3MP+ CompactFlash Cameras

Nikon Coolpix 4500 4MP Digital Camera w/ 4x Optical Zoom

Nikon's Coolpix 4500 offers 4-megapixel resolution in the same swiveling frame as their previous Coolpix 995. The left half of the 4500--which houses the lens and flash--can be twisted around 360 degrees, making it simple to for you take pictures at a variety of angles. It's especially handy for taking self-portraits, as you can see how you look in the 1.5-inch LCD viewfinder.

A 4-megapixel capability means that you can take pictures at up to 2,272 by 1,704 pixels in size, which can be printed out at 11 by 14 without any loss of quality. Our images duly impressed us, with sharp edges, bright colors, and an incredible amount of detail. Also impressive is the 4500's 4x optical zoom. Higher than most digital cameras, the 4x zoom lets you get close to your subject, with another 4x of digital zoom available after the snap.

A built-in flash pops up when needed, and the audio recording capability lets you dictate memos to match your pictures. The rechargeable battery provides about two hours of life, although it must be removed from the camera for a recharge.

Although the 4500 features a broad range of tools for the more advanced digital photographer, it's easy enough for the beginner to use. Its 16 different scene modes--including various portraits and a panorama assist mode--make taking different types of pictures a one-click task.

Nikon includes only a 16 MB CompactFlash card, but it supports Type I and II cards, meaning you can pop in a 512 MB or 1 GB microdrive for the ultimate in storage.

The 4500 is a hefty metal camera, and you can't just drop it into a breast pocket. But you also won't be afraid of damaging it easily. It looks and feels like it works--sharp, dependable, and versatile. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• Bright, detailed images
• High resolution and optical zoom
• Innovative twist design

Cons:

• Hefty
• Have to remove battery to recharge

Nikon's Coolpix 4500 digital camera combines Nikon's world-renowned Nikkor optics, a 4x optical zoom, and a 4-megapixel CCD sensor for imagery at resolutions up to 2,272 x 1,704 pixels--providing prints up to 11 by 14 inches.

The 4x optical zoom (35mm equivalent of 38-155mm)--as well as the 4x digital zoom for a total of 8x zoom--provides versatility and control over picture composition.

The Coolpix 4500 sports the classic twist design of the 900 series Coolpix digital cameras, providing you creative control to shoot from any angle--from over-the-crowd shots to self portraits.

Advanced photographic controls are available, as are 16 scene modes (including the new multiple exposure and panorama assist). Select from four metering options, six white-balance options, a myriad of exposure settings and compensation modes, and more. Shoot in program, aperture priority, shutter priority, or full manual modes.

The automatic pop-up style built-in flash moves the flash away from the lens, which minimizes red eye. The camera's meter will detect if there is a low-light situation and automatically pop up the flash for you. Alternately, you can use the optional multiflash bracket to attach up to five external Nikon Speedlights to the Coolpix 4500, giving you a huge range of lighting options

The Coolpix 4500 comes bundled with NikonView 5 browser software (for Mac and Windows), which makes it simple to organize, retrieve, and print images. It includes a lens cap, neck strap, 16 MB CompactFlash card, AV cable, USB cable, rechargeable lithium-ion battery (EN-EL1), and battery charger. It is compatible with type I and II CompactFlash memory cards as well as IBM Microdrives (512 MB and 1 GB).

The compact, lightweight Coolpix 4500 offers the user a smarter way to take superior pictures. Whether you simply select program mode for ease of use or manual for full creative control, the Coolpix 4500 delivers excellent-quality images. The Coolpix 4500 boasts a radically exciting swivel design that provides unprecedented response and allows you to shoot at any angle. The 4x Zoom-Nikkor lens, with its 7.85-32mm focal range (equivalent to 38-155mm in 35mm [135] camera format), delivers superb optical performance. 4.0 effective megapixels provide ultrahigh definition and combines with Nikon's image processing algorithm to ensure images of remarkable color, contrast and clarity.With certain subjects, such as tall buildings, the perspective tends to be emphasized (slanted) when shot from a low angle. The perspective control feature allows you to de-emphasize or straighten the converging lines. Indeed, with so many features and accessories, and a remarkably easy-to-use design, the Coolpix 4500 promises to win over countless new users to the increasingly exciting field of digital photography.

Minolta Dimage 7 5MP Digital Camera w/ 7x Optical Zoom

The first consumer-oriented 5-megapixel camera to hit the market, Minolta's DiMAGE 7 leapfrogged the competition by coming out at a time when other camera manufacturers were just introducing their 4-megapixel models. The DiMAGE 7 offers an ultrahigh resolution 5.24-megapixel CCD sensor that delivers excellent images for prints as large as 13 by 19 inches. A high-performance, all-glass, 7x zoom lens (equivalent to 28-200mm on a 35mm camera), with a 2x digital zoom, ensures maximum flexibility when composing your shots. Add to this a host of creative controls stacked into a unit with the size and feel of an SLR, and you have a digital camera with the type of functionality typically found only in professional models.

Three controls provide access to the camera's primary adjustable features. Digital subject-program selection allows you to set aperture and shutter speed for superior results in five popular formats: portrait, sports action, sunsets, night portraits, or text. A function dial allows adjustment between four modes of pixel resolution, five modes of data compression, four modes of exposure control, five modes of drive options, seven modes of white balance, and five levels of ISO. The digital-effects controller allows image manipulation by compensating for exposure, contrast, and color saturation before the image is saved. As insurance, Minolta provides a fourth control that instantly restores the camera's automatic settings. Changing most settings is a two-handed operation: one hand selects the feature you're adjusting, while spinning a second dial actually changes the setting. The system is reasonably intuitive, but don't plan to make any adjustments with one hand.

To preview and review images, the DiMAGE 7 features a digital viewfinder that pivots for comfortable close-ups or tripod shooting. An eye-sensing switch (triggered when you put your eye up to the camera) automatically turns off the TFT LCD viewscreen to conserve battery power.

In manual-focus mode, the camera also has an electronic magnification feature. At the push of a button, the center of the image is blown up to 4x original size in the viewfinder so you can check the fine details and ensure the image is in focus before snapping the shutter. In autofocus mode, a flex-focusing option allows the focal point to be moved to any part of the image for off-center shooting.

The DiMAGE 7 is so packed with features that it would be impossible to list them all, but here are some highlights:

Nikon Coolpix 885 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Comparable in design to the popular Coolpix 880, the Nikon Coolpix 885 weighs less (a mere 7.9 ounces without battery or CompactFlash card), and incorporates a one-touch transfer button for directly uploading digital photos to your desktop or the Internet. The ultracompact Coolpix 885 has a 3.21-megapixel CCD for prints up to 11 by 14 inches, an all-glass 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens (38-114mm equivalent in 35mm), plus an additional 4x digital zoom, and advanced image processing features to ensure clear, vivid images under almost any lighting conditions. It accommodates additional Nikon lenses including telephoto, wide-angle, and fisheye converter lenses, and it has a movie mode that lets you record 40 seconds of video at 15 frames per second.

The 885 shares many features with the 880, such as selectable scene modes for specific shooting situations. The 12 scene modes are: Portrait; Party/Indoor; Night Portrait; Beach/Snow; Landscape; Night Landscape; Sunset; Fireworks; Close-Up; Copy; Backlight; and Museum mode, which cancels the flash. There is a quick-review button to display the image just taken in a quarter of the LCD screen, allowing you to still see and shoot any ongoing action in front of you. In addition, the 885 has a five-mode advanced built-in speedlight, five-area multi-autofocus, a 1.5-inch LCD monitor, 256-element matrix metering, and USB interface. For the more advanced photographer, the camera comes with an automatic noise reduction mode for clean images taken at slower shutter speeds, manual white balance settings, and white balance bracketing.

The Coolpix 885 features a comfortable side grip for easy shooting and quick access to all of the camera's controls. This camera comes with a 16 MB Lexar CompactFlash card, one 2CR5 lithium battery, protective lens cap, wrist strap, USB cable, and video cable.

Nikon Coolpix 4300 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

The Nikon Coolpix 4300 packs a lot into its tiny frame: a 4-megapixel CCD, a 3x optical zoom (4x digital), and an excellent list of high-end features. It's also easy to grip and can be used entirely with one hand--for right-handers at least (as usual, southpaws will just have to get used to the design).

We were able to adjust the saturation, white balance, and noise reduction of our images even before taking a shot. The 1.5-inch LCD is smaller than average, but the bright and crisp panel was clearly visible in anything but direct sunlight.

The 4300's image quality duly impressed us--crisp, bright colors that stood up to 11-by-17-inch enlargements. You can also capture 40-second video clips, although they're silent movies. We appreciated the Best Shot Selector feature, which let us snap up to 10 quick pictures and then have the Nikon cull out the best one for us.

We were able to get over 90 minutes of use out of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, although we had to remove it for recharging. This design works well for an optional backup battery; however, you'll need a fully-charged battery ready to go. Nikon includes a 16 MB CompactFlash card, but you'll want to upgrade early on--high-resolution images and video clips fill 16 MB rapidly.

One minor caveat: if we turned the camera on with the lens cap in place, the 4300 would flash a message telling us about it. Removing the lens cap didn't work, and we had to turn the camera off and back on to clear the message and get started.

For the price, the Coolpix 4300 delivers a lot of megapixels and excellent image quality. If you're planning on upgrading to a high-end digital camera, plan a stop right here. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• Bright, crisp images
• High-end features
• Easy-to-hold design

Cons:

• Have to remove battery to recharge
• Lens cap irritation

Don't be fooled by the small size of the powerful Nikon Coolpix 4300 digital camera. With a 4-megapixel CCD, the Coolpix 4300 brings home high-definition photos of all your adventures and special moments. It features a 3x optical zoom, a built-in flash, a bright, full-color LCD monitor, and 12 versatile scene modes. The Coolpix 4300 even records movies, and is fully compatible with optional Nikon Coolpix converter lenses and accessories.

Optics and Resolution
The Coolpix 4300 is essentially a 4-megapixel update to Nikon's popular Coolpix 885, which was nicely effective in both point-and-shoot and manual control modes. It can capture images up to 2,272 x 1,704 pixels, providing enough pixels for easy cropping and producing quality prints to 11 by 14 inches and beyond. It boasts a Nikkor lens with 3x optical zoom, plus a 4x digital zoom (for a 12x total).

Storage and Transfer
With the Coolpix 4300, images are stored on Type I CompactFlash memory cards--a 16 MB starter card is provided and we recommend purchasing a higher-capacity memory card. Connect the Coolpix 4300 to your computer and press the transfer button on the back for a fast, easy, one-touch upload for editing or for uploading to a photo-sharing Web site. Images are downloaded to either a Mac or PC via a USB connection.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the Coolpix 4300 captures video clips (with no audio) at 15 frames per second at a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels. You can record a movie of up to 40 seconds in length. The QuickTime Motion JPEG format offers a limited resolution, which is great for capturing a short movie that can be e-mailed to friends and family, but is no replacement for a true camcorder.

More Features
The Coolpix 4300 comes with an auto mode as well as 12 scene modes, which can help you capture great photos in virtually any shooting situation. They include portrait, night portrait, landscape, sunset, fireworks show, and backlight. In full manual mode, you can choose shutter speed and aperture (f2.8-f13.4). Shutter-speed choices range from 8 seconds to 1/1,000 second. There is also a bulb mode with a maximum shutter speed of 60 seconds (tripod and remote shutter release cable strongly recommended).

Other features include:

• Exclusive 256-segment matrix metering helps you get great exposures in the most difficult lighting situations.
• Fully compatible with optional Nikon Coolpix converter lenses, adapters, and accessories (requires UR-E4 converter adapter).
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction and slow sync.
• 1.5-inch LCD monitor with up to a 6x zoom, which is useful for checking focus.

Power, Size, and Contents
The Coolpix 4300 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included). The camera measures 3.7 by 2.7 by 2.0 inches and weighs 8 ounces without batteries. This package includes the Coolpix 4300 digital camera, 16 MB XD card, EN-EL1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger, AV and USB cables, wrist strap, lens cap and strap, printed instruction manual, and a CD-ROM with NikonView 5 image-editing software for Mac (OS 9 and OS X) and PC (Windows 98, Me, 2000, and XP).

A compact, lightweight digital still camera with 4.0 effective megapixels and a powerful 3x zoom lens, the COOLPIX 4300 is an easy-to-use mid-range model with superior image quality. The camera's core users include everybody from beginners to advanced amateurs. It is ideal for those who want a high-quality camera that takes exceptional pictures. People seeking a deeper experience with digital photography will be attracted to the COOLPIX 4300's portability and image quality. Superb optical performance, a big part of the COOLPIX 4300's appeal, is delivered via a 3x optical Zoom-Nikkor lens with an 8-24mm focal range (equivalent to 38-114mm in 35mm [135] camera format). Its 4.0 effective megapixels provide ultrahigh definition and, combined with Nikon's advanced image processing technology, ensure images of remarkable color, contrast and clarity. Shooting is further simplified by general-use AUTO mode and 12 different Scene Modes, which allow users to capture the essence of every situation and fully experience the fun and convenience of digital photography.The COOLPIX 4300's compact and lightweight design makes it extremely portable and its ergonomic, easy-grip design ensures easy operation. Managing pictures has never been easier, thanks to features like one-button data transfer and a Small Picture function that configures photos specifically for e-mail and Internet applications. The camera comes equipped with all the accessories necessary to immediately start taking better digital photographs. An array of optional accessories - such as an adapter that accepts Wideangle, Telephoto, Fisheye, and other lenses - will further any photographer's journey into the digital world. With so many features and accessories, and a remarkably easy-to-use design, the COOLPIX 4300 both advances the impact of Nikon's successful COOLPIX line and promises to bring the thrill of digital photography to more people than ever before.

Canon PowerShot G2 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Quite simply, the Canon PowerShot G2 is an elegant, easy-to-use joy of a digital camera that boasts impressive 4-megapixel resolution, a 3x optical zoom, a bright LCD monitor that swivels off to the side of the camera and tilts up and down as needed, and maximum overall creative control in addition to a fully automatic mode. Of course, none of this comes as much of a surprise to anyone familiar with its popular predecessor, the PowerShot G1. Both of these cameras have features and picture-taking modes similar to Canon's EOS cameras, which means they have what Canon calls a "very camera-like feel." Some of the G2's more obvious improvements over the G1 (besides higher resolution) include a champagne gold finish, larger grip for easier handling, improved image and color quality, new photo-effect shooting mode for various effects, including black-and-white and sepia, and a new high-speed selectable three-point autofocus.

The G2's 4-megapixel CCD captures images at user-selectable resolutions of 2,272 x 1,704, 1,600 x 1,200, 1,024 x 768, and 640 x 480. This range allows for detail-rich 8-by-10-inch prints that match the results of film cameras as well as easy-to-upload images for the Web and e-mail. Choose between three varying degrees of JPEG compression or store images in the 10-bit RAW data file format for faster transfer without any image quality loss. Your computer easily translates the RAW files into TIFF files using Canon's included software.

The telescoping, 3x optical zoom lens (34-102mm equivalent on a 35mm camera) with 3.6x digital zoom, offers both automatic and manual focus control. The improved, high-speed, selectable three-point autofocus system allows flexibility in composition over the single focus point of the G1. A distance scale has been added on the LCD monitor for precision focus adjustment that works best for extreme close-ups. Improved circuitry allows the G2 to perform these advanced functions with faster image capture times and longer battery life than the G1.

Like the G1, the G2 has point-and-shoot settings that take the guesswork out of almost all situations, but the manual controls and creative options are where this camera stands out from the competition. Twelve EOS-style shooting modes allow for a wide range of creative possibilities, with manual focus zoom, adjustable aperture priority at 50, 100, 200, and 400 ISO, selectable shutter speed, and six preset white balances--sunny, cloudy, tungsten, etc. Canon has provided four presets for professional results when shooting for maximum depth of field, portraits, landscapes, and night scenes. Other creative controls include the photo-effect mode that allows four possible variations of the normal color saturation: vivid color, standard color, sepia tones, and standard black-and-white.

Two video formats have also been included, allowing for 30 and 120 seconds of moving images with audio. Slow shutter-speed mode allows extended exposures in low-light situations. Autoexposure bracketing allows you to intentionally over- and underexpose two extra shots to help capture the best picture possible. Five different flash modes, including red-eye reduction, handle after-dark challenges. The TTL hot shoe is fully compatible with all Canon EX-series Speedlite flashes. The included software package goes beyond standard image processing with a remote capture function that allows complete control and manipulation of the camera functions from your computer keyboard. Canon's Stitch Assist program allows you to combine up to four images into one, seamless, panoramic view.

Exterior design features include the highly versatile LCD monitor from the G1 that needs no improvement; its 270-degree rotation allows all angles of image composition from around corners to self-portraits. Changes in ergonomics, as requested by the users of the G1, include a contoured grip for better one-handed shooting and a more streamlined look. Photographers new to the digital market will find the G2 as easy to use as previous PowerShot models, while professionals will be pleased with the improved selection of creative options for capturing the best possible images.

The G2 comes complete with USB port and cable for connection to PC or Macintosh computers; Canon's digital camera software package for downloading, processing, and organizing your images; a NTSC cable for connecting to a television set; a rechargeable BP-511 lithium-ion battery pack and AC adapter for charging the battery in the camera; a generous 32 MB CompactFlash card; infrared remote control; lens cap; and neck strap. The camera weighs about 14.8 ounces, and its dimensions are 4.8(W) by 3.0(H) by 2.5(D) inches.

Nikon Coolpix 995 3.2MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom

The Nikon Coolpix 995 builds on the versatile swivel design of the Coolpix 990 and 950, with features such as a new multimode pop-up flash that helps reduce red-eye considerably, and a handful of inventive creative controls, including white-balance bracketing, four-color saturation modes, and a 50-step manual focus mode. Its 3.34-megapixel CCD sensor captures high-resolution images (maximum of 2,048 x 1,536 pixels) for quality enlargements, and the 4x optical zoom Nikkor lens provides the 35mm photography equivalent of a 38-152mm zoom. This is currently the highest zoom range in the Coolpix line (as of July 2001). The Coolpix 995 also has a 4x stepless digital zoom, 256-element matrix metering, an advanced autofocus system, QuickTime movie mode for movies up to 40 seconds long, multiple automatic exposure modes, and a 1.8-inch LCD monitor with 6x zooming playback.

One of the best reasons to choose the Coolpix 995 is for the quality Nikkor optics and the ability to add any (optional) Coolpix converter lenses and accessories. There is even a multiflash sync terminal for attaching up to five external Nikon Speedlights. The camera's 4x optical zoom lens incorporates two aspherical elements (10 elements in 8 groups overall) for optimal performance in a compact design, plus it features super-integrated coating (SIC) for incredible sharpness. In macro mode, you can focus as close as 0.8 inches from your subject. Other interesting features include the ability to shoot subjects in motion with a high-speed full-resolution image capture at three frames per second, an improved shutter speed of 1/2,300 per second, and a fast maximum ISO setting of 800. There is also a noise reduction mode on the 995 to minimize digital artifacts and help capture excellent images at long exposures.

To sweeten the deal, the Coolpix 995 comes with rechargeable lithium-ion battery and charger, Lexar 16MB CompactFlash memory card, USB cable for high-speed connectivity, multiple software products (even a program that allows users to edit their QuickTime movies), lens cap, and neck strap. It is covered by a one-year warranty.

Set your sights on a higher level in digital photography. Designed for the person who is passionate about photography, the Nikon Coolpix 995 merges the well-known Nikon Coolpix-style camera body with all the advantages of digital technology. Its 4x Zoom-Nikkor lens gets you close to the action, and the 4x stepless digital zoom let you capture intricate details missed by other cameras.At any distance, Coolpix 995 takes sharp, clear pictures with brilliant color through its 3.34-megapixel CCD. High-resolution images contain a wealth of information that result in pictures with exceptional clarity and detail. Versatile exposure controls and multiple flash modes maximize your creative potential in any shooting situation. Tailor image resolution levels to meet your exact needs, and download images with a few simple mouse clicks through the standard USB interface for Plug and Play compatibility with the latest PCs and Macintosh computers. Nikon Coolpix 995. Simply a higher standard in digital photography.

Canon PowerShot S40 4MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Canon's S30 and S40 cameras fill a gap in the company's digital lineup. Nestled between the ultra-tiny Elph models and the feature-packed PowerShot G and Pro models, the S30 and S40 combine most of the portability of the former with nearly every advanced feature of the latter.

With the exception of their CCD sensors (the S30 is a 3-megapixel model, while the S40 is 4-megapixel), the cameras are essentially identical. Each features a brushed aluminum body with a sliding clamshell lens cover, a 3x optical zoom Canon lens, and a 1.8-inch LCD on the back of the camera for previewing and reviewing shots.

For beginners, the cameras are point-and-shoot simple. Just twist the dial to Auto and start snapping pictures. For more experienced photographers, both models include aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual modes, plus manual focus, exposure compensation, slow-sync flash, spot metering, and adjustable ISO (from 50 to 400 on the S40, and 50 to 800 on the S30).

Movie mode lets you capture video clips with sound. At 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 pixels, the movies aren't camcorder quality, but they're fun and convenient, and they're perfect as e-mail attachments. The cameras also include an unusual voice-memo feature, which lets you record up to 60 seconds of audio with each image.

To provide maximum battery life in the smallest possible space, the cameras use a proprietary lithium-ion battery (both the battery and a charger are included). The battery charges quickly and holds a reasonably long charge, but if you're planning to use the camera for extended outings, a spare battery is a good idea. A larger-capacity memory card is also advisable if you want to shoot more than a dozen photos at a time or really take advantage of the movie mode. The cameras use Type I or Type II CompactFlash cards, including the Microdrive. To print your photos at home, the S30 and S40 connect directly to Canon's CP-10 and S820D printers for easy printing--you don't even need a computer.

If you're looking for a camera with the sleek, compact style of a point-and-shoot with the extensive manual controls of an advanced amateur camera, the S30 and S40 are both great choices.

A whole host of impressive technical features opens up a sea of creative possibilities. And all wrapped up in an extraordinarily beautiful and robust metal case. Advancements include a new RGB color filter and digital signal processor, giving you richer more lifelike color, even when shooting under adverse conditions. Cut out the middleman with the Direct Print mode. Connect your PowerShot S40 directly to the Canon CP-10 card photo printer or the Bubble Jet S820D and enjoy brilliant, long-lasting color prints without the need for a PC. And when one image isn't enough to tell the whole story, switch to movie mode to record short video clips - even with sound! With the PowerShot S40, you're not just up-to-date, you're a step ahead.

Minolta Dimage 7i 5MP Digital Camera w/ 7x Optical Zoom

For advanced digital photographers, Minolta's large and powerful Dimage 7i offers a broad range of features and tools for any type of still photography. With a 5-megapixel resolution, images can be outputted at poster sizes. And the excellent 7x optical zoom gets you extremely close to your subjects.

It's definitely not a camera that you're going to be slipping into a pocket. The Dimage 7i is professional class in terms of both performance and size, weighing in at over a pound without batteries. That said, its heft is comfortable and can actually be handled with one hand.

The color electronic viewfinder knows when you put your eye up to it, turning itself on and turning off the bright 1.8-inch LCD, which saves on battery life and makes for a nifty party trick. It even has a diopter lens so glasses-wearing users can adjust it to their eyesight.

Captured images were downright impressive--with bright, lifelike colors, and very sharp details. The Dimage 7i sports a long list of advanced features, including a variety of movie capture modes (including low-light), a real-time histogram that lets you adjust your aperture and other settings before snapping a photo, and continuous auto-focus on moving subjects.

You might think that a camera of this level would be a bit imposing to use, but Minolta has laid out the buttons and wheels appropriately, letting you adjust between modes easily and including an LCD panel on top of the camera that keeps you informed of the settings.

It's not the kind of camera you'd want to buy your teenager for a birthday, but if you're looking for a digital camera that can hold its own against top film cameras, the Minolta Dimage 7i definitely deserves a look. --J. Curtis

Pros:

• 5-megapixel resolution produces impressive images
• Huge optical zoom: 7x
• Advanced tools and features, but easy to use

Cons:

• Professional photography is not inexpensive
• Not exactly compact

The Minolta DiMAGE 7i succeeds the DiMAGE 7 and offers several key improvements. The DiMAGE 7i ratchets up the speed, with a 1/4,000 top exposure and ultra-high-speed (UHS) continuous drive bursts up to seven frames per second at 1.280 x 960 pixels. It also features new controls for brightness, contrast, and saturation, as well as improved audio and video recording capabilities.

Optics and Resolution
The Minolta DiMAGE 7i is built around a high-precision electro-optical system designed to maximize image quality. The system contains a 5.24-megapixel, 2/3-type interline primary color CCD with 4.95 million effective pixels for fine high-resolution images. The pixel resolution of the CCD will produce 13-by-17-inch, 150 dpi prints on an inkjet printer.

The Minolta GT Lens featured in the DiMAGE 7i is an optical jewel cut in glass. With enough resolution to produce a fine image on a 7-million pixel CCD, this lens employs AD glass and aspheric elements to ensure sharp, contrasting images with no chromatic aberration at any focal length. In addition, the Minolta DiMAGE 7i's optical zoom lens accepts standard 49mm filters.

With a focal range of 7.2-50.8mm, the DiMAGE 7i's fast 7x zoom apochromatic (APO) lens is equivalent to a 28-200mm 35mm zoom lens. Your shooting options range from wide angle for expansive landscapes and confined interiors to telephoto for intimate portraits. The fast f2.8 to f3.5 aperture easily permits natural light shooting without a flash.

More Features
The DiMAGE 7i is the first Minolta digital camera to incorporate direct manual focus (DMF). DMF is found in professional-level film cameras like the award-winning Minolta Maxxum 7. It allows the focus to be fine-tuned manually, after the AF system has focused and locked on the subject.

The DiMAGE 7i has two displays for critical composition: grid and scale. Usually found in large-format view cameras, the grid makes aligning the camera with vertical or horizontal elements within the image simple. The grid confirms that the horizon or buildings are straight. The scale can be used in close-up photography to judge the relative proportions of the subject. The DiMAGE 7i is fitted with a new 1.8-inch low-temperature high-contrast color LCD monitor, which has an extended color gamut, contrast, and dynamic range.

For low-light situations, you can use the DiMAGE 7i's built-in flash, or use compatible external Minolta flashes. A wireless-remote flash function gives even more control over flash photography by allowing multiple off-camera Minolta flash units to be fired simultaneously by the camera, without cables.

You can record audio along with still images with the voice memo feature, allowing a 16-bit audio track of up to 15 seconds to be attached to an image after it has been captured.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the DiMAGE 7i produces digital videos in multiple creative formats, including standard QVGA (320 x 240) color movies and monochrome night movies up to 60 seconds with 16-bit audio. The night-movie mode can record movie clips under extreme low-light conditions, while the interval function can produce a series of still images taken at regular intervals, or it can combine the images into a time-lapsed movie at any image size.

The limited resolution of your movies guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on CompactFlash memory cards, and the memory slot is compatible with CompactFlash Type II cards as well as Microdrives. The included 16 MB card holds approximately eight images at 2,560 x 1,920 pixel resolution (standard mode, high). CompactFlash cards are reusable, but you will definitely want a bigger card. A 128 MB card is a good starting point, but we recommend a 256 MB card to get the full benefit of the DiMAGE 7i.

To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera--your computer should automatically recognize the camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive.

Power
The camera is powered by four NiMH rechargeable batteries, which are included along with a battery charger.

Size
At 4.6 by 3.6 by 4.4 inches and 18.5 ounces, the DiMAGE 7i is definitely not an easily pocketable point-and-shoot camera.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the DiMAGE 7i camera, 16 MB CompactFlash card, four NiMH rechargeable batteries, battery charger, neck strap, lens hood, lens cap with strap, USB and video cables, CD-ROM with DiMAGE Image View Utility software and drivers, and printed camera manual.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend additional NiMH batteries and a higher-capacity CompactFlash card.

Sigma SD9 3.54MP Digital SLR Camera

Early Adopters Pick: December 2002. Powered by Foveon X3 image sensors, the world's only technology that captures red, green, and blue light at each and every pixel in three distinct layers.

The breakthrough Sigma SD9 high-definition, digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera contains the world's first image sensor to feature three layers of photo-detectors. The camera's SLR system can take advantage of over 30 different lenses, from 8mm circular fisheye to 800mm ultra-telephoto, plus two digital flashguns, power pack, and accessories.

Optics and Resolution
The Sigma SD9, powered by the Foveon X3 image sensors, captures red, green, and blue light at each and every pixel in three distinct layers. All other image sensors feature just one layer of photo-detectors, with just one photo-detector per pixel.

The SD9's three layers are embedded in silicon to take advantage of the fact that red, green, and blue light penetrate silicon to different depths, allowing full color to be measured at every pixel. This means that for every pixel on a Foveon X3 image sensor, there's actually a stack of three photo-detectors, forming the first and only full-color capture system.

Storage and Transfer
The SD9 uses CompactFlash memory cards and is compatible with CompactFlash Type I/II cards, which enables you to use IBM Microdrives as well. You can transfer the images from camera to computer with high-speed IEEE 1394 (also known as FireWire) and widely available USB (1.1) interfaces. The camera's video-output system can be switched between the PAL system (used in Europe) and the NTSC system (used in Japan and the U.S.).

Image Format
With the RAW data recording system of the SD9, it is possible to obtain high-picture definition and compact file size. The lossless compression system of RAW data eliminates image deterioration, and provides superior pictures, without sacrificing original image quality.

More Features
The SD9 is equipped with a large 1.8-inch, 130,000-dot low-temperature polysilicon TFT-LCD monitor with a white LED on the back panel, which displays images, menus, and histograms.

The SD9 is equipped with a "sport finder," so you can easily follow the situation outside the picture area. The area that is out of the image sensor's coverage range is marked by transparent light gray, to distinguish it from the active picture-taking area.

Dust and dirt entering through the lens mount of a digital camera can create serious defects in image quality. In order to prevent dust entering and adhering to the image sensor, the body mount of SIGMA SD9 is equipped with an integral dust protector.

Power, Size, and Contents
The SD9 comes equipped with four CR-V3 batteries and an AC adapter; you can also use four optional rechargeable NiMH batteries to power the camera. The SD9 measures 5.9 by 4.7 by 3.1 inches and weighs 28.3 ounces. Other standard accessories are a hand strap, CD-ROM with imaging software, USB cradle and cable, AC adapter for cradle, remote controller with LCD, and stereo headphone.

Digital photos have never looked quite as good as those taken on film. Until now. Only the SIGMA SD9 digital single-lens reflex camera makes this major breakthrough. Using FOVEON X3 technology with over 10.2 million pixel sensors for more accurate, efficient color reproduction, and sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional CCD or CMOS image sensor provides. So you can capture more of your vision in a truer light. Go ahead. Get more creative. The SIGMA SD9 puts the advantage of higher technology right in your hands.

Canon EOS D30 3MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

CompactFlash Microdrive F/4.0-5.6The Canon EOS 400Ds 10.1 megapixel sensor employs the same outstanding CMOS image quality advantage of its big brothers in the professional EOS 1 range. Super sensitive in low light and virt

The Canon EOS D30 is one of the few available interchangeable-lens digital single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. It's designed to offer the performance and picture quality of a film-based SLR with the convenience and features of a digital camera. Based on Canon's EOS line of film cameras, the D30 is compatible with all EOS-related equipment, including EF lenses and EX-series Speedlite flashes. This model is targeted at "prosumers" (serious consumers and some professionals), and its EOS compatibility makes it a natural choice for people who already own Canon equipment.

If you're accustomed to using a Canon SLR, the D30's features and controls will be familiar. As with film models, the shutter speed, aperture, and focus can all be set manually or automatically. White balance can also be adjusted, either by selecting a preset value or by shooting and storing a reference image. Unlike most digital cameras, the traditional optical viewfinder is the only way to frame your shots; the 1.8-inch LCD monitor on the back of the camera is for perusing images and adjusting settings only. One bonus of this arrangement is that the D30 is always ready to take pictures; you don't have to worry about changing modes as you must on most digital cameras.

The introduction of the D30 also marks the first use of a CMOS sensor in a multimegapixel digital camera. Because CMOS sensors are less expensive, use less power, and are easier to manufacture than the traditional CCD sensors found on most cameras, there are high hopes that CMOS will be the primary sensor technology for the super-high resolution digital cameras of tomorrow. Until now, however, CMOS sensors have offered inferior results when compared to CCD, so they've been found primarily in entry-level and toy digital cameras. Canon seems to have solved the image-quality problem by custom designing the CMOS chip in the D30, and the company claims that their sensor offers better performance than most CCD sensors.

Images are stored on Type I or Type II CompactFlash cards, including the IBM Microdrive. By default, files are recorded in JPEG format, though there are also settings for TIFF and RAW recording. TIFF is the most common lossless recording format, and TIFF images can be viewed and edited with virtually any photo editing software. TIFF files provide the highest-quality images, but at a price: a single D30 image occupies nearly 10 MB of memory. RAW, in contrast, is a newer format that's not recognized by as many photo-editing software packages, though Canon provides a plug-in to let Adobe Photoshop users directly import RAW files, and also includes software that lets you convert RAW files to TIFF files on your computer. Like TIFF, RAW is a lossless format, yet RAW files are only about one-third the size of TIFFs. Because the RAW image comes directly from the sensor and has received less in-camera processing than other file formats, it also offers experienced users more image-correction options.

A final note about the EOS D30. The CMOS sensor is smaller than a 35mm negative, which means that when you take a picture, the focal length of the lens you are using is greater. For example, if you took a picture using a lens with a 28mm focal length, the actual focal length would be 1.6x greater, or 45mm. If you're currently shooting with a Canon SLR, this makes your zoom lenses even more powerful, but it also means that you'll need to pick up a wide-angle lens or wide-angle converter to regain the range of focal lengths you have with film. --Michael Lewis and Shane Burnett

Pros:

• Compatible with all Canon EOS equipment.
• Features RAW mode for ultimate photographic control.
• SLR flexibility and control.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Focal length adjustment makes wide-angle shooting difficult.
• More memory is the first accessory you'll need to buy.