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Digital Cameras: Another Kickin’ New Feature: Video Capture

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Digital cameras have come a long ways in the past few years. They are now more affordable and feature rich than ever. A comprehensive list of features and advice for choosing a digital camera is beyond the scope of this article, but this article will highlight one of the most popular features, video capture capability.

With a video capture feature on your camera, you can take low to medium quality video footage using your digital camera. All cameras with video capture are not created equal, though. Here are some things to check on before buying a camera with video capture:

1 – Sound

Does the camera support sound? If so, does it capture it through a built in microphone, or does it have an input for you to plug in an external microphone?

2- Video Quality

There are two main factors that determine video quality – resolution and frames per second. The higher the resolution, and the higher the number of frames per second, the higher quality the video.

3- Video format

What format is the video in? Ideally, it will be in a standard, easy to edit format, such as MPEG. Some cameras use proprietary video formats, which means that you can’t edit your videos with most editors. Windows Movie Maker, which comes free with Windows, is a great editor to use for most generic video formats.

4- Video length

Some cameras limit the length of video clips you can take, often to 30 seconds. This can be a great aggravation. The better cameras allow you to take as long of a video clip as your camera’s memory can hold. Of course, you can add a larger memory stick to take a longer video clip. You can now get memory sticks up to 2 GB or larger.

5- Zoom

On most digital cameras, you can use the zoom when taking video footage. However, you can generally only use your optical zoom, not your digital zoom.

Digital Cameras – A Guide To Buying

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Digital camera sales are going through the roof. As the quality of images from digital cameras improve they are becoming much more affordable and the sales are simply not surprising. Consumers are also becoming more comfortable with the whole idea of taking of photographs digitally.

In choosing a digital camera take into account your basic needs and what you plan to use the camera for.

Digital camera types

It doesn’t matter whether you’re shooting film or digital images there are basically three types of cameras. There are point and shoot cameras, prosumer cameras and professional quality cameras.

1. Point and shoot cameras operate automatically. They do everything for you except for framing the subject. Exposure is decided by the camera as well as whether a flash is needed or not. All you need to do is to point and shoot.

2. Prosumer Cameras. This camera is a step up from your typical point and shoot because it allows the photographer not only to shoot in a fully automatic mode but also to have control over various aspects of the exposure. They typically have various modes including portrait mode, a close-up mode, action mode, and landscape mode.

Resolution

It doesn’t matter what sort of camera you decide to get you will have several decisions to make regarding resolution of the camera.

The salespeople of most electronics superstores are quick to tell you that the most important thing to consider when buying a digital camera is how many pixels there are. Now while it is important it is not the end all of digital image quality. Pixels are tiny squares and in some new models they’re starting to use other shapes as well. The more pixels you have in your image the sharper the detail of the image will be.

Most current digital cameras on the market today will produce an image with more than 4 million pixels. That’s enough resolution to easily print images up to 8 x 10 with good image quality. Is not likely that you will print images larger than 8 x 10 and so most of these camera should meet your needs.

Try various digital cameras before you purchase

There is a wide selection of digital cameras on the market with various image qualities even though they may have the same number of pixels. There are different kinds and sizes of image sensors, which is the chip that actually records the picture. It is recommended that you take a memory card into the store with you so that you can put it in each camera and take sample photographs that you can then take home to view on your computer to compare.

The technology is constantly improving and digital cameras will be constantly changing. Don’t be surprised if several months after you purchase one there is one that is new and better with more pixels. If you take the time to choose a good quality digital camera which makes good photographs you’ll be able to enjoy digital photography for a long time in the future.

If you do make the move into digital photography remember this. Many people using digital cameras simply put their photos on their computers and never actually make prints anymore. It is easy for these photos to get lost and therefore it’s recommended that you print special photographs for generations to enjoy.

Digital Cameras – Quality Vs. Size

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When looking to purchase a new digital camera there is always the debate between size and quality within the range of your budget. No matter what the budget, the choice will have to be made between a smaller size, more portable camera and a higher resolution camera with more features. Making the choice between the two is simply a matter off considering what the camera’s purpose.

Digital camera users who plan to use a camera for simple point-and-shoot purposes will want to focus their budget on a small, portable camera. These individuals are most likely using their camera to document travels, family events, and personal experiences for their own memory. The photos don’t need to be or a super high resolution because they will not be blown up to poster size, but will remain 4 x 6 or 5 x 7 in a frame on the mantel. It is important to consider that when size is traded for quality, while the photos will be higher quality, users may be less inclined to take photos as the size of the camera becomes a hindrance to taking it along for the fun.

Photographers who are more interested in the end product will want to sacrifice size for a higher resolution camera or one with more features and/or accessories. The bulkier high-resolution cameras or digital SLRs will be the better choice for users who are taking artistic or professional photographs. Even the amateur artist, will want to invest in quality over size to produce the kind of photos that can be enlarged to show detail. Cameras used for professional shots, whether to be displayed in a portfolio, brochure or website, will also need to be of higher quality, and it will be worth hefting the extra weight to get the higher-end photos.

Knowing the type of photographer you are, will help you make the right choice in cameras. When you have an idea of what characteristics are most important to you, take the time to shop, read the reviews, and compare the various cameras in your price range.

Digital Cameras

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Sales of digital cameras seem to be exploding. This is not surprising as the quality of images from digital cameras improves and they become more affordable. In addition, consumers are becoming more comfortable with the idea of digital photography.

There are so many different types of digital cameras available choosing one which is best for your needs can become a very confusing decision. There are several things to consider when choosing a digital camera.

Types of Digital Camera.

There are basically three types of cameras whether you care shooting film or digital. Point and Shoot cameras, Prosumer cameras and professional quality cameras.

1. Point and Shoot cameras are fully automatic. They do everything for you. The camera choosing the correct exposure and whether a flash is needed. The photographer only needs to point and shoot.

2. Prosumer Cameras. These cameras are a step up from point and shoot cameras and allow the user to either shoot in fully automatic mode or to have some control over the exposure by using specific exposure modes. For example, there might be a portrait mode, an action mode, and a close up mode.

3. Professional Cameras. These cameras allow the photographer to actually look through the lens. This means that what you see is what you get. These cameras also provide complete control over the exposure. They have fully automatic mode, specific exposure modes as well as a fully manual mode.

Resolution

Regardless of what type of camera you decide to get you will also have to make the decision about the resolution of the camera.

If you have shopped at one of those electronics superstores you will be lead to believe that the most important thing to consider when purchasing digital cameras is the number of pixels. Although it is important there is much more to deciding on a digital camera than pixels. Pixels are tiny squares, and in new models other shapes, that make up the image. Obviously the more pixels the sharper the image. The more pixels there are the more detailed the image.

Almost all of the digital cameras on the market today produce images with at least 4 million pixels. With this resolution you can print images up to 8×10 which will look very good. Since most people do not print images larger than this a camera with 4 million pixels or more should meet all of your needs.

Try Different Cameras Before you Buy

Different cameras can have very different image qualities even though they may have the same number of pixels. This is due to different types and sizes of sensors on which the images are recorded and the various qualities of lens used. It is recommended that you purchase a memory card and take it in with you to the camera store. Then you can try out various cameras by taking photographs on your memory card. You can then take the pictures home and view them on your computer or better yet have them printed at a local lab to compare the results. Make sure to take notes so that you remember which image was taken on which camera.

Digital cameras are constantly changing and being improved upon. Every few months it seems there is a new model out with more pixels and better features at a more affordable price. Do not let this bother you. Take the time to choose a good digital camera which makes quality photographs and enjoy the benefits of digital photography for years to come.

And one last piece of advice. Digital photography has created a new problem. People are not printing their photos anymore. They download them to their computer and then they eventually get lost or deleted. Print those special photographs. Your children will thank you.

Digital Camera Care

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After spending money on a quality digital camera, it is important to take the time to maintain it properly. Your camera will last much longer if you take preventative measures to keep it in the best condition.

The most important, and delicate, component of your digital camera is the camera lens. This serves as your window to the world, and once scratched it will require professional intervention to fix. For this reason, it is imperative that you protect the lens. First of all, when you are not taking photos your lens cap should always be on to keep the lens clean. Do not touch the lens directly with your finger. The oils left behind by your skin will be difficult to remove, making the view blurry at best. If your lens should get dusty or dirty, use a cleaner and cloth made specifically for cleaning camera lenses.

The body of your camera should also be kept clean and free of debris. Keep the camera in a case or pouch when not in use. If it should get dirty, wipe it down with a soft dry cloth. If you camera has an LCD panel, it is acceptable to breath lightly on it to add slight bit of moisture before wiping it down with a soft cloth.

Digital cameras should be kept dry. Most cameras are not waterproof, and should not be in situations where they could be submerged in liquid or even splashed. If your camera should get wet, it is a good idea to turn it off, remove the battery, and remove the memory card. Leave the camera out to air dry for one to two days. At that time if the camera is not functioning properly you will need to contact a professional repair company or the manufacturer for advice.

In general, your camera will do best if stored in mild, dry conditions. Extreme temperatures can be damaging so try not to leave your camera in your car or any super sunny locations. Another good idea is to save the silica gel packets that come with many purchases to prevent moisture damage, and place them in the drawer or container where your camera is stored. If you plan to store your camera for a long period of time without use, you should first remove the battery from the camera. This precaution will prevent damage in case the battery should leak.

Finally, if you are planning to take photos in a location where you believe there will be a higher risk of damage from water or soil or other conditions purchase a disposable camera and leave your digital at home. Better safe than sorry.

Digital Camcorder

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A camcorder is no longer just a camcorder. In fact, most models are now known as digital camcorders and are capable of not only capturing audio and video, but still images as well. A digital camcorder is popular, in part, because of it’s versatility in being able to capture audio and video while doubling as a digital camera. Conceivably, owners could use these products to capture family moments on film and use the digital camera aspect to photograph products for placement on eBay. While this is merely an example, the versatility of a digital camcorder is undeniable.

A digital camcorder delivers improved audio and video quality as opposed to older models, which recorded video in analog form. This earlier form of video storage, while effective, proved to lose quality with age and begin to show a grainy texture. These deteriorating effects do not occur with a digital camcorder because, with these devices, it is literally an ‘all or nothing’ effect. Either the entire data, or none of it, is readable.

The earlier camcorder featured a VHS-compatible videotape whereas the digital camcorder often is accompanied by a connector, which is used to transfer the data to a computer or television. If the data is placed on a computer, it can be edited, converted and/or copied with the proper software. Many amateur filmmakers, in fact, use their computers and a ditigal camcorder to create their latest film.

A digital camcorder can be used in a number of ways, including home or business use. Home videos may include a wedding, graduation, family vacation, birthday, anniversary, family reunion or capturing special childhood moments. Members of the media may use a digital camcorder to record an unfolding news story or to conduct interviews. As mentioned previously, a digital camcorder may also be used in the production of an amateur film. Because of their many features, these are ideal for low-budget films.

When it comes to options and price, the digital camcorder offers a broad range of both. A basic unit will be less expensive and may provide the perfect way to capture all of those special home memories. A more complex unit, which provides upgraded features, may cost anywhere from $600.00 and up. When shopping for a digital camcorder, consumers are urged to consider several factors, including the warranty, preferred options and features. It is best to select a unit that will be well suited for it’s intended use for at least several years. If additional accessories are needed, including batteries, carrying cases or tripods, these can either be purchased with the unit or directly from the manufacturer at a later date.

 

Digital Body Worn Cameras

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What is small than a credit card, takes up to eighty quality digital photos, can be used as a web cam and carries your keys, as well? This is simply one of the best body worn cameras available on the market today. It is a keychain digital camera. When you leave the house, do you ever go anywhere without your keys?

Probably not, so why not take along a great little body worn camera with you and use it to catch all of the action and memories that you would have lost had you not had this digital camera keychain with you? It has sixteen megabytes of memory and operates on a “AAA” battery. Then when you are ready, just download your photos and you are ready to roll.

Want to know about another great little digital body worn camera? This little gem looks just like a cigarette lighter, a great innovation for all of you smokers. But not only does it take great digital photos, it can also be used to send live video across the Internet. Imagine using a lighter to talk face to face with your friends while you are online.

And it works with most windows based programs. You will get great pictures every time with this camera’s automatic exposure and white balance features. So that regardless if you are a professional photographer or a rank novice, you will get the kinds of photos that you desire. These are perfect body worn cameras for private investigators, too. The lighter camera is capable of take up to 104 VGA pictures or 30 SXGA pictures.

Cyber-shot

Cyber shot [Sony Camera Brands]

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Cybershot is a modern brand of Sony that offers digital still camera experience to all. Sony being the world’s second largest producer of digital cameras now uses the popular brand of Cyber-shot to market its product.

It gives a photo quality unparallel to any photos offered by other cameras. The fame and name of Cybershot depends on usage of new technology discovered by Sony, to improve picture quality.

Cyber-shot-sony
Cyber shot sony

Types included in Cybershot brands

It is specially helpful for people who are interested to take digital photographs instead of white and black photos.

This brand offers a new digital Sony camera that has the world’s smallest 7-mega pixel digital camera. This is one of the best digital cameras that promise unique picture, clear images and high-resolution sharpness.

Cybershot [Sony camera brands] can be classified into several groups:

– Camcorders – mostly used by the amateurs. It includes a combination of camera and VCR to create a multiple production unit.

Ranging from microphone to recording sound, they feature a small LCD that offers you to watch video during filming and playback.

– Professional video cameras – these are mostly used in movie production and television. They have multiple image sensors that are used to increase resolution and color gamut.

– Web cams – they are digital cameras that are attached to the computers and are used for video conferencing and other purposes.

They capture full-motion video and also include microphones or zoom abilities.

Cyber-shot-sony-camera
Cyber shot sony camera

Benefits of Cybershot [Sony camera brand]

When you want a Cybershot [Sony camera brand], you can visit eBay to make online purchases.

The further you search for a brand, the more range of products you will get that will help you to purchase the best brand.

Following are the advantageous features of Cybershot [Sony camera brand]:

– 1/1.8” 7.2 Mega pixel Super HAD [Hole Accumulation Diode] CCD – they provide excellent image quality by allowing light to filter through each pixel, thereby increasing sensitivity and reducing noise effectively.

– 3X Optical/2X Digital/6X Total Zoom – it helps you to fill the frame with subjects for better pictures.

They even help to bring the subject closer with an extra 2X magnification.

– Selectable Focus mode – monitoring AF [Auto Focus] offers you to anticipate the action by focusing even before pressing the shutter release.

– Pre-Flash Metering – with a momentary pre-flash, the camera illuminates the subject and sets exposure through the lens for accurate flash metering.

– Scene Selective Mode – with 9 scene modes available, the parameters can touch the shooting conditions like soft snap, twilight portrait, snow, candle, beach, high speed shutter, landscape and Fireworks.

– Memory stick Media – digital, powerful, compact and rugged with a variety of hardware and software applications

– Multi-burst mode – captures 16 320X240 frames as part of a single 1280X960 image that plays back sequentially in the camera.

– Rechargeable Info Lithium Battery – provides a reliable and permanent power for continuous shooting ability. The charger provides stable power for USB transfer.

Use Cybershot and enjoy taking digital picture perfect images.

Stand For A 42 Inch LCD TV

Choose The Right Stand For A 42 Inch LCD TV

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Unless you’re mounting your new 42 inch LCD TV on the wall or on the ceiling, you’ll need a solid and reliable stand to support it.

Many TVs come furnished with an appropriate stand, but some require that the stand be purchased separately.

If the manufacturer furnishes your 42 inch LCD TV stand, and it meets your needs in terms of styling, you’re in great shape.

Because your 42 inch LCD TV could become an integral part of the room’s decorating scheme, though, you may choose to purchase a stand that matches the needs of your viewing habits, your home, and your sense of style.

Because a 42 inch LCD TV is reasonably heavy, the most important requirement is that any stand must handle the weight of your particular 42 inch LCD TV and must provide a stable base in case it’s bumped or jarred.

For that reason, make sure the stand you purchase meets the unique weight and strength requirements of the 42 inch LCD TV you purchased.

The last thing you want to have happen is for your new TV to become damaged simply because your stand wasn’t up to the task.

The owner’s manual for your 42 inch LCD TV will specify all the requirements of a suitable and effective TV stand for that model.

There are a few other considerations besides strength, though. Let’s look at a few other decisions you’ll want to make to ensure you get the maximum enjoyment from your 42 inch LCD TV.

1. Determine if the stand needs to hold other audio-visual equipment?

If you own a DVD player, use a cable converter, have game systems like an Xbox or a PS2, and/or have a home theater system, you may want your stand to house that equipment as well as support the 42 inch LCD TV itself.

Make sure you pick a stand that has shelves or compartments for the equipment you own, or even may someday own.

2. Determine if the stand will position your TV at an optimal viewing height. The height of the TV is an individual choice – make sure the stand you select will place your 42 inch LCD TV at the height you want. If you can, find an adjustable stand that gives you some flexibility.

If not, determine the right height for you and select an appropriate height stand. An easy way to calculate your optimal height is to sit in your favorite chair or couch and determine how high your eye level is.

Once you’ve determined eye level, make sure your 42 inch LCD TV will be centered at that point.

Many stands are pre-engineered to approximate an appropriate viewing level for the average person, but make sure you’re comfortable with that height before you make a purchase.

Some pedestal stands are adjustable; if you don’t need storage space, check out a pedestal stand.

3. Check to see if the stand has integrated cable management. If you’re buying a cabinet with a closed back, cable management probably isn’t an issue, since you’ll have plenty of space to hide cables.

If you’re interested in a pedestal stand or a stand with an open back, make sure there are provisions built in to hide all the cables you may have.

If you have a home theater, video gaming system, DVD player, and other components, you’ll have a large number of cables running from component to component – make sure the stand gives you plenty of room to store those cables out of sight.

The stand shouldn’t just house your 42 inch LCD TV – it should handle all the cables and components, too.

Once you’ve found the right 42 inch LCD TV, finding a stand suits your needs and fits you’re your room’s décor and design is important, too.

Make sure you can enjoy your TV while it’s turned on, and how it looks when it’s not turned on.

Canon Underwater Cameras

Canon Underwater Cameras – What You Need To Know

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Simply for capturing the terrific memories that you experience, you will get fond of using Canon underwater cameras quickly.

Underwater cameras have most of the same features as the handy cameras that we used outdoors – the only difference is that they have certain functions that are more innovative because they are water resistant and can be used to capture pictures under the sea.

Of course, these underwater cameras are not only exclusively for taking pictures under the sea because some of them are also designed to be used in outdoor activities.

In heavy rain these cameras will not be affected because of the protective device to guard against water and pressure damage.

They come in a number of forms, with their prices relecting the entire range of normal camera pricing.

The cheapest type of underwater camera for instance is the simple disposable underwater camera. These cameras are able to take about twenty to thirty pictures.

These cameras are waterproof enough to be utilized when there is harsh rain and snow storms.

These are best use for fun scuba trips and family vacations; it will certainly capture the memorable parts of the family fun.

One of the best known brands of underwater cameras is the Canon. It has been proven efficient in all forms of underwater adventures.

Canon underwater cameras have a lot of designs that offer different features. Each of the cameras gives advantages and special features that you will really enjoy.

However, as you would expect from a quality brand like Canon, these cameras might appear a bit expensive because of the gadgets used on it; nonetheless they are of best quality and you will have no regrets once you see the resolution of your pictures.

Many conventional digital and film cameras have waterproof housings. Placing your camera inside will allow you to ‘transform’ your existing camera into an underwater camera.

However, if you want excellent photographic quality from under the water, we would always advise purchasing a dedicated underwater camera.

Canon underwater cameras came in various models. The higher the photo resolution that it has, generally the more expensive the price is.

Many of the underworld photographers that I know prefer to use Canon underwater cameras because they offers a “one of a kind quality”.

The Canon Company is one of the pioneering companies that launched underwater cameras in the market and you know you will be getting quality when you buy Canon.