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Small Cameras Get the Big Picture
February 01, 2007
New features such as image stabilization and face-detection technology are finding their way into even the smallest cameras.
By William Flanagan
Digital camera manufacturers share a unique problem. As people become more knowledgeable about cameras and picture taking in general, they expect more from their choice of camera, and they want that increased functionality in a package that is pocket- or purse-friendly.
Pixel count may still be the first feature people look at when considering a camera, but it's no longer the only thing. Discriminating photographers, even those just shooting their kids' soccer games, are now becoming concerned with the quality of the shot as well as with size.
New advanced processors such as Canon's Digic III and Fuji's LSI chip are adding integrated face-detection technology that can recognize when there are faces in the frame and automatically select the best focus and exposure settings, based on the shooting conditions. This technology makes it simple to take fantastic group photos and portraits and improves the shots of even the most novice shooters.
Internal memory is another hot feature, which offers a new level of storage convenience and relieves buyers from having to purchase additional memory cards. Of course, having access to a larger library also means users have to be more organized when saving their pictures, but it's a welcome advancement.
Image stabilization is another attractive feature. Perhaps the most subtle and significant advancement in point-and-shoot cameras, this element has become so ubiquitous that it is hard to imagine taking a picture without it. With this feature enabled, users can get that shot of their son's soccer goal without worrying about a steady hand. It also helps photographers more easily catch images in low light or when using slow shutter speeds.
Faced with increasing consumer demand, digital camera makers have stepped up, finding ways to incorporate the most advanced technology, previously found only in high-end and professional models, into even the smallest cameras on the market. The beneficiaries of these advances are the lucky reward winners whose incentive planners are thoughtful enough to include these shooters in their award catalogs.
Canon PowerShot G7
$599
www.info-now.com/canon
Experienced photographers will appreciate the features of Canon's G7, novices will appreciate the ease of use and everyone will appreciate the retro styling. The new flagship of Canon's PowerShot line, the G7 offers much of the functionality and many of the features of an SLR camera in a point-and-shoot form. In addition to 10-megapixel image capability, the G7 includes a 6x image stabilized optical zoom lens, a 2.5-inch LCD and a user-friendly interface. Built around Canon’s new Digic III processor, the G7 produces rich color images and makes shooting a joy, with fast shutter speed and face-detection auto focus.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-N2
$349.95
www.motivation.sony.com
Sony’s DSC-N2 is perfect for the discriminating award winner who wants an easy-to-use camera with cutting-edge features. Don't be fooled by the N2's small size. Sure, this camera fits easily in a pocket or purse, but it’s also packed with powerful features, including
10-megapixel image capability, a huge 3-inch LCD with touchscreen capability and a 3x Carl Zeiss optical zoom lens. But what separates this camera from the pack is 25 MB of internal memory, which means they may never have to buy another flash memory card again.
Canon PowerShot A710
$399
www.info-now.com/canon
Canon's A710 IS is a camera that award winners of all stripes will appreciate for its convenience, full features and most of all, its affordability. This shooter is convenient because it uses handy AA batteries, which means in a crunch the user will never be far from a fresh battery. The A710 IS's powerful features include 7.1-megapixel capability, a 6x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD. It is also the first camera in Canon’s A series to include optical image stabilization. Additionally, a variety of scene modes accommodate just about any shooting environment. At $399, the price for all these features is very attractive.
Nikon Coolpix L6
$199.95
www.nikonusa.com
Small enough to fit in a pocket or purse, this 6-megapixel camera is a great choice for the reward winner who is new to the digital camera arena. A user-friendly interface facilitates shot taking, and other in-camera features—including red-eye removal, D-Lighting, which lightens dark images, and Nikon’s Face-Priority AF—help even the most unskilled photographers get the best shots possible. Of course, a 3x optical zoom lens and a 2.5-inch LCD help too, and the low price point means users don’t have to worry too much about taking risks with their investment.
Fuju FinePix Z5fd
$299.95
www.fujifilm.com
Function follows form in Fuji's FinePix Z5fd. In addition to its striking good looks, this ultra-portable shooter is full of cutting-edge features, including face-detection technology and one-touch picture stabilization. There’s even a blog mode for easy image posting to the Web. The Z5fd’s all-metal case incorporates a 2.5-inch LCD, and unlike other small cameras, the 3x optical zoom lens doesn’t extend from the body, so the camera always retains its sleek look. If you have stylish and hardworking employees, the FinePix Z5fd is a must-have for your award catalog or incentive program.
Don't Forget the Printer
Canon Selphy CP730
$149
www.info-now.com/canon
If you know many of your award winners already have great cameras, remember that they may be looking for a way to print and share their pictures in a non-digital format. To offer your people the most comprehensive choices in your incentive plan or award catalog, be sure to include a photo printer in the list of awards.
One user-friendly option is Canon’s latest contribution to the arena, the Selphy CP730. This compact photo printer is a great addition to a digital darkroom. It can quickly print 4 x 6 photos directly from the camera or via integrated memory card slots, and users can preview images on its 2-inch LCD monitor and use the screen to trim and crop images prior to printing or select color effects like black-and-white or sepia tone. Images are coated with a thin laminate that protects them from fingerprints and smudges.
Images are transmitted from camera to printer via IrDA (a technology that transfers data by infared) or with optional Bluetooth and IXUS Wireless connections.
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