these speedlights the camera can use the IR assist on the flash unit!!!!! <br /><br />I use my rebel to shoot Karate demos, lots of fast action, usually indoors. I think the 20D would be a better choice for this (because of the bigger buffers while writing to the CF card) but the Rebel can hold its own fairly well if you think out your shots a bit more. I'm really happy with this camera and I'd recommend it to anyone that wants to move up to a digital slr but doesn't want to spend ten grand doing it. The camera has a few foibles and professionals might complain that some of the pre programmed modes are far too limited--but that's because it's cheap--the 20D will be more satifying if you've got the money for it. Canon's running a pretty fantastic rebate until mid January, if you buy a Rebel and two lenses you get about $300 back just on the camera and around 50 bucks for each lens. Yep I spent about $1600.00 on the camera and two lenses but that's quite a deal for all I got.<br /><br />I recommend this if you don't have the money for a 20D, if you do, or are close to having it, wait and get the 20D.

Great Camera....High End Fun.
I purchased this camera about 6 months ago, it's a great camera and I haven't had 1 problem with it. I bought a few accessories..EX420 Flash, Canon 75-300 lens (there least expensive one, USM & IS wasn't an issue me)
lt's fast in auto focus. Purchased the battery grip also. Camera looks good, the grip helps with vert. shots and you have a slot for a second battery. Bought after market battery for $9.99 instead of $49.99 for OEM (look @ EBAY for batteries). If you purchase this camera you'll be very satisfied!

C'mon, join the revolution... it'll feel real good!
I have been intrigued by this camera since its release. My old camera is a Canon PowerShot S30 (3.2MP). I wanted to buy an SLR to advance my photography skills and capabilities. When this beauty came along bearing a price tag under $1,000 and received prestigious acclaim I knew I wanted one. But I decided to delay for a few months, waiting to see what competition would arise, and how quickly the price would drop. That competition presented itself as the Nikon D70. Ultimately, I decided to get the D-Rebel because the price-to-quality ratio is exceptional; the ~$300+ more for the Nikon doesn't seem justifiable for what I think are negligible factors. Besides, my PowerShot has served me well and I'm used to the Canon system.

I've played with mine in the field for two days. Last weekend was my introduction day and I made a lot of mistakes -- camera shake, off-focus, underexposure. Today I went back to the same spots [in similar weather] and received much better results by using my tripod, setting the exposure compensation to +1/3 (most of the time) and sometimes forcing a longer shutter than 'auto' suggested. My photos went from dull to incredible with a few easy adjustments. If your photos come out poorly always exhaust the manual solutions before blaming faulty camera construction.

If you're moving up from a [Canon] SLR, many of the characteristics of the D-Rebel will be familiar. If, on the other hand, you're used to a P&S like myself some things will be awkward. For example, using the viewfinder instead of the LCD monitor to compose shots; using the Main Dial and LCD panel to implement settings; and manual focusing. My PowerShot allows manual tweaking, but it is usually easier to let the processor handle certain functions. The SLR is different -- it invites you to play.

I have read complaints about the camera's construction. Indeed, it is an all-plastic body, whereas the D-Rebel's big brother, the 10D, is magnesium alloy. But I think this will be an insignificant point for most people; the plastic body is sturdy enough to handle a day's work. It has a nice firm rubber grip on the right side. A friend has an EOS Elan 7 (n or ne) and the weight is approximately the same.

I also know some people don't like the fact that the D-Rebel uses the flash as an AF-assist lamp -- particularly because once the flash pops it will take a flash exposure. But the solution is simple enough: push the flash back down. The camera automatically re-evaluates the shutter speed, maintains focus and takes the shot. You will need to have it on a tripod for the shot to be successful, though.

After a lot of reading and searching for components to make up a great system, I ended up buying: Rebel with 18-55mm lens; EF 55-200mm II USM lens; 1 Gb Sandisk Ultra II CompactFlash; 420EX Speedlite flash; Sto-fen Omni-Bounce diffuser (for 420EX); Tiffen 58mm Deluxe Enhancing Filter Kit; Samsonite Worldproof 3.2 Download SLR bag; Tamrac Small Lens Case. (I wrote a review for the Samsonite bag. I think it's fantastic for carrying all my gear. I use the Tamrac bag when I want to travel light.)

Here's a stupid mistake I made that I'd like to enlighten others to, so that they may avoid doing the same. When I first tested the camera most of my shots were indoors and required the flash. In many of those shots I noticed a black blob. I thought maybe my flash was defective. The manual says there are certain conditions where the flash may be obstructed. My solution was simple enough: two of my fingers were in the way. With my PowerShot, I had become used to lifting my ring and pinky fingers away from the flash and lens so they would be out of the way... now doing it put them in the way of the flash. Sometimes the simplest answer is the right one.

Here are two things I feel quite fortunate to have learned (i.e., stumbled upon), as I did not read this in any review.
(1) When using a [Canon] digital SLR you need a "Type II" lens. Lenses have always induced aberrations of light, which would create 'ghosts' and other weird things. But 35mm film is produced with a coating that prevents them. When you use a D-SLR, however, that coating is not on your sensor, so those light artifacts appear again. So Canon created the "Type II" lens, where the aforementioned coating is on the glass. The only problem is that there are only a handful of these lenses at this point. Unfortunately, this dramatically weakens Canon's claim that you can use "over 50 lenses" on your D-Rebel. While technically true, you probably wouldn't like the results. (Popular Photography magazine ran an article about this, which is on their site.)
(2) Don't fall for tricky CompactFlash advertising. I bought several Viking Components CF cards for my PowerShot. They always worked well and I almost bought a big one for my D-Rebel. Then I considered the Lexar "40x" because they have a good reputation. "40x" sounds good, eh? The Sandisk Ultra II works at 60x! At the Large-Fine setting, this will save you one-third second of write-time. That is big when you think about action photography. The Sandisk card can write 3 images when the Lexar can only do 2. The Vikings are worse; they can't even write one image/second!

I am exceptionally pleased with my purchase -- not with just the D-Rebel, but the whole system. It pays to do your research and decide what's right for you. Personally, I think I put together an excellent 'amateur SLR' package that will allow me to grow and explore for a long time. Hopefully you will feel the same with a D-Rebel over your shoulder. ... Read more

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 13x17-inch prints
• Exclusive Canon DIGIC Image Processor and iSAPS technology allow faster processing speed, excellent image quality, and vibrant colors
• Includes five new Scene Modes and a Print/Share button for greater ease of use
• Intelligent orientation sensor automatically rotates images for playback
• Four novel colors with refined surface finish are the ultimate in camera couture

Features

• Maximum 4,800 x 1,200 color dpi resolution
• Up to 25 ppm black, 17 ppm color; dual paper path with 2-sided printing
• Borderless 4-by-6-inch photos in about 36 seconds
• ContrastPLUS ink system for true-life photos and laser-quality text
• 802.11g wireless, USB, and PictBridge interfaces

Product Description

Take Superior Pictures
With HP Real Life Technologies, which let you bring out details in shadows, removered-eye right in the camera, and preview panorama shots, this megapixel-packedcamera promises impressive photos.

Choose from 12 shooting modes to capture the best image in every situation.Use automatic controls for no-brainer shots; switch to manual to add a personaltouch. Make video clips. Use burst mode to capture exactly the right moment.Call the shots!

Features

• Powered by Lithium-ion rechargeable battery; stores images on SD or MMC cards (not included; camera features 32MB of internal memory)
• 6.2-megapixel sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality 14 x 19-inch prints
• 3x optical zoom; 1.8-inch LCD display
• 12 shooting modes, including Action, Sunset, and more
• Shoot video clips with sound; take a series of photos in rapid succession using Burst mode

Reviews (3)

Excellent Carmera, poor offering
I purchased this Camera because of the good deal since it stated that the docking station is included with camera, still does.I got the camera, but not the docking station.I contacted Amazon about it and they were to resolve it by sending me another camera with the docking station.Too no avail, still no docking station.Now I had two cameras and no docking station.Finally got one camera sent back, but stillno docking station from Amazon.As far as the product, GREAT CAMERA forthe price!!!

This camera gets an A+
I received this camera as a Christmas present last year and I love it!It's very user-friendly, compact, and you get high quality pictures with it.I especially like the zoom feature.The built-in directions for the multitude of settings are handy--no need to lug the owner's manual around.

A great compact digital camera with reasonable price...
I bought it as a sub digital camera. I have a fuji S7000.
-Low lighting condition: it is much better than any others
-Picture quality: Very good or equal to S7000 with 6M*** setting
-Easy of use: Yes, it is very easy and support 11 languages
-Size: small enough and solid construction
-Red eye: it works as it described. Although, it is "post-processing" and takes 1-3 seconds per picture.
-Battery life: good enough to take 150 pictures
-LCD: 1.8" with 120K pixels. Very clear than low resolution 2.0" or 2.5".

Not like:
Re-charging flash or saving picture take longer than S7000. I'm not sure it is because of compact camera. Depended on picture quality setting, it takes 2 - 5 seconds.
... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder and still camera with 2.2-megapixel CCD
• 14x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 280x) and image stabilizer
• 2.5-inch LCD with 180-degree rotation
• Capture low-light recordings with Night Mode and record in 16:9 format
• Record for up to 225 minutes on one battery charge

Reviews (5)

A GREAT camera!
Most of the negative comments I read about the camera are from people that don't know how to use the camera. It takes a little time to go through the menus and read the cryptic (non-detailed) manual. And, not all the features are described in the manual.

- The camera does very well in low light indoor situations if you put it in "Indoor" mode.

- I barely noticed the camera motor noise during quiet scenes. I think the only reason I noticed it is because I was listening for it.

- The camera fits very nicely in my hand, with the strap and zoom switch in just the right positions.

- This is my first digital camcorder and it was very easy to learn how to use the basic features. Some of the advanced features took some trial and error to figure out.

- My only disappointments were that it did not come with a tape or firewire, the manual is poor, and the included 8MB card is ridiculous (buy a 256 or 512).

I did a lot of research before selecting this camera, and I am confident I made the right choice. I would have given it 4.5 stars if I had the option.

After small Adjusts, the 40 Rocks!
The Optura 30/40 has two default settings that need to be changed. The first is that in Easy and Auto modes, shutter speed can be a slow as 1/30 second. This causes video to blur, ghosts with fast movement, and blur (grain?) in low light. Go to Auto Slow Shutter (A.SL.Shutter and turn it OFF). The shutter speed will be no slower than 1/60, creating much sharper video.

The second is that audio is defauted to 12 bit. Change this to 16 bit for better audio.

I am extrememly pleased with my Optura 40. It's great in low light, is user friendly, stabilization works well in both 5:4 and 16:9 modes, and the 14X optical is all I'll ever need. The quality of the video and audio is great. It's comfortable in my hand and feels "solid". I like it being a top loader since I use both a monopod and tripod when I can.

Negatives include: In 5:4 mode, tele isn't wide enough (but is fine in 16:9), the cover for the S-video jack seems cheap, and I wish it had optical stabilization. However, it does have better stabilization than my Nikon Hi8 camcorder that has optical stabilization--so it has excellent electronic image stabilization. Also, the 34mm filter/adapter size is unusual. However, step up rings are available (e.g. 34mm to 37mm)and with the fast selling Opturas 30/40 and Eluras 60/65/70 having 34mm filters, I suspect that they're be plenty of 34mm filters available shortly.

A Disappointment!
As many camcorder fans, I was excited by the Canon Press Release about Canon Optura 40 Camcorder, pre ordered it and received it late May. After opening the box, the camera looks great: compact, slick, nice looking lens. However, after a couple of time trial shootings, all these nice impressions were gone for good! A few Major disappointments:
1) Poor video image. The video image has too much "digital" jaggies both in regular daylight and lower light environment shooting. When you play back on the TV, you see the "fluttery" effect all the time. When you pause the image, the jaggies are very obvious and horrible. This is even worse when you shoot in the low light environment.
2) Noisy zoom lever. The zoom lever on the top on the camera body was not a well made (or designed) part. When you zoom in & out using the lever, the noise is very obvious and annoying. This noise was clearly recorded heard from the tape when you playback.
3) The still camera quality is less than a regular 2.0 MP digital camera.
4) The strap that holds your hand of video filming is not in the right position to make your hand comfortable.
5) The 2.5" view LCD screen has too much info displayed and this made the small 2.5" LCD very noisy.

I contacted the Canon USA for my questions. No clear answers were given about the image quality. I compared Optura 40 with Panasonic PV-GS200, the Panasonic has far more better video image quality. Big disappointment for me.

Superb camera
The camera has superb color rendering. Also has a true 16:9 CCD - recordings look truly remarkable on my widescreen TV. I had no shutter issues whatsoever.

the jury has returned with a verdict
I pre-ordered this camera and got it the day it was "released" (5/20), thank you Amazon. Overall the feature content is pretty slick but I have a few issues I need to investigate before I declare that I am in love with this camera or that I am disappointed.

My big concern is that I see a very strange effect when I am mildly zoomed on a subject and the subject is moving around. I see a "fluttery" effect as though the shutter is too slow for the action. It gets really bad at times and is really annoying. I am not sure if the camera (in its "auto-everything" mode) is attempting to adjust to the change in the subject but whatever it is its not good. I will follow up with Canon to determine what the issue is to see if this is a feature of the camera, if my camera is defective or if I am not using it correctly.

I did a side by side comparison with my old Sony DCR-TRV20. The Canon's image at times shows off the 3x more effective pixels and is generally brighter than the Sony but again I am not totally blown out of the room with improvements with the Canon. Low light is a problem and it generates grainy pictures.

Update: june 13, 2004

I noticed the review where the guy mentions the "auto slow shutter" control. BINGO. Barring this strangeness that is now solved, this camera is excellent. In my opinion the video quality is more film-like than video. I assume this is due to the high number of pixels.

As far as the still image feature goes, I've taken really good and really bad shots. Its all about holding the camera still and in my opinion its a little challenging considering the location of straps and buttons on this camera for still shots. None-the-less, if you take your time and think about it, you can get some great stills.

Great Camera. ... Read more

Features

• 2-megapixel sensor captures 1,600 x 1,200 images for prints at sizes up to 8 x 10 inches
• Autofocus lens with 3x optical/2x digital (6x total) zoom
• Stores images on floppy discs or Memory Sticks (not included)
• Connects with PCs and Macs via USB port or via floppy drive
• Uses proprietary lithium-ion rechargeable battery(included)

Reviews (8)

Very good but on limited use
I use this camera for work and it works very well. The only problem I have had with it is after a few months of taking 30 to 40 pictures a day it won't read a disk. I comes up with a formating error. I have had to send it out for repairs twice already. Other then that the picture quality and options are very nice.

Excellent Mavica Camera by Sony
If all you want is a straight forward and simple Digital Camera with Beautiful colors, Great ease in operation and high resolution get this before they will be gone
I got mine after using my older Sony Mavica MVC-FD88 for the last 3 years.
my older mavica costed much more and served me right and it has a 16 x Zoom with 1.3 Mega Pixel and MPEG with sound only on Floppies...
but Sony improve alot with this MVCFD200
First, they got a Floppy Disk Drive that accept all 3.5" disks which is great for uploading to older PC's with no USB etc.
and the new Memory stick with a USB to PC is unreal improvement
not to mention the feature of uploading and downloading between
all these formats!!!
the Memory stick that I use is 128 MB and it lets me take hundreds of high quality photos like no other Digital camera that I tried including "other" cameras with 4 Mega Pixel !!!
this is simply a great camera with some extra features like the MPEG (no sound)and 6x Zoom and Digital effects.
to me, these features are only extras and not importent as I have a Digital Camcorder in order to make high quality movies...
Sony always make the best cameras and that is a fact.

Sony...
Quite heavy but a good one. If you don't have problems carrying it with you then use it! Make sure to buy the Memory Stick because it is much better than relying on a floppy alone.

Some Good Features
I've used the Mavica 7 and 75 for years in my work (real estate). The features most useful were Zoom (10x optical), aperture (1.8 would do low light pictures) and the floppy disk convenience. The major draw back for me was poor printed photos. I thought the 200 was an opportunity to keep the good features and correct the poor resolution and add the alternate storage capability etc. I am not sure why but Sony reduced the zoom to 3x and changed the aperture. Unfortunately I'm returning my 200.

Many, maybe too many, features
I received this camera for my birthday. And after much waiting for shipping, it met my built up excitement. It takes great outdoor pictures and the flash is great in close nearly pitch-dark situations. Oddly enough, regular indoors pictures don't always turn out great, but who cares, just delete them. I strongly recommend getting addition equipment, a spare battery and at least 64Mb or Memory Stick. I've got a 128 which holds nearly 200 pictures at 2MP. The spare battery is nice, in that the one that comes with the camera has about 90 minutes of picture taking. The built-in macro zoom feature is a personal favorite because it does wonders to flowers. Kind of wish the optical zoom was stronger, maybe like x6 optical, x12 digital. I have yet to take full advantage of the Memory Stick to disk transfer feature, although I've done it a couple of times. Oh, but don't buy this camera for it's mpeg ablity, because it really doesn't have any. (I mean it does, but it's so poor that it's not worth talking about.) If Sony comes out with a FD Mavica with 3MP or more, I would strongly recommend it. ... Read more

Features

• Accepts DVD-R and DVD-Ram formats
• 2.5 inch LCD monitor
• 16:9 widescreen recording
• 16x optical / 240x digital zoom
• Records directly to DVD

Product Description

2.2-megapixel CCD * advanced DIGIC DV image processor * RGB primary color filter for accurate color * high-resolution 16:9 widescreen video mode * digital photo mode * built-in flash with red-eye reduction * photo resolution options: 1632 x 1224; 1280 x 960; 640 x 480 * 2-1/2" color viewscreen * ... Read more

Features

• 2.2-megapixel CCD
• advanced DIGIC DV image processor
• RGB primary color filter for accurate color
• high-resolution 16:9 widescreen video mode
• digital photo mode

Reviews (1)

Not bad given the other options
I was looking for some very specific features when I bought this camera (I actually bought an Elura 90, used it for a week, and switched to the Optura 50 for the S-video I/O.) I'm a strictly family documentary person -- most of my videos are done at home in poor light and using the widest angle settings.

This was my list:

mac iMovie compatible
light sensitivity (good images in dim home lighting at night)
analog to digital conversion w/ S-video I/O
reliable, tough - ideally made in Japan
wide-angle for images taken from 4-12 feet
quiet motor
warranty & service (1 yr base, 2 yr when extended by my AMEX card)
price comparisons include travel charger & extended life battery
image quality
focus capability - ideally a manual focus ring
16/9 ratio playback ok
sensor: 2mpix, 1/3.6 ccd
external mike jack
top loading

Overall the Optura 50 meets most of the items quite well. I think the indoor image quality is pretty good; better than the Elura 90. Not as light sensitive as my old SONY Hi-8, but it's far smaller and lighter. This was my biggest concern, but I think the camera passes this one. The best results come with 3 CCD cameras with larger sensors -- typically costing $3,000 or so.

Canon includes a ridiculous, worthless, still image camera. Sigh. (I have two fine Canon still cameras.) What a waste. They do, however, also include an S-video for higher quality analog I/O (you have to buy your own S-video cable though!). The 2005 Eluras now lack this feature (arghh).

The Optura 50 doesn't have enough wide-angle range for my tastes (I still do 3/4 capture as my iMovie s/w expects that) but it does better than the Elura 90. It's probably as good as one will get nowadays.

Mac OS X compatibilty is excellent. The manual is sparse but adequate. Digital passthrough is tricky to figure out (read the manual carefully) but it works well.

The camera is indeed made in Japan and it feels reasonably robust -- as much as any competing device. The charger is compact, but I bought the reasonably priced very nice travel charger and an extended life battery. ... Read more

Features

• 0.62-inch p-Si TFT LCD panel with Micro Lens Array
• 800 x 600 native resolution; up to 1,500 ANSI lumens of brightness
• 1.2 times zoom lens; auto setup and input sensing, auto keystone correction
• Versatile input compatibility, including S-video and component HDTV
• 1-watt integrated audio; 2-year warranty

Features

• 5.0 megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality prints up to 11 x 17
• 3.2x optical zoom and 3x digital zoom (9.6x total)
• Classic SLR setting ring controls on lens and shutter speed dial; 2.5-inch LCD
• Compatible with Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards; 64 MB SD card included
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery; connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (8)

A Strong Reason For Going Digital
as a 'dyed-in-the-wool' traditional film camera enthusiast (and having owned and used nikon, leica, canon and olympus slrs and view finders), i strongly resisted for the longest time 'going digital'...that is to say, until the leica digilux2 came along...

i am now a confirmed digital convert, and can say that the quality of images rendered from the digilux2, when compared to the photos rendered from my film cameras and in the absence of investing in my own film processing studio, will make the new leica a preferred choice for many years to come, and notwithstanding the 5 megapixel sensoring....

I love this camera
Sure, the Nikon 5400 is capable of similar pictures, at least in ideal situations, if you have the time to fight your way through its menus. But what makes the Leica d-2 the best camera currently available is its ease of use, the brilliant design of every knob and lever. Whatever you want to do, this camera can do it, simply, logically, and quickly. Bottom line: if you're rich, this is the best camera available. If you're poor, other digital cameras offer similar performance for a third the price if you're willing to deal with their confused, convoluted, time-consuming menus and controls.

Luddites go home . . .
To the person that mentioned the Leica Digilux 2 will be obsolete in 2 years, I'm sure many luddites don't like digital photography. Get used to it as it's here to stay. The Leica Digilux 2, and its sister Panasonic Lumix DMC LC-1, are the best digital rangefinder cameras, I think. I like the fact that it has both a fully automatic position or an immediate manual setting. As for price, buy the Panasonic considering it's identical (Leica Digilux 2 was developed in conjunction with Panasonic). I've seen the Panasonic as low as $1200. Either way, both are fantastic!

Traditional Design in the Digital Age
AESTHETICS: The Leica Digilux 2 can be described as a modern "retro" design. The body style is a direct descendant of the M6 and those before it. The body looks huge. It is about 33% larger than an M6, but this isn't readily apparent until you set it next to any Leica M chassis. There is a gaudy overabundance of faux chrome in the back. This is the least appealing part of the camera, because of the chrome finish that surrounds and accentuates the presence of the LCD monitor. I would have preferred a more predominant use of either a black finish or the faux leather. The rubber around the eyepiece is bulbous, but acceptable. Overall, it is a handsome camera.

ERGONOMICS: What sold me are the traditional manual adjustments: The focusing ring, the aperture ring, zoom adjustment, and shutter speed dial are so much more workable in the field. You do not have to take your eye away from the viewfinder like you would with touch pads and four-way rocker switches. Leave that for reviewing the recorded images. The box construction has the familiar feel of an M body, but weighs less. The "grippy" black rubber finish is handsome and remotely resembles leather. The flash has two positions: press halfway and it will set up for bounce flash. Press all the way down, and it will point directly towards the subject.

PRACTICALITIES: At the average price of about $1850 U.S. dollars, one would have to factor in the name. But also figure in the build quality. There is the magnesium body, real metal hinges on the doors (which are designed beautifully), traditional aperture ring, manual & auto focusing, shutter speed dial, superior image processing (for markedly lower noise levels than the competition), aspherical Summicron lens, larger than average lcd monitor; and a few more, but the general impression is that it's built well. The baseplate is bare, but there are three 1/8" diameter round rubber feet, and one round plastic foot that is molded out of the battery door itself. Attention to small details are what I like about the Leica. For example, the camera strap also comes with two leatherette scuff protectors that fit around the camera strap eyelets. And not only is a lens cap included, but a lens cap for the lens shade.

THE BOTTOM LINE: The photographs are the bottom line. The images and image quality are on par with the pro-level dslr's. There is a real Summicron aboard this camera, and of it, I rest assured. There are and will be cameras with higher pixel counts, but I've come to realize that if most of my photographs will be printed smaller than 11" x 14," then I am not lacking with the five megapixels. I've compared images side by side with images from my Olympus C8080, and the Digilux 2's images can almost qualify as 8 megapixel images!! This is not a point-and-shoot, as most would regard it as such. It can be set up for that if you wish, but the manual focusing, aperture and shutter adjustments make the D2 a capable tool for anybody who pursues photography seriously.

Buy a real M series please.
How long will this two grand camera last or be obsolete? 2 years tops. Buy an M6, M7 or MP for your two grand and you'll have something that lasts a lifetime. ... Read more

Features

• Professional 3-CCD DV camcorder with open architecture design for cinema attachments
• 20x optical zoom lens, XL interchangeable lens system
• Color viewfinder, interchangeable with optional professional monochrome viewfinder
• 16:9 widescreen and 4:3 ratio, 3 selectable frame rates: 60i, 30p, and cinema 24p
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack

Features

• Lens Construction -13 elements in 9 groups (1 ED)
• Picture Angle -30&deg;20'-8&deg;10'
• Minimum Focus Distance -5 feet
• Maximum Reproduction Ratio (Macro Setting) -1 - 3.9
• Attachment / Filter Size -62mm

Product Description

The Rebel K2 incorporates many of the most sought after attributes of the market leading Rebel Ti model including Canon's premier 7-point wide area AF system, lightning-fast shutter speeds up to 1/2000 of a second, and 35-zone AF-linked evaluative metering that optimizes exposure accuracy. Compact and feature-packed, the Rebel K2 is a stylish, ergonomically streamlined, lightweight camera that yields heavyweight results. Weighing in at a mere 12 ounces, the new K2 is extremely compact and light, with advanced ergonomic design that makes single-handed operation a snap.A step-up from (and a step quicker than) Canon's entry level EOS Rebel GII, the EOS Rebel K2 features fast autofocus and film advance permitting users to shoot at 1.5 frames per second, 50 percent faster than the GII. Tracking and keeping moving subjects in focus is a breeze thanks to the Rebel K2's AI Servo AF mode and seven point selectable autofocus system (with focusing points superimposed on Canon's glareless new laser matte focusing screen). Users can also opt for manual focusing point selection by simply pressing the Focusing Point Selector and rotating the main dial until the preferred focus point is indicated below the picture area in the viewfinder data display, or on the large, easy-to-read LCD data panel on the back of the camera.Like the Rebel Ti (K2's senior sibling), this newest Rebel anticipates virtually any common shooting circumstance and offers photographers fast and easy a ... Read more

Features

• Standard 28 to 90 mm (3.2x) zoom lens with quiet ultrasonic motor
• 35-zone metering system linked to 7-point high speed autofocus system
• 12 shooting modes including 7 programmed image control modes
• Advanced E-TTL flash metering system
• Futuristic styling, innovative control layout and large LCD panel

Reviews (2)

La mejor de su clase
Soy un principiante en esto de la fotografia, despues de tener una camara 110 salte a esta maravilla, tanto sus funciones automaticas como las profesionales ofrecen un desempeño excelente, he tomado mas de 300 fotos en poco menos de cuatro meses, el zoom que tiene es rapido, los botones tienen una disposicion excelente pata manejarla con una sola mano, lo unico que necesita es un flash de la serie speedlite, para disfrutarla totalmente en condiciones de poca luz, ya que el flash que trae carece de potencia(no le podemos pedir mas a un flash integrado), la recomiendo ampliamente!

A great camera
This is the new version of the EOS Rebel 2000 (they called it "K2" instead of "2K", I suppose in order to avoid giving the impression that the camera is 4 years out of date, which it is not).

It is simply a great camera at a great price.It works as well as any 35mm camera on the market, has a reasonably fast winder, and best of all it takes all of the huge variety of EF Canon lenses.It is actually very light, so you can carry it around without fatigue, or you can bulk it up by adding the extended grip (which gives it a very nice feel).

The zoom lenses are a little slow.I recommend that you get the body only, and start with the 50mm f/2.8 MKII lens, which is a steal at about $70.Together, they make an outstanding, affordable, high-quality package for those of us who still love film more than digital. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Highlighted by an advanced new, fourth-generation Super CCD SR sensor, the FujiFilm FinePix S3 Pro digital SLR takes digital photography dramatically closer to film quality. The FinePix S3 Pro offers a full feature set that's perfect for professional photographers, including a 6.17-megapixel effective resolution, compatibility with Nikon F-mount lenses as well as a majority of Nikkor AF lenses. Improvements over the FinePix S2 include larger, more ergonomically placed buttons, power from 4 rechargeable NiMH batteries, and USB 2.0 connectivity (as well as FireWire). This model does not include a lens.

Optics and Resolution
The FinePix S3 Pro's Super CCD SR sensor (23 x 15.5mm) uses 6.17 million S-pixels and 6.17 million R-pixels (for 12.3 million effective photodiodes) to deliver 12 million recorded pixels and noticeable image improvements to that of single-pixel cameras. The SR sensor's unique double photodiode design broadens tonal capability, from bright highlights to deep shadows. It produces the following resolution modes: 4256 x 2848, 3024 x 2016, 2304 x 1536, and 1440 x 960.

It has a Nikon F mount and accepts a full range of Nikkor F-series lenses--including AF-D, AF-G and AF-S type professional optics.

Fourth-Generation Super CCD SR
FujiFilm's Super CCD SR provides a truer representation of the actual subject being photographed, revealing highlight detail and offering a four-fold increase in dynamic range. By using an innovative layout of paired photodiodes--in a "honeycomb" pattern--the technology enables confident shooting in both bright and cloudy conditions. The Super CCD improves overall signal-to-noise ratio and offers a much wider dynamic range. It also combats the bleached-out effect created by flash photography and increases exposure latitude, a great advantage in difficult lighting conditions.

More Features

• Rugged,polycarbonate body with rounder design and molded rear grip
• 2-inch, 235,000 pixel horizontal LCD delivers crisp, clear images and nearly 100% frame coverage
• Secondary LCD indicates shooting information and settings
• Dual shutter release buttons to allow optimum comfort and stability in both horizontal and vertical orientations
• Intelligent flash with D-TTL full-aperture exposure metering system
• Shutter speeds of 30 seconds to 1/4,000 second
• Sensitivity: ISO 100, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600

Direct Printing
The FinePix S3 Pro is PictBridge compatible, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to your printer, without a PC or image-editing software. All PictBridge devices share three basic features: camera-to-printer connecting, single-image printing, and uniform error messages (in case something goes wrong)

Storage and Transfer
The FinePix S3 Pro offers a dual-media approach to storage: XD and CompactFlash Type II memory cards (offering compatibility with optional Microdrives, which can provide up to 1 GB of storage). It also incorporates dual PC connectivity, via super-fast USB 2.0 or IEEE 1394 (FireWire, also called i.Link).

Power and Size
The camera is powered exclusively by 4 rechargeable NiMH batteries (included). It measures 5.8 x 5.3 x 3.1 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 1.6 pounds (excluding battery and lens). ... Read more

Features

• 12-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 19-by-28-inch enlargements
• Fully compatible with Nikon's Nikkor F-series lenses
• 2-inch LCD display with separate LCD data display; PictBridge support; dual shutter release buttons
• Store images on xD or Microdrive media
• Powered by 4 AA-size rechargeable NiMH batteries; connects to PCs via USB 2.0 and IEEE 1394 (Firewire)

Features

• 4.1-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 12-by-15-inch enlargements
• 3.4x optical zoom lens; 3.6x digital zoom; 2-inch micro-reflective LCD screen; PictBridge compatible
• Thin metal body is just .8-inch thick; included PictureCradle makes image transfer and battery recharging easy
• Store images on xD Picture Cards (16 MB xD card included)
• Powered by NP-30 rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included with charger); compatible with USB 2.0

Features

• 4-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 11-by-15-inch enlargements
• 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens combines with 4x digital zoom for 12x total zoom
• One-Touch Red-Eye Fix feature; movie mode with sound; PictBridge compatible
• Store images in 14.5 MB internal memory or optional Secure Digital (SD) cards
• Powered by 2 AA-size batteries (alkaline included; rechargeable Ni-MH recommended); connects to computers via USB

Reviews (1)

Great deal!
It's the best deal if you wanna spend around 250$. ... Read more

Features

• Optimized resolution up to 5,760 dpi
• Prints up to 22 ppm monochrome, 12 ppm color
• Individually replaceable ink cartridges
• EPSON PhotoQuicker 3.5 software
• USB and parallel interfaces, PC and Mac compatible