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
- Included 4 MB Memory Stick holds 6 images at default settings
- Connects with PCs and Macs via USB port
- Uses 2 AA batteries or proprietary rechargeable battery (AA disposables included)
Description:
Designed to be an affordable take-anywhere replacement for your film point-and-shoot, Sony's DSC-P50 combines compact dimensions with a high-performance 2-megapixel sensor and flexible power options. Optics and Resolution The DSC-P50's 2-megapixel CCD image sensor captures enough detail for sharp prints at sizes up to 8 by 10 inches. For the typical family photographer, 2 megapixels is a great balance between price and performance. If you're looking for a model with more resolution (so you can make even larger prints or crop your images and still have plenty of detail left for prints), Sony's DSC-P5 and DSC-P71 are similar models with 3-megapixel sensors. A 3x optical zoom lens (41-123mm equivalent) helps you to capture exactly the picture you want, and an additional 2x digital zoom (6x total) further magnifies your image. Remember, however, that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly. In low-light situations (a particular weakness for many digital cameras), a focus-assist lamp sends out a small patterned beam to help the camera accurately determine distance. To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.5-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to using a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll be capturing, use the LCD display. More Features The P50 is designed to be a point-and-shoot model, but more adventurous photographers will appreciate adjustable ISO and white-balance settings, exposure compensation, normal and spot metering, and the ability to shoot black-and-white, sepia, solarized, and negative images. Power When it comes to power, some photographers like cameras that use readily available AA batteries, while others prefer the superior capacity of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries specifically designed for a digital camera. The P50 provides both options, using either two AA batteries (included) or an optional NP-FS11 InfoLithium battery. The choice is yours--for occasional users, a set of disposable lithium AA batteries is the most affordable choice, offering a long shelf life and high capacity. For more frequent users, either the InfoLithium setup or a set of rechargeable high-capacity NiMH batteries is recommended. The InfoLithium setup offers the added advantage of estimating remaining battery life in minutes and displaying this on-screen. No matter which setup you choose, the wide availability of AA batteries ensures that missing a once-in-a-lifetime shot due to dead batteries won't be an issue. Movie Mode In movie mode, the camera captures silent video clips. Most digital cameras' movie modes are limited to 15- or 30-second clips, but the P50 can keep shooting until you've filled the memory card. 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 Memory Sticks, Sony's proprietary memory-card format. The included 4 MB stick holds approximately seven images at the camera's default settings. Memory Sticks are reusable, but if you tend to take more than seven images per outing, then you'll want a bigger card. A 64 MB stick is a great size for this camera, storing around 100 images. To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera. Your computer should automatically recognize your camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive. If you own a Sony desktop or laptop, your computer may already have a built-in Memory Stick reader. Size At 5 by 2.4 by 2.1 inches and 9 ounces, the P50 is not Sony's smallest digital camera, but it's still quite compact and portable. Contents and Recommended Accessories The package includes the DSC-P50 camera, two AA batteries, video and USB cables, wrist strap, 4 MB Memory Stick, and software on CD. Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend these accessories to make the most of your camera: a carrying case, a higher-capacity memory stick, and an InfoLithium battery setup or set of rechargeable size AA batteries. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett Pros:
- Unlimited movie mode lets you make video clips of any length
- Flexible power options let you choose the best battery solution for your needs
- Point-and-shoot operation makes it easy for even beginners to get great results
Cons:
- Movie mode lacks sound
- Proprietary Memory Stick memory card format less common and more expensive than other formats
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