What Digital Camera - November 2010

NOVEMBER 2010 ISSUE 167 £3.
99
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2010 - ISSUE 167
Welcome ...
to this month’s exciting issue in which we reveal all the new cameras
announced at Photokina 2010, the world’s largest photo trade show
and traditional launch pad for all things photographic. We’ve seen
them, played with them, and we deliver our first impressions on all
the main models in our 12-page special, starting on page 8. These will
be the cameras you’ll all be buying this Christmas and next year.
If you’re after a great-value but high-quality
camera in the meantime, don’t ON THE COVER
miss our round up of cameras JOIN
8 PHOTOKINA SPECIAL
U
FACEBOSOON
WDC hands-on with all the new DSLRs
44 AUTUMN LANDSCAPES
under £500 on page 60.
IGITAL C K
How to take stunning autumn photos
WHAT D 60 £500 CAMERAS ROUND-UP
See you next month.
Nigel Atherton
nigel_atherton@ipcmedia.com
AME
TWITTER RA
72
Six top models compared
CAMERAPHONES TESTED
WHATDIG Is it time to ditch your compact?
CAMERA
111 ALL-NEW BUYER’S GUIDE
Our comprehensive listing
THIS MONTH’S TOP FEATURES

COVER IMAGE: istockphoto.com
OUR FAVOURITE CHOICE

OF THIS ISSUE’S FANTASTIC IN THE ISSUE
FEATURES 06 OPENING SHOT
The winning image of the Red Bull Illume
SHOOT competition of a surfer off Chile’s west coast
AUTUMN 08 LIVE VIEW

Massive 12-page Photokina special, with
LANDSCAPES First Looks of the Canon D60, Nikon D7000

and all the other brand new DLRS
MASTERCLASS 23 YOUR VIEW
Top tips from the pros for how to shoot your Got an opinion? Here’s where to share it…
best autumn landscapes ever PAGE 44 25 OUR VIEW
...and here’s our take on Photokina
31 INDIA HOLIDAY - READER OFFER!

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime
photographic tour of photogenic India
42 SUBSCRIPTION OFFER
Save ££££s with our special Christmas offer
138 COMPETITION
Win a digital camera and housing, courtesy
of Cameras Underwater, and vouchers for
photo courses from Experience Seminars
PHOTO TECHNIQUE
26 HELP Q&A
Camera-buying and technique Q&A plus
Top 5 mid-zoom cameras, top superzooms,
and top photo-sharing websites
34 ROUGH GUIDE TO: TRIPODS

LIVE VIEW ROUND UP GROUP TEST A tripod is an essential tool for landscape
photography and much more. Here’s
everything you need to know to choose
PHOTOKINA SPECIAL BEST £500 CAMERAS CAMERAPHONES the best one for you
Hands-on First Looks of all the brand From DSLR through Micro System to Five cameraphones pitched against a
new DSLRs PAGE 8 high-end compact... PAGE 60 compact camera PAGE 72
WWW.WHATDIGITALCAMERA.COM 3
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
36 MY DIGITAL CAMERA
More readers showcase their stunning
images. Are your photos here?
44 TECHNIQUE:
AUTUMN LANDSCAPES
With the rich auburn, yellow and red colours
of autumn, this is arguably the best season for
photography. Here are our tips and techniques to
help you to make the most of it
50 TECHNIQUE: TIME LAPSE PHOTOGRAPHY

With time-lapse photography, we can create
incredible images of things that usually happen
too slowly for us to notice. With the help of
our simple guide, before you know it, you’ll be
capturing amazing time-lapse images yourself
53 JOIN OUR HOME STUDY COURSE

Improve your photography on our course
54 EVENING CLASS
Martin Evening assesses more of your photos
EQUIPMENT TESTS
60 £500 MEGATEST
You can get various cameras for £500, from a
creative compact to a DSLR. Our £500 round-up
tests the Canon PowerShot G11, Olympus E-PL1,
Sony NEX-3, Panasonic Lumix G10, Samsung NX10
CAMERAPHONES
and the Nikon D5000. Which is right for you?
70 PANASONIC LX5
Will this 10MP high-end compact perform as ARE THEY UP TO THE SHOT?
P72
impressively as its forebear the LX3?
72 CAMERAPHONES
PANASONIC LX5
We group test five of the best cameraphones – the
Samsung Galaxy S, iPhone 4, Sony Ericsson Xperia
X10, HTC HD2 and Nokia N8 – and pit them against
the Canon A495, our best budget compact... THE LATEST LUMIX TESTED
79
79
FUJIFILM XP10
Has tough credentials, 12MP and is nicely affordable
SAMSUNG ST5500
P70
Impressively specified touchscreen camera
79 PANASONIC FZ100
25-600mm and full HD movies – this looks a cracker
81 GEARED UP!
Accessories tested include: Epson PX820FWD,
Gitzo Ocean Traveler tripod, Pogoplug, Apple
Magic Trackpad and more...
86 LENS GROUP TEST

What is the best telephoto lens for under £500?
We put four contenders for this coveted title
through their paces: 70-300mm zoom optics from
Canon, Nikon, Sigma and Tamron
BUYER’S GUIDE
111 DSLRS
Every current DSLR tested and rated
114 MICRO SYSTEM CAMERAS

Choosing a compact? Stop here first
115 COMPACTS
Choosing a compact? Stop here first
120 LENSES
All lenses listed, with scores, prices and advice
126 FLASH / TRIPODS

All the variables for choosing a flashgun and tripod
130 BAGS / SOFTWARE / PRINTERS

Five pages of listings, plus contact websites listed AUTUMN LANDSCAPES
USE THE LIGHT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE
SOMETHING TO SAY? CONTACT US

EMAIL wdc@ipcmedia.com
P44
WEB Whatdigitalcamera.com
PHONE 0203 148 4797 SAVE 42% WHEN YOU
WRITE What Digital Camera, Blue Fin
Building, 110 Southwark Street, SUBSCRIBE TO WDC!
London, SE1 0SU AND YOU COULD WIN A FAB HOLIDAY! SEE PAGE 42
4
Illumination
By Chris Burkard
The winner of the Red Bull Illume 2010 Image Quest – the
world’s premier action and adventure sports photography
competition – is this image by American photographer
Chris Burkard. It captures surfer Peter Mendria in the
sunlight of off Chile’s West Coast just as he’s catching a
wave. The stunning landscape coupled with the action
taking place in the foreground creates an image of
contradictions, with the serenity of the beach front
disrupted by the undeniable power of the waves.
Over 22,000 images were submitted to the competition,
which is sponsored by SanDisk. Chris will receive a Leica
S2 DSLR and a selection of SanDisk cards. Visit www.
redbullillume.com to see all the winning entries.
NIKON D700
£2000
Nikon’s full frame D700 is a
triumph on many fronts, being
more portable than the D3 and
still being capable of some
stunning images, being equally at
home in the studio or on location.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
12
Live
PAGE
PHOTOKINA
S PECIAL
View THE CAMERAS OF 2011
CANON EOS 60D

THE LATEST MID-RANGE EOS DSLR
The EOS 60D takes over the reins from the high-
performing, mid-level, EOS 50D, adding HD video and a
vari-angle screen to the mix. It uses the same 18MP
CMOS sensor that features in the EOS 550D but adds OUR THOUGHTS
the low pass filter from the EOS 7D. This is a much-needed replacement
On the top-plate the mode dial now features a lock to for what was the last in Canon’s DSLR
avoid accidental movement and the buttons are now range to be replaced. Though some may see
single function rather than dial to simplify operation. The its extension in functionality and the non-
inbuilt flash also now includes a wireless flash metal body as a dumbing down of the model,
transmitter for up to two groups of Speedlites (as it in fact just extends its appeal and offers a
opposed to three on the 7D). On the rear, the 60D is the lot of benefits for the higher-end user. The
first Canon EOS to feature a vari-angle bracket for the EOS 60D sits comfortably in the range,
screen, which is the same 3in 1040k-dot LCD seen on offering clear distinctions between the 550D
the 550D. Weatherproofing has also been improved on and 7D that bookend it. The vari-angle LCD is
this model from the 50D, but not quite to the level of a welcome addition and has managed to be
the 5D or 7D. The d-pad now takes prime place on the added without compromising either the
rear of the camera, combining the role of the joystick screen size or resolution.
and the rotating wheel, which makes accessing
functions easier when using the vertical grip. The 60D
uses SD cards as opposed to CF cards, allowing it to take
full advantage of the upcoming SDXC high-capacity
cards and EyeFi cards. An electronic level features on the
LCD screen or as part of the exposure compensation bar
through the viewfinder to allow you to easily level your
camera. In the menu there is also a range of creative
effects for you to use on your photos and even in-
camera Raw processing. Movies can be shot in 1080p
HD quality, at 24, 25 or 50fps, and features manual
control and a mic input socket. The EOS 60D will be
available from early October, priced £1,099 (body only).
8 WWW.WHATDIGITALCAMERA.COM
LIVEVIEW SPECIAL
CANON POWERSHOT G12

THE UPDATED G-SERIES CREATIVE COMPACT
The new Canon PowerShot G12 takes over front and rear control dials, plus Raw
the range as the flagship of Canon’s creative capture for the ultimate in quality and
compact range. It maintains the 10MP sensor control. The Canon G12 also adds an
and DIGIC 4 processor of the Canon electronic level and multi-aspect shooting
PowerShot G11 model but adds a new HS options to the mix, plus it’s the first G-series
system to allow shooting at much higher to include 720p HD video.
quality in low light and offers an ISO range The Canon PowerShot G12 will be
that extends up to 12,800. The G12 has available from early October, priced £539.
rapid shooting up to 4.2 frames per second
and offers a 5x optical zoom lens from 28mm
and a close focus of just 1cm for macro. OUR THOUGHTS
As you would expect, the PowerShot G12 The G12 sees some fairly subtle updates
offers full manual control with customisable from the previous G11, the biggest of which
being the move up to 720p HD video. These
changes simply keep the camera up to date
and help to cement the G-series’ position as
one of the most popular creative compacts
on the market.
60D SPECS
SENSOR: 18MP APS-C CMOS
IMAGE ENGINE: DIGIC 4
ISO: 100-6400 (12,800 extended)
MOVIE: Full HD 1080p at 24, 25 or 30fps / 3.5mm
stereo mic jack
CONTINUOUS
SHOOTING:
5.3fps burst rate
CANON POWERSHOT SX30 IS
AF POINTS: 9 all cross-type (f/2.8 at centre) LATEST BRIDGE CAMERA WITH 35X OPTICAL ZOOM
The Canon PowerShot SX30 IS is a new-look vari-angle LCD screen for easy viewing from any
METERING: 63-zone SPC
model that will replace both the SX1 and SX20 angle, an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and 720p
VIEWFINDER: 96% field of view
models and offers some stunning features that HD video. Picture Style effects are available for
LCD: 3in, 1040k-dot vari-angle
makes it ideal for travel photographers and both still and video, including a time-lapse
MEDIA: SD/SDHC/SDXC
those looking to get closer to the action. styled miniature mode. Plus the full range of the
DIMENSIONS: 144.5 x 105.8 x 78.6mm With a brand new 14.1MP sensor and DIGIC zoom is on offer for video use.
WEIGHT: 755g (with battery & cards) 4 processor, the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS uses The SX30 IS will be available early October,
both voice coil motors and USM to ensure priced £449.
rapid, silent operation of the mammoth 35x
optical zoom. This offers an equivalent of a
24-840mm focal range and can be extended
yet further using the digital zoom (at the
expense of resolution). To cope with such a
zoom it also features Canon’s highest-to-date,
4.5 stop IS (image stabilising) system, to ensure
that you can take a steady shot even at its
greatest magnification.
The Powershot SX30 also boasts a 2.7in
OUR THOUGHTS
With the current longest optical zoom
range on the market, the SX30 is bound
to attract a big audience. It’s a simple to
use camera with plenty of features and
could be a real alternative to a budget
DSLR for travel and wildlife
photographers, and those looking to keep
costs down.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
OUR THOUGHTS
Nikon’s DSLR releases have been on the quiet front
this year. The D300s at the tail-end of 2009 left a
NIKON D7000
MID-LEVEL DSLR WITH SOME BRAND NEW AND EXCITING FEATURES
large stop-gap until the announcement of the D3100 Sandwiched above the D90 and below the Full HD 1080p movie at 24fps using the
just last month. But it’s clear to see that this period D300s, the new Nikon D7000 fills a new H.264 compression type – an advance over
of quiet has been spent hard at work, with the gap in the Nikon DSLR line-up. With its the previous Motion-JPEG format which has
D7000 being far more than a D90 replacement that 16.2-megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor, now seemingly been excluded from future
many expected it to be. The new metering and AF it has the second highest megapixel count Nikon DSLR cameras. Add a 3.5mm
elements show progression behind the scenes and of any Nikon DSLR, second only to the microphone jack to the line-up and it’s
this new division of Multi-CAM AF modules between D3x – so it seems that the company is possible to capture stereo sound using an
entry, mid-level, and pro-spec cameras adds more putting more pressure back on the external microphone too.
clarity of division. megapixel race as per so many other The autofocus and metering systems are
Finally we also get to see the Motion-JPEG format manufacturers at the moment. also brand new: The Multi-CAM 4800DX
of old well and truly binned. Although a fine enough With the new EXPEED 2 image provides 39 AF points, nine of which are
format to use, competitor cameras soon led the way processing engine, shots can be captured cross-type sensors, and firmly cements the
with H.264 compression leading to longer recording from ISO 100-6400 and it’s even possible to D7000 between the 11-point entry-level AF
times, smaller file sizes and better quality. Nikon expand this to ISO 25,600 at full resolution. and pro-spec 51-point AF systems. The new
following suit here will be significant for the video The faster processing also paves the way for metering module is a 2,016-pixel RGB
community – and, let’s face it, that’s a whole new an impressive six frames per second sensor that provides the most accurate
customer base right there. continuous shooting, which is a whisker colour and exposure data of any Nikon
The only ‘downside’, as such, is the close-knit away from the D300s’s 7fps capability. DSLR to date.
relationship between the D7000 and the D300s – It’s not just stills shooting where the Available from late October 2010, the
there aren’t many fundamental D7000 excels though, with Nikon D7000 will retail for £1,100 body
differences, so it begs the question if a the introduction of D-Movie only or £1,300 with the 18-105mm VR
beefed up ‘D400’ with that’s capable of shooting zoom lens.
Full HD video and
improved metering
will be the next step in
D7000 SPECS
SENSOR: 16.2MP APS-C CMOS
what looks to be a
good new year for IMAGE ENGINE: EXPEED 2
Nikon’s range… ISO: 100-6400 (25,600 extended)

MOVIE: Full HD 1080p at 24fps / 720p HD at 24,
25 or 30fps / 3.5mm stereo mic jack
CONTINUOUS 6fps burst rate

SHOOTING:
AF POINTS: 39-point (9 cross-type) Multi-CAM
4800DX with 3D tracking
METERING: New 2,016 pixel RGB sensor
VIEWFINDER: 100% field of view
LCD: 3in, 920k-dot
MEDIA: Twin SD slots
DIMENSIONS: 132 x 105 x 77mm
WEIGHT: 780g (with battery & cards)
LIVEVIEW SPECIAL
PENTAX K- r PENTAX K-5

NEW PENTAX MID-LEVEL DSLR NEW FLAGSHIP DSLR MODEL
The K-r will sit in Pentax’s DSLR range above the The K-5 is based on the rugged K-7 model,
K-x and below the K-7 models; roughly speaking borrowing the tough and weather-proofed
an amalgamation of various features from those construction but raises the features bar yet further.
two bodies. With a newly designed and high-resolution
With the same 12.4MP CMOS sensor as found 16.3MP APS-C sized sensor, the Prime II image
in the K-x, the Prime II Imaging Engine doesn’t see engine is capable of producing stills from ISO 80
an update, yet the K-r is certainly capable of more: to a rather staggering ISO 51,200. Full HD movie
a new extended ISO 25,600 capability and rapid capture now also features, with the native
six frames per second burst shooting sees an 1920 x 1080p resolution captured at 25 frames
improvement over even its peer models. per second and stills benefiting from continuous K-R SPECS
The same 11-point AF system as found in the shooting up to seven frames per second. SENSOR: 12.4MP APS-C CMOS
K-7 can be found in the K-r, though with the next The rear LCD has a 920k-dot resolution, and the IMAGE ENGINE: Yes, sensor-based
generation SAFOX IX autofocus system optical viewfinder has a full 100% field of view ISO: 100-25,600
superceding the previous SAFOX VIII version, the with 0.92x magnification. The live view mode MOVIE: HD 720p, 25fps, Motion-JPEG format
AF is more accurate than before. benefits from the new sensor design as well as
optimised contrast-detect AF for faster focusing. CONTINUOUS 6fps burst rate
Add this to the 720p HD movie, sensor-based
SHOOTING:
image stabilisation, 6fps burst shooting, and high- The 11-point SAFOX IX+ autofocus system, as
AF POINTS: 11-point (9 cross-type) SAFOX XI
resolution LCD, and the features stack up strongly. found in the newly-released K-r, is faster and more
The live view system sees a rework with a new accurate than previous generations. In-camera COLOURS: Available in black, white or red
magnified view option that smoothly zooms into options are in abundance too: from the HDR VIEWFINDER: 96% field of view
the image to show that correct focus has been mode through to digital filters, cross-processing LCD: 3in, 920k-dot with live view
attained. This zoom area can be user specified for and custom image function. POWER: Li-ion rechargeable battery or 4x AAs
increased accuracy too. In addition, a brand new 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 (via adaptor)
The K-r looks to be a highly competitive release WR (weather resistant) lens is announced. The K-5 DIMENSIONS: 97 x 124.5 x 67.5mm
and, if priced correctly, should give competitor will be available in October with three kit options WEIGHT: 580g
cameras a run for their money. priced from £1,200 with the 18-55mm lens.
K-5 SPECS
OUR THOUGHTS OUR THOUGHTS SENSOR: 16.3MP APS-C CMOS
A number of the K-r’s features, although not The K-5 is an impressive mid-level DSLR that IMAGE ENGINE: Yes, sensor-based
particularly shouted about on the pre-release spec incorporates a number of professional features and ISO: 80-51,200
sheet, are rather advanced. Firstly there’s IrSimple for yet it’s still not that full-frame release that Pentax MOVIE: Full HD 1080p at 25fps
infrared control over the camera. Secondly, and currently lacks. It seems an oddity that whilst CONTINUOUS 7fps burst rate
keeping with the hands-free approach, the K-r even providing multiple bodies for the APS-C market and SHOOTING:
has a P-TTL flash sync available for dedicated even a pro-spec medium format model in Japan, AF POINTS: 11-point (9 cross-type) SAFOX IX+
wireless flash control. there’s currently nothing to fill the gap between BODY: Weather-proofed magnesium alloy with
And smaller quirks such as the li-ion or AA battery the two. 77 weather seals
(via an adaptor) choice is innovative too – take your We like the K-5 for upping its game, achieving Full VIEWFINDER: 100% field of view; 0.92x magnification
pick of which suits you best at the time. HD status that Pentax didn’t have until now, and for LCD: 3in, 920k-dot with live view
All in all, along with the new K-5, the release of delivering updated features. However, the new POWER: Li-ion rechargeable battery
these DSLRs is a nod to a more progressive and 16.3MP sensor will need to prove its worth to tempt DIMENSIONS: 131 x 97 x 73mm
stable Pentax DSLR range. current K-7 users to upgrade. WEIGHT: 740g with li-ion battery and SD card
(body only)
what digitalcamera
olympus e-5
the high-end e-5 dslr looks set to be the final four thirds dslr
The E-5 has a 12.3-megapixel Four-Thirds for more professional quality sound from an
LiveMOS sensor, an increase over the external microphone. e-5 specs
previous E-3’s 10.1MP resolution, but fully It’s not just the movie mode that has SENSOR: 12.3MP APS-C CMOS
affirms that Olympus’s ethos to not push been pulled from elsewhere – the Art Filters IMAGE ENGINE: TruePic V+
beyond the 12MP mark is being stringently from a variety of other Olympus models ISO: 200-6400
adhered to. also make their way into the E-5’s spec. The MOVIE: 720p HD at 30fps
The new TruePic V+ Imaging Engine sees new Dramatic Tone Art Filter is a pseudo
CONTINUOUS 5fps burst rate
advances in processing, with up to ISO HDR-type effect and, like any of the other
SHOOTING:
6400 now possible at full resolution (the Art Filters, can be used for both stills and
E-3 maxed out at ISO 3200) alongside a five movie capture. AF POINTS: 11-point cross-type system
frames per second (5fps) burst mode. The autofocus system is the same BODY: Dust and splashproof magnesium alloy
With HD video becoming prevalent in 11-point cross-type AF system found in the VIEWFINDER: 100% field of view
DSLR cameras, the E-5 also introduces Olympus E-3, but both the LCD size and LCD: 3in, 920k-dot
movie capture in an Olympus DSLR for the resolution see an update – the LCD screen MEDIA: Dual slot: 1xCF; 1xSD
first time. A relative carbon copy of the increases from 2.5in to 3in, and its DIMENSIONS: 142.5 x 116.5 x 74.5mm
Micro Four Thirds E-P1 model’s capabilities, resolution increases to a finely detailed WEIGHT: 800g (body only)
the E-5 can capture 720p HD video at 30fps 920k-dots total to complement the 100%
in the Motion-JPEG format. The built-in field of view optical viewfinder.
mono microphone can be over-ridden when
using the 3.5mm stereo microphone jack
Available from October 2010, the E-5 will
retail for around £1,500 body only.
our thoughts
The new Olympus E-5 doesn’t only replace the
current E-3 model – it also looks set to be the
final Four-Thirds DSLR from the company.
We were speaking to Olympus’s Toshiyuki
Terada, the Manager of SLR Product Planning,
and it became clear that, at least for the time
being, Olympus’s focus is no longer on
mirror-based models, though Terada stresses
that there will always be a current product to
cater for existing Olympus and Four Thirds users.
This may partly explain the mixture of
pro-spec and enthusiast features that are all
squeezed into the Olympus E-5.
While production of the company’s other
current DSLR cameras such as the E-620 haven’t
ceased as yet, the wheels are certainly set in
motion for the new E-5 to be the only
Four-Thirds model on the factory line.
Although, when you take into account its fairly
hefty £1,500 body-only price tag, it’s unclear
just how much interest the E-5 will raise among
current users.
12 www.whatdigitalcamera.com
LIVEVIEW spEcIaL
samsung nX100
thE sEcond nX modEL opts for a nEW dEsIgn
The latest Micro System Camera from Samsung up to 6400, and there are a number of Smart nX100 spEcs
offers a slimmed-down version of the Samsung Filters to create post-shooting effects such as SENSOR: 14.6MP APS-C CMOS
NX10, with a 14MP sensor and 3in AMOLED soft focus. LENS MOUNT: Samsung NX
screen. Much like the way Panasonic offers the The design is the most striking element of ISO: 100-3200 (6400 extension)
GH1 and GF1, the Samsung NX100 is a the Samsung NX100, which is slim and slender
MOVIE: 720p HD H.264
rangefinder-style model that is more compact compared to the NX10. The body is devoid of
than its DSLR-style NX10 sibling. the majority of controls, and the compact CONTINUOUS 3fps burst rate
SHOOTING:
The design of the Samsung NX100 isn’t frame is small enough to stow in a small
the most significant element relating to the camera bag. FLASH: External via hotshoe (optional)
NX100, as one of the more innovative Although there isn’t a viewfinder to speak of GPS: Geotagging with optional GPS module
additions is the new i-function lens. This there is a 3in AMOLED screen, ensuring the VIEWFINDER: Optional EVF
adds a function button to the lens, meaning preview is both sharp and well lit. LCD: 3in, VGA AMOLED
that the likes of shutter speed and ISO A few lenses are expected in the new range, MEDIA: SD, SDHC
settings can be altered without touching including a 20mm pancake, offering the DIMENSIONS: 120.5 x 71 x 34.5mm
the camera body. i-Function. Although an RRP has yet to be WEIGHT: 282g (body only)
A 720p movie mode is also present, announced we expect the price of the
ensuring some impressive video quality, as well Samsung NX100 to be at the lower end of the
as full manual controls. The ISO can be pushed Micro System Camera range.
our thoughts
Samsung certainly seems to be covering all the
bases by offering the more compact-shaped
NX100, rather than a higher or lower specified
model. Despite the difference in shape
between the two, the NX100 isn’t that much
smaller than the NX10 either.
Samsung’s introduction of the innovative
i-function, however, is much more than just
another feature. The ability to use the focus ring
for multiple functions is a really clever and
useful feature that we are likely to see rolled
out to many future models. It may even be
added to the existing NX10 in an upcoming
software update.
Not only do its advantages include the fact
that it allows quicker function changes but,
better still, it also encourages users to hold the
camera in a more stable manner, which is
definitely a good thing with so many new users
upgrading from compacts.
WWW.WhatdIgItaLcamEra.com 13
what digitalcamera
sony a560, a580, a33 & a55

sony launches four innoVatiVe new alphas, but two of them are not technically dslrs at all
Sony has created an entirely new type of

camera with the launch of two new Alpha
cameras, the A33 and A55, and also
launched two conventional DSLRs, the A560
and A580. Although the A33 and A55 look
and feel like DSLRs, they are in fact what
Sony calls DSLT, or Digital Single Lens
Translucent cameras.
The key innovation of the A55 and A33 is
the replacement of the hinged mirror and
prism assembly that defines a DSLR with a
fixed translucent mirror (known as
Translucent Mirror Technology) and an
electronic viewfinder. Although the
Canon EOS RT back in 1989 was the first
SLR to employ such a mirror it still retained
an optical viewfinder, and this is the first
time that such a mirror has been used in a
digital camera.
The main benefit of the technology is that
it enables the cameras to offer continuous
Live View, with full phase-detection AF, both
on the LCD screen and through the
viewfinder. Also, because the mirror doesn’t detect AF, including tracking of moving CMOS sensor used in the recently launched
move, the AF works full time, even between subjects during video filming – a world first. NEX-3 and NEX-5 compact system cameras.
shots in a continuous burst. Phase-detection Users can use the viewfinder as well as the All of the new Alphas feature Bionz
AF technology is much faster than the LCD screen to shoot video. processors.
contrast-based method used by compacts Sony claims that its technology takes
but has not been possible in Live View DSLR video to the next level. Paul Genge, Viewing systems
mode until now. Sony UK’s Technical Field Sales manager for For viewing, the cameras boast a 3in
Other benefits of the fixed mirror include Alpha said, ‘People have been asking when widescreen XtraFine LCD screen with
a quieter shutter release with less vibration Sony would get around to adding video 921k-dot resolution. The A55 and A580
(and therefore less camera shake), and the modes to its Alphas and we said that we’d screens both tilt and rotate and feature
ability to shoot at higher burst speeds – the introduce it when we could do it better TruBlack technology, while the A33 and
A55 can shoot at 10fps at full resolution than anyone else. That time is now.’ He A560 tilt only. While the A560 and A580
(the A33 at 7fps). It also means the bodies added, ‘These new models vastly exceed boast conventional optical viewfinders, the
can be smaller and lighter. anything currently on the market.’ A33 and A55 feature instead an electronic
The new cameras are also the first Alphas The A55 and A580 feature an all-new ‘Tru-Finder’ with 1.44 million pixel
to shoot movies, at 1080i HD in the AVCHD 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the resolution and 100% coverage. Both
format. The A33 and A55 boasts full phase A33 and A560 feature the same 14.2MP cameras accept both Memory Stick and
LIVEVIEW spEcIaL
Secure Digital (SD) media cards. automatic geo-tagging of images and our thoughts
All four new cameras boast superior ISO video clips. Doctor Who fans will be familiar with the reaction of
performance to previous Alphas, topping The A580 and A560 sit below the A55 those who peek inside the Tardis and discover that
out at 12,800, or 25,600 using the new and A33 respectively, and are priced it’s bigger on the inside than the outside. I felt a bit
Multi-Frame NR function. Sony claims a around £50 cheaper. Aimed at those like that when I put Sony’s new Alpha ‘DSLR’, the
two-stop improvement in image noise levels wanting a more traditional DSLR, A55, to my eye for the first time and found there was
over the previous A500/A550 series. especially in the more conservative US an electronic viewfinder (EVF) inside the eyepiece.
Do they represent the brave new world for digital
Focusing is achieved via a new 15-point market, they lack the ability to use
cameras, or are they the result of some grotesque
system featuring 3 cross-hair sensors, and is Phase Detect AF or the viewfinder for
photographic Frankenstein experiment? A dog’s head
claimed to be 20% more sensitive in low video, and the maximum burst speed is
on cat’s body, so to speak.
light than its predecessor, while in single 7fps (in Speed-Priority Continuous
There’s no doubting the benefits this technology
focus point mode the focus point can be Advance mode). provides: 10 frames per second, Live View and HD
manually moved around the scene during Both the A55 and A33 cameras will be video through the viewfinder, all with super-fast and
movie recording, for ‘pull focus’ effects. A available to buy from next month, while accurate full-time phase-detection AF. If the results
new 1,200-zone evaluative metering system the A580 and A560 will be available in are as good as the spec sheet, I’ve no doubt that
also features, along with usual spot and the UK at a later date. these cameras will be a hit at the mass market end of
centre-weighted options. Note: We’ll be publishing a full the DSLR sector, and could be the biggest challenge
in-depth test of the Sony A33 next yet to the dominance of Canon and Nikon. At the
cYbEr-shot fEaturEs month, as a brand new camera has higher end of the market users are more conservative,
The new Alphas bring together technology just made its way into the WDC office and may need a bit more convincing. NA
from Sony’s Alpha and Cyber-shot – don’t miss it!
cameras including the
award-winning Sweep a560 spEcs a580 spEcs a33 spEcs a55 spEcs
Panorama (which in these SENSOR: 14.2MP CMOS SENSOR: 16.2MP CMOS SENSOR: 14.2MP CMOS SENSOR: 16.2MP CMOS
Alphas is capable of 3D), PROcESSOR: Bionz, with dual NR PROcESSOR: Bionz, with dual NR PROcESSOR: Bionz, with dual NR PROcESSOR: Bionz, with dual NR
Twilight Mode, Face ISO: 100–12800 ISO: 100–12800 ISO: 100–12800 ISO: 100–12800
Detection, Smile Shutter MOVIE: 1920x1080(50i) AVCHDMOVIE: 1920x1080(50i) AVCHDMOVIE: 1920x1080(50i) AVCHDMOVIE: 1920x1080(50i) AVCHD
and eight scene modes.
cONTINUOUS 7fps (Speed priority) cONTINUOUS 7fps (Speed priority) cONTINUOUS 7fps (Continuous AE) cONTINUOUS 10fps (Continuous AE)
The Auto HDR mode has SHOOTING: SHOOTING: SHOOTING: SHOOTING:
been improved, and a new AF POINTS: 15 point, 3 cross type AF POINTS: 15 point, 3 cross type AF POINTS: 15 point, 3 cross type AF POINTS: 15 point, 3 cross type
Auto+ mode added which METERING: 1200 zone evaluative METERING: 1200 zone evaluative METERING: 1200 zone evaluative METERING: 1200 zone evaluative
is based on scene VIEWFINDER: 95% penta-mirror VIEWFINDER: 95% penta-mirror VIEWFINDER: 100% EVF VIEWFINDER: 100% EVF
recognition. Other new
LcD: LcD:
3in Xtra Fine, 921k 2-way tilt LcD:
3in Xtra Fine, 921k 2-way tilt LcD: tilt/rotate
3in Xtra Fine TruBlack, 921k, 3in Xtra Fine TruBlack 921k, tilt/rotate
features include a Digital
MEDIA: MemoryStick, SD, SDHC,MEDIA:
SDXC MemoryStick, SD, SDHC,MEDIA:
SDXC MemoryStick, SD, SDHC,MEDIA:
SDXC MemoryStick, SD, SDHC, SDXC
Level Gauge, which can
3D SWEEP Yes 3D SWEEP Yes 3D SWEEP Yes 3D SWEEP Yes
indicate both pitch and PANORAMA: PANORAMA: PANORAMA: PANORAMA:
yaw, and the A55 DIMENSIONS: 137 x 104 x 84mm DIMENSIONS: 137 x 104 x 84mm DIMENSIONS: 124.4 x 92 x 84.7mm DIMENSIONS: 124.4 x 92 x 84.7mm
additionally incorporates WEIGHT: 599g WEIGHT: 599g WEIGHT: 433g WEIGHT: 441g
integrated GPS, for APPROX PRIcE £550-650 APPRO PRIcE £650-750 APPRO PRIcE £600-700 APPRO PRIcE £700-800
(WITH 18- (WITH 18- (WITH 18- (WITH 18-
55MM): 55MM): 55MM): 55MM):
what digitalcamera
Panasonic gh2 sPecs

SENSOR: 16MP Live MOS (Four Thirds)
lumix gh2
IMAGE ENGINE: Venus Engine VI FHD
ISO: 100-12,800
MOVIE: Full HD 1080p, 24fps at 23Mbps. 80%
& 300% slow and fast motion capture.
taking contrast-detect aF to the next level… 2.5mm microphone jack for external
stereo sound
The new Panasonic GH2 has a previous G-series viewfinders.
16-megapixel Live MOS sensor – making it Another headline feature is that the GH2, CONTINUOUS 5fps
SHOOTING:
the highest-resolution Micro Four Thirds alongside the G2 via firmware upgrade, will
camera to be available. The sensor is made be compatible with the world’s first AF POINTS: 35-zone contrast detection, twice as fast
as GH1 due to sensor drive of 120fps
from a different base to those found in the interchangeable 3D lens. This new 12.5mm
3D COMPATIBLE: First interchangeable 3D lens available
G2 and GF1 series, and now benefits from lens (equates to a 65mm equivalent in full-
VIEWFINDER: 1.53 million dot resolution electronic
three CPU cores and a new Venus Engine VI frame 35mm terms) is a fixed pan-focus at viewfinder; 0.71x magnification; now
FHD that make it super-fast – twice as fast f/12 and produces two images on the with wider 852x600 pixel array.
as the previous GH1, in fact. sensor to create a 3.1MP image, saved as LCD: 3in, 920k-dot with 40% increase in
As the sensor now operates at 120fps both a JPEG and MPO file for playback on colour gamut from GH2
(i.e. 120 refreshes per second, raised from 3D-capable HD TVs. Full HD is only 2MP, so MEDIA: SD / SDHC / SDXC
the GH1’s 60fps) it is possible for contrast- the image size is fine for digital playback DIMENSIONS: 124 x 89.6 x 75.8mm
detection autofocus to be twice as fast as and the fixed aperture is an essential to WEIGHT: 392g (body only) / (904g with 14-140mm
before. This is excellent news for Micro provide resulting perceptive depth that a lens, battery & card)
Four Thirds fans bereft with comparably shallower depth of field would not
sluggish AF systems found in the first realistically facilitate.
generation of cameras. There’s no final word on the camera’s our thoughts
Movie capture also takes significant price or exact release date, but we expect It’s the new doubly-fast autofocus that immediately
benefit, as the sensor’s higher refresh rate to see it retail for around £1,300 with the makes the GH2 stand out. This kind of contrast-
means that a true 50i output signal can be 14-140mm lens and less as a second detection AF is unlike the speed of any competitor
achieved from the sensor for playback, 14-42mm kit. The 3D lens will retail for equivalent and, as sensors become more powerful,
enabling 1080p resolution at 24fps and around £350. this kind of technology should pave the way for
with a 23Mbps bit rate for improved future increases in speed too. Yet another
reproduction of moving subjects. stepping stone to support the ongoing force of
A 2.5mm microphone jack for external mirrorless cameras.
microphone and an on-screen audio level Elsewhere the upgrade in movie functionality is
meter also feature. excellent, with Full HD shot at 1080p, captured at 24
As per the G2, the GH2’s frames per second and that all important 23MBps bit
920k-dot LCD screen is now touch- rate edge it toward a camcorder-like standard. The
capable, but also benefits from a biggest drawback: still only a 2.5mm mic jack, and
40% increase in visible colour the omission of any in-ear audio monitoring
gamut for a higher colour accuracy capability as yet.
in preview. Using the HDMI output The new 16MP sensor does seem rather overly
it’s even possible for a tethered live resolute considering the smaller sensor size, though
preview on an external screen or without final images to sample it’s a case of ‘wait
HD TV. The updated electronic and see’ as to how the results will fare. I suspect that
viewfinder now has a 1.53 million- this has been opted for to support the new 3D lens
dot resolution, making the 852 x functionality that is dependent on projecting two
600 pixel resolution wider than individual images (landscape) across the one sensor.
L V
LIVEVIEW SPECIAL
A
ADOBE ELEMENTS 9
PREMIERE ELEMENTS 9
ADOBE’S STILL AND VIDEO EDITING SUITES UPDATE FOR PC & MAC
The latest version of the popular editing Premiere Elements, the video editing side,
program extends its feature set further and is Full HD compatible with all the latest
now, for the first time, offers full packages codecs and allows smooth playback in full
for both PC and Mac. Though Mac users screen. New audio adjustments have been
could buy versions of previous editions of added to the bulging range of features and
Elements, this is the first time that it has effects seen on the previous version. It
been (more or less) identical to the PC features full timeline editing for precise
release and, for the first time, Premiere cutting or content-intelligent modes such
Elements comes to the Mac too. The as Smart Trim and Smart Mix for quick
Organizer (now also on the Mac version) edits. Elements and Premiere Elements 9 are
features easy sharing options to sites such available for £77 each or £116 as a bundle.
as Flickr and Facebook, scaling images prior
to upload for quicker data transfer. Within
the image editing the Guided edits have
been expanded upon to include not only
useful processes such as adjusting levels but
also a range of ‘fun edits’, such as a
reflection and a Pop Art feature. Elements
now also features full Layer Mask
functionality for the first time. The Content
Aware Fill technology, as seen in CS5, has
been added to the Heal brush, while the
Panorama Photo Merge also uses it to fill in
details at the edge of the frame. The new
Photo Merge Style Match can also match
tone and colours from other images to give
a specific style or effect.
OUR THOUGHTS
It’s always amazing that Adobe continues to find
anything more to add to these programs without
them becoming their pro counterparts. But, as the
pro versions expand and technology increases
Elements has continued to grow and yet, thanks to
the simple and guided options, remain usable for
any level of photographer. In fact, Elements now
offers so much that there is little reason for most
photographers to move towards full Photoshop.
LIVEVIEW
NIKON
COMPACTS
S80 AND P7000
Nikon has released two new compacts in the The Coolpix S80’s most eye-catching feature is
shape of the Coolpix P7000 and S80. Both the multi-touch OLED screen. This allows for
cameras are due for release pre-Christmas and touch focusing, as well as tap-operated shooting
offer some impressive features. and video capture. The sensor offers an
The Coolpix P7000 features a 10.1MP sensor impressive 14MP resolution as well as 720p HD
and 3in LCD screen, while a 7.1x optical zoom movie capture. A 5x optical zoom is also present
also features alongside an ISO range up to 6400. as is Vibration Reduction and Motion Detection.
A 720p HD movie mode is available, as is a new There are various colours available in either
Virtual Horizon that should help to ensure shots two-tone or a single shade, and the camera is
LASTOLITE EZYBOX are level. There are full manual controls on the
DSLR-style top dial, and a hotshoe mount.
small enough to fit into a pocket with ease. For
more information visit www.nikon.co.uk
SPEED-LITE MODEL
Lastolite has announced the latest product
in its Ezybox range of lighting softboxes.
The new Ezybox Speed-Lite measures
SONY S-FRAME AND BLOGGIE TOUCH
22 x 22cm and is designed to attach SONY HD VIDEO PRODUCTS
directly on to a flashgun either on or off The 8GB flash memory based Bloggie Touch
of the camera. camcorder offers 1080p high-definition
The Ezybox Speed-Lite benefits from the recording and has a lens attachment for
same design as Lastolite’s Ezybox 360° recording. 12.8MP stills are also
softboxes, meaning that it can be quickly possible. The 3in touchscreen removes the
folded down into an ultra-portable need for too many buttons, and the built-in
compact package. The unit also features USB makes downloading simple.
two removable diffusion layers for extra The S-frame range covers three frames, all
versatility. allowing playback of AVCHD, a HD video
The Ezybox Speed-Lite is available now format used by Sony and Panasonic.
with an SRP of £50. For more information The Bloggie Touch will be available in
on the Ezybox Speed-lite, visit: November, and the S-frames in October. For
www.lastolite.co.uk more info go to www.sony.co.uk
PENTAX COMPACTS
RS1000 AND OPTIO RZ10
Pentax has launched a pair of new compacts black, white, purple, green and orange.
in the form of the RS1000 and RZ10. Both The RS1000 also has a front panel that can
cameras offer high-spec features and some be removed and exchanged with a variety of
intriguing innovations. options. This allows various patterns, sketches
The RZ10 is the first Pentax to enter the and design plates to be attached in order to
long zoom compact market, offering a 10x personalise the camera. On the imaging side
optical zoom and a 14MP sensor. Sensor- there’s a 14MP sensor and 4x optical zoom
based shake reduction has been included, as with digital blur reduction, and a 3in LCD. The
has pixel tracking. Although manual controls RS1000 also offers a 720p HD movie mode
aren’t present, a 720p HD movie mode means and digital filters, and is certainly for the
the moving images should look impressive as style-conscious photographer. For more info
well. The design is simplistic, and is available in head to www.pentax.co.uk
.
GETTY DIGITAL TOOLBOX
STOCK PHOTO ASSISTANCE
Getty Images has just launched a new online from unauthorised use.
Artist Digital Toolbox for its contributors. Getty Images is also launching the
The toolbox was created to provide Getty’s Contributor Affiliate Programme,
contributors with free tools and support, offering users the opportunity to earn
following requests for apps, logos and web commission as a result of directing traffic to
banners needed for promotion. This allows GettyImages.com. Contributors can sign
traffic to direct to specific work from both up to the programme quickly online and
websites and social networking sites. can then earn 15% commission for directing
Versions of the ‘I’m a Getty Images Artist’ new users or 7% for existing Getty Images
logo are available for use on blogs and customers on all sales.
social media, as well as to watermark The Artist Digital Toolbox is now available
images and footage, helping to protect online at: http://artist.gettyimages.com/
snaP SHOTS
dIgItaL nEWs In brIEF
LIVEVIEW
LastoLItE trIFLash sync

Lastolite has announced the launch of its new
TriFlash Sync. The shoe lock bracket features a
built-in simultaneous system allowing the
photographer to fire up to three flashguns from
one triggering device.
Featuring a built-in slave cell, the TriFlash Sync
can be adjusted to allow for none, one, two or
three pre-flashes if required. Included with the
TriFlash Sync are a 3.5mm to 3.5mm mono jack
cable and a 3.5mm mono jack to PC Sync cable
to attach third-party triggering systems.
A dummy cold-shoe is also included to allow
photographers who work with one or two guns
to slide their trigger receiver (i.e. Pocket Wizard)
onto one of the spare shoe mounts. Compatible
with most flashguns – except those made by
Sony – the Lastolite TriFlash Sync is available
now, priced at £100.
For stockist information, visit: www.lastolite.
com/distributors.php
PoLaroId comPact
Polaroid has announced its first compact for
some time, in the shape of the 14MP Polaroid
1437. Aimed at the consumer on a budget, the
features list isn’t huge, but there’s more than
enough for the newcomer to start snapping.
Alongside the sensor there’s a 2.7in LCD and 3x
optical zoom along with 30 scene modes. For the
beginner this camera may well be an attractive
prospect, and can be found exclusively at Digital
Depot in titanium or red.
The 1437 is priced at £70. For more
information go to www.polaroid.com
toshIba sdhc cards

Three new SDHC cards launched by Toshiba offer
some impressive read/write speeds, being
compliant with the version 3 standard. The 8GB,
16GB and 32GB cards are all capable of 95MBps
read speeds and 80MBps write speeds, and are
part of the UHS-I range.
shoot morE
Also released are three MicroSD cards at 4GB,
8GB and 16GB sizes. Prices have yet to be
LigHT TraiLS
confirmed, but stay tuned to for Toshiba.com for
more details.
thInk tank Photo bag

The Sling-O-Matic is one of the first sling bags
TOP TIPS
that can be easily switched back and forth to WIth thE nIghts draWIng In, It’s
either shoulder. Its adjustable, fully padded thE PErFEct tImE to caPturE somE
shoulder strap easily slides along a set of rails to LIght traILs
change which shoulder the bag can be worn on.
This unique feature gives you another option, as
sling bags are designed to be to worn over one
ESSENTIAL GEAR • ConCeive the idea
To shoot an effective light trail it
shoulder only. rEmotE rELEasE often pays to plan your shoot, or at
The Sling-O-Matic series offers three unique A steady camera is key, so least conceive the idea, in advance
bags varying in size. Each bag fits a DSLR with up use a remote to trigger the • Light as a tooL
to a 70-200 f/2.8 lens with lens hood. All have a shutter button. Use the light trail as a tool in the
long side pocket for carrying a tripod, large gorILLaPod image – it can add impact by
leading the eye through the frame.
handles on three sides with removable/adjustable If you’re looking to shoot an
straps and a waist belt for additional stability. urban light trail, a Gorillapod • experiment
When you’re using a handheld
The Sling-O-Matic 20 and Sling-O-Matic 30 could provide stability when a light source, be sure to experiment
can each carry a pro-size DSLR and four to six tripod isn’t suitable. with framing, exposure time and
lenses. The Sling-O-Matic 30 also features a LIght sourcE movements.
separate laptop compartment for carrying a If you want to try creating the
15.4in laptop. All of these bags will be released in trails yourself, use some form
October, with pricing to be determined. of light source, such as an
LED light or pocket torch.
For morE grEat IdEas VIsIt WWW.WhatdIgItaLcamEra.com
YourView
LIVEVIEW
INTERNET DEALS FOR ME
Joeseph Peters
Write to us at wdc@ipcmedia.com I don’t understand why
anyone still buys from camera
RANT !
shops these days. The staff don’t seem
REPATRIATE YOUR EOS LETTER OF THE MONTH to know anything about the products
Jay Funnell, email they are selling and the prices are far
Having read Mr. Reynolds’ letter UNLISTED higher than you can find online. Plus
you usually have to battle through busy
in issue 165 about his Canon EOS Ian Wilson
500D, I was sad to see that he sent shopping centres to find them, and
A friend recently then lug the items home. I can save
the camera back and lost out on
bought a Hitachi hundreds of pounds by staying home
the £8 postage, because of the lack
digital camera and ordering online, from the comfort
of an English instruction manual
(HDC1296E) which of my front room, and it gets delivered
and mains lead. I’ve got a couple of
he seems pleased to me at my doorstep. Simple. No poor
tips that would have helped him.
with, and I was considering buying one myself. However, on advice, crowds or paying over the odds.
First, check the underneath of
the charger for the magic numbers buying your magazine I find that no Hitachi cameras seem to
100-250v, confirming that the unit
is multi-voltage, as most chargers
are now. Then dig out that old
be listed. Is there a reason for this?
I have previously stuck with 35mm cameras but my trusty
Olympus Mju2 packed up and I can’t find another. I tried my
RANT & RAVE
There are two sides to every deb
radio/vcr/printer in the loft and
ate
friend’s Hitachi digital and the one thing I did not like was the
look for a mains lead that will fit time lapse between pressing the button and the photo taking. LONG
L LIVE THE
RAVE!
the charger (usually a iec-c8, or
figure of 8 lead). Now the missing
This means that you have to try to judge where the subject CAMERA STORE
is going to be when the photo takes. Is this a feature of all Tim Pope
manual. First, call the manufacturer digital cameras? Buying on the internet might be cheaper
and tell them that it was not but its no match for going into a shop
supplied with an English manual. and buying. Firstly you get to try the
WE SAY Hitachi doesn’t actually make cameras itself. The models are
Personally I’d also offer to return cameras out, then you get advice from
what is called OEM cameras, sourced from Chinese factories. The
the foreign ones and include a the staff – and if you stick to the real
same or similar cameras can be found with different brand names
stamped, addressed envelope for on. You could go to China and buy 20,000 cameras and have your camera specialists then you’ll find true
them to send the UK one back own name put on them if you wanted to. These cameras tend knowledge. You also get the joy of
to you. Or you could go online. to be old tech, using older or inferior components, hence the lag getting your purchase then and there,
Canon’s support pages allow you issue, which used to affect all digital compacts but is less of an issue so you can rush home and try it out,
to download the manual free of nowadays with the major brands. Personally I would stick to the straight away. I also find if there’s any
charge in pdf format, which is companies listed in our Buyer’s Guide, who design and build their problems, I can always take it back to
great for several reasons. own cameras. Pick a budget and narrow it the store, and that can be tricky online.
• It’s easily printed (although at 228 down to the few you like the look of, then
pages for the 500D that could take come back to us if you need more help. AGREE OR DISAGREE? WANT TO START YOUR OWN RANT
OR RAVE? THEN GO TO OUR FORUMS AT:
quite a while). www.whatdigitalcamera.com/forums and let it all out!
• Referencing is a fast and easy WIN! A MEMORY CARD WORTH
£75
THE POLL WDC
process thanks to the search, and Letter of the Month will win a 8GB Lexar Professional memory card
Both Lexar Professional 133x SDHC and 400x CompactFlash cards come with a limited
at only 10MB, the file is small
enough to be saved on a cheap old
lifetime warranty and full version of Lexar Image Rescue 3.0 data recovery software.
The RRP for the 8GB Lexar Professional 133x Secure Digital High Capacity is £45.99, and the
WORTH
£45.99
ASKS...
8GB Lexar Professional 400x CompactFlash is priced £75.
memory stick/card for safe keeping. Which of the following
• Most phones and handhelds will of returning it, and keeping the My second issue is the sidebar platforms do you use?
allow you to install a pdf viewer for pages together, in order, would by Mat Gallagher on page 15
little (if any) cost – so you can keep be a hassle. I like your idea of wondering why there are no 7.9%
the manual with you wherever copying the pdf manual onto disposable digital cameras. Mat did
you go. I have done this with all your phone, though of course not do his research – disposable 2.5%
my camera manuals, and found it not everyone has a smart phone digital cameras were introduced in 9.8% 32.4%
invaluable on several occasions. suitable for viewing pdfs. the US in 2004. They even include
a screen, and retail for $19.95. A
WE SAY Thanks for your great quick Google search returns several
11.9%
tips, Jay. Regarding the manual DISPOSABLE ADVICE links about them, including many
though, the reason there was Tony Chammas, email YouTube instructional videos on 13.9% 21.6%
no UK manual in the box is I’ve been an avid reader for the how to hack these $20 cameras
that the retailer didn’t buy the past ten years, and almost never and make them re-usable! YOU
camera from Canon UK but a miss an issue. You’ve always done I still don’t intend to miss an issue, ANSWERED:
APPLE IPHONE 32.4% APPLE IPAD 9.8%
European distributor. Having great work, and I consider your and will still continue to read the ANDROID 21.6% WINDOWS MOBILE 7.9%
made no money from the sale magazine the top publication in the print off the pages. The rest of the BLACKBERRY 13.9% KINDLE 2.5%
NOKIA OS 11.9%
of the camera, Canon UK is industry. But in September, the ball time, I will be out taking pictures
under no obligation to supply a went awry. Twice. and using your excellent tips/hints/ NEXT MONTH
UK manual except as a goodwill In the very interesting recommended products. How do you prefer to
gesture. Also, since Canon UK comparison of the 7D and 5D compose your shots?
only supplies British retailers cameras, you included a graphic WE SAY It seems the disposable Visit the website to enter your answers at:
www.whatdigitalcamera.com/forums
(with cameras that they have to to compare the sensor sizes of the digital cameras you talk of
buy from Japan) they’d have no cameras, but the AP-C sensor is never made it this side of the
use for the foreign manuals. drawn almost 10% smaller than pond, which is a shame. Maybe FOLLOW US!
Printing a 228-page manual it should be in comparison to the someone will have more success WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/WHATDIGITALCAMERA
would probably cost more in full-frame sensor, which is a little with them now the technology WWW.TWITTER.COM/WHATDIGCAMERA
ink and paper than the £8 cost misleading. has moved on even further? Join us on Facebook and Twitter and
get exclusive news and updates!
Send your letters to wdc@ipcmedia.com or to What Digital Camera magazine, Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street, London, SE1 0SU - OR visit our forums online at www.whatdigitalcamera.com/forums
OurView
O
LIVEVIEW
AND ANOTHER
Musings from the WDC Editor THING...
WDC’s Matt
W
Tuffin is
D
DRAWING CONCLUSIONS wondering if
the rumours
FROM PHOTOKINA 2010 are true…
Now the dust is settling on Photokina
it’s a good time to take stock of all IGNORING THE
the new cameras and to try to make
some sense of it all.
RUMOUR MILL
Here at What Digital Camera
First, that eternal battle between
we’re often privy to new camera
Canon and Nikon looks set to ramp
information before we’re allowed to
up a notch with Canon’s EOS 60D say anything. But it often seems that
and Nikon’s D7000, as both are in anticipation of the new models,
pegged at the same £1,100 price. some people are just making up the
Debate will rage over the coming latest specification online.
ABOVE: Among all the brand new products at Photokina, Sony had the most revolutionary offerings
months about the relative merits of For example, information on
these cameras. Canon has the higher mirrorless Micro Four-Thirds cameras, up the rule book on what a DSLR should all the new DSLRs released at
resolution and the tilt and swivel which it is convinced represent the be. Sony may not have invented the Photokina found their way onto
screen; Nikon has the more rugged future of photography. fixed translucent mirror but they’re the the internet in some way shape or
body and higher-spec focusing, Not that Pentax is subscribing first to fish the concept out of Canon’s form, and often prior to hitting our
metering and burst rate, as well as to this view. Its two new DSLRs dustbin and bring it into the digital inbox. The only problem is that the
the dual card slots. Both models look effectively double the Pentax offering domain – with its own twist, of course, information was often wrong. The
like they have a lot going for them – a desperately needed boost to in the form of an electronic viewfinder. Panasonic GH2, for example, was
but in fact the most interesting news what you could scarcely even call a The benefits of this new technology are given a list of features that didn’t
is to be found elsewhere. range until now. With the company’s fairly obvious, but the tricky bit will be exist on the final product, and
Olympus’s new E-5 pro DSLR is 645 medium format camera surely convincing enthusiasts, a conservative Nikon’s launches were way off the
a relatively modest upgrade on the poised to arrive on UK shores before bunch, to switch to an EVF. Sony’s lack mark in a number of cases.
E-3 – having only just made it to 12 long, let’s hope this increased activity of confidence in being able to do this is For those after a new camera this
megapixels just when everyone else will see a change in the company’s shown in its parallel launch of the A560 can often be damaging, as missing
is moving up to 16MP and 18MP, fortunes, which till now have been and A580, which are identical except for out on a good deal due to rumours
and adding movie mode but at a on a fairly downward trajectory. having optical finders instead of EVFs. of a newer, better model can be
lower 720p than its rivals – but its But it’s Sony who has stolen In all, I’ve drawn three inescapable frustrating. Our advice? Ignore the
rumour mill, and don’t be dissuaded
distinguishing quality is that it may the show. While all the other new conclusions from Phokina 2010: optical
by unsubstantiated claims.
well be the last Four-Thirds DSLR – cameras are evolutionary, only Sony viewfinders are now under attack from
the last with an optical viewfinder, has introduced anything that could all directions; SD is now universal except GOT AN IDEA OF WHAT WE CAN EXPECT
anyway. The company will now be described as revolutionary. The in pro DSLRs, and don’t even think about NEXT MONTH? Visit our online forum at:
be concentrating its energies on new Alpha 33 and 55 really do tear making a new DSLR without HD video! www.whatdigitalcamera.com/forums
THEHELP!FILE
For the quickest response, send your problems to our online forum at www.whatdigitalcamera.com/forums or email to wdc@ipcmedia.com
Q & A P26 TOP 5 GEAR P28 MATT EXPLAINS P28 HELP ME! P30 ROUGH GUIDE P34
Canon or Nikon
for my first DSLR?
SCOTT481 VIA THE WDC FORUM
I’m buying my first DSLR this week and price is a
factor, which is why I’m buying either Canon or
Nikon’s entry-level DSLR. I had read numerous
professional reviews on the two and I still haven’t made
up my mind. I will be using the camera for landscape
pictures, but I’ve noticed a couple of reviews state that
the Nikon doesn’t perform well in low-light applications.
Can you help?
We tested the Nikon D3000 and Canon EOS

1000D against each other earlier in the year
(WDC February). We found that both cameras
were capable and offered similar image quality, though
the Nikon did just nudge to the lead with a better
feature set and a graphic user interface more suited to
first-time DSLR buyers. While we found noise to be
slightly better controlled on the EOS 1000D, it’s unlikely
that this marginal advantage will make much difference,
as it’s only really noticeable when comparing the two
cameras side-by-side. You may also be interested in
Nikon’s new D3100, which replaces the D3000. Its
upgraded feature set includes a 14.2MP CMOS sensor,
Full HD video recording and live view with full-time AF.
Visit www.nikon.co.uk for more information. MG
How do I balance my Are they the

exposures? same thing?
GERALD JONES VIA EMAIL
M PATTON VIA EMAIL I’m confused as to whether white balance and
I spent a fair part of the summer colour temperature are the same thing. I only
taking landscapes around where I ever set the white balance either to auto or to
live, and although I was happy with one specific lighting condition – do I also need to adjust
a few I generally had the same problem colour temperature separately?
again and again: either the sky would be
fine but the ground would be too dark, or You only need
the other way around. I tried to bracket to adjust one,
my exposures to see which result was best, Gerald, as
but no one exposure seemed ideal. I don’t both essentially do the
know how to use Raw images – which I same job. The white
imagine would in some way help – so this route. The easiest option is to balance presets on
what else do you suggest I do? activate the dynamic range your camera are
optimisation on your camera simply set to a
All cameras are limited by the (assuming it has one), as this should different colour
dynamic range of their sensors – help to bring back either shadow or temperature
that is, the darkest and lightest highlight detail that would be depending on the
details they can record – and so it’s likely otherwise lost. If your camera doesn’t lighting conditions,
that you will come across this problem, have such a feature, or if you still and when set to its auto setting your camera’s white
particularly when shooting landscapes in think something else is necessary, balance system will choose the temperature that is most
high-contrast lighting. Shooting Raw consider investing in a graduated appropriate. Setting colour temperature, therefore, will
images would definitely benefit you in neutral density filter. These are simply override any current white balance settings you
such a situation, as you would have a designed for situations where you have, and vice-versa. Most people find it easiest to pick
high-quality file from which you could may need to bring the brightness of the preset that relates to the shooting conditions (e.g.
bring back highlight and shadow details a sky down a little, which helps your sunny, cloudy), but you may find adjusting colour
in post-processing, but there are camera balance it with the darker temperature over the numerical (Kelvin) scale useful for
alternatives if you choose not to go down details within your foreground. ML more critical work, such as when you need the white
balance to be just a little warmer or cooler. ML
NIGEL MAT MIKE MATT
ATHERTON GALLAGHER LOWE GOLOWCZYNSKI
Editor Nigel Atherton has Deputy Editor Mat has Mike is our Photoshop Don’t know which DSLR
been a photographer for been writing for photo guru, and can identify to go for? Or wondering
25 years and has been magazines for over six a new gadget at 100 what all that technical
writing about digital years, and taking pictures paces. He can also speak jargon means? Technical
photography since 1997 since he could press the fluent internet contributor Matt will
shutter release button solve all your problems
Is there an adaptor for READER’S GEAR REVIEWS

my old lenses?
PKCOOL VIA THE WDC FORUM
I have an old Canon T70 film camera
with extra lenses, and I’ve just bought a
Canon DSLR. Is it a myth or can you buy
a lens converter to use old 35mm lenses with Joby
DSLR? I’m okay without the autofocus as I Gorillapod
prefer to manually focus.
SLR-Zoom £60
Your T70 used the FD mount, which FROM: RYAN EVANS
Canon abandoned in 1987 upon the I had the smaller
introduction of the EOS range, which version of the
uses the EF mount. While the different mount Gorillapod from Joby
prohibits FD lenses to be used directly on EOS and it had provided a good portable
cameras, adaptors do exist for the task. Canon idea to see if there are any particular types option. It was light and I could roll it up to
did once make an FD-EOS adaptor, but trying to which some people have had more success fit in my bag. And the excellent flexible legs
find one today isn’t easy, and when they do with than others. As those without any glass meant that I could easily wrap them
crop up they’re known to be expensive. A quick elements will increase the distance from your around railings and the like.
browse on eBay shows there to be a plethora of lens to your camera they will also increase focal I recently upgraded my compact for a
cheap FD to EOS adaptors, but as there is such length (in the same way as an extension tube) DSLR, so I needed something sturdier but
a variety it may be difficult to know exactly how and you will lose the ability to focus to infinity. didn’t want to sacrifice all that I’d come to
one will behave, particularly in the case of those You may also need to focus at the lens’ like about the Gorillapod. Luckily I found
with glass elements where optical quality maximum aperture, prior to stopping it down that the Gorillapod SLR-Zoom does the job
becomes an issue. It may therefore be a good to the correct one. MT
perfectly. It’s still small and quite light, but
the legs are a lot tougher and can support
a much heavier combination of camera and
large lens. If you’re after a tripod on the
go, you won’t go far wrong with the Joby
Gorillapod SLR-Zoom.
ED
JARGON EXPLAIN
BAD Heavier than the smaller
versions, need for ball head
GOOD Flexible legs for unique
BATTERY TYPES shots, compact size
ALKALINE – Alkaline batteries are fine for use WE PAY £50 CASH FOR YOUR REVIEWS.
in low-powered devices such as clocks, but they To enter simply post your review on our Hot Or Not forum at
don’t last long in digital cameras given how www.whatdigitalcamera.com/hotornot
much power the average compact demands. The or email it to wdc@ipcmedia.com
best solution is to ditch them and go for one of
the alternatives.
LITHIUM ION (LI-ION) – These are
supplied with many cameras as standard, and are Which camera for sports?
rechargeable. Arguably their biggest advantage HARRY BRYANT VIA EMAIL
is their high energy density, which means that I need a camera which is going to be away from this. Nikon’s D300s and Canon’s EOS
they can store the same charge as other types of suitable for a variety of sports, but I’m 7D can shoot at 7 and 8fps respectively, while
battery while weighing less, but they also tend unsure as to what I should be looking for. Sony’s much cheaper A550 can also stretch to
to be more expensive. What would you suggest I look for? 7fps without compromising its native pixel count.
This being the case, it’s perhaps the more
NICKEL CADMIUM BATTERIES
Clearly the choice for professionals advanced AF systems of professional models
(NICAD) – While these are preferable for use
shooting sports will be a full-frame DSLR which are likely to make more of a difference,
in digital cameras and have a few advantages
with a selection of wide-aperture given that they are designed with action and
over NiMH types, concerns over the toxicity of telephoto lenses, but these don’t come cheap. sports photography in mind, not to mention their
cadmium has made them a poor choice from an The good news is that cheaper DSLRs with greater coverage for accuracy when following
environmental point of view. smaller sensors have their own advantages, such moving subjects. If your budget doesn’t quite
NICKEL-METAL HYDRIDE (NIMH) as the crop factor applied to lenses which will allow for a DSLR, you may want to look more
– Many rechargeable batteries are NiMH types. get you closer to the action, as well as their closely at Casio’s EX-F range of cameras. These
portability if you need to be moving around. offer burst rates of up to 60fps and 1200fps for
These are far better for the environment than
With regards to burst rates, it’s true that slow-motion video capture, although such
NiCad cells, and strike a good balance between
professional cameras can reach 10fps at their full impressive speeds are only possible when the
cost and performance.
resolution, but enthusiast cameras aren’t far camera is shooting at a reduced resolution. NA
THEHELP!FILE
TOP
M D-ZOOM
MI
COMPACTS
5 Should I ever turn off image
stabilisation?
A. ROSS VIA EMAIL
A couple of my lenses feature image
stabilisation, which I tend to leave on all
the time. I wonder whether there are
occasions where I would be advised to turn it
CANON POWER-
SHOT SX210 IS off, or any disadvantages to having it on all the
£235 time. Would you know?
With a 14x optical zoom
providing a 28-392mm It is usually recommended to
range, the ‘IS’ (optical deactivate image stabilisation when
image stabilisation) your camera is on a tripod, as it is
designation in the name comes into use here to unnecessary and may try to compensate
ensure images are kept sharp when shooting at full inaccurately. Also, image stabilisation systems
extension. You get 14.2MP stills, 720p HD movies, require power to operate, which means your
fully manual control plus Scene and Auto modes. camera will run out of juice in less time. Many
camera/lens combinations today, however, are
PANASONIC capable of detecting when the camera is on a
LUMIX TZ10 tripod, which deactivates the image
£265 stabilisation system automatically. Whether a system is inappropriate for the subject, in which
Despite its boxy camera can do this depends on what model it case you may be better advised to turn off image
appearance, the TZ10 is is, so it’s best to check the manuals that came stabilisation and adjust exposure settings from
a bit of a powerhouse with your camera and lens to see if this is there. Otherwise it is generally safe to leave
under the hood. Its 12x mentioned. You may also find yourself in a image stabilisation on for general purpose
optical zoom can capture shots from a super-wide situation where shooting at the shutter speed shooting, particularly as if you turn it off you may
25mm through to telephoto 300mm equivalent. suggested by a camera’s image stabilisation just forget to turn it back on again. MG
Plus, with 720p HD movie mode that can record
while zooming in and out, the Panasonic has all
...
MATT EXPLAINS
your still and moving image bases covered.
FUJIFILM F80EXR
£175
Undercutting competitor
models by price, the
F80EXR still has a
Backlit sensors
BW
Why are the new back-illuminated sensors useful
27-270mm 10x optical iin compact cameras?
zoom lens with dual
image stabilisation. The real star of the show, One continuing quest for manufacturers is sensor captures light more effectively. And, as the
though, is the EXR sensor which deals with to increase the sensitivity of the sensors wiring’s thickness is less relevant, it’s possible to
independent RGB colour capture differently to inside their cameras. Higher sensitivity allows for incorporate more functionality without
other sensors for higher image quality. 720p HD faster shutter speeds and greater efficiency in compromising the sensor’s light-gathering ability
movie mode also features. lower light, so manufacturers have to think about (to enable, say, faster burst rates).
how a sensor’s construction will influence this. Toshiba and Sony have both developed such
SONY CYBER- On a standard sensor, the wiring and transistors sensors, and each claims that they are 40-60%
SHOT HX5 needed for a sensor’s operation are built so they more efficient than comparable front-illuminated
£275 sit above the light-sensitive photodiode. As the types. Several compacts now feature the
Carries the biggest diagram shows, this construction can prohibit all technology, while cameraphones and video
price tag, but also cameras should also benefit.
the incoming light from reaching the photosite,
stands out from the
particularly light entering at an oblique angle. But As image noise is one of the greatest problems
crowd by looking the
most elegant when lined up against competitors. A less light results in smaller ratio of light to for small-sensor applications, such technology
10x optical zoom lens capable of capturing through unwanted signal (which creates image noise). By employed as standard will likely raise the bar for
a 25-250mm range and full definition 1080i HD changing the sensor’s construction, so the the performance of future models. In DSLRs,
movie mode are complemented by the backlit photodiodes are illuminated from the back of the though, companies say the benefits would simply
Exmor R sensor for optimum low-noise images. You silicon substrate rather than in front of it, the be too small to make them worth using.
get Sony’s Sweep Panorama mode too.
Front-illuminated structure Back-illuminated structure
NIKON COOLPIX
S8000 On-chip Lens
£190 Colour Filter
An affordable option,
Nikon’s S8000 is at the Photo- Substrate
Metal Wiring diode
forefront of the Coolpix
range. It’s the world’s
thinnest 10x optical zoom camera, with a
Light receiving surface
30-300mm lens providing a good range, though a
Photo- Metal Wiring
bit more limited at the wide end. Its 3in high-res
921k-dot screen outdoes much of the competition Substrate diode
in terms of visible detail by a fair margin.
THEHELP!FILE
Which super-
zoom has the
longest lens?
GEORGE COTTERILL VIA EMAIL
TOP
SUPERZOOMS
FUJIFILM
FINEPIX HS10
5
I’m keen on replacing my old Panasonic £320
FZ8, and I’m intrigued by superzoom With a huge 30x (24-720mm)
bridge cameras. Given that I’m now optical zoom lens, Fuji’s HS10
retired, my wife and I are looking to spend more is comparable to little else on
time going away and taking more photos of our the market. There’s a 10fps image capture option,
travels, so a small camera with a superzoom lens Full HD 1080p movie capture, Raw, and a 3in LCD.
seems ideal for us. Would you know which of NIKON P100
these cameras has the longest lens? And which £290
would you recommend? haven’t yet reviewed the SP800UZ, and so Looking like a DSLR, the P100
cannot comment on its performance, the HS10 has a 26x optical zoom and can
We list our top 5 superzooms on the scored an impressive 88% in our review, and was even capture 1080p HD movies.
right. Until recently, two cameras shared awarded a Recommended badge. It can be Its back-illuminated CMOS
the honour of having the longest optical found for about £320. Read the full review at sensor and EXPEED image
zoom: the Olympus SP800UZ and the Fujifilm www.whatdigitalcamera.com. In the last few processing engine promises optimum image quality.
HS10. Each has a 30x optical zoom lens, but the days (as I write) Canon launched the SX30 IS,
former has a longer lens in terms of its focal which has a record-breaking 35x zoom, CANON
length, as it stretches from 28-840mm in though we haven’t had a review sample yet POWERSHOT SX20 IS
contrast to the HS10’s 24-720mm. While we so can’t comment on its abilities. ML £300
With a 20x zoom, the SX20 IS
offers full manual plus Smart
Auto shooting modes. A 2.5in
vari-angle LCD allows for more
unusual shooting opportunities. With 720p HD
movies and a flash hotshoe, it’s a top-quality model.
SONY
CYBER-SHOT HX1
£350
The HX1 marries a 20x optical
zoom with prime G-type glass
for optimum quality. The LCD
can lag and blur when in lower light, but this is a
solid contender also capable of 720p HD movies.
PANASONIC FZ38
£360
Great image quality, a 24x
optical zoom with Power OIS
(Optical Image Stabilisation),
720p HD video that uses the
superb AVCHD Lite H.264 codec, as well as
intelligent Auto (iA) and full manual control.
How do I fix wonky horizons? PHOTO-SHARING

WEBSITES:
JAMES CROSS VIA THE FORUMS
FLICKR £FREE-£16.50/YEAR
I’ve recently gone through some of image, to keep its original size, or grow
Free accounts provide an excellent photo stream,
this summer’s holiday photos from or shrink the canvas to fit. The last two with Pro accounts able to upload full size images.
Scotland, and I’m hoping that one will leave empty space around the edges
of the problems I had when taking them of your rotated image, so for minor PICASA £FREE
may be resolved in Photoshop Elements. adjustments it’s best to pick the trim Desktop picture editing and the ability to share
When shooting the sea I endeavoured option. to a wider audience – and all for free.
to get the horizons straight, but what Now simply drag your mouse along
resulted were a number of images with PHOTOBUCKET £FREE
the horizon to draw a straight line, and Upload and share for free, make slideshows or
near-perfect results. Can I finish this off in when you let go the picture will rotate
Elements? simply browse the huge available library of images.
according to the horizon.
Bear in mind that photos taken with PHOTOSHOP.COM £FREE FOR 2GB
Fixing sloping horizons couldn’t Accounts aren’t searchable unless invited. Also
a relatively wide lens may have suffered
be simpler in Elements. With your includes some online editing tools unlike many
from a little distortion, which will need
image open, select the Straighten other sites.
to be rectified before you can straighten
tool from the toolbar. A drop down menu
a horizon; this can be done through the FACEBOOK £FREE
will appear at the top of the workspace,
Correct Camera Distortion option in the Although relatively small-scale images, tagging
which allows you to select whether you
Filters tab. MT friends and family is a bonus and privacy settings
want the adjustment to trim the resulting can be adjusted.
IMPROVE YOUR
PHOTOGRAPHY
Enrol today on the Foundation in
HOME STUDY
Photography, receive our student
pack and start learning new skills! COURSE
WHAT YOU
WILL LEARN
● Winning composition
● Making landscapes with impact
● Expert metering techniques
● Shooting striking portraits
● Mastering still-life
● Depth of field control
● Controlling flash
o
ntqualifys‘-
d
● Wildlife and nature photography
● Using colour
● Sports and action shots
*Thishprice
● Choosing the right lens rbasc
enio
tud is a special rate for those w
COURSE
FEES ONLY
who
s do not
£299
ersi qualify as a ‘full-time’
IIn
n association
a with
w
Foundation in
m studentvin order to obtain a discounted
u
c
o
ik
.n w w
ww
www.nikon.co.uk k
ero f Offer onn
Of
toshp o Ph
Photoshop
photography
Extend CS55 Extended
exclusivda r Our
Ou exclusive deal
Adobealwsuh t with
wi Adobe allows ourr
dentsopurcha u students
t to purchase
xt £2 E dn fr CS55 Extended
e for
o £250*
5
d version
o of CS5 extended direct from Adobe
To enrol or for more information visit

www.spi-photography-courses.com
THEHELP!FILE
Will my minolta lenses work on the neX-5?
Tony Woodman Via email
You mentioned that the Sony NEX-5 is the closest
hybrid system camera to a DSLR in terms of its
image quality, and I’m interested to know whether TIP OF
my old Minolta AF lenses will work on it. I’m guessing Sony
has provided an adaptor of some sort for its Alpha lenses THE M O NcaTmHera’s
ur
to be used on the NEX-5. Am I right in assuming that this up yo
Speed
would work with my lenses as well?
processing timese
by turning off nois nge
ic ra
Yes, you are. The adaptor you need is the Sony reduction, dynam gnetting
an d vi
optimisation
LA-EA1, which allows both Sony Alpha and Minolta
know you
control when you g them.
AF lenses to be used on its NEX cameras, albeit without
the ability to autofocus. You can find one for around £145
online. Visit www.sony.co.uk for more information. mg won’t be needin
HELP ME! i want a micro

system Camera
with a viewfinder
James HiCKs Via WdC FoRUm asKs...
For the last This is a growing genre which, as you
couple of say, offers the main benefits of DSLRs
years I’ve but in a smaller package. They achieve
been using a their size by doing away with the mirror and
Panasonic FZ38 prism assembly that DSLRs use for their
bridge camera but viewing system. They currently fall into two
would now like to design camps: miniaturised DSLR style, and
upgrade to something with more manual control enlarged compact style. The former includes
and interchangeable lenses. I’ve looked at a few the Panasonic G10, G2 and GH1, and
DSLRs but to be honest I find myself drawn more Samsung NX10 while the latter type, which
to what you refer to as Micro System Cameras. includes the Olympus E-P or Pen series,
They’re smaller, lighter and just feel more modern. Panasonic GF1 and Sony NEX models, are all
I travel a lot in my work and will use it for travel smaller but lack the built-in electronic
shots as well as documentary shots of my family, viewfinders (EVFs). They do, however, all have
aBoVe James Hicks likes to photograph his dog, Yoda
and my dog Yoda. My main requirements are: the ability to accept an optional slip-on EVF,
high quality pictures and video and a viewfinder, for around £200 extra. Of the three models my pick would probably be the Panasonic GF1
as the LCD screens are hard to see in bright sun. I because with the EVF removed the camera becomes small enough to slip in a pocket. If you want
can spend up to £800 for the camera and the EVF built in I might be inclined to go for the Samsung NX10 based on image quality and
pancake lens plus, if possible, the zoom lens. value for money, though the Lumix G2 is the more technologically sophisticated camera. na
oPTion 1 oPTion 2 oPTion 3

samsUnG nX10 PanasoniC G2 PanasoniC GF1
with 18-55mm and 30mm with 14-42mm and 20mm with 14-42mm, 20mm pancake
pancake lenses £550* f/2.8 pancake lenses £800* and lVF1 viewfinder £800*
PROS and cOnS: The most DSLR-like PROS and cOnS: The 3in vari-angle touch PROS and cOnS: Neither Olympus’s Pen series
model here, yet smaller and has an EVF. The screen, which you can use to select settings, drag and or Panasonic’s GF1 have viewfinders but you can
screen is a 3in AMOLED, which is brighter and resize the focusing area and even fire the shutter by buy a slip-on one. The E-P2 twin lens kit is beyond
more fluid in handling motion than LCD. The touching that part of your scene you want the camera your budget, otherwise the E-PL1 kit includes the 14-
NX10’s main advantage is its APS-C sensor, to focus on. It’s amazing. The G2 also offers a 1.4MP 42mm and 40-150mm, but no the pancake. You can
which is larger than the others here, so you EVF, a 12.1MP LiveMOS sensor and 720p AVCHD Lite afford the excellent Panasonic GF1 – but only just.
get better image quality. It’s great value too. movies with stereo sound.
SEnSOR: 14.6MP APS-C SEnSOR: 12.1MP Four-Thirds SEnSOR: 12MP Four-Thirds
ScREEn: 3in AMOLED Lcd ScREEn: 3in vari-angle touch screen Lcd ScREEn: 3in LCD 460k dots
ISO RangE: ISO 100 to 3200 ISO RangE:ISO 100 to 6400 ISO RangE: ISO 100 to 3200
dImEnSIOnS: 123x87x39.8mm / 353g dImEnSIOnS: 124x83.6x74mm / 593g dImEnSIOnS: 119x71x36.3mm / 285g
Wdc TEST ScORE: 88% Wdc TEST ScORE: 87% Wdc TEST ScORE: 89%
*At www.jessops.com *At www.warehouseexpress.com *At www.srsmicrosystems.co.uk

WWW.WHaTdiGiTalCameRa.Com 33
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
Tripods ...and other supports

A reliable tripod or support is an essential tool
for landscape photography and much more.
Here’s everything you need to know
WORDS NIGEL ATHERTON
If
I you want to get serious about your want to sacrifice image quality by raising the ISO. subject but our shaking too. The more we zoom,
photography then you need a tripod. Or you may be using a slower shutter speed the faster our shutter speed must be to avoid
Whether you’re into landscapes, nature, because you want to. Perhaps you’ve selected a small shake. The rule of thumb is that the shutter
wildlife, macro or portraiture, a tripod can aperture, for maximum depth of field. Or you may speed should be higher than the lens focal
help you achieve better, sharper results. If have chosen a slow shutter speed because you want length, so if your lens is at 200mm you need a
you want to try night photography, astro to introduce artistic motion blur to a moving subject, shutter speed over 1/200sec.
photography, panoramic or time-lapse such as running water or car lights. A tripod eliminates But other factors come into play too, such as
photography it’s a pre-requisite. A tripod this movement, enabling speeds of minutes or hours. the weight and balance of the camera and lens,
expands your creative potential dramatically. So at which point should a shutter speed be deemed how we hold it, and whether your gear benefits
Tripods have many benefits. They enable you ‘slow’ enough to benefit from the use of a tripod? from image-stabilisation technology, which delays
to fix the camera’s gaze on a predetermined spot The answer is that it’s any speed that isn’t fast the visible effects of camera shake by 2-3 stops.
– perfect for achieving precise composition, and enough to prevent camera shake, but that depends So now that you’re convinced about why you
a level horizon, in landscapes and panoramas, or on several factors. The lens focal length is one of need a tripod and how it’s going to improve your
for saving your arms when you need to keep a them. As we zoom, the lens not only magnifies the photography, here’s our guide to buying one...
camera and heavy lens trained on, say, a nest or
the corner on a racetrack, for extended periods.
In portraiture they enable you to build a rapport
with your subject rather than keeping your face TRIPOD HEADS Many budget tripods come with a fixed head, but
with the better ones you buy the legs then choose the
appropriate
a head separately. Heads come in various
hidden behind your viewfinder. Many genres of
PAN & shapes
s and sizes but there are two main types...
photography depend on a fixed camera – from
TILT HEADS
the multiple exposures required for HDR and
time-lapse photography, to the single plane
With 3-way a BALL HEADS
heads, each Ball heads represent the
movement necessary for panoramas.
plane of fastest way to adjust your
movement camera’s position. Typically,
AVOIDING THE SHAKES – vertical you undo one lock and
The most obvious benefit of a tripod is that movement, the head can be adjusted
they enable you to get sharper shots at slower horizontal rotation (panning), and in every direction then
shutter speeds. Even at moderate shutter speeds sideways rotation (for portrait orientation re-locked to that position
the movement caused by our body movement of the camera or levelling the horizon) – though some have a
reduces the image sharpness. The slower the has its own lock, enabling movement in a separate lock for the pan
shutter speed the less sharp our pictures become. single plane. This is useful for some movement. Manfrotto and
Shooting at fast shutter speeds isn’t always subjects (e.g. landscapes, architecture) but Slik also produce ball heads with a sprung grip-lock.
practical, or desirable. You may be forced into slows things down when you want to You squeeze to unlock and release to lock. They’re
using a slower shutter speed because the light adjust all the angles at the same time. easy to use but add to the weight.
level is too low to use a faster one and you don’t
TRIPOD MONOPOD POD

RIP
TABLETOP TRI
RNATIVES
£20
£ TO £200 £10 TO £30
£
ALTER Although
A
exposures
e
you can’t do very long
with one, a monopod
Some tripods are CLAMPS
small enough to fit
If you don’t lre
cwant to carry a l
u
d will
wi reduce the minimum safe in a pocket. While £15
£ TO £100 Handy for
tripod, or the terrain in which shutter
s speed by several stops. the cheap and flimsy attaching cameras, flashguns,
you are operating won’t They’re
T ideal for when you want plastic ones are only reflectors and whatever solid
facilitate the use of one, don’t something
s lighter to carry, or when really suitable for compacts,
o some of the surfaces will fit between their
worry – there are a number of tripods
t are prohibited or there isn’t better metal ones can support a DSLR. vice-like jaws. Go for the
alternatives that have been room
r to put one up (e.g, crowded You’ll need to find a wall, table or other stronger, metal clamps (such
specially designed to events),
e or for resting a heavy lens surface to put it on, or shoot from as those made by Manfrotto)
suit most needs. on,
o to take the strain off your arms. ground level, but they can be a lifesaver. for supporting your DSLR.
ROUGH GUIDE: TRIPODS
Leg Construction
Most tripods are made from aluminium, but
thickness and strength varies greatly. Very light
Angle Adjustments aluminium tripods are likely to be flimsy, and are
best avoided. On the other hand, the better
Most decent tripods quality ones can be quite heavy. Carbon fibre
enable the legs to be legs provide the best weight/stability ratio,
opened out at a range of shaving about a third off the weight while
angles right up to 90°. offering greater rigidity, but they cost at least
This makes it easier to set double the price of comparable aluminium legs.
the tripod up on uneven Still, if you’re going to be carrying your tripod
ground, or to splay the around a lot, this premium may be worth it.
legs wide for low-level
shooting. With Benbo
tripods all the legs can be Leg Sections
simultaneously set to any Most tripods feature telescopic leg sections that extend into either
angle via a single lock. three or four sections. Three sections means there’s less locking and
unlocking of each leg to be done, but with four sections the tripod
can collapse to a smaller size, making it easier to carry, and to pack
into a suitcase for travelling.
Leg Locks
Most leg sections must be unlocked to be extended and then
locked again before use. There are two main types. The
quick-release locks (left) are the speediest to operate.
Twist-action leg locks are slower to use and more prone to
slippage, but there are no chunky attachments that stick out.
Premium twist locks, like those on Gitzo tripods, don’t suffer
from this so much, but cost a lot more. The Manfrotto
Neotec tripod bypasses leg locks altogether in favour of a
clutch-based push-pull action.
Quick Release Plates

Most tripods provide a quick-release
plate on top of the head that
comes off the tripod and
screws into the bottom of
your camera. By attaching the
Centre Column plate to your camera before
The centre column enables the camera to be you go (or leaving it
raised higher once the legs are fully extended, permanently attached) you can fit your
but at the cost of stability. On some tripods the camera to the tripod very quickly, which speeds up the
centre column can be reversed for low-level set-up time and ensures that you never miss a shot.
shooting, or turned horizontally like a boom arm,
making it easier to point the camera towards the
ground. Some feature a hook on the bottom to
hang your bag for extra stability. Tripods Feet
designed to support heavy gear may come with a Most tripods come with rubber feet,
geared centre column that can be wound up and but if you often shoot in muddy fields
down. These are often combined with leg braces you may prefer spikes for a firmer grip.
for greater stability. Some tripods offer both, with rubber
feet that screw up to reveal spikes.
GORILLAPOD BEANBAGS SUCTION CUPS

£15
£ TO £90 £10 TO £30 £10 TO £30
Still a tripod (kind Beanbags are popular Give it a lick, slap it on
of), the bendy, with nature to the nearest window
twisty Gorillapod photographers. Their big and voila, you now
can be wrapped advantage is that, when empty, they weigh have a limpet-like
around tree almost nothing and take up no room in your support for your camera.
branches and the h bag. But fill them with sand or gravel and they Suction cups such as the Delkin Fat Gecko
like, providing an alternative method of mould around your camera and hold it firmly. can be a useful and practical support
support. The smallest one is only suitable You can even fill them with rice before you go. wherever you have glass, metal or some
for compacts though there are larger ones They need to be used at ground level or placed other smooth surface to stick them to –
for DSLRs, such as the Gorillapod Focus. on, say, a rock or branch for a higher viewpoint. such as your car, for example.
MYDIGITALCAMERA
Send us your best pictures and you

could win a great Manfrotto tripod!
HACON EDGELY
FROM: YEOVIL
www.haconedgleyphotography.co.uk
NIKON D200
The Nikon D200 was released in 2005, and
I have been a D200 user a secondhand DSLR, I would heartily
although it has been superseded by several
since early 2007, and recommend a D200 or even a D2x. new models it’s still available secondhand. It
remain very satisfied with Nevertheless, it is worth noting the features a 10MP CCD sensor and offers 5fps
the results. However, it is limitations and age of the models. shooting, as well as having a weather-sealed
worth noting that I predominantly shoot at For those who are technically minded, body and 2.5in LCD screen.
base ISO and in Nikon’s native raw format. good Photoshop skills in interpolation,
colour correction and noise reduction can • 10.2MP, 23.7 x 15.6mm CCD sensor
At the time it was announced, the D200
• 3D Colour Matrix Metering II system
set a new benchmark in consumer digital get you around the immediate limitations. • 5fps continuous shooting up to 37 JPEGs
imaging, arguably giving aspiring amateurs Otherwise I believe that unless printing • ISO 100-1600, extended to 3200
a rugged semi-professional tool without above A3 the differences are not evidently • 2.5in, 230,000-dot TFT LCD screen
burning a severe hole in the wallet. Since the discernible. • Magnesium weather-sealed body
D200 launched there have been a number
of successors but they are in my opinion not WIN A MANFROTTO
night and day. However, where I do feel the M-Y TRIPOD 7301YVB
D200 truly struggles in today’s field is image WORTH £129.95
noise and white balance. First of all, the The easily portable 7301YB has an integrated
noise issue – while images up to ISO 200/280 FAR LEFT: DEVIL’S CAULDRON three-way head with separate
are relatively clean, noise becomes apparent Taken at Lydford Gorge, Devon pan and tilt locks, a quick-
with images captured at anything over ISO 18-70mm @ 30mm, 8 seconds, f/16, ISO 100 release plate and a short
ergonomic bar, particularly
400 and beyond. Noise also intervenes on useful for panning or tracking
long exposures. Secondly, the white balance BELOW: LEAF AND STREAM
moving subjects.
which is perhaps a more acute problem, River Carey, near Launceston, Cornwall. Upload your best pictures
hence why I tend to set it manually. 70-300mm VR lens @ 300mm, 1.8 seconds, f/11, ISO 100 to our website gallery and
For those on a budget or looking to buy you could win a Manfrotto
tripod. See page 138 for
details.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK 37

3
MY DIGITALCAMERA
ABOVE: GULL ROCK AT TWILIGHT

This image was taken at Trebarwith Strand, north
Cornwall. Gull Rock is around 600 yards offshore, and is
a stunning focal point for an image.
52 seconds @ f/16, !SO 100
ABOVE: BURTON BRADSTOCK

Moonrise at Burton Bradstock,
in Dorset. The village of Burton
Bradstock sits at the westerly
end of Chesil Beach and is a
wonderful location for photography.
3 seconds @ f/16, ISO 100
ABOVE: GULL ROCK NO.1

Trebarwith Strand, north Cornwall.
To change the focus on Gull Rock,
I walked down to the beach.
RIGHT: BOSSINEY STEPS

An atmospheric shot of the
Bossiney Steps at Bossiney Cove,
on the north Cornish coast. The
steps work well at leading the eye
through the image.
38
3 IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK
MY DIGITALCAMERA
CANON 400D
The mid-range Canon EOS 400D was the first
Canon DSLR to feature an integrated image
sensor vibrating cleaning system – a welcome
addition for many Canon fans. The 400D is still
readily availible online and secondhand.
• 10.1MP, CMOS APS-C 22.2 x 14.8mm sensor

• 9 AF points, 3fps continuous shooting
• 2.5in, 230,000-dot LCD screen
• Pentamirror viewfinder, 95% coverage
• Integrated image sensor cleaning system
WIN A MANFROTTO
M-Y TRIPOD 7301YVB
WORTH £129.95
The easily portable 7301YB has an integrated
three-way head with separate pan and tilt
locks, a quick-release plate
and a short ergonomic bar,
particularly useful
for panning or tracking
moving subjects.
Upload your best pictures
to our website gallery and
you could win a Manfrotto
tripod. See page 138 for
details.
ROY
DOBB
FROM: NORTH BEDS
www.f lickr.com/7226518@N04/
I’ve enjoyed my Canon EOS
400D for about two and a half
years, having moved from film to digital
via a Panasonic Lumix point and shoot. It
is well balanced and getting used to it was
straightforward since I’d had an EOS 300 SLR
beforehand. I tend towards both landscape
and nature shots, so the ability to switch
picture modes is useful, as is the bracketing
function. The camera has proved to be pretty
robust – a good job since it has been dropped
and got pretty wet too (should I have said
that?!). It has most functions that I use, and
more besides, so I’m a satisfied customer.
40
4 IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK
CANONEOS 400D
ABOVE: ESCAPING THE RAIN

This is the main chamber of the
Cathedral Quarries in Cumbria.
They are a chain of inter-linked
quarries above Little Langdale.
0.6sec @ f/8, ISO 200
LEFT: TANTALISING
Even though the weather was poor
on this morning, I’m glad I took my
camera with me to capture the sun
coming through the clouds.
1/500sec @ f/8, ISO 200
TOP LEFT: FISHING AT SUNSET

A three-shot, handheld DP-HDR, in
which I’ve tried to keep the natural
look. A few wobbles and flare, but
I’m happy with it overall.
Various @ f/11, ISO 400
FAR LEFT: VALLEY OF MIST
The wonderful Great Ouse river
between Felmersham and Odell,
Bedfordshire ‘buried’ beneath a
cloud of thick morning mist.
1/160sec @ f/5.6
IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK 4

41
YES! I would like to subscribe to What Digital Camera
■ 6 monthly Direct Debit, pay only £14.99 every 6 months
saving 42% off the full price of £25.94
■ 2 year subscription (26 issues), pay only £64.99, save 37%
■ 1 year subscription (13 issues), pay only £34.99, save 32%
Give more
Your Details ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss: Forename:
Save more
Surname: ★ ★
If you would like to receive emails from What Digital Camera and IPC containing news, special offers, product and service
information and, occasionally, take part in our magazine research via email, please include your email below.
★ ★ ★
Email:
Address: ★
★
★ ★
Postcode: h
Great savings when
Home Tel No: (inc. area code) you buy two or more
If you would you like to receive messages from What Digital Camera and IPC containing news, special offers, product and service
information and, occasionally, take part in our magazine research via your mobile, please include your mobile phone number below. subscriptions. ★
Mobile No.: Many more top titles
Year of Birth: to choose from.
I would like to send a gift to:
Please also fill out ‘Your Details’ above. To give more than one subscription, please
supply address details on a separate sheet. Offer only available online or byy phone.
Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss: Forename: ★ ★
Surname:
Address:
Postcode:
Home Tel No: (inc. area code)

If the person receiving the subscription for is under 18, please add their year of birth here:
❆ A subscription makes a thoughtful and
Year of Birth: lasting gift – there’s a magazine for everyone!
Choose from 3 easy ways to pay:
1. Pay £14.99 every 6 months by Direct Debit (Complete the Direct Debit form below)
❆ Why not treat yourself?
2.
3.
I enclose a cheque/postal order made payable to
IPC Media Ltd., for the amount of £ __________________
Please debit £________________ from my:
❆ Convenient delivery to you or your recipient
■ Visa
Card No:
■ Visa Debit ■ MasterCard ■ Amex ■ Maestro
(Maestro only)
❆ Free gift card with every gift subscription
received before 9th December*
Expiry Date: Issue No./Start Date:
Plus – WIN one of three holidays

Signature:
(I am over 18)
Date: to New York with Travelbag,
Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay by Direct Debit worth £2,000!**
For office use only. Originator’s reference - 764 221
■■■■■■■■■■
Prize draw closes 1st February 2011. You will automatically be entered
A/C No into the prize draw on purchasing a subscription. For more information
Name of Bank:
about this fantastic prize and for terms and conditions please visit
www.magazinesdirect.com/prizedrawnewyork and for more information
Address: about Travelbag please visit www.travelbag.co.uk
Postcode:
Account Name:
Sort Code: Account No:
Please pay IPC Media Ltd. Direct Debits from the account detailed on this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by
the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with IPC Media Ltd. and if so, details will be passed
3 EASY WAYS TO ORDER
electronically to my Bank or Building Society.
POST:
Signature: Date:
complete the coupon opposite and send to:
(I am over 18)
IPC Media Ltd., FREEPOST SEA 4394,
Offer only open to new subscribers. Final closing date for all orders is 1st February 2011. Orders purchased as a gift before the 9th December 2010 will
✁
start with the February 2011 issue published in January. All gift orders purchased after this date will begin with the first available issue. Orders purchased
for yourself will start with the next available issue – please allow up to six weeks for delivery. All prices are discounted from the full subscription rate Haywards Heath, WEST SUSSEX, RH16 3BR
advertised in each title, include P&P and are correct at time of going to press. The 6-monthly offer is only available in the UK by Direct Debit. If the maga-
zine ordered changes frequency per annum, we will honour the number of issues paid for, not the term of the subscription. For enquiries and overseas
rates call: +44 (0)330 3330 233, or email: ipcsubs@quadrantsubs.co.uk What Digital Camera, published by IPC Media Ltd (IPC), will collect your personal (NO STAMP NEEDED)
information to process your order and to gain a better understanding of our readership. What Digital Camera and IPC would like to contact you by post or
telephone to promote and ask your opinion on our magazines and services. Please tick here if you prefer not to hear from us . IPC may occasionally pass
your details to carefully selected organisations so that they can contact you by telephone or post with regards to promoting and researching their products
and services. Please tick here if you prefer not to be contacted . IPC would like to email you with offers from carefully selected organisations and brands,
*If you supply an email address your order will be acknowledged by email and you will be given the
promoting and researching their products and services. If you want to receive these messages please tick here . **PRIZE DRAW: Travelbag, the option to request a gift card electronically or by post. If you do not supply an email address you will
tailor-made travel specialists, are giving you the chance to win one of three 5 star breaks for two adults to New York, flying with Virgin Atlantic for three automatically be sent a postal gift card.
nights, worth £2,000! A full list of the prize draw terms and conditions is available at www.magazinesdirect.com/prizedrawnewyork Entrants must be
over 18. No purchase necessary. Please tick here to enter prize draw only . The prize draw closes on 1st February 2011.
CODE: AMET
Special Christmas Subscription Offer
s t m a s g i f t f o r
perfect Chri
The
o n l y £14 . 9 9
Save
42%
ONLINE: PHONE:
www.magazinesdirect.com
/itik 0844 848 0848
Please have your payment details ready when you call.
QUOTE CODE: AMET
Lines open 7 days a week, 8am to 9pm.
THE DIRECT DEBIT GUARANTEE: ● This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay Direct Debits ● If there are any changes to the amount, date or
frequency of your Direct Debit IPC Media Ltd. will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. If you request IPC Media Ltd. to collect a payment,
confirmation of the amount and date will be given to you at the time of the request. ● If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit, by IPC Media Ltd. or your bank or building society you are
entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society – If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when IPC Media Ltd. asks you to.
● You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society. Written confirmation may be required. Please also notify us.
HOW TO SHOOT
A t
Autumn
Landscapes
It’s the most photogenic season, so make the most of it
WORDS BY MAT GALLAGHER
As summer bids its final farewell it is time leaves to fall within just a few days and, you can achieve some stunning results
to get your cameras poised for perhaps as the days shorten, the time you have that will make all your effort worthwhile.
the most photogenic season of the year. to capture images in daylight is severely In this feature we take a look at some
Autumn sees the shortening of days, limited, especially during the working of the ways to maximise your autumn
misty mornings, fiery sunsets, and rich week. Also, autumn traditionally brings shooting potential and get the very best
oranges and reds in the trees before the plenty of wet weather along with it, out of the season. Try to use these pages
leaves fall and blanket the landscape. causing potential shoots to become a as inspiration for your next outing and
Later in the season you may see dewdrops complete washout or at the very least, aim to try something new, whether it’s a
Adam Burton
on the undergrowth and the first frost dull and grey. new location, a technique or a style. That
as we move into October and November. So plenty of planning is needed to way you’ll have plenty of new material to
Opportunities are often fleeting, however, ensure you get the right shots. With a edit and manipulate at home as the longer
as a change of weather can cause the little patience though, and good planning nights draw in.
44
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
45
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
The most noticeable facet of an autumnal scene

is the distinctive colour: the rich warm tones and
the range of browns, reds and oranges. This
abundance of warm tones can play havoc with
auto white balance systems and, in the same way
as sunsets, can end up looking too cool toned.
For this reason it is important to use the Sunny
white balance preset, especially if shooting in
JPEG – as Raw files can easily be corrected in
processing. To boost the richness of the colours
you can also try selecting the Cloudy preset,
or increasing the colour temperature when
processing your Raw file.
LOCATIONS
As the main emphasis of most autumnal shots
is the changing colour of leaves, it pays to find a
location that not only has a wealth of trees but a
range of different plant life to create a wide range
of tones in your image, from green to brown and
red. Different species of trees will change colour
differently and at varying times, while others will
maintain their full greenery all year, giving a wide
spectrum through your scene. Aside from heavily
wooded areas it is also worth considering more
urban or residential areas where trees feature, or
local parks that will also provide you with people
in your scene.
ANIMALS
Don’t be tempted to purely focus on the foliage.
Capturing wildlife in their natural environment,
among the rich colours, can be even more
rewarding. A popular subject at this time of year
Craig Roberts
is deer, as they have recently lost the fur from

their antlers, leaving them stark and clean for
great silhouettes. They can be easily spotted in
country parks across the UK and are usually tame
enough to get a decent shot.
GOLDEN HOUR These are the best times for photography
Daylight hours start to decrease rapidly as autumn at any time of year but, for October and
PREVIOUS PAGE Shafts of sunlight stream through progresses so you need to make sure you get your November especially, they offer a more
these branches onto the blanket of leaves on the ground timing right. The shorter days can actually help as impressive potential. Early morning mist is
ABOVE RIGHT With its rich auburn colours, the River it makes getting up in time for the dawn light, and more common and this can help create a
Brathay in the Lake District has a perfect autumnal feel staying out for sunset, a far less arduous endeavour. great atmosphere to your images as the sun
rises through it. In the evening, sunsets can
add even more warmth to your image to
complement the redness. The ‘golden hour’
refers to the optimum time for photography
that occurs at daybreak and dusk when the
sun lights up the sky and is often still hidden
behind the horizon, giving a soft warm light.
KNOW BEFORE
YOU GO!
THINK COLOUR
colours – plenty of
Look for bright, contrasting
eren t shades of colour.
reds and greens. Or diff
KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN

always the only one
The view at eye level is not
. In aut umn, much of the
worth photographing
is above eye leve l or at your feet.
interest
USE A TRIPOD
those long
Keep your camera steady for
maximum
Niall Benvie
a sharper sho t and

exposures for
depth of field in your picture.
ABOVE This image of backlit pine trees in the mist, in Abernethy, Scotland, evokes a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere
46
AUTUMNLANDSCAPES
RULE OF THIRDS
A good landscape image always relies on strong
composition and the easiest way to achieve this is
by using the rule of thirds. The principle is to divide
your image up into thirds both horizontally and
vertically. The result is a series of lines that cross
your image, which can then be used as a guide for
your composition. It is best to place your horizon
on one of the two horizontal lines, and to have any
foreground interest in line with one of the vertical
lines. Following these rules avoids subjects being
placed directly in the centre of the shot and creates
much more pleasing compositions.
For your autumn scenes, where you may be
concentrating on the trees, you may want to have
the horizon on the lower horizontal, with the
branches and leaves filling the upper sections of
the composition. For a standard landscape you
would generally place your horizon on the higher
horizontal line, leaving room for your foreground in
the lower third.
Leading lines can also be beneficial to any
landscape, as they help guide the viewer into and
Craig Roberts
through the image. The ideal is to lead the viewer’s
ABOVE This landscape photo shows great use of the rule of thirds, with the horizon on the upper horizontal and the fence
posts entering the frame in the bottom left section to draw your eye into the image
eye in from the bottom left of the image lines either on the focusing screen or on the
towards the centre or top right, intersecting live view display, so you can ensure everything
with the lower horizontal ‘thirds’ line at its is lined up in the best positions before you
entry point to the frame. A wall or fence, take the shot. However, with a little practice,
such as in the example above, is ideal for this you will soon learn to judge a scene for
purpose, though a path, river or even a line of yourself and you can always make slight
trees can provide the same effect. adjustments to your composition using the
Many cameras will offer assistance in your crop tool afterwards when editing your images
composition by providing rule of thirds dividing on the computer.
DEPTH OF FIELD
Depth of field is the term for the amount of the
image that remains in focus. As the focal plane
remains perpendicular with the sensor, the area
of focus can be thought of as a depth, going back
into the image. For landscape images we generally
want to maximise this focal depth, or depth of
field, to keep as much of the image sharp as
possible. This is achieved by using a small aperture,
such as f/18 or f/22, but can also be affected by
Adam Burton
whereabouts in your image you focus: your depth

of field extends both in front and behind your
point of focus – usually around one third in front
and two thirds behind – so, by focusing on infinity ABOVE This stunning landscape from Adam Burton utilises the maximum depth of field to keep the entire
(the furthest point) you can actually be wasting image sharp. Lenses such as this Sigma 12-24mm (above right) offer focus markings and aperture markings.
up to a third of your focused area. The hyperfocal
distance refers, in part, to the point of focus in
your image to obtain the maximum depth of field.
You can find the optimum focal length by
using a depth of field table or, if your lens provides
marked focus distance, the chances are it will
provide depth of field marks at certain apertures.
These marks (two for each aperture) will show
you the depth of field for each aperture and, by
lining the right-sided one with the infinity symbol, APERTURE The camera should first SCALE The markings in the focus OLDER LENSES Aperture markings
the left-sided marker will line up with the closest be set to your Aperture priority mode, window allow you to line up your are more common on older lenses and
distance that objects will be in focus. Alternatively, and a small aperture (f/16 or above) infinity with your aperture, while the are now generally reserved for high-end
you can use the markers to determine what should be chosen. second shows the minimum focus. models only.
aperture you will need to get your scene in focus.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
47
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
MACRO
Autumn photography isn’t limited to just wide
vistas; homing in on some fine detail can make
for an equally great shot. Fallen leaves are perfect
candidates for a macro shot, as are the colourful
plants and berries that start to bloom this time
of year. So when you’re out and about it’s worth
looking around your feet as well as just what’s in
front of you. Macro photography is about getting
a subject life-size on your sensor, so you can
really explore the detail and colour. This requires
a specialist macro lens so that you can focus close
enough but many lenses offer close focusing that
will allow you to get a reasonable distance from
your subject. Try shooting bright subjects against
contrasting backgrounds, such as a rich red leaf
against a grey rock, or a coloured berry against
a plain green backdrop. Alternatively look for
patterns and textures, focusing in on areas of bark
or piles of leaves to create interesting abstract
patterns in your composition. Using a tripod is very
important with macro shots, as even the slightest
movement can cause blurring.
Niall Benvie (all three images)
48
AUTUMNLANDSCAPES
RUNNING WATER enough shutter speed this way, you can
Normally, movement in an image can use neutral density filters. These simply
cause problems, but in the case of water reduce the amount of light entering the
it can actually improve it. By emphasising camera without adjusting or altering it and
instead of trying to eliminate the means you can reduce your shutter speed
movement you can create a soft blur that without overexposing your image. This
makes the running water look more like process is great for injecting calm into an
cotton wool. By using a longer shutter image and the effect can work just as well
speed of half a second or more, with the on clouds or trees and grass being blown
camera sturdily mounted on a tripod, the around by the wind. MG
water can blur while the rest
of the scene stays sharp. Often
the late afternoon lighting is
low enough for this to happen
naturally, especially in wooded
areas, but there are some ways to
help the process on its way.
Smaller aperture shots will
require longer shutter speeds to
gain the same amount of light,
so by reducing the size of the
aperture (increasing the number)
Craig Roberts
it is possible to reduce your
Niall Benvie
shutter speed and therefore the

blurring. For brighter days, when
it isn’t possible to obtain a long
ABOVE By using a slow shutter speed (long exposure), the leaves flowing ABOVE An ND filter has allowed the light to be reduced entering the
down the stream have become a blur of colour in this image camera, providing a slow enough shutter speed to blur this water
GLOVES MACRO LENS

If you’re taking A macro lens will allow you to focus right in on
pictures the detail and capture some stunning colour and
your texture, making it perfect for plant life and the
hands are autumn colours. So make sure you keep one in
constantly your kit bag.
exposed
to the
elements WIDEANGLE LENS
– instead This is the most useful lens for your autumn shots
of nicely because it gives you a nice wide view with the
tucked away in your option of a vast depth of field. For APS-C cameras
GEAR YOU NEED

pockets – so can very quickly get cold. You a 10-20mm is ideal, while full-frame users might
need a pair that will still allow you to operate want a 24mm prime.
your camera while keeping you warm. Consider
fingerless pairs or thinner thermal types – some
WARM CLOTHES manufacturers, such as Lowepro, even produce FILTERS
Standing around in the wilderness while the specialist photo gloves for this purpose. Filters allow you to control the tonal range and
sun is low in the sky can be chilly work, so bring it within a more even range. By using
make sure you wrap up warm. Particularly as graduated ND filters you can darken a bright sky, or
you are likely to be TORCH with solid ND, slow a stream of water into a blur.
standing still for As the light fades it can become difficult to find
a long period of buttons on your camera or even spare cards
time. Build up the inside your camera bag, so have a small pocket
layers and include torch on you. It can also be handy to light the
waterproofs for way on your walk back to the car.
when the skies
invariably open.
TRIPOD
Long shutter speeds
WELLIES are needed to create
Getting the right a large depth of field,
angle for your and at dusk or dawn
composition can especially you’ll need
often require a steady tripod to
standing on ground avoid camera shake. WATERPROOF COVER
that is less firm, If you’re serious about When the rain does come down you usually have
such as a boggy your autumn shots, two choices: put your camera away or get it wet,
field – or even in make sure you bring but with an all-weather cover like the Kata E-690,
the middle of a stream. By donning a pair of the sturdiest tripod you can keep shooting whatever the weather.
wellies you can ensure your feet stay warm you can carry.
and dry, no matter where you venture.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
49
SHOOTING
Time-Lapse
Follow our guide to shooting and editing time-lapse
Kevin
Meredith
Kevin is an acclaimed
photographer, author
of several books and
photography teacher.
http://lomokev.com
videos and you’ll be creating them in no time at all
WORDS AND PICTURES BY KEVIN MEREDITH
GEAR
Have you ever seen breathtaking footage of freezing moments in time, but with time-lapse
a flower blossoming in the first light of day? photography you can make time pass quicker,
Or a sunset where night turns into day within allowing you to observe things that usually • DSLR and timer cable release OR
a few seconds and a showcases the full happen too slowly for you to notice. The • Camera with built-in time-lapse function
gamut of that spectacular natural lightshow? aforementioned setting of a flower blossoming • Fast memory card of at least 2GB
If you’ve seen either and wondered how or a sun setting are two of the most popular • Spare batteries
exactly the look is achieved, then wonder no subjects, though, when given the time-lapse • Tripod
more. What you would have been observing treatment, even the simplest things can make for • Calculator
is an application of time-lapse photography mesmerising viewing. And although the thought • Intervalometer (a posh cable release)
• Fold-up chair
– the act of taking a large number of photos of shooting thousands of images and then
at a set interval, and then combining them in painstakingly combining them in post-production
post production to create a single movie file. can seem quite intimidating, following our simple
Now, as photographers we are used to guide will take the pain out of the process.
50
TECHNIQUETIME-LAPSE
THE PROCESS
Before starting, decide what time interval you
are going to shoot at. This will depend on what
frame rate you’re going to play your video clip,
how long you want the final movie to be, and
how long you want to shoot for.
Frame rates are measured in frames per second
(fps). To give you an idea of how fast the fps
needs to be for smooth video, TVs conventionally
display moving images at 25fps, while the
movies you see at the cinema run at 24fps.
30fps traditionally gives the smoothest playback
however, although – depending on what you
are capturing – 12fps can be fine to give you an
illusion of motion.
As to video length, any time between 20
and 90 seconds is good – anything less than
20 seconds is a bit too short and if you start
straying beyond 90 seconds you’ll be dealing
with a vast number of images. To work out
the number of images you’re going to have to
capture, you’ll need to carry out some simple
mathematics.
IMAGE RESOLUTION TRIGGERING YOUR EXPOSURES

While most photographers are in agreement that
Raw files are the best type for individual images,
If you have a camera that you can plug a cable
release into, you might be able to get what
SUMS
First you must multiply your fps by your
when it comes to time-lapse photography, is called a remote control or timer remote. desired video length, in seconds; this
thousands of images are involved, and handling This bit of kit is sometimes referred to as an gives you the total number of frames,
such a vast number of Raw images is not much intervalometer. These are one step up from a or pictures, you need to shoot. You then
fun. Set your camera capture to the smallest JPEG cable release as they allow you to set the interval divide your shooting time, in seconds, by
it offers, with a resulting image of around 2496 at which your photos are shot. If you have a your total number of frames. If you know
x 1664 pixels. When you consider that high- Nikon D3, D200, D300, D700, or D5000 you are you are shooting for 30 minutes and you
definition (HD) TV is 1920 x 1080, you can see in luck as they have timers built in. If your camera want to make a 20-second video to be
there is no point shooting at a higher resolution. does not have a built-in intervalometer and you played at 30fps, the calculations would be
If you have an older camera, check the pixel don’t have a timer, you can still make a time-lapse as follows:
dimensions of the quality settings and use one video, you just need a lot of patience and a
that is at least 1920 x 1080. good sense of timing as you have to trigger each TOTAL NUMBER OF FRAMES TO SHOOT:
exposure manually. 30 x 20 = 600
CAMERA
(fps x video length in seconds)
Interval between frames:
SETTINGS 1,800 (30 x 60) ÷ 600 = 3 (shooting

time in seconds ÷ total number of
frames):
Your camera will be in action for a long time
For this example we would have to shoot
so it’s best to implement some power-saving
a picture every 3 seconds. If your result is
measures. Turn off the picture review option, for a
not a whole number, you will probably
start – with this on, every time you take a picture have to round it up or down – most of
it is shown on your LCD; repeated thousands of the intervalometers only allow time to be
times, this uses a lot of energy and will shorten entered in whole seconds.
your camera’s battery life considerably. Set the
focus to Manual, as if it’s set to Auto, the camera
will try to refocus with each shot. This will use SUBJECTS
extra power, and, if something passes in front As you’re going to spend at least half an hour
of the camera while the shot is being taken, the capturing a time lapse, it’s very important to
camera will sometimes shift its focus. consider what you are going to shoot. If you want
Set the exposure manually. If you have to film a landscape, set yourself up when it’s
exposure set to automatic and the light levels in the final video. As it gets darker, consider quite windy so there’s a lot of movement in the
change slightly, there will be a noticeable flicker changing not only shutter speed and aperture, clouds. Alternatively, shoot things that move quite
in your video where the camera adjusted its but also ISO setting. Using a high ISO rating will slowly, like cranes on a construction site or the
exposure setting for a few frames. The potential usually introduce noise into the image, but with tide coming in. Be sure to take time getting your
problem with a manual setting is that if a cloud the lower-resolution settings used for videos composition correct as there’s no correcting it
obscures the sun, your video will be darker for this will barely be noticeable. If you change your once you’ve started, and you don’t want to waste
that period. To moderate this, try overexposing camera settings you must take care not to move all of your effort. A good way to make sure you’ve
by half a stop if the sun is out and the opposite if the camera at all – there will be a noticeable got this right is to take lots of shots before you
it’s overcast. ‘jump’ in your video if you do. start, ensuring the composition you get is the best
If you are shooting when the sun is going down Make sure the White Balance is not set to Auto; it can be from the position you are in. Once you
there will come a point where you will have to if it is, each frame might appear a slightly different have the shot you want, that is where you should
change the exposure. The best way to do this is colour, which will look terrible in the final film. If it set up your tripod and a fold-up chair – you’re
to make small adjustments to the exposure every is cloudy, set it to Cloudy, and if it is sunny, set it going to be hanging around for some time!
minute so that the changes will not be noticeable to Sunny – it’s all common sense.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
51
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
STEP ONE In Lightroom, make adjustments to one image and, once you’re STEP TWO Select all the images in your time-lapse by going to Edit >
happy with it, switch to the Library Module and press G to enter Grid View. Select All and then click on the image you have adjusted. To apply the changes
to all images, select Sync Settings by pressing Control + Shift + S (or Command +
Shift + S on a Mac).
STEP THREE With the images still selected, you need to export them as a batch by STEP FOUR You can go one step further and up your resolution to 1920 x
going to File > Export; in the export dialogue window, tick Resize to Fit and enter your 1080, which is true HD. Any true HD video upload to a video site will be downsized
desired size for the finished movie. The most important thing is to resize your images to to 1280 x 720. Both 1280 x 720 and 1920 x 1080 have an aspect ratio of 16:9
a more TV-and internet-friendly size. I make my videos at 1280 x 720 pixels (width by whereas the pictures that come from digital cameras have a ratio of either 3:2 or
height). This is a high definition – it is the maximum that most video-sharing websites 4:2; you have to crop them slightly to make them 16:9. Your videos can be in any
accept – but it is not true HD. aspect ratio you want; this ratio just makes them look more film-like.
LIGHTROOM EDITING time-lapse, open up QuickTime then go to File >

Once you have all your images on your computer, Open Image sequence and select the image which
you can create your video, but before you do this, you want to kick off your film.
you might want to make some colour corrections You will then be prompted to set your frame
and/or crop them. Adobe Lightroom, which was rate. Once you have imported your images into
made for working with large numbers of images, QuickTime, you can play your video. You will need
is a good tool for this. When you are dealing with to export it as a movie file; simply saving it will not
time-lapse images, make sure they are in their do, as a raw QuickTime file is large and will only be
own folder in your image library. playable on a computer with QuickTime. Go to File
WIN!!
> Export. On the dialogue box that pops up, make
QUICKTIME PRO sure Video is ticked, then click Settings. Select H.264
Once you have made your adjustments, export for your compression type and make sure that
your images into a new folder. These are the Frame Rate is set to Current. I always set Quality to
images that you will turn into a video. If you don’t Best, but if you want a smaller file size, set it lower. A SIGNED COPY
have Lightroom, don’t worry – you can use JPEG
images straight from your camera. The simplest
When you’re done, click OK. If you didn’t resize your
images in Lightroom, click Size in the Movie Settings OF KEVIN’S BOOK
way to make your video is to use QuickTime dialogue box and enter your desired image size, Time-lapse photography is just one of the
Pro (Mac and PC). If you don’t have the Pro then click OK and your video will start to render. 52 photography projects featured in Kevin
version, you will need to upgrade to unlock its Depending on the speed of your computer and the Meredith’s new book of the same title. We’re
special features. To go about this, simply visit the length of your video, this will take anywhere from a giving away one signed copy of the book to a
QuickTime website at http://www.apple.com/ few minutes to a few hours. lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning,
quicktime/download/. Once there, download To view a full gallery of Kevin’s time-lapse images, simply email your name and address to WDC@
ipcmedia.com by 31st October. One winning
version 7 and then simply upgrade to the Pro visit his flickr time-lapse gallery at:
entry will be drawn at random, and we’ll contact
version to get started. To kick off things with your http://tinyurl.com/346epwa
you by email after the closing date. For a full
review of the book, turn to page 84.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
52
FANTAST
READERIC
OFFER
P K Jordan
dawn
l Taj Mahal at
e the magica
www.flickr.com/photos/zofo09//
• Captur i Chow k m arkets

lhi’s Chandn and Jaipur
• Visit De laces of Agra
The Wandering Hermit -
Se e th e Moghul pa fa ctories
• ful te xt ile
Jaipur’s colour
• Shoot Stea m tra in on the
artered
• Dine on a Ch Ra ilw ay
EARLY BIRVDE
malayan
Darjeeling Hi p safari throug
h
ildlife on a jee
ww
raph w
OFFER SA
• Ph ot og
Tiger Reserve
Ranthambore
£100!*
and
Join other keen photographers on this amazing a ch artered tram ride
• Enjoy ise in Ca lcutta
cru
tour of India. Expert guides will accompany you river boat
w
e sunrise over
throughout your journey, while WDC Editor Nigel • Captur
th e Hi m alayas
Atherton will be on hand to offer photographic guidance.
ckr.om
/phtszf09ifl
T l ng Tourss
JUST £2,850 PER PERSON!
Darjeeling
(based on 2 sharing)
15 days /13 nights including City Palace Museum and Jantar Mantar Tuesday 22 November
flights, accommodation Observatory. Explore more of Darjeeling, before
uro
returning to Siliguri. On the way we’ll
and most meals. Friday 18 November
visit one of the tea estates for which
A visit to the Amber Palace – an ancient
Darjeeling has become famous. Then
Friday 11 November hilltop fortress, where you can ascend
we travel to nearby New Jalpaiguri
Depart Heathrow at 6.00pm for Delhi the hill by elephant. In the afternoon,
we visit the textile factories of Jaipur station for the “Darjeeling Mail”, our
Saturday 12 November to capture the myriad colours of dyed overnight train to Calcutta.
Walk through Chandni Chowk markets fabrics, brought by camel cart for drying. Wednesday 23 November
Sunday 13 November Saturday 19 November Nowhere in India is the legacy of the
Take the train from Delhi’s bustling Fly to Calcutta, then on to Bagdogra. British Raj more apparent than in
Hazrat Nizamuddhin station to Agra. Check into our hotel in Siliguri then Calcutta. We’ll be seeking out some of
Late afternoon journey to Mahtab Bagh assemble for our legendary charter the most interesting colonial buildings.
(Moonlight Garden) then on to the dining train on the Darjeeling
Taj Mahal at sunset. Thursday 24 November
Himalayan Railway – magic!
Calcutta’s ageing trams are a great
Rohit Chawla
Monday 14 November Sunday 20 November way to see the city. We take a specially
Photograph the Taj Mahal at dawn. We commence our ascent of the chartered Calcutta Tram through the
A visit to Agra’s Red Fort. Photograph Himalayan foothills by narrow-gauge teeming streets. We’ll also spend time
Agra and Taj Mahal at your leisure. steam train. Our coach follows the on foot to see street kitchens, hand-
Tuesday 15 November train allowing plenty of opportunities to pulled rickshaws, and the Kumartali
Drive to Bharatpur for a visit to the photograph it on its journey. Stop at the idol-makers where idols are prepared Economy class flights to/from India, all breakfasts, dinners
excellent Bird Sanctuary, followed by hill town of Kurseong, then continue to for the next religious festival.
Darjeeling, and our our Raj-era hotel, where specified, 13 nights’ accommodation in 3-4 star
the Nahargarh Fort jungle resort at Friday 25 November hotels, city tour of Delhi, entry to attractions specified,
Ranthambore National Park. The Elgin.
Exploring Calcutta. In the afternoon we DHR dining charter, Calcutta river cruise, tram charter,
Wednesday 16 November Monday 21 November take a cruise on the River Hooghly (one train and air travel as specified in full itinerary online, all
Jeep safari through Ranthambore, one A free day to enjoy Darjeeling. If you of the mouths of the Ganges) to see relevant transfers and transport, services of a Darjeeling
of India’s most beautiful National Parks can stand an early start (4:30am!) and temples, and much of the old British Tours Tour Manager and photographic adviser. All
with abundant wildlife including the the weather is clear, there’s the chance riverfront. End-of-tour meal on board accompanied by Nigel Atherton, Editor of What Digital
Bengal Tiger. to photograph a spectacular sunrise the vessel before we are taken to the Camera.
over the Himalayas from Tiger Hill. airport for evening flight to Mumbai.
Thursday 17 November There is much to see in this interesting
Return to the Park in the morning, then Saturday 26 November Fully inclusive price from London: £2,850 (based on two
hill station – the bazaar, the Tibetan people sharing). Ground only price: £2,220 (based on two
journey to Jaipur to take in the Hawa Refugee Self Help Centre, the shops Transfer to the international terminal for
Mahal (The Palace of the Winds), the the flight to Heathrow, due in at 0700. people sharing). Single supplement: £680.
and of course the mountain scenery
* Book by 31st Jan 2011 and save £100pp on these prices
53
53
whAT dIGITAlCAMeRA
evening
Martin
Evening
Pro photographer,
Photoshop Alpha tester,
official Adobe roadshow speaker,
lecturer and author
www.martinevening.com
Class Photographic author and Photoshop

guru Martin evening passes his verdict
on a selection of your photographs
Send In youR pICTuReS & wIn A £65 IlFoRd MedIA pACk FRoM
The london eye MARTIn’S CoMMenT

This is a fairly classic view of the London
Eye wheel and River Thames. The
Stacey wins composition is good, but it otherwise looks
like a standard JPEG or Raw rendering
Thew £65 media pa
ck
straight off the camera. In my view, the
From: Devon treatment process that takes place after a
photo has been shot is vital and shouldn’t
I’m 23 and my main photography subject always be regarded as ‘cheating’. You see,
is transport but I like to broaden the our eyes naturally adjust to the brightness oRIGInAl
horizons. I took this shot with the London differences in different parts of a scene
Eye on the left, so as to get the feel of the such as this. Here, I had just a JPEG to work
river throughout the shot. The plane and from, so, by using Curves adjustments with to add more blue to the sky. I also added
the boats helped make the composition. I graduated layer masks, I was able to a further adjustment layer to add more
rather like the shot with the cloud more darken the sky and lighten the lower half overall Vibrance. I have gone a bit
than if it had been in full sun as it gives a of the picture. I did add a few further stronger with the adjustments than I
bit more atmosphere. I used my Canon adjustment layers such as a couple of Photo would do normally. However, I wanted to
350D at f/6.3, ISO 200, 1/1250th. Filter layers. One was used to add more emphasise the difference between this
warmth to the foreground and the other and the version I started out with.
54 www.whATdIGITAlCAMeRA.CoM
eveNINGclASS
ORIGINAl
pebble At beAch
Darren £wins
McArdle 65 media
pack
From: Glasgow
I am especially interested in black and
white photography and the depth of
textures that this type of photography
can provide. I have had no formal training
and get all my advice, tricks and
techniques from websites and
publications such as yours. Any additional
advice would be greatly appreciated. I use
a Nikon D90 and 18-105mm VR kit lens,
and have also added a 70-300mm f/3.5-5.6
lens, a Manfrotto tripod, polariser, Kood
ND grads + ND filter plus a remote shutter
release to my kit, to allow me to
experiment and try to get the best from
my camera. This photograph is of a
pebble hollowed out by the sea on top of
a wooden post, giving excellent textures
and focal interest. This was taken at
Calshot beach near Southampton.
MARtIN’S cOMMeNt Step tWO

I like the photograph Darren has sent us Finally, I felt the image still looked too flat, so I added
here. It shows good attention to detail and a global Levels adjustment, where I dragged the
an interesting juxtaposition of textures highlight Input slider inwards so that the highlights
between that of the smooth pebble and the were just beginning to be clipped. By expanding the
top of the wooden post in the background. levels I was able to improve the overall contrast.
The only thing is, the photo needs a bit of a
contrast boost to bring it to life more.
Step ONe
To start with, I felt that the bottom half of the photo looked too dark and was out
of balance with the top half. To address this, I added a Curves adjustment layer to
lighten the image and added a gradient to the layer mask so that only the bottom
half ended up being lightened. I also used the brush tool to selectively paint over
the pebble area using black, so as to prevent this area from being lightened.
WWW.WhAtDIGItAlcAMeRA.cOM 55
WhAT dIGITAlcAMErA
MArTIN’s coMMENT sTEp oNE

My initial reaction to this photograph In this instance you’ll notice how I added a
was ‘Wow’! I have seen many interesting Hue/Saturation adjustment layer and
photographs of cloud formations, but this tweaked the Cyan colour values (see screen
one has a particularly unique, abstract shot below) in order to achieve better tone
quality that reminds me of the paintings of separation in the blue/cyan colours.
Mark Rothko.
Were the colours in the sky that evening
really this bright, though? I could be
orIGINAl wrong but it looks to me as if they may
have been enhanced later on the
colourFul clouds computer. There isn’t anything necessarily
wrong with this approach, but you do
have to think carefully about how a
Andrew win6s5 photo may eventually appear in print.
Beaston £ media pa
ck Some of the rich colours you see on a
computer display will not successfully
From: Sheffield reproduce in print. Worse still, where
I am 57 and have been a keen colours do exceed the gamut of the
photographer since 1986 while studying printer, they will become clipped and this
for an amateur City & Guilds course, and I will result in a loss of image detail.
gained an ‘A’ level in Photography two One thing you can do to avoid this is to
years later. I have a home base in the UK, use the Proof Setup option from the View
but for most of the year I live in Bulgaria. menu in Photoshop to simulate how the
This image is one of several taken on colours in an image will appear once
the same evening, as the cloud formations printed. When you activate a custom proof
changed. All with a Nikon D200 f/8 set-up (selecting the profile of the print
18-200mm VR Nikkor @ 200mm handheld. media and printer you intend printing to), sTEp TWo
I got a different feel for each image. To you get to see a downgraded preview on I also applied a masked Curves adjustment
me they look like paintings. The cloud in the display. This is like running a pre-flight to bring out more tone separation in the
this photo looks like the ocean bed with test to visualise how an image will appear orange colours. The difference between the
the blue being the water and the orange when printed. It is a useful thing to do before and after may be slight here, but I
being the sand. I have photographed because it allows you to make custom reckon we should see some improved tone
many clouds but it’s all about being in the colour and tone adjustments in Photoshop detail in the modified version when it is
right place at the right time with your before you send the photo to the printer. printed in the magazine.
camera. Often I have been driving and
seen wonderful cloud formations, but I
didn’t have my camera with me.
56 WWW.WhATdIGITAlcAMErA.coM
eveningclAss
oRiginAl
gRAnd pRismAtic spRing

At yellowstone
Andrew wins
Ray £65
media pa
ck
From: Cornwall
This image was captured in October while on a

two-week photographic holiday to the Grand Teton
and Yellowstone National Parks in Wyoming, USA.
The weather conditions were predominantly cloudy
for the first nine days, with the weather improving
towards the end of the trip. This allowed me to
capture numerous locations in the parks under
different lighting conditions. mARtin’s comment their photos using the full frame 3:2
I like this image so much I have asked format and how this appeared to
For landscape photographs I use a Canon EOS
that the original be shown bigger here influence the way they composed their
5D with a variety of zoom lenses, ranging from
as there is nothing that I could do to images within the viewfinder. There’s
17mm to 500mm. I find that the longer focal
make it look better than it is already. nothing wrong with a 3:2 aspect ratio
lengths are useful for isolating the distant features
What’s most interesting about this crop and it is well suited to landscape
in the landscape.
photo is that when I saw it (before I‘d photography, but my feeling is that
Grand Prismatic is the largest and one of the
read Andrew’s note) my immediate the camera frame should not dictate
most colourful thermal springs in Yellowstone
reaction was, ‘What is this?’ Was it a how you compose your photos. When
National Park. This composition was chosen
lava flow? Yellowstone National Park I shoot I find it is a good idea to
because it leads the eye towards the partially
is apparently an incredible place to consider different crops eventually
steam-covered hills in the distance. This photo was
photograph and this image shows just being applied to an image – why not
captured as a Raw file, with levels, curves and
one example of the surreal landscapes pre-visualise how a square crop would
cloning to remove blemishes on the image after the
you might find there. work and shoot accordingly? So in my
raw conversion. A small amount of cloning was
I needed to provide an alternative accompanying example above, I have
required to remove three unsightly blemishes from
version, so I have focused on the use simulated how Andrew’s photo might
the colourful foreground.
of the full-frame 35mm aspect ratio have looked if he had shot slightly
crop. At a recent photography judging wider and cropped the photo top and
event I was struck by the number of bottom. I kind of prefer this less
images where photographers with elongated crop ratio for most portrait-
35mm digital SLRs were composing orientated landscape shots.
An ilFoRd mediA pAck woRth £65 FoR eveRy pictuRe published!

Send us your pictures and, if published, you’ll not only get top advice from Martin, but also you will receive a superb Ilford ‘Professional Inkjet Photo
Range’ Media Pack,courtesy of JP Distribution. Worth £65, it includes 1 x Smooth Gloss, 1 x Smooth Pearl, 1 x Gold Fibre Silk and 1 x Smooth Lustre
Duo paper packs. JP Distribution is a provider of leading-edge technology solutions for consumer electronics with a primary focus on imaging related
products. Visit www.johnsons-photopia.co.uk or telephone 01782 753 304 for further information.
www.whAtdigitAlcAmeRA.com 57
NEW GEAR THIS MONTH
£500 CAMERA
E L ATEST MUST-HAVE SHOOTOUT
TH
GEAR
CAMERAS AND ED BY
We compare six cameras under £500, from DSLRs
through to hybrids and high-end compacts
AT
TESTED AND R PERTS
PAGE 60
X
OUR TEAM OF E
DS
HYBRLR VS
COMPID VS
ACT
PANASONIC LX5
PAGE 70
CAMERAPHONE
GROUPTEST
PAGE 72
CAMERA S
PHONES VT
COMPAC
P
PANASONIC FZ100 PAGE 79
FUJI
F XP10 PAGE 79
SAMSUNG
S ST5500 PAGE 79
G
GEARED UP: ACCESSORIES
AAll the latest photography gear
rrated by the WDC test team
PAGE 81
E • EPSON
P PX820FWD
• APPLE MAGIC TRACKPAD
• GITZO OCEAN TRAVELER TRIPOD
• POGOPLUG
• TAMRON 180MM LENS
L
LENS TEST PAGE 86
We test four 70-300mm zoom lens priced under
W
£500 to see which is the best budget telelphoto
£
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
£500 CAMERA
SHOOTOUT
WHAT’S THE BEST YOU CAN GET FOR THE MONEY? WE
TESTED BY
MIKE LOWE
COMPARE A VARIETY OF CAMERA TYPES AND MODELS,

TO SEE WHICH IS BEST FOR THE BUDGET…
Buying a camera can be quite pocket you’ll certainly be looking for available for under the £500 cut-off price
perplexing. With technology quality. But is it compact size, point, each with their strengths and
exponentially advancing year after year interchangeable lenses, a larger sensor for weaknesses. From an advanced, creative
there’s a whole variety of technology to improved quality, HD video or even simply compact to a DSLR, and through the full
choose from and, frankly, it can be a bit a brand name that captures your attention spectrum of Micro System Cameras – there’s
confusing to know what to put your the most? certainly a whole host of variety. But which
hard-earned cash towards. We cut through the chaff and have is right for you? Our £500 megatest has the
With a modest £500 budget in your back whittled down a six-strong list of cameras answers…
SAMSUNG
NX10
£449
OLYMPUS
E-PL1
£479
CANON
POWERSHOT
G11
NIKON £399
D5000
£470
SONY
NEX-3
£449
PANASONIC
LUMIX G10
£379
£500GROUPTEST
• 10MP 1/1.7IN CCD

• 2.8IN, 461K-DOT, VARI-ANGLE LCD
• ISO 100-3200 (TO 12,800 AT 2.5MP)
• 1.1FPS BURST (UNLIMITED JPEG/RAW)
• VGA (640x480) @ 30FPS, M-JPEG MOVIE
• OPTICAL VIEWFINDER, 77% FOV
• AF: 9-POINT CONTRAST-DETECT
C
CANON
POWERSHOT G11
£399 WWW.CANON.CO.UK
First in line for testing is Canon’s G11. A long-stay Those familiar with manual cameras of old will
in the company’s line-up, the G-series is a like the variety of dials to quickly adjust for
compact camera with high-end specs that provide shooting mode, ISO and exposure
some ‘bite’ over much of its competition. compensation. The d-pad also doubles up as a
Versus the other Micro System Cameras and thumbwheel to quickly cycle through options
the Nikon DSLR in this test, the Canon is a
standalone venture with benefits and comparative
such as aperture and shutter speed. The 2.8in
LCD, too, has an extra trick up its sleeve with
IMAGE QUALITY
downfalls: its 10MP CCD sensor is the smallest of full tilt-angle ability providing screen protection So far as compacts go, the G11’s image quality is
any of the sensor sizes when pitched up against when stowed or a multitude of creative exceptional. It’s not the best on test, but it still
the others, yet the sensible 10MP resolution shooting angles when in use. manages to outdo some of the competition.
theoretically provides good signal-to-noise ratio The camera is perfect as a DSLR backup, and Exposure is nice and colours realistic, with a
for clean and clear image quality, which we’ve its easy-to-control yet fully encompassing good neutral auto white balance that even
been suitably impressed by in previous testing. manual functions ensure it’s a crowd pleaser. responded well in the studio (the hotshoe meant
The G11 is also the only camera on test to feature The main downfall is that the bulky design may remote flash was even possible). Images are
usable throughout the ISO range, with quality
a fixed lens, that being a 25-140mm equivalent be greater than some would hope for.
almost on a par with that of the Panasonic G10.
mainstay with a longer mid-tele zoom than
Impressive stuff.
anything else on test here. Yes, other cameras PERFORMANCE
may have the provisions in place to change lenses In use the G11 is a solid performer, with a
in the future, yet the cost incurred in doing so quick power-up time meaning you can quickly
would throw the price-point far outside of our shoot. Its relatively small size makes for discreet
£500 threshold. If it’s an all-in-one package that shooting opportunities too and, as it’s not an
you’re after, then the G11 is a complete and essential to use the viewfinder, the vari-angle
capable option with fully manual controls, plus it’s screen further adds to the discreet set up.
among the most affordable models on test – and Autofocus is decent and green AF-area
with £100 change from purchase, that’s certainly markers flash up when focusing is attained,
an extra boost in the value department. with a yellow exclamation mark showing when
It’s not all plain sailing, however. The bulky focus is out of reach. When shooting in macro
design may not be for everyone, it lacks any HD mode for close-up shots the G11 was definitely
movie capture (it maxes out at VGA), and an the winner, with its 25mm wideangle lens
optical viewfinder with a significantly limited 77% capable of shooting as close as 1cm from
field of view takes some getting used to (around a objects, leaving the other contenders in this
fifth of the final shot won’t be seen in the test fully in the dust.
viewfinder frame). Those with Canon Speedlite flashguns will
also be pleased to know that there’s full
DESIGN compatibility thanks to the hotshoe atop the
Although it’s a fairly chunky-looking brute of a camera. There is also a small built-in flash, but 100%
camera, the G11 feels tough and sturdy. It’s its placement tightly over the top of the lens
smaller overall than even Sony’s NEX-3, though doesn’t always provide the required
it’s Sony’s lens protrusion that makes it larger. illumination; plus it’s not the brightest of
Layout-wise the G11 is very appealing. options anyway.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
• 13,3MP LIVE MOS (MFT)

• 2.7IN, 230K-DOT LCD
• ISO 200-3200
• 11-POINT CONTRAST-DETECT AF
• 3FPS BURST (TO 12 JPEGS/10 RAW)
• HD 720P @ 30FPS, MOTION-JPEG
MOVIE
• NO VIEWFINDER (OPTIONAL
ACCESSORY)
U
P
M Y OLYMPUS
OL S
E
E-PL1
£479 WWW.OLYMPUS.CO.UK
As part of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) contingent, than when released and in use. Although
Olympus’s latest benefits from lens compatibility useful, this can slow down start-up time due to
with Panasonic’s MFT G-series models. However, inoperability when locked down.
it’s not to be confused with the Sony NEX-3 and
Samsung NX10 also on test here as, despite being PERFORMANCE
deemed Micro System Cameras, neither has the In use the E-PL1’s manual and iAuto modes are
IMAGE QUALITY
same MFT sensor size or lens-mount. least like the other models – though this isn’t a
The E-PL1 comes from a line of E-series models problem once you’re familiar with the layout.
and is positioned as the most affordable of the Some of the icons used to illustrate modes
The Olympus images were well exposed and
detailed, with impressive image quality throughout range. With a 12.3MP Micro Four Thirds Live perhaps aren’t crystal-clear in their form, with
the ISO range. Despite its Micro Four Thirds sensor MOS sensor, images are captured with a 2x crop the wording proving more useful to interpret.
size being smaller than much of the competition, factor, i.e. the 14-42mm lens bundled as part of The contrast-detect autofocus is relatively
this didn’t necessarily affect final high ISO image this kit option has a 28-84mm reach in 35mm nippy though does quickly over- and under-
quality, which was among the best and most terms. A host of other lenses is available, from focus a little more than some of the
detailed. JPEG processing sees a notable contrast Panasonic’s 7-14mm or Olympus’s 17mm f/2.8 competition which doesn’t make it the fastest
boost when lined up against the other images, and pancake through to the longest 45-200mm of those available. Adjusting the point of focus
its Auto White Balance where warm yellow-red Panasonic offering, though with the E-PL1’s is easily achieved by using the left button on
tones are a little excessive. champagne/white finish, the black Panasonic the d-pad. Metering modes that include the
lenses may not always look ideal. unusual spot highlight and spot shadow do
Alongside the Sony NEX-3, the E-PL1 is one of feature, for all-encompassing metering variety.
two cameras in this test to lack a viewfinder of Micro Four Thirds is also a fair benefit and
any kind. You can buy a fixed-focal-length optical reason to buy the Olympus. The small sensor
viewfinder or electronic viewfinder separately, but may not lend itself especially well to low-noise
either one costs some £200 extra. So if taking image quality, but its small size is perfect for
pictures using an eye-piece is an essential, the smaller camera bodies and lenses, as well as
Olympus may not be at the top of your wishlist. magnified focal lengths being easily achievable.
Though the Sony has a smaller body, its lenses
DESIGN are larger when compared pound-for-pound,
The finish of the E-PL1 doesn’t have the same so the Olympus is good for portability – if you
elegance as its E-P1 cousin and the slightly intend to purchase further lenses in the future.
sunken rear 2.7in screen looks unusually small
considering all the real estate available to its VALUE FOR MONEY
right. The camera’s layout isn’t conventional, The Olympus system is the most expensive of
but then the E-PL1’s design is set to stand out the bunch on test by a fair margin. Whether
from the crowd. Though it achieves this this price translates into the product is
100% individuality, there are a few frustrations such questionable as its features-list is no more
as the lack of a thumbwheel (all the other significant than many of the similar Micro
cameras in this group have one, in some form). System Cameras. Perhaps the E-PL1’s quirky
The 14-42mm kit lens has a lockable style gives weight to its price premium, though
function to keep the lens stowed and smaller whether its look appeals is a matter of taste.
£500GROUPTEST
• 14.2MP APS HD CMOS

• 3IN, 921K-DOT TRUBLACK
• ISO 200-12,800
• 7FPS BURST (TO 14 JPEGS/7 RAW)
• HD 720P, MOTION-JPEG MOVIE
• NO VIEWFINDER (ACCESSORY)
• 25-AREA CONTRAST-DETECT AF
S
SONY NEX-3
£449 WWW.SONY.CO.UK
Sony’s entrance into the Micro System Camera biggest downfall that may make more ‘serious’
market was littered with firsts and exclusives to try users lean on the back foot. Still, once you’ve
to knock the competition into touch. A found your mode, such as Aperture Priority, it’s
standalone venture with an APS-C sized 14.2MP easy to quickly shift between apertures or a
HD CMOS sensor, akin to the size of those found
in most DSLR cameras, the NEX-series focuses on
number of options. Lack of a viewfinder and
only a fiddly, screw-on flash may limit
IMAGE QUALITY
image quality (up to a highest-in-test ISO 12,800) widespread appeal too. Superb high ISO image quality, that easily matched
and can shoot 720p HD movies too. and beat all the competition at ISO 3200 (some of
There’s a 3in, 921k-dot LCD and, bar some of PERFORMANCE the competition topped-out at this point). Beyond
the Samsung NX10’s AMOLED benefits, it’s the The more point-and-shoot nature of the NEX-3 this, even ISO 12,800 reaps usable images –
most resolute and arguably highest-quality leave it feeling more like a compact than a certainly an impressive feat. Lower-ISO shots are
good, though perhaps not great, though the 16mm
offering on test. It’s also on a hinge to allow for DSLR and changing through modes is the least
lens is part of the problem due to blurring towards
vertical adjustment to face 90° up for waist-level accessible out of all the cameras we’ve pitched
the image edges. Colour-wise the NEX-3 produced
shooting, or 45° down for over-the-head shots. head to head. On the one hand, this is
the ‘flattest’ results, while Auto White Balance was
Add a seven frames per second continuous charming and offers its own stance, while on
excellent for general scenes and skin tones (though
shooting mode and the NEX-3 also succeeds in the other, it may confound and frustrate other shooting in the studio was extremely tricky due to
being the fastest shooter on test. Plus, as with photographers. And herein lies the prospect of the lack of a hotshoe).
several recent Sony compacts, modes such as choice: the NEX system offers something that
Sweep Panorama also feature and will attract other Micro System Cameras hadn’t yet
anyone seeking creative in-camera modes. Auto achieved – the removal of ‘DSLR-likeness’.
HDR, Handheld Twilight and D-Range Optimizer The autofocus is as fast as any of the other
add further control for low-light shooting. contrast-detection systems on test, with only
the Nikon D5000’s true DSLR status and phase-
DESIGN detection AF outperforming in terms of speed.
Though slim and elegant, the large sensor size The 16mm lens did prove limiting in several
in the small body doesn’t lend itself particularly scenarios, and its macro-capable close-up was
well to small lenses – of the three current the weakest in terms of lens-to-subject
lenses available, two are proportionately rather distance when compared to the others. Its
large, with the 16mm included in this kit being f/2.8 designation does provide a significantly
a much more reasonable fit. However, with a useful wide aperture however, perfect for
fixed focal length, the 16mm won’t always be blurring the background out of focus.
everyone’s cup of tea and, compared to all the
other cameras on test here, is the more VALUE FOR MONEY
unusual configuration. The 18-55mm lens kit Considering the overall image quality, the
can be had for a penny under £500, just NEX-3 will seem worth every single penny to
scraping through under the top-end price roof. those looking for top-quality performance. 100%
It’s not just scale that causes a problem, as However, with difficult navigation and lenses
the design is very much of a point-and-shoot limited to the current three E-mount options,
persuasion. Mingle with the manual modes this is a system that needs to mature a bit
and you’ll be forever menu-digging – the NEX’s more before its full value can be appreciated.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
• 12.1MP LIVE MOS (MFT)

• 3IN, 460K-DOT LCD
• 3.2FPS (UNLIMITED JPEG/7 RAW)
• HD 720P @ 30FPS, M-JPEG MOVIE
• ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER
• AF: 23-AREA CONTRAST-DETECT
P
PANASONIC
LUMIX G10
£379 WWW.PANASONIC.CO.UK
Despite its low price, the G10 is still a capable and PERFORMANCE
well-specced camera. Like the Olympus E-PL1, the Whether you’re a fully manual user or point-
G10 is part of the Micro Four Thirds standard, so and-shoot style photographer, the G10 has all
lenses are interchangeable between the two bases covered. The movie mode isn’t as top-
IMAGE QUALITY systems. This gives the Panasonic the best-
matched and broadest range of lenses of any
drawer as many of Panasonic’s other G-series
cameras since capture is HD 720p, but in the
The G10’s images are well exposed, though lean Micro System Camera on test here. Motion-JPEG rather than AVCHD Lite (H.264)
a little to the warm red-yellow tones when using Ideal for the step-up user, the G10 has full format. Though decent, there are greater
Auto White Balance – this was particularly manual control or point-and-shoot capabilities limitations to capture length, file size and the
prominent in the studio with balanced lights thanks to its intelligent Auto mode that selects the compression, though M-JPEG does mean that
being the least accurate of all, so skin tones were best shooting options depending on the scene at MOV files can be immediately output without
pushed too yellow also. Despite the Micro Four hand. It can shoot 12.1MP stills at up to 3.2 the need for processing. Shooting stills can also
Thirds sensor being the same size as that in the frames per second or capture video in 720p HD. adopt the 16:9 ratio of the movie mode,
Olympus E-PL1, image quality certainly flounders otherwise 3:2, 4:3 or a 1:1 square format ratio
when shooting at higher ISO settings. ISO 3200 DESIGN are available. There are also My Color modes
was particularly grainy and lacked detail, so the With Micro System Cameras, either the body for creative output options such as Silhouette
G10 is not ideal for handheld lowlight. will be DSLR-like in form or small and compact- and Retro that will immediately be appealing.
like with fewer immediate control buttons. The Another pro point is the autofocus system,
G10 firmly falls into the former camp and, at which is up there among the best. Sit it beside
first glance, looks much like a DSLR. Such a the Sony NEX-3 and it isn’t easy to catch either
design lends itself extremely well to having out, with both performing very quickly.
thumbwheels, function and one-touch buttons The G10 also has an electronic viewfinder,
in all the places that they intuitively should be. though its quality may be a make or break
To access the intelligent Auto (iA) mode there’s purchase situation depending on your shooting
even a one-touch button that lights up blue to style. For those not fussy about optimum
verify that it’s engaged (doing so cancels all preview quality using an eyepiece, or who are
other modes that you may happen to be in – unlikely to use a viewfinder at all, then the
it’s a quick and easy shortcut to turn the relatively low-resolution 202k-dot EVF certainly
camera into a point-and-shoot). plays its part in keeping the cost down.
Menu layout is good, with a Q.Menu
bringing up quick adjustment options on VALUE FOR MONEY
screen that can be rapidly cycled through. This When we first tested the G10 it was its great
also separates the main menu for those value that stood it apart from the competition.
‘smaller’ changes and ensures that speed and In the few short months since then its price has
ease of use is always optimum. dipped yet more, making it the most affordable
100% The only real downside to this design is that camera in this test – even less than the Canon
the G10 is a fair bit larger than most of the G11. This can only mean a big thumbs up for
others on the test. It’s by no means large, and delivering quality in an affordable package that
is smaller than the Nikon D5000 here, but isn’t should get step-up users interested in the
as pocket-friendly as the Canon G11. potential of Micro Four Thirds.
£500GROUPTEST
• 14.6MP APS-C SIZED CMOS

• 3IN, 920K-DOT AMOLED
• 3FPS BURST (TO 10 JPEG/3 RAW)
• HD 720P MOVIE, H.264 COMPRESSION
• 921K-DOT ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER
• AF: 35-ZONE CONTRAST-DETECT
S
SAMSUNG NX10
£449 WWW.SAMSUNG.CO.UK
Samsung’s venture into the Micro System Camera accessible via the Fn (Function) button, and
market was the first to carry a large APS-C sized utilises the thumbwheel to dial in many of the
sensor, much like those found in many DSLR settings. This combination of menu button and
cameras. Its 14.6MP resolution means it carries thumbwheel takes a little getting used to but,
the highest output resolution of any of the
cameras in this test, and from a sensor that’s joint-
once established, adjusting controls is easy. IMAGE QUALITY
largest alongside the NEX-3 and D5000. PERFORMANCE The NX10’s images had the punchiest colours of
With Panasonic’s and Olympus’s Micro Four It’s the NX10’s OLED screen that’s the most all, with blue and greens notably saturated.
Thirds systems the only initial releases into this stand-out feature, with super-smooth motion However this was of no consequence to the
new area of the market, the Samsung was the that makes live view a wonder to use. When overall Auto White Balance, which maintained
first to put out something different and not using the rear screen, an inbuilt electronic good neutral greys and flattering skin tones. The
APS-C sized sensor lends itself well to good,
competitive. The first notable unique feature is viewfinder (EVF) with an auto eye-level finder is
low-noise image quality, though some over-
the presence of a 3in, 416k-dot AMOLED screen. also available – and, partly due to its 921k-dot
processing throughout the range does display
Unlike LCD, OLED (as AMOLED is often referred resolution, it’s the best EVF of the models here
subtle JPEG artefacts and high ISO image quality
to) is an organic light emitting diode system that (though many may want a greater finder size).
isn’t as detailed as much of the competition.
doesn’t require backlighting, has a much wider The NX10’s autofocus system, though not
dynamic range, faster refresh rate and consumes slow, isn’t quite as fast as the Panasonic or
far less power than its LCD counterpart. Sony ones, with an over- and under- focus
PASM controls permit full manual use, plus delay on each half-depression of the shutter.
Smart Auto and scene modes feature. Sensitivity When capturing movies the H.264
runs from ISO 100-3200, and in-camera Picture compression format gives the NX10 an edge
Wizard mode provides customisable colour over many of its rivals in terms of final MP4
options. With three frames per second continuous quality. During capture it’s possible to use the
shooting as well as 720p HD movie captured Depth of Field Preview button to adjust focus,
using the top-spec H.264 compression format, but this is ill-positioned for such a task and can
the NX10 has plenty to shout about on paper. be a frustration.
One slight annoyance for Mac users is a lack
DESIGN of compatibility with bundled software that
Much like a trim DSLR, the NX10 is slim and may cause difficulty in reading the NX10’s Raw
looks elegant compared to many of the other files (Photoshop and similar will successfully
options on the table. Side by side to the read the files, but this is on the assumption of
Panasonic G10, the Samsung NX10 is slightly already owning the extra software).
slimmer and otherwise much the same size
despite its larger sensor size. VALUE FOR MONEY
The main control thumbwheel is on the top The NX-series is in its infancy and, much like
of the camera rather than towards the front or the Sony NEX-3, the three current lenses partly 100%
rear, which feels slightly alien to have to limit its potential, though more lenses are on
remove your finger from the shutter to toggle the way. A faster AF would be nice, but it’s that
between some options. lovely OLED screen and having the best EVF of
Menu layout is based on a quick menu, the bunch that add extra brownie points.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
• 12.3MP APS-C CMOS

• 2.7IN, 230K-DOT, VARI-ANGLE LCD
• ISO 200-3200
• 4FPS BURST MODE
• HD 720P @ 24FPS, M-JPEG MOVIE
• 11-POINT PHASE DETECTION AF
N
NIKON D5000
£470 WWW.NIKON.CO.UK
The only DSLR in this particular test, the D5000 PERFORMANCE
isn’t the only sub-£500 entry-level DSLR option by The D5000’s performance is a bit of a two-
any means, but this 18-55mm kit successfully fills parter: First, if using the camera in live view
the remit of a well-equipped option and even has mode, like many of the other Micro System
IMAGE QUALITY the ability to capture 720p HD movies.
Certainly the physically largest model on offer
Cameras tend to be used, then its autofocus
speed is frustratingly slow by comparison. The
The D5000’s images are good, dependent on when lined up against the rest of the variety, yet flip side of the coin is when using the camera’s
using low ISO settings. Crank up the ISO to 3200 the very nature of a DSLR will always mean this is viewfinder – although only a 95% field of
and the amount of post processing smooths part and parcel of the purchase. Some may view, the sheer size and clarity of the image
images to show very little detail, in fact worse consider it imposing, others less so, but some of completely blows all the other cameras in this
than any of the other cameras on test. This turns the differences and benefits inherent in its use test out of the water. As does the phase
on its head at the low ISO settings, however, with may sway the decision of prospective purchasers. detection autofocus – it’s just so much faster
the D5000 putting out the best quality images, The D5000’s APS-C sized sensor (the same size and more immediate that it leaves the
with punchy, high contrast. The Auto White as both the Sony NEX-3 and Samsung NX10) is a competition in the shade. But this is all
Balance errs to the red side, with brown-tinged well-balanced 12.3 megapixels. As well as a 95% dependent on how you intend to use a
results in many cases and flat colours overall field of view viewfinder, the camera also comes camera, as the D5000 lends itself particularly
requiring some more work in photo editors for with a live view mode where full time preview can well to always being raised to the eye.
the most pleasing results. be seen on the rear 2.7in LCD which also, thanks Therefore it’s less discreet, larger and more
to an axis at the bottom, can also be freely angled imposing than anything else we’ve lined it up
and rotated into various positions when in use. against, but this is the balance to pay for the
The usual manual modes feature, as do scene outlined performance advantages.
options and an Auto mode, much like the rest of Stills are captured at up to four frames per
the cameras on test – showing that DSLRs don’t second, while the 720p HD movie is a little bit
necessarily mean it’s any more ‘difficult’ to control lacking due to the poor sound quality and
than the other featured options. noticeable compression that doesn’t match up
as well compared to others.
DESIGN
Due to having an optical viewfinder, the D5000 VALUE FOR MONEY
takes on some extra bulk though – depending Closer to the £500 mark than not, but the
on personal preference, the extra size and D5000 has a lot of benefits. If super-fast
height of the grip may actually be preferable autofocus when using a decent viewfinder are
for extended use. a must for you, then the D5000 walks away
The rear screen is capable of displaying the with the prize. That plus a huge array of
majority of controls when in a manual-type potential lenses mean there’s huge scope for
mode. A quick press of the Info key allows for the future – though at great potential expense.
100% these options to be cycled through, selected It is poor live view and the image quality where
and adjusted with relative ease. Helpful word the D5000’s value becomes a little unhinged
prompts also advise of ‘subject being too dark’ – just because it’s a DSLR doesn’t mean its
and similar, to ensure that the visual dials and quality is necessarily the best, as more recent
options aren’t the only visual format. technologies seek to prove.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
SPECIFICATIONS
CANON OLYMPUS SONY
G11 E-PL1 NEX-3
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS
SENSOR 10MP, 1/1.7in CCD SENSOR 12.3MP Live MOS (MFT) SENSOR 14.2MP APS HD CMOS
LENS 5x optical zoom LENS 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens LENS 16mm f/2.8 pancake
(28-140mm as 35mm equiv) LENS MOUNT Micro Four Thirds (MFT) LENS MOUNT Sony E-mount
LENS MOUNT N/A, fixed lens SCREEN 2.7in, 230k-dot LCD SCREEN 3in, 921k-dot TruBlack LCD
SCREEN 2.8in, 461k-dot, tilt-angle LCD ISO 200-3200 ISO 200-12,800
ISO 100-3200 AUTOFOCUS 11-point contrast-detect AUTOFOCUS 25-area contrast-detect
(exp to 12,800 at 2.5MP) BURST MODE 3fps (to 12 JPEGs/10 Raw) BURST MODE 7fps (to 14 JPEGs/7 Raw)
AUTOFOCUS 9-point contrast-detect MOVIE HD 720p @ 30fps, MOVIE HD 720p, Motion-JPEG
BURST MODE 1.1fps (unlimited JPEG/Raw) Motion-JPEG VIEWFINDER No (optional accessory)
MOVIE VGA (640x480) VIEWFINDER No (optional accessory) WEIGHT 239g (body only)
@ 30fps, Motion-JPEG WEIGHT 296g (body only) DIMENSIONS 117 x 63 x 33mm
VIEWFINDER Optical, 77% field of DIMENSIONS 115 x 72 x 42mm
view approx
WEIGHT 401g (inc battery & card)
DIMENSIONS 112 x 76 x 48mm
SCORES SCORES SCORES
LIKES DISLIKES LIKES DISLIKES LIKES DISLIKES
Affordable and compact VGA movie capture Impressive high ISO Unconvinced by the chunky Excellent high ISO image Lenses rather large
alternative, Canon only, chunky body, image quality body design, small & quality, fast contrast- on small body, no
Speedlite compatibility, poor field of view from low resolution screen, no detect AF system, small viewfinder, fiddly flash
tilt-angle LCD screen optical viewfinder viewfinder, sluggish AF and portable unit, GUI issues
IMAGE
QUALITY
The difference in image quality from each of G10’s. The lens, too, was particularly sharp Pick and choose at your will: performance
these cameras and across the ISO sensitivity and on-point. issues brushed to one side, it’s the Sony NEX-3
range wasn’t as clean-cut as one may expect. Samsung’s NX10 had the most accurate that takes the high ISO crown, the Samsung
While larger sensors should lend well to and pleasing colour balance, the punchiest, NX10 for colour balance and the Nikon D5000
top-end image quality, this certainly didn’t brightest images and image quality relative to for low ISO performance, while both the
correlate to the final results in all cases. To ISO sensitivity was reasonable throughout – Canon G11 and Olympus E-PL1 provided the
pick one camera out of the pack as the best although not exceptional at higher ISO. sharpest-looking results.
overall for image quality is a hard call.
The disparity between low and high ISO
settings often entirely shifted the final results
CANON OLYMPUS SONY PANASONIC
– with the Nikon D5000 a prime candidate
in this case. At ISO 3200 its images were the
G11 E-PL1 NEX-3 LUMIX G10
poorest of the bunch, with soft images
lacking detail or a range of colour. At ISO
100, however, the images were most
detailed, albeit a little over-contrasty and
Auto White Balance did prove inconsistent.
The Olympus E-PL1 was a fairly standout
performer, easily out-doing its Panasonic
G10 cousin in the quality department,
despite both cameras having the same
sensor sizes. The 14-42mm lens performed ISO 100 ISO 100 ISO 100 ISO 100
well in final results too, with decent overall
sharpness.
Sony’s NEX-3 model was fairly
exceptional and, despite some image noise,
it’s the high ISO sensitivity capabilities which
come up trumps here.
Canon’s G11, with the smallest sensor by
some margin, stood its ground well, and
despite suffering from some image noise
beyond many of the cameras, has a final
quality that is comparable to the Panasonic ISO 3200 ISO 3200 ISO 3200 ISO 3200
£500GROUPTEST
PANASONIC SAMSUNG NIKON

LUMIX G10 NX10 D5000
SENSOR 12.1MP Live MOS (MFT) SENSOR 14.6MP APS-C CMOS SENSOR 12.3MP APS-C CMOS
LENS 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens LENS 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens LENS 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens
LENS MOUNT Micro Four Thirds (MFT) LENS MOUNT Samsung NX-mount LENS MOUNT Nikon F-mount (DX lenses)
SCREEN 3in, 460k-dot LCD SCREEN 3in, 920k-dot AMOLED SCREEN 2.7in, 230k-dot, vari-angle
ISO 100-6400 ISO 100-3200 ISO 200-3200
AUTOFOCUS 23-area contrast-detect AUTOFOCUS 35-zone contrast-detect AUTOFOCUS 11-point phase detection
BURST MODE 3.2fps BURST MODE 3fps (to 10 JPEG/3 Raw) BURST MODE 4fps
(unlimited JPEG/7 Raw files) MOVIE HD 720p, H.264 compression MOVIE HD 720p @ 24fps,
MOVIE HD 720p @ 30fps, VIEWFINDER 921k-dot electronic Motion-JPEG compression
Motion-JPEG WEIGHT 353g (no battery or card) VIEWFINDER Optical, 95% field of view
VIEWFINDER Electronic, 0.52x magnification, DIMENSIONS 123 x 87 x 40mm and 0.78x magnification
202k-dot WEIGHT 560g (no battery or card)
WEIGHT 336g (body only) DIMENSIONS 127 x 104 x 80mm
DIMENSIONS 124 x 83.6 x 74mm
SCORES SCORES SCORES

LIKES DISLIKES LIKES DISLIKES LIKES DISLIKES
Fast contrast-detect Image quality lacks Excellent AMOLED No Mac compatible Optical viewfinder High ISO picture quality,
AF system, most when compared to the screen, high-res software included, only and phase detection poor live view mode
affordable on test competition EVF, H.264 movie three current lenses AF superior to other
compression cameras on test
CONCLUSION
Each of these cameras has their strengths field of view will be frustrating for many
and their weaknesses and will each appeal users, while the remaining cameras come
to different users depending on shooting without any inbuilt viewfinders. In terms
style and subject. of live view, however, the D5000 is the
Image quality was probably the most weakest performer due to the slowest
surprising result overall, with a mixed bag contrast-detect autofocus, with the
of results that widely varied depending on Panasonic G10 and Sony NEX-3 equal
the ISO settings. Whereas the Nikon winners due to fast focus.
D5000 was very successful at ISO 200, it Personal preference will play a large
was the weakest performer at ISO 3200. part in the final choice due to so many
ISO 100 ISO 3200 The Sony NEX-3 was almost the opposite differences between the cameras. And
of this, with wideangle shots at low ISO none of these offerings is without fault. It
SAMSUNG NIKON settings somewhat ‘smeary’, but its low depends on the job at hand, but Nikon’s
NX10 D5000 light performance to ISO 3200 proving

exceptional (and the highest ISO 12,800
D5000 – or, if that was going to be too
physically large for the job, downsizing
setting also being available). Clearly it’s and bagging a Sony NEX-3 – would be a
not quite so black and white to say ‘one good option for non-studio
has the best image quality’ overall. photographers on the move. ML
When it comes to point-and-shoot all
the cameras perform well, with various
Auto modes all capable. Manual
adjustment is most complex where the
NEX-3 is concerned due to awkward menu
digging, while the DSLR-styled Panasonic
ISO 100 ISO 100 G10 has the best overall layout, with the
NX10 and D5000 a close second.
If a viewfinder is an essential for your
work then the D5000 is the only choice to
make, plus its phase detection autofocus
system leaves all the competitors in the
shade. Even though the G10 and NX10
have 100% field of view electronic
viewfinders, the quality of them is
significantly different and the limited size
of the eye-cups can mean they are
uncomfortable. The G11’s optical
ISO 3200 ISO 3200 viewfinder is useful to have, but its limited
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
PANASONIC
LUMIX LX5
THE LX5 IS ABOUT AS HIGH-END AS COMPACTS CAN GET, BUT IN
AN EXPANDING AND COMPETITIVE MARKET HOW DOES IT FARE?
TESTED BY MIKE LOWE
£400 WWW.PANASONIC.CO.UK Panasonic’s previous model, the LX3,

has been very successful in carving its
viewfinder built into the camera itself, but since it
has the same accessory shoe as is found on
own niche – balancing a small size with Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds GF1 this means that
KEYSPECS excellent quality to make it more pocket-
friendly than many competitors. The latest
an optional electronic or optical viewfinder can be
purchased separately.
• 24-90MM F/2.0-3.3 LEICA LENS model in the range, the brand new LX5,
• 10MP 1/1.63IN CCD SENSOR looks to grow this legacy even further... DESIGN
As the new lens has a greater reach than previous
• ISO 80-3200 FEATURES models had, the LX5 is ever so slightly larger
(TO 12,800 AT 3.1MP ONLY) The LX5 is a 10-megapixel compact with a than its predecessors – though the difference is
• 3IN, 460K-DOT LCD 1/1.63in size CCD sensor – although this is the hardly noticeable. The lens barrel protrudes from
• 720P HD VIDEO (AVCHD LITE) same size and resolution as the previous LX3, the body and there’s even an aspect ratio switch
Panasonic states that the sensor has been (to select 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9) and second
reworked. The new Venus FHD Engine conforms switch for focus (AF, Macro, MF) on the top and
S
to this update, capable of capturing images to ISO side respectively.
TH EHIGHLIGHTLX5
THREE FACTS ABOUT THE
3200 (or a new high-end ISO 12,800 with a lower
3.1MP resolution, pixel mixed readout) and
The design ethos is nice and simple, with a
d-pad, Q.Menu, AF/AE Lock, Display and Playback
AVCHD Lite 720p HD movie is also possible. buttons on the rear. Rather than the joystick-type
HD VIDEO Although at first glance the LX5 looks near control of older models, the LX5 introduces a
720p HD video, using Panasonic’s AVCHD
identical to the LX3, the body is actually slightly more standard thumbwheel control that is much
Lite for top quality
larger than before, and for good reason: the better positioned to the top right of the rear.
new 3.8x optical zoom Leica lens has a 24-90mm The same user-definable pop-up flash,
LEICA LENS f/2.0-3.3 equivalent zoom, making it the most standard hotshoe, mode dial and on/off switch
A 3.8x optical zoom means 24-90mm notable progression that the Lumix LX-series has still feature on the camera’s top, though with a
equivalent with wide f/2.0-3.3 aperture seen thus far – above and beyond the LX3’s greater onus on movie capture a new one-touch
24-60mm lens. movie button is also present.
Borrowing staple modes from other existing The in-camera menus are comprehensive, yet
COMPACT BODY Panasonic ranges also sees My Color Modes the Q.Menu button doesn’t deal with lesser used
The LX5’s small design means it’s
pocketable and ready to carry anywhere migrate over, coupled with Film Mode to allow a modes and makes for easy and quick selection of
combination of in-camera effects – such as Retro, all the required major settings. It’s hard to fault
Silhouette, Vibrant and others. the camera’s layout, menus and overall
The rear screen is a 3in, 460k-dot LCD, which construction – those new to the camera will find it
doesn’t see a resolution increase from before, easy to pick up, while those already familiar will
though is still of fine quality. There is no have no issues in transition.
PANASONICLX5
100%
SPECIFICATIONS
R
RESOLUTION 110.1 megapixels
SENSOR 1/1.63-type CDD
LENS 3.8x zoom (24-90mm) f/2.0
LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON
LCD 3in, 460k-dot LCD
VIEWFINDER No, optional OVF or EVF
available separately
FILE FORMATS JPEG, RAW, RAW+JPEG
SHUTTER SPEEDS 60 – 1/4000th seconds
EXPOSURE MODES PASM, iA, My Color Mode,
Scene, C1, C2, Movie
METERING SYSTEM Intelligent Multiple / Center
DETAIL Although detail is high, the LX5’s shots can
IMAGE QUALITY
Weighted / Spot
WHITE BALANCE Auto / Daylight / Cloudy / suffer from notable purple fringing in some scenarios
Shade / Flash / Halogen /
Color Temperature / White Set It’s
I sharpness where the LX5 is a winner, thanks to the which begins to exaggerate and become noticeably
1 & 2 / White Balance Adjust- excellent quality lens. However the 24mm wide end of noisy from around the ISO 400 mark. The new ISO
ment (2-axis adjustable, the zoom does show some barrel distortion. 12,800 capability at 3.1MP is of little use given the low
±9steps each, Blue/Amber Image quality is generally good overall, if not a resolution, excess noise and limited quality.
and Magenta/Green bias) little bit flat at times. Purple fringing can also be an Auto White Balance can err to a yellowish colour
FLASH MODES Built in pop-up: Auto, Auto/ issue in some scenarios. A film grain-like quality can cast depending on the lighting situation, though was
Red-eye Reduction, Forced
On, Slow Sync./Red-eye be seen running throughout the entire ISO range, generally good, with colours maintaining clarity.
Reduction, Forced Off, Flash
Synchro; 1st / 2nd / 0.8 –
7.2m (Wide/ISO Auto), 0.3 was released – the LX5 should have upped the VALUE
– 4.4m (Tele/ISO Auto) ante here for a truly stunning, class-leading result, The LX5 certainly isn’t cheap, at about £400 to
MEMORY CARD SD/SDHC/SDXC but has left that game to the Samsung EX1’s £480, and this may be its biggest hurdle. With a
ISO RANGE 80-3200 (12,800 possible by AMOLED screen. The 1:1, 3:2, 4:3 or 16:9 stills clear high-end target audience the Panasonic is
pixel missed readout) modes can be quickly chopped between using the more expensive than the Canon G11 or Samsung
CONNECTIVITY AV Output (NTSC/PAL, NTSC), switch on the top of the lens and this adjusts the EX1. Also, for around £100 extra, a Micro Four
mini HDMI, USB2.0 High
speed crop on the LCD screen accordingly. Thirds GF1 could be purchased at a fairly similar
POWER Rechargeable lithium-ion The lack of a viewfinder isn’t entirely without price point – something worth considering.
battery foresight. Rather than cram the cost of an
DIMENSIONS
VERDICT
109.7 x 65.5 x 43.0mm expensive yet inefficient electronic viewfinder into
WEIGHT 271g (with battery & card) the camera body (which would also increase the
physical size), the LX5 makes use of an accessory With its new high quality 24-90mm
f/2.0-3.3 Leica lens, the LX5 has something
port – the very same as found on the GF1 Micro
new and exciting to shout about that
PERFORMANCE Four Thirds model – for an external optical or
separates it from previous-generation
First and foremost is a nippy autofocus system electronic viewfinder (sold separately). The cost
models. Image quality is good, though
that is generally very accurate and can be easily implication is, at around £160, rather high, but
not exceptional, and it’s the lens that
switched from auto to macro or manual focus having the option there is a very sensible solution. particularly excels in achieving sharp, fine
using the switch on the side of the lens. Manual Shooting movies sees alignment with detail. However, for some, even this new
focusing isn’t particularly easy to use with the rear Panasonic’s AVCHD Lite format, capturing 720p 90mm equivalent longest focal length
thumbwheel (there’s no lens focus ring) as the resolution at 50 frames per second (25fps output may still not be quite enough.
screen magnification can be difficult to decipher from sensor), or there’s a Motion-JPEG capture The construction, layout and menus
leave little to be desired and the small,
IT’S SHARPNESS WHERE THE LX5 IS A WINNER sensible size just feels right.
THANKS TO THE EXCELLENT QUALITY LENS For all its winning points, it’s only really
the price that will limit some prospective
focus, plus the LCD refresh rate can be low in format too. The one-touch movie button also purchasers. But if money’s no object then
poorer light which lends to a noise-ridden and means it’s easier than ever to jump into capturing the LX5 should be considered a champion
rather jerky frame rate preview on screen. On the motion and then quickly reverting back to stills. high-end compact in what’s becoming a
upside the macro mode is especially good, with The LX5 has a new, larger battery meaning that very competitive market area. ML
the wideangle setting allowing for extreme cross-compatibility with previous models isn’t
close-up scenarios. Extend the zoom, however, possible, but extended shooting is a bonus.
and the camera can occasionally pertain to find The continuous shooting mode allows for three SCORES FEATURES
DESIGN
18
19
focus despite everything being far from it – frames per second up to seven Raw files in total LIKES PERFORMANCE 19
though usually this was not the case. to be captured before the buffer becomes full. Build, layout,
HD video, quick AF IMAGE QUALITY 17
The lens itself is excellent quality, not too Lower-quality JPEG files can be continually VALUE 16
obtrusive, and the only major qualm is that it’s captured until the card fills. This isn’t a huge DISLIKES
somewhat slow to travel between focal lengths. selling point compared to some lower-spec yet Expensive, limited TOTAL
89%
zoom range, no
The LCD screen itself is good, though its faster compacts, though the LX5 is more about viewfinder
460k-dot resolution was top-end when the LX3 discerning shooting than high speed.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
CAMERAPHONE
GROUP TEST
ARE MOBILE PHONE CAMERAS GOOD ENOUGH
TO BEAT THE BEST SUB-£100 COMPACT?
TESTED BY PAUL NUTTALL
Until fairly recently if you wanted to take new wave of recent cameraphones have manufacturers such as Carl Zeiss.
pictures you’d need a dedicated camera – advanced so much in recent years that they With significant marketing campaigns
with either compact or DSLR being more can, at least on paper, be seen as genuine often touting these new mobiles as the
or less the full commercial end of the challengers to the compact camera market. be-all and end-all of your photography
spectrum. But it’s not just in the dedicated Resolution now extends up to 12MP in needs, the question is whether all these
camera market where imaging technologies some devices, though, as we know, this is developments have truly taken the
have been advancing... by no means a guarantee of decent image cameraphone’s imaging abilities up a notch
When manufacturers first introduced quality. And it’s not just still images where – are they good enough to do away with
cameras into mobile devices, the quality improvements have been seen: HD video the compact camera altogether?
was, generally speaking, good for little capture is now pretty much as standard, as We line up five of the most current
more than sharing candid moments and are dedicated camera buttons on handset mobile phone devices and scrutinise them
snaps of your friends to other devices with bodies. Optics have also been considered solely for their imaging capabilities. Will
tiny screens that wouldn’t amplify the in this new revolution, with partnerships any of our pick be able to outdo a sub-£100
limitations of the quality. However, the formed between phone-makers and lens compact camera?
CAMERAPHONEGROUPTEST
THE CONTROL
A
APPLE
CANON A495 IPHONE 4
£80 WWW.CANON.CO.UK £499 16GB
SIM-FREE WWW.APPLE.COM/UK
• SENSOR 10MP, 1/2.3IN CCD • CAMERA 5MP AF CAMERA, HD VIDEO, GEOTAGGING
KEY •
•
SCREEN 2.5IN, 115K-DOT LCD
LENS 3.3X OPTICAL, 37-122MM KEY
•
•
PROCESSOR APPLE A4 PROCESSOR
DISPLAY 3.5IN ‘RETINA’ DISPLAY, 960 X 640 PIXELS
SPECS •
•
ISO 100-1600
OTHER DIGIC III PROCESSOR SPECS •
•
MEMORY 16 / 32GB FLASH
DIMENSIONS 58.6 X 115.2 X 9.3MM, 137G
To set a benchmark, WDC addition, although the 2.5in LCD It has been argued that the indistinguishable to the human eye.
chose Canon’s highly screen only offers a disappointing recent surge in the The handset also features Apple’s A4
reputable A495 – an affordable, resolution of 115k-dots, and with development of smartphones is processor, designed specifically for
entry-level compact camera. no HD video mode the feature set in no small part thanks to the the handset, while a three-axis
The Canon PowerShot A495 is doesn’t always better the launch of the iPhone. In 2007 gyroscope also now features.
a pocketable compact that competing cameraphones. Apple introduced its first device The camera for the iPhone 4
features a 10MP sensor with a In use, the A495 is as good as to the mobile phone market, and features a 5MP sensor that is backlit
3.3x optical zoom lens, any entry-level compact on the the iPhone was an instant hit, with the goal of reducing image
covering a 37-122mm focal market, with prompt autofocus taking the market by storm. noise. The camera also features a
range in 35mm equivalent and an intuitive menu system. The company’s latest, the iPhone Xenon flash, as well as touch-to-
terms. However, the 37mm wideangle 4, boasts an impressive feature set select focus points, the ability to
The AA-battery powered setting can be limiting and the and the first-class design for which geo-tag images and Full HD video
compact features a basic interface overall body size exceeds all the Apple has become synonymous. The capture. The iPhone also benefits
and control layout, making it mobile phones in this test. handset features a 3.5in display, from Apple’s App Store – with over
perfectly suited to either those just The A495 also features a small which is by no means class-leading in 200,000 applications available for
starting out in photography or price-tag: Available now for around size but does boast world-leading download, including a vast number
those looking for a simple pocket £80, the A495 is the perfect performance. It’s labelled the ‘retina of photography apps, the out-of-the-
shooter. It also boasts digital image compact to carry around with you display’ – a moniker referring to the box camera functionality is just the
stabilisation, which is a welcome wherever you go. fact that the individual pixels are start of the experience.
IMAGE QUALITY The benefits of having a larger sensor and IMAGE QUALITY It’s clear that the processing in the iPhone 4 favours
dedicated image processor are clear with the A495 – fine detail is well saturation, with colours appearing overly-vibrant. However, exposures are spot
rendered, while the overall tone is also impressive, as is colour rendition. on while a plethora of processing options are available through the App Store.
SCORES LIKES
Compact size, good image
DISLIKES
Really poor LCD screen, build SCORES LIKES
Retina display, excellent
DISLIKES
Lack of dedicated camera
quality, low price quality could be better design, App Store buttons on the phone’s body
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
NOKIA H
HTC
N8 HD2
£429 16GB
SIM-FREE WWW.NOKIA.CO.UK £390 SIM-FREE WWW.HTC.COM/UK
• CAMERA 5MP AF W/ LED FLASH
KEY •
•
CAMERA 12MP AF W/ FLASH, 28MM F/2.8 FIXED ZEISS LENS
DISPLAY 3.5IN TFT, 640 X 360 PIXELS KEY •
•
PROCESSOR 1GHZ SNAPDRAGON
DISPLAY 4.3IN TFT, 480 X 800PIXELS
SPECS •
•
MEMORY 16GB, MICROSD EXPANSION
DIMENSIONS 59 X 113.5 X 12.9MM, 135G SPECS •
•
MEMORY 448GB, MICROSD EXPANSION
DIMENSIONS 59 X 113.5 X 12.9MM, 135G
As one of the veterans in resolution of 640 x 360 pixels. The When Apple stole the show is offered on-board, the HD2
the mobile phone market, N8 also benefits in the memory with the iPhone, HTC was supports MicroSD cards so this is
Nokia has a wealth of experience stakes, with it shipping with both one of the few companies that readily expandable. The graphical
in making handsets that both 16GB of internal memory and was credited with keeping up to interface, as with other HTC devices,
appeal to the mass-market and offering support for microSD cards speed. The main reason for this is unique and eye-catching, with a
also offer high-end functionality. up to 32GB, which when combined was that it offered handsets host of easily adopted features to
The company’s latest handset, can offer 48GB capacity in your that delivered on style and suit the user.
the N8, claims to offer imaging pocket. The N8 is, on paper, streets eye-catching design, while also The imaging side of the device is
performance like no other ahead of the rest of the group with innovating with regards to certainly on the more basic side. A
handset on the market, while regards to serious camera usability and the general user 5MP sensor is supported by
also offering a range of specification. The optics are supplied experience. The HD2 is the only autofocus and LED flash, though this
functionality to match the very by Carl Zeiss, while the handset also Windows phone on test – an is about the extent of it.
best available. features a Xenon flash. HD video is interface that features several HD video is unfortunately missing,
Where Nokia excels is in also present capturing at a resolution eye-catching assets. though the 4.3in screen is quite
developing handsets that have mass of 720p and, when combined with The HD2 features the largest something – even though it’s not
appeal, and the N8 is no different. the Dolby Digital Plus Surround touchscreen out of all of those on the highest-resolution one on test,
The Symbian-running handset is Sound and HDMI out, looks to deliver test, measuring some 4.3in and it’s a pleasure to use and is really
available in five colours and a home cinema experience directly offering a resolution of 480 x 800 well suited to framing and capturing
features a 3.5in touchscreen with a from your phone. pixels. While only 448MB of storage photographs.
IMAGE QUALITY Despite the pixel-crammed sensor, the Nokia N8 IMAGE QUALITY Images produced with the HTC HD2 are the poorest
still delivers an impressive amount of fine detail. Images display a pleasingly out of the group. White balance is unreliable in the extreme, while the handset’s
natural colour palette, with a good tonal range also on show. processing manages to blur and smudge any instances of fine detail.
SCORES LIKES
Feels like a compact, large
DISLIKES
Symbian OS can be difficult to
SCORES LIKES
Large screen, sleek design
DISLIKES
Image quality, Windows OS
screen, HD video operate, limited ‘Ovi’ store
CAMERAPHONEGROUPTEST
SONY ERICSSON S
SAMSUNG
XPERIA X10 GALAXY S
£449 SIM-FREE WWW.SONYERICSSON.COM £429 8GB
SIM-FREE WWW.SAMSUNG.COM
• CAMERA 5MP AF CAMERA W/ SCENE MODES, HD VIDEO
KEY •
•
CAMERA 8.1MP AF, IMAGE STABILISATION, FACE RECOGNITION
DISPLAY 4IN TFT, 480 X 854 PIXELS KEY
•
•
PROCESSOR 1GHZ CPU
DISPLAY 4IN WVGA SUPER AMOLED, 480 X 800 PIXELS
SPECS •
•
MEMORY 1GB, COMES WITH 8GB MICROSD
DIMENSIONS 63 X 119 X 13MM, 135G SPECS •
•
MEMORY 8 / 16GB + MICRO SD
DIMENSIONS 64.2 X 122.4 X 9.9MM, 119G
As one of the traditional of screen real estate and scale that The Galaxy S is a handset can be increased thanks to its
‘big players’ in the mobile has become synonymous with this that utilises Google’s MicroSD compatibility. Like many of
phone market, Sony Ericsson has type of device. The X10 also comes Android platform and boasts an the other cameraphones on test, the
long been at the forefront of the with 1GB of onboard memory, and impressive 4in WVGA Super Galaxy has a host of inbuilt sensors,
development of cameraphone can read MicroSD cards to expand AMOLED touch-screen. While it including an accelerometer and
technology. It was one of the first this further. may not have the highest digital compass.
manufacturers to offer handsets The camera functionality of the resolution of the cameraphones The camera on the Samsung
with a real dedicated imaging X10 is noteworthy, and it’s clear that on test here, the Super AMOLED Galaxy S is by no means the highest
angle to them, including Sony Ericsson has implemented its technology certainly ensures it’s specified of the handsets on test, but
camera-functioning buttons and years of experience here. The handset bright and eye-catching. The first is still more than adequate on paper.
built-in flash. features an 8.1MP sensor, complete thing you notice when holding The camera has a 5MP sensor,
The introduction of the Apple with digital image stabilisation. An the Galaxy S is just how light it complete with a range of scene
iPhone has caused the likes of Sony example of this dedicated camera feels. At just 119g, it’s about 15g modes and touch-to-select focus
Ericsson to up its game, and the functionality is the inclusion of face lighter than the next lightest in points. Basic exposure settings also
Xperia X10 is the latest evidence of recognition technology, as well as a the group. Although this may feature, as does basic image editing.
this. The device operates on the host of scene modes and several seem like a small measure it’s Finally, the camera benefits from
Android platform, and features a nice capture modifications. Unfortunately, certainly noticeable in the hand. 720p HD video recording at 30fps,
large 4in TFT LCD touchscreen with a the Xperia X10 doesn’t include HD The Galaxy S is available in both which is up there with being as good
480 x 854 pixel resolution – the kind video capture capabilities. 8GB and 16GB versions, though this as the rest of the group.
IMAGE QUALITY As you would expect with a Sony Ericsson handset, IMAGE QUALITY On the whole, image quality with the Galaxy S
the overall look and feel of the Xperia X10’s images is good. However, shadows is disappointing – white balance is unreliable, images appear soft overall and
and highlights have a tendency to be lost and sharpness is an issue. images appear to suffer from aggressive processing.
SCORES LIKES
Camera functionality good,
DISLIKES
Sharpness and dynamic range
SCORES LIKES
Hanset design, HD video,
DISLIKES
Poor image quality
large screen issues MicroSD support
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
THE BEST CAMERAPHONE…

As it turns out, cameraphones really have moved on in the past year
or two. If you had conducted this test just one year ago, you would
have struggled to find five devices that could credibly contend the
compact camera’s crown.
In the end, with the Canon compact brushed to the side for one
moment, it was a two-horse race between the Apple iPhone 4 and
the Nokia N8. The pair comprise the most serious threat to a
compact camera given their feature sets and, importantly, the
image quality from both is very good too. The large screens make
the experience all the more pleasing, while the ability to enhance
this through apps is a real sell. In the end the N8 just edges past the
iPhone 4, owing to the slightly better image quality and more
dedicated camera functionality.
IMAGE COMPARISON
If you’re looking to utilise your images on superior. Not only that, but the A495 also
no more than small prints or social benefits from the dedicated DIGIC III image
networking sites, then it’s really difficult to processor – a greater dynamic range is
distinguish between the A495 and the N8. displayed, while tones are also more
However, on closer examination, it’s clear pleasing. This isn’t to say that the Canon
that the compact still has the edge. Owing A495 is streets ahead, however – images
to the size of the A495’s sensor relative to taken with the N8 more than stand up to
that of the N8, the level of detail displayed scrutiny and would be more than adequate
on images taken with the former is for most casual photographers.
100% 100%
NOKIA N8 As mentioned above, the

quality of images from the N8 is way
beyond previous mobile phones, and is
nearly a match for a compact camera.
100% 100%
CANON A495 Despite the massive

advancements from cameraphones in
recent times, the Canon A495 still shows
that, for the very best image quality, a
compact camera is the best choice.
CONCLUSION quality. Furthermore, the availability of

‘apps’ in the Ovi Store mean that the
control layout of the A495 is still preferable.
Finally, and to some most importantly, is
I wish that there was a simple answer to the functionality of the N8 is readily improvable image quality. Images with the N8 are the
question ‘Is the cameraphone now as good – and I wouldn’t be surprised if this concept best I’ve seen from a cameraphone to date,
as a compact?’ but it’s really hard to reduce was adopted by the larger camera but for fine detail, colour and tonal range
it to a yes or no answer. manufacturers in coming years. the A495 wins it.
In many areas the Nokia N8 is now However, for certain things you really So, if you’re looking for the best photos
preferable to cameras such as the Canon can’t get past the Canon A495. The 3x and the best camera experience, you’d best
PowerShot A495. For example, the N8’s optical zoom trumps the fixed-lens digital stick to the compact – though for some the
3.5in TFT touchscreen dwarfs the A495’s offering of the N8, and while the camera cameraphone is a stronger option than
2.5in 115k-dot LCD screen in both size and controls of the N8 are best-in-class, the ever, if not the winner. PN
O
ON SALE N
NOW!
W KDONQSQ@HSR
VHCD@MFS KDR
TMCDQRS@WM CLDSDQHMF
ODQEDBSD ONRT
QD
AQD@JHMF GDQT
58 ne
o`fdrhptd
@TSTLM1/
8
1 0/¢2-88
ONLY
sdbgm
£3.99
` mbd
@cucrbòdc
d
oK`m
rb̀
c
m
he
Rjhkkr
Enbtrrss`bj
¬ Êj
hmfenq
g`qomdrr
eqnms,sn,a`bjrrsr
¬ ÊA`mhrgsntqh
eqnlbhsxrgnsrfqògx
¬ ÊSqùdkognsn
shor`mcsqhbjr
KD@QVM
GN È
SN
hsg @cchmfbqd`shud
@cchlo`bsv aktqo3/
s`rshb Fdssgdadrs43 eq`ldro25
Rgnnse`mdro2/ eqnlsgdrjxo
k`mcrb ò
c t b sh n m ¬ÊR g` qo d mhmf
Ê q d
g n nshmf eknvd qr ¬
M n hr d
?;D B R
Available from
CAMBRIDGE
EOS 7D EOS 50D EOS 550D EOS 1000D
Digital SLR kit with 18-135mm IS 18mp Digital SLR kit with 17-85mm IS USM lens Digital SLR kit with 18-55mm IS EFS Digital SLR kit with 18-55mm lens
• 10 megapixels
• 3” LCD screen with
Live View mode
• 7.5fps continuous
shooting
• EOS Integrated
Cleaning System
• Magnesium alloy
body
£1,499.99 £999.99 £709.99 £399.99

Campkins Package includes Campkins Package includes Campkins Package includes Campkins Package includes
4GB Xtreme 3 200x (worth £44.99) 4GB Xtreme 3 200x (worth £44.99) 4GB SANDISC XTREME (worth £44.99) 2GB SANDISC ULTRA (worth £19.99)
AN
D PART EXCHANGE YOUR OLD DIGITAL SLR
at least £100 allowance on your fully working Canon Digital SLR inc Standard Zoom
Canon Lenses Sigma lenses to fit Canon EOS
Canon EF-S 60mm f2.8 Macro USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£399.99 10-20mm F3.1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£499.99
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f3.5-4.5 USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£674.99
10-20mm F4/5.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£439.99
Canon EF 17-40mm f4 L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£729.99
M9 Check for Stock 18-105mm 05 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£269.99
EP1 - EP2 - EPL1
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f4-5.6 IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£449.99
Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8 L USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1,129.99 18-200mm OS FOC UV Filter . . . . . . . .£329.99 EP1 + 14-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . .£370
Canon
Canon
EF 24-105mm f4 L IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£949.99
EF 70-200mm f4 L USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£599.99 X1 Check for Stock 18-250mm OI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£479.99
2 x Sigma C-EOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£189.99 EP2 + 14-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . .£648
Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£499.99
170-500 APO OS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£789.99
Canon
Canon
EF 70-200/2.8 IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1,699.99
EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6 L IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1,449.00 D-Lux 5 Check for Stock 70-300 DG Macro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£149.99 EPL1 + 14-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . .£488
Canon EFS 17-55 f2.8 IS USM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£899.99
Canon EFS 18-200 f3.5/5.6 IS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£549.99
Canon EFS 55-250 IS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£244.99
1/2 price multi Coated Filter supplied DHQ Quality Mailorder welcome P&P Extra £6.99 Next day extra £13.99 Prices include 17.5% VAT
CAMPKINS CAMERA CENTRE

11 ROSE CRESCENT, CAMBRIDGE, CB2 3LP
Tel: 01223 364223 Fax: 01223 313852
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
.
FUJIFILM SAMSUNG PANASONIC

FINEPIX XP10 ST5500 LUMIX FZ100
£169 £200 £420
12 MEGAPIXELS 14.2 MEGAPIXELS 14.1 MEGAPIXELS
5X OPTICAL ZOOM 7X OPTICAL ZOOM 24X OPTICAL ZOOM
WWW.FUJIFILM.CO.UK WWW.SAMSUNG.CO.UK WWW.PANASONIC.CO.UK

The Fujifilm XP10 is at the cheaper end of The ST5500 is Samsung’s latest Panasonic’s latest superzoom packs in a
the tough camera market, so an attractive touchscreen camera, and it arrives 24x optical zoom, so close-up macro,
option for those on a budget. complete with an impressive specification. The wideangle landscapes, medium-length portraits
As well as being able to survive a 1m drop, touchscreen measures some 3.7 inches in 16:9 and super-telephoto shots are all possible.
water submersion to 3m and being freezeproof widescreen orientation and is of the AMOLED Whether you’re using the point-and-shoot iA
to -10°C, the XP10 includes an HD movie mode variety. The 14.2MP compact crams in a 7x (intelligent Auto) mode or the manual settings,
and 5x optical zoom. Image stabilisation is optical zoom lens into its slim body, and offers a there’s something here for everyone. There’s
digitally-based though (i.e. the ISO increases), trio of wireless sharing options – you can either even Full HD 1080i movies and the full extent of
creating potential low-light shooting issues. share through the onboard Bluetooth, upload the zoom can be employed while shooting.
The XP10’s curved edges and smooth casing thanks to the camera’s Wi-Fi, or utilise ALLShare The autofocus is decent and shots are sharp
are more indicative of an affordable, stylish technology to display on your TV. thanks to the Power O.I.S. stabilisation. The
compact rather than a waterproof/drop-proof The ST5500 is available in three colours, and electronic viewfinder (EVF) isn’t the most
model. The rear’s rubberised controls give a is an eye-catching compact. A brushed- detailed, but it’s very useful when framing long
better indication of the intended use. aluminium finish features, and the camera also shots thanks to the extra support offered from
Image quality is reasonably decent – offering features a ‘self-standing Posture 7°’ design, the camera being tight to the eye. Plus, if the
some sharp, relatively well-exposed images in allowing easy capture of self-portraits. Despite 3in, tilt-angle LCD suffers glare from sunlight,
decent light conditions. As expected, the image the high-spec of the ST5500’s screen, it the EVF is a great second option for shooting.
stabilisation isn’t particularly effective as plenty of disappoints in use. The finish produces a lot of Image quality is reasonable, though there is
test shots suffered from motion blur, and when glare, making it hard to view in strong light. notable image noise throughout the full ISO
the stabilisation did take hold the images were Images quality is also disappointing, with range. Above ISO 400 this starts to become
noticeably noisy. A touch of fringing is also overprocessing evident in almost every shot. prominent, though up to ISO 1600 is still usable.
apparent at close range, while image tones and Although the tonal range is good, and very little For the same money, you could buy a DSLR or
colours tend to be balanced rather than fringing features, the overprocessing means Micro System Camera, though a better
spectacularly eye-catching. MT images don’t stand up to closer inspection. PN superzoom would be hard to find. ML
ABOVE The background shows evidence of noise ABOVE Overprocessing is noticeable in most images ABOVE Images are good, and even ISO 1600 is usable

LENS 36-180mm, LCD 2.7inch POWER Li-ion LENS 31-217mm touchscreen WEIGHT 161.1g LENS 25-600mm with LCD 3in, 460k-dot WEIGHT 540g (with
F4.3-6.7 SIZE 95.6 x 63.8 x MEMORY SD/SDHC RES 14.2MP AMOLED POWER Li-ion Power OIS tilt-angle battery and card)
RES 12.2MP, ½.3” 23.2mm OTHER USB/AV ISO 80-3200 SIZE 103.8 x 58.3 x MEMORY MicroSD RES 14.1MP SIZE 124.3 x 81.2 x POWER Li-ion
ISO 100-1600 WEIGHT 135g Connectivity SCREEN 3.7in 19.6mm OTHER Wi-Fi ISO 100-1600 95.2 mm MEMORY SD / SDHC
SCORES FEATURES 18 SCORES FEATURES 18 SCORES FEATURES 19

LIKES DESIGN 17 LIKES DESIGN 18 LIKES DESIGN 18
Some impressive PERFORMANCE 16 Sleek design and build PERFORMANCE 16 25-600mm range, PERFORMANCE 18
features for an IMAGE QUALITY 16 quality IMAGE QUALITY 16 good stabilisation IMAGE QUALITY 17
underwater model DISLIKES DISLIKES
VALUE 17 VALUE 17 Price, no eye-level
VALUE 15
DISLIKES Disappointing
Flawed, noisy images TOTAL AMOLED screen, TOTAL sensor for EVF/LCD TOTAL
84% 85% 87%
overprocessing switching, lack of
sharpness at tele end
ESSO RIES, TRIED AND
ES AND AC C
LATEST GEA R, LENS
DIGITAL CA M ERA EXPERTS
E WHAT
TESTED BY TH
EPSON
PX820FWD
£300 WWW.EPSON.CO.UK
Describing itself as the ultimate with neutral grey tones. Full borderless inputs, allow photos to be printed
wireless four-in-one, the PX820FWD prints take up to 3mins, which is directly. The WiFi connection also allows
is in no danger of selling itself short. acceptable, while bordered prints are computers to connect to the printer
Essentially this unit is a subtle upgrade of done in around 2mins. remotely, via a wireless router. You can
the PX810FW model, adding the newer The flatbed scanner provides a even use Epson’s iPhone app to print
high speed N-class wireless connectivity resolution of 4800 x 4800dpi, with options images straight from your iPhone.
and some added functionality to the fax to scan at up to 9600dpi. A full A4 scan at The PX820FWD is quite a bulky unit,
usage. Apart from this slim distinction 600dpi takes just 50secs. There is a top even by all-in-one standards, but it
there is little reason to doubt its claims. loading auto document feeder for does look pretty stylish and packs in
On the printing side, the 820 features multiple sheet scanning, however there plenty of features. Unless your WiFi
six separate Claria ink cartridges, adding a are no options to scan film. Fax router offers N-class speeds there is little
Light Cyan and Light Magenta to the functionality includes speed dials and a benefit to this model over the 810.
standard CMYK set-up. Colours are bright choice of resolutions, and has been However, it is still a great all-round
and punchy and detail is impressive bolstered by PC fax options. piece of kit for the money. MG
thanks to the 1.5pl droplet size (with The PX820 is also designed to work as a
LIKES Huge touchscreen display, fast
variable droplet size technology) though standalone unit, away from direct
WiFi, punchy prints
didn’t fully resolve single pixel lines on connection to a computer. The large
our test chart. Using the iEnhance setting 19.8cm (7.8in) touchscreen display gives DISLIKES Small upgrade on older
from the print dialogue tended to muddy full control of the unit’s settings and model, no film scanning
the colours slightly and add too much functions, allowing you to scan, print or
warmth, whereas the standard Vivid
setting gave much more pleasing results
fax with ease. Media card slots for just
about any type of card, and PictBridge 86%
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
P
EPA
L APPLE
G
IC
AMAGIC
M
GITZO ARTRACKPAD
D
P
K
CT
£59 WWW.APPLE.COM/UK
OCEAN
TRAVELER
In addition to Apple’s new line of iMacs
and Mac Pros launched last month
mccame an interesting little device that bridges
Awtthe gap between Apple’s desktop and
£730 WWW.GITZO.COM Mmpportable/mobile devices. The Magic Trackpad
The Gitzo Ocean Traveler is designed to Mmwwill be familiar to users of Macbook and
seriously tackle the elements and, as the MMacbook Pro laptops, as it offers mouse
name suggests, its stainless steel and carbon fibre ccontrol on the screen in an almost identical
construction avoids the corrosive properties of wway. This means that those users who
water or even saltwater. rregularly swap between desktop and laptop
We’ve had the Gitzo in and out the office for muuse can keep their mouse-free operation on
some time now – a tripod of this calibre needs both devices. The Magic Trackpad also brings
testing in the field as much as possible. It’s been the popular gesture controls to the desktop,
up mountains in New York, on Miami beach in allowing you to use multiple fingers to
the pitch dark, and even in the WDC studio. sand, grit and water out of the locks to ensure achieve different tasks, such as three-finger
My personal standard tripod is a Manfrotto dry and smooth operation. and four-finger swipes, two-finger clicks, and
055x with a three-way head and getting hold of The Traveler comes with a stainless steel ball pinch and rotate movements that have
the Ocean Traveler for a couple of trips made the head (with 1/4in or 3/8in screw types) that can been popular on devices such as the iPad
differences between the more ‘standard’ tripod be deconstructed for cleaning to ensure no and iPhone.
all the more explicit. First, the Gitzo is superbly grime gets inside. This is capable of supporting The device itself is slick and stylish, as you
light, weighing in at 1.4kg – though it doesn’t 4kg, which is a fairly reasonable amount but not would expect, and sits neatly next to the
even feel that much in the hand. Second, the above and beyond the usual standard of a good keyboard, occupying roughly the same depth
way it folds up to 43.5cm makes for a very small tripod. The maximum extension to 149cm (just and colouring. The touch area is roughly
and transportable frame, though with only a under 5ft) is also fairly conservative, though three 110 x 130mm, so is much larger than that on
general bag without a handle to cover it’s not leg extensions mean that this could be no the laptops but still compact enough not to
always perfect to hold onto – a proper carry bag further, and this correlates to the small folded take over your desk space, as a graphics
included would have been nice. However, the size that is considerably important for those on tablet might. The trackpad is principally
legs themselves don’t conduct heat as well as the go, where every last gram and centimetre designed to accompany rather than replace
aluminium legs, say, which means they won’t really count. the mouse so it’s not as convenient for all
take the heat away from your hands in cold and The overall gist is that once you’ve bought an uses. However, for web browsing and flipping
frosty conditions, so grappling the frame is far Ocean Traveler it’ll last so that you’ll not need to through images it works very well. Also, due
less ‘painful’ than with many aluminium or even buy another tripod. While this may certainly go to its wireless connection extending up to 10
carbon fibre competitor tripod models. some way in making good for the price, it can’t metres, it does allow you to operate the
A slight qualm with the design is that, because shy away from the fact that upwards of £730 is Mac much like a remote, making it handy
the legs fold all the way back on themselves into an awful lot to fork out for a standard-sized when watching films. Due to the multi-touch
an ‘upside down’ sort of position, initially folding tripod. As much as we love the Ocean Traveler (it technology, the trackpad will only work with
the legs down into the true tripod position can would score more highly but the price is a Mac OS X 10.6.4 and above. Though perhaps
be a little fiddly, especially in tricky locations, as considerable factor), it’s certainly one for not an essential addition, it is an impressive
the leg locks require one hand to hold them extremely serious pros out there that need every piece of kit that integrates well with the
open and the other to pull them into position. last feature it has to offer. ML latest models. MG
Admittedly, the rigid folded position is important,
and there’s not necessarily an easy way to avoid LIKES Very light, small size, innovative features, LIKES Clever multi-touch functionality for the
such construction. The telescopic leg extensions, ball head included desktop and handy control at a distance
on the other hand, are much easier to use and, DISLIKES It’s very expensive, no proper carry DISLIKES Doesn’t fully replace the mouse, only for
even if you’re not a fan of the screw-type release, bag included latest versions of OS
85% 89%
there’s a very good reason for this design choice:
as the tripod is designed for use in adverse
conditions, the special Ocean-lock system keeps
GEAREDUP
G U
In order to capture true macro photographs,

where the image is the same size as the original
TAMRON SP
AF 180MM
object, the lens has to be used at close range. This can
cause problems, however, such as when the lens casts
its own shadow over the subject.
The simplest solution is to find a way of capturing
macro images from a greater distance: this can easily
be done by using a longer focal-length, which is where
Tamron’s 180mm Macro really comes into its own.
F/3.5 DI LD (IF) MACRO
£700
If the lens comprised just a single, thin element then
to get a life-size image the glass would have to be two WWW.TAMRON.CO.UK
focal-lengths from the subject (and therefore also two
focal-lengths from the sensor, since this is a TESTED BY JON TARRANT
symmetrical arrangement). So Tamron’s lens can, in • TRUE 1:1 MACRO
theory, be used from a range of about 36cm, which is
a very comfortable working distance. The reality is not • HIGH PEAK RESOLUTION
quite so generous but the working distance remains • INTERNAL FOCUSING
very comfortable so this is clearly going to be an • FULL-FRAME COVERAGE
interesting lens for anybody who is serious about
macro photography. • INTEGRAL TRIPOD COLLAR
MTF testing confirms that its visually-biting images
really are sharp numerically. From wide-open to f/11
the MTF figures hover around a highly impressive 0.35
cycles-per-pixel and the lens does not fall below the
critical 0.25 cycles-per-pixel level until beyond f/16.
All this is good enough but there is yet more to
come because the 180mm is a very useful prime lens
for general purpose photography too and can create
pin-sharp in-focus regions with soft out-of-focus
backgrounds that suit both portraiture and sports/
action photography.
Handling is excellent thanks to Tamron’s ingenious
push-pull focusing ring, which changes between AF
and MF without any need for a separate switch. The
internal-focusing mechanism is brisk and quiet. In
addition, Tamron thoughtfully provides a ‘filter effect
control’ ring that can rotate a filter that is mounted
within the generous petal-shape lens hood. This
refinement must surely come either from first-hand
experience or from listening to photographers who
have been frustrated at not being able to adjust a
hooded polariser, for example.
In short, this is a well-designed lens that produces
cracking results on both full-frame and APS-C bodies.
JT
IMAGE QUALITY
Not only is this an excellent macro lens but it is also a
top-quality all-rounder too. This picture is taken from
about one-third of the full original image.
PHOTOGRAPH © JON TARRANT
PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATIONS SCORES

There is excellent resolution across all apertures down to FOCAL LENGTH 180mm LIKES
f/11 and technical testing revealed excellent consistency for MAX APERTURE 3.5 Great dual-purpose lens
all three primary colours, no doubt due to the use of two MIN APERTURE 32
DISLIKES
low-dispersion (LD) elements. LENS MOUNT Canon No AF/MF mode
(also availablein Minolta and Nikon fit)
IMAGE FORMAT Full-Frame
OPT CONSTRUCTION 14 / 11
OPT TECHNOLOGY Two low-dispersion FEATURES 19
(LD) elements
DESIGN 19
FOCUS MODES AF and MF
MIN FOCUS 0.47
PERFORMANCE 19
ANGLE OF VIEW (º) 14 IMAGE QUALITY 19
FILTER 72mm VALUE 18
LENS HOOD Included (petal-type)
DIMENSIONS 85 x 166mm TOTAL
WEIGHT
PRICE (STREET)
920g
£700 94% GOLD AWARD
83
8
whAt DigitAlcAmerA
BOOKS
52 photogrAphic
projects
Author Kevin mereDith
puBlisher rotovision
isBn no: 978-2-88893-070-9
£22.95 www.rotovision.com
Books based on bite-sized aforementioned bite-sized follow manner, making it a great
photography projects are category. The book, compiled by title to pick up whenever you’re
numerous. They’re normally broken Meredith and featuring looking to either brush up on an
down into manageable chunks contributions from a host of old skill or learn a new one. This,
rather than in-depth and long-term accomplished photographers, combined with inspirational
techniques, and this can appeal to covers everything from portraits to photography and a simplistic
those looking for quick results as in-camera cutouts, water design, make 52 Photographic
opposed to having to invest great photography to kite photography. Projects an essential title for
amounts of time. No matter how complicated the beginners and advanced
52 Photographic Projects is the technique, 52 Photographic photographers alike. 93% PN
latest title from Kevin Meredith and Projects manages to instruct the (See page 50 for one of the
pogoplug
fits perfectly into the reader in a concise and easy-to- techniques featured in this book.)
£99 www.pogoplug.com how to cheAt

in photoshop
elements 8
Pogoplug is a device that allows you to
share the contents of your hard drive over
the internet to anywhere in the world, much like Author DAviD Asch AnD steve cAplin
a Slingbox but for data. The device plugs into puBlisher FocAl press
your internet connection, via a router, and isBn no: 978-0-240-52187-9
features four USB ports that can each support a £22.99 www.focalpress.com
data source. Then, using the website, you can
The power of Adobe you. Rather than guide
register your pogoplug, set your privacy and
Photoshop Elements is such you by the hand through
choose who you wish to share your data with,
that many photographers are now every feature of Elements
and even set specific folders for sharing. There’s
using it as their main post- 8, How to Cheat…
even an iPad and iPhone app to allow you to
production tool – especially those instead offers short
view images and video via your pogoplug. The
looking to enter the world of guides to a host of
Pogo technology is also used by the Goflex image-editing for the first time. potentially useful
Seagate drives, as tested in the September issue Despite Elements being a more techniques.
and certainly works very well. Set-up is very quick basic software suite than The basis for the title
and easy and the interface is easy to use for both Photoshop, for the newcomer it is intelligent, the
sharing settings and viewing files. Using this can still prove overwhelming. techniques on show are techniques and ‘cheats’ are
set-up does save you paying for online storage, For those wanting a quick fix sound, and no doubt useful for rendered entirely unappealing by
though it ultimately relies on two sets of when it comes to post-processing, those looking to improve their cartoony examples and garish
connection speeds and leaving various devices as well as photography-based Elements skill set. The problem, images that, if anything, deter you
constantly turned on at home. It’s also probably digital art, then a title such as How though, lies with the examples and from experimenting with the
worth using a spare drive or a copy of your data to Cheat… could be the one for the illustration therein – useful software. 80% PN
rather than your master version.
If you need to access your data when away
from home though, or share with others, this is a
very quick and easy way to do it. MG
Auto Focus
Author susAn Bright
puBlisher thAmes AnD huDson
isBn no: 978-0-500-54389-4
£28 www.thamesandhudson.com
The self-portrait has historical foundations
undergone something of a and also considers how it
resurgence in the digital age. There has evolved over time.
are several schools of thought as to Auto Focus, however, is
the reason for this – some argue at its best when it puts
that the instant results that digital meat on the bones of the
provides have facilitated this surge, self-portrait itself, offering
while others note that the explanations of how the
omnipresence of digital cameras self-portrait is used as a
has simply placed the technology in tool for both
more creative hands than introspection and
previously had access. expression.
liKes Quick and easy to set up, no monthly charges This resurgence is just one of the Covering some 75 However, for those interested in
DisliKes Fairly large initial outlay facets of the self-portrait examined contemporary photographers both taking self-portraits and the
in Auto Focus: The Self-Portrait in through five themes, the heavily genre on the whole, Auto Focus
86%
Contemporary Photography. The artistic content of Auto Focus may will provide plenty of food for
title looks back at the self-portrait’s not be to everyone’s liking. thought. 86% PN
84
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
LOW COST
TELEPHOTO
ZOOMS
WHAT’S THE BEST
NIKON
AF-S 70-300MM
F/4.5-5.6G VR ED-IF
£399
TELEPHOTO LENS YOU

CAN GET FOR LESS CANON
EF 70-300MM
THAN £500? F/4-5.6 IS USM
TESTED BY JON TARRANT £470
Nice though 70-200mm f/2.8 pro-spec
zooms undoubtedly are, not
everybody can afford the four-figure sums
that are demanded by Nikon, Canon and
Sony. Fortunately, Sigma and Tamron
offer more keenly priced alternatives but
even these remain out of touch for those
with a strict £500 limit.
Ironically, by extending the zoom range
to 70-300mm but also accepting a more
modest and variable maximum aperture, it
is easily possible to stay within budget.
Such lenses from Canon, Nikon, Tamron
and Sigma are tested here. Three of the
four are even equipped with image
stabilisation but by omitting this
technology Tamron is able to offer its lens
for much under £200, making it less than
half the price of the other three.
Although the four lenses here all offer
full-frame coverage they have been tested
on APS-C DSLRs as it seems more likely that
better-heeled full-format DSLR users will
opt for one of the 70-200mm f/2.8 pro-spec
zooms, which proved their quality in
recent testing (WDC, October 2010).
Related contenders include Pentax’s
in-budget 55-300mm, Sony’s slightly over
budget 70-300mm, Tokina’s extended (but
£600) 80-400mm and the in-budget but
sub-full-frame Olympus 70-300mm zoom.
Inevitably, all the lenses tested here have
specific limitations that affect their
performance or usability but none of these
flaws could be regarded as being fatal. TAMRON
Whether you need to get closer to shy AF 70-300MM
wildlife, throw backgrounds out-of-focus
for portrait photography or fill the frame SIGMA F/4-5.6 DI LD
with distant action, one of these capable 70-300MM £169
but affordable lenses may well be the
perfect purchase.
F/4-5.6 DG OS
£399
LENS GROUPTEST
CANON EF 70-300MM TELE
F/4-5.6 IS USM
£470 WWW.CANON.CO.UK
Canon’s lens is priced close to the £500 budget undermining
limit but offers a lot in return. Not only is there a any careful
quick and accurate USM focusing mechanism but alignment of
also image stabilisation that offers single-axis and filters that may
dual-axis modes to accommodate both panning need to be
and static photography. maintained at
The zoom ring occupies the centre section of different
the lens barrel and is perfectly located for distances. For
comfortable use at any focal length. This is the price, this is
important because the forward-positioned focus a predictable
ring rotates in AF mode so fingers must not be compromise.
allowed to creep toward the front of the lens MTF testing WIDE
unless MF mode is engaged. Both rings have a revealed
relatively light action but when the lens is turned impressive
upwards, say to photograph an air display, the results across
zooming action becomes slightly jerky. At the zoom range,
near-vertical angles, the zoom tends to contract with just the
under its own weight. maximum
Immediately behind the zoom ring are slider focal-length proving slightly weaker. Provided that
switches to activate the Image Stabilizer and to the lens is stopped-down no further than f/16
select the most appropriate mode. Neither slider is (f/11 at 300mm) there is likely to be full sharpness
particularly easy to move, so these settings are as the MTF figures remain above the critical 0.25
unlikely to be disturbed when stowing or cycles-per-pixel level. Conversely, selecting
retrieving the camera from a bag. As the AF/MF minimum aperture will degrade image quality and
slider is slightly more exposed, it might be it is a shame that Canon did not simply limit this IMAGES
dislodged when attaching or removing the lens. to f/32 at all focal lengths rather than allowing Both of the Canon’s images exhibit
The front of the lens rotates during focusing, the setting to shrink to f/45 at 300mm. excellent quality characteristics, as would
be expected given the f/11 aperture used.
TELE
NIKON AF-S 70-300MM
F/4.5-5.6G VR ED-IF
£399 WWW.NIKON.CO.UK
Most lenses of this type offer a maximum images (but not in
aperture of f/4 but Nikon’s lens is limited to f/4.5. real-life pictures).
Despite this, it requires a 67mm lens cap even Sadly, in Nikon’s
though its faster f/4 competitors are able to make case the 300mm
do with either 58mm or 62mm. setting narrowly
The lens has internal focusing and an failed to reach the
impressive AF action thanks to Nikon’s SWM critical 0.25
technology. These advantages immediately put cycles-per-pixel
the Nikkor in a different class and should render it level that was the
quiet enough to leave both nervous wildlife and norm for other
temperamental golfers unperturbed. focal-lengths
The zoom ring dominates the lens barrel, with down to f/16. WIDE
a narrow manual focus ring located to the rear. This is a
Manual focusing can be applied in AF mode. well-specified lens
Beneath the AF mode selector is the second- that ought to be
generation Vibration Reduction switch and below worth the £400.
that, slightly recessed to prevent accidental There is a minor reservation in that the review
adjustment, is the VR mode slider. All of these, lens sometimes parked itself at the minimum
plus a focused-distance window, are located focusing distance in AF mode and would only
closest to the camera body. Overall balance, even move again if you switched off the camera and
with the lens fully extended, is excellent thanks to then reactivated it. This apparent fault may have
the size and position of the zoom ring. been caused by careless previous handling (the
Technical testing revealed good consistency but review sample having arrived unboxed) so our
no particular sweet-spot. As is normal for zooms scores for Quality and Performance assume that
of this type, the 300mm setting produced the this is not a design problem. Potential buyers IMAGES
weakest MTF results and was also associated with should check their intended purchases for this Despite hints in technical images, there
slight colour fringing in high-contrast test-target behaviour before parting with any cash. is no sign of chromatic aberration in
real-world pictures taken at 300mm.
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
TELE
SIGMA 70-300MM
F/4-5.6 DG OS
£399 WWW.SIGMA-IMAGING-UK.COM
This is the most expensive of three Sigma lenses near water, keep it
that offer 70-300mm and an f/4-5.6 maximum from getting wet,’
aperture. For those on a tight budget, the £170 adding, ‘it is often
DG version may look appealing but it did not impractical to
perform well when tested previously by WDC. The repair the internal
£230 Apo DG seems much more worthy of mechanism, lens
consideration and the version tested here adds elements and
image stabilisation to improve usability still further. electric
The Sigma employs a wide zoom-ring towards components
the middle of the lens and a forward-positioned damaged by
manual focusing ring that rotates in AF mode, water’. Use on the
slightly restricting the grip that can be used when beach to WIDE
the lens is fully extended. There is a focused- photograph surfers
distance scale and depth-of-field markings for the during testing passed uneventfully so Sigma’s
70mm focal length. The AF/MF switch and the OS warning, albeit sensible, should not prevent
Off/On switch are at the rear of the lens. careful use in a variety of environments.
Sigma’s Optical Stabilizer offers only a single MTF testing produced good results for the
mode but is effective and exceptionally quiet. The 70mm and 135mm focal-length settings but at
AF mechanism is a little noisy but at least it’s quick 200mm there was an uncharacteristic dip in wide-
enough to capture most common subjects. aperture performance. Also, the lens narrowly
As is the case for other lenses with a forward- failed to hit the critical 0.25 cycles-per-pixel level
located focus ring, the reversible lens hood when set to its maximum focal-length, though
prevents manual focusing from being used below this behaviour isn’t unusual for a lens of this type.
about 200mm. In addition, removing or fitting the Overall, Sigma’s lens performed very well and
lens hood makes the lens barrel rotate and this field testing suggests it loses nothing by offering IMAGES
can be both inconvenient and disconcerting. only single-mode image stabilisation. At some Despite having only one mode of image-
Sigma warns: ‘when you use the lens in rain or £300 on-the-street, this looks rather a bargain. stabilisation, Sigma’s lens steadies the
picture quickly and quietly at 300mm.
TAMRON AF 70- TELE
300MM F/4-5.6 DI LD
£169 WWW.TAMRON.CO.UK
Tamron’s lens feels remarkably lightweight for its Coupled with
type. This is almost certainly because there is no the lack of IS,
image-stabilisation (IS) technology, which the this makes
other lenses in this round-up all offer. For the accurate
same reason, it is also no more than one-third of framing of
the price of its competitors. distant scenes
Tamron’s is the most compact lens in this group difficult. The
test. The wide zoom ring is closest to the camera AF mechanism
body and only the AF/MF slider is further is also a little
rearwards. The focus ring is wider than is to be on the slow
found on the competitors’ lenses, which aids side but it is
manual operation but also increases the risk of accurate and WIDE
stray fingers impeding its rotation in AF mode. reliable
That said, the likelihood of inhibiting the focusing provided that is
action is still very slight. A slider controls the not brought to
focusing range to switch between Normal and bear on rapidly
Macro, which is available only at longer focal moving
lengths and delivers a maximum magnification of subjects.
0.5x. The close-up facility can be used either with As is usual for 70-300mm zooms, the Tamron’s
manual focusing or in AF mode. MTF performance is weakest at its 300mm setting
Rotating the zoom ring to its maximum focal but at least it just rises above the critical 0.25
length gives the lens a total length of about cycles-per-pixel level (though not enough to raise
180mm, inviting a further-forward grip than is its Image Quality score).
adopted at shorter focal-lengths. At this point the This is a very usable lens if you can live without
Tamron’s rotating focus ring becomes a problem IS (eg. if you’ll be using it on a tripod), users on a
IMAGES
and the imposed grip means the lens cannot be tight budget and those who will make use of its The lack of image-stabilisation coupled
steadied as well as would otherwise be the case. close-focusing (though not true macro) capability. with a wide manual-focusing ring makes
accurate framing tricky at 300mm.
LENS GROUPTEST
PERFORMANCE
Technical testing produced these charts below. quality imaging is 0.25 cycles-per-pixel and the is doing very well. The data for the graphs were
A high MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) maximum theoretical figure is 0.50 cycles-per- obtained using Imatest software (www.imatest.
figure indicates that the lens can resolve pixel. Any lens that stays above the minimum com) and the graphs were created using RJS
more fine detail. The minimum figure for top- figure across all (or most) of its aperture range Office (www.rjsweb.net).
CANON EF SPECIFICATIONS
70-300MM FOCAL LENGTH 70-300mm SCORES
F/4-5.6 IS MAX APERTURE
MIN APERTURE
4-5.6
32-45
LIKES
Good all-rounder
USM LENS MOUNT
IMAGE FORMAT
Canon
Full-Frame DISLIKES
OPT CONSTRUCTION 15 / 10 Lack of IF
OPT TECHNOLOGY USM
FOCUS AF and MF
MIN FOCUS 1.5m FEATURES 17
MAXIMUM DESIGN 18
MAGNIFICATION 0.26x
FILTER 58mm PERFORMANCE 18
Except at 300mm this is a LENS HOOD Not included IMAGE QUALITY 18
great set of curves and even DIMENSIONS 76 x 143mm VALUE 17
at 300mm the MTF figures WEIGHT 630g
are very acceptable provided PRICE (STREET) £470 TOTAL
that small apertures are
avoided. 88%
NIKON SPECIFICATIONS
AF-S FOCAL LENGTH
MAX APERTURE
70-300mm
4.5-5.6 SCORES
70-300MM MIN APERTURE
LENS MOUNT
32-40 LIKES
Internal focusing
F/4.5-5.6G VR
Nikon
IMAGE FORMAT Full-Frame DISLIKES
ED-IF OPT CONSTRUCTION
OPT TECHNOLOGY
17 / 12
ED glass
Not much at all
and internal
focusing FEATURES 19
FOCUS AF/MF and MF DESIGN 17
MIN FOCUS 1.5m PERFORMANCE 18
There is good consistency MAXIMUM
MAGNIFICATION 0.25x IMAGE QUALITY 17
in Nikon’s curves except FILTER 67mm VALUE 18
at 300mm, when the MTF LENS HOOD Included
figures start to drop very DIMENSIONS 80 x 143mm TOTAL
89%
WEIGHT 745g
rapidly from f/16 (falling to PRICE (STREET) £399
0.1 at f/45, not shown).
SIGMA SPECIFICATIONS
70-300MM FOCAL LENGTH
MAX APERTURE
70-300mm
4-5.6
SCORES
F/4-5.6 DG OS MIN APERTURE
LENS MOUNT
22-32
Canon, Nikon,
LIKES
Easy operation
Pentax, Sigma,
Sony DISLIKES
IMAGE FORMAT Full-Frame Noisy AF
OPT CONSTRUCTION 16 / 11
OPT TECHNOLOGY SLD elements FEATURES 18
FOCUS AF and MF DESIGN 17
MIN FOCUS 1.5m PERFORMANCE 17
Sigma’s lens clearly MAXIMUM
IMAGE QUALITY 16
MAGNIFICATION 0.28x
performs best when used FILTER 62mm VALUE 17
within the lower-half of LENS HOOD Included
its focal-length range but DIMENSIONS 76 x 124mm TOTAL
85%
WEIGHT 610g
produces acceptable MTF PRICE (STREET) £399
figures at all focal lengths.
TAMRON SPECIFICATIONS
AF70-300MM FOCAL LENGTH
MAX APERTURE
70-300mm
4-5.6
SCORES
F/4-5.6 DI LD MIN APERTURE
LENS MOUNT
32-45
LIKES
Close-up facility
MACRO
Canon, Minolta,
Nikon, Pentax
IMAGE FORMAT Full-Frame DISLIKES
OPT CONSTRUCTION 13 / 9 No stabilisation
OPT TECHNOLOGY Extended
‘macro’ range FEATURES 15
FOCUS AF and MF DESIGN 17
This is the most MIN FOCUS 0.95m PERFORMANCE 16
consistent set of curves MAXIMUM
MAGNIFICATION 0.50x IMAGE QUALITY 18
in this group test. At no FILTER 62mm VALUE 19
point does any curve LENS HOOD Included
drop below 0.2 cycles- DIMENSIONS 77 x 116mm TOTAL
85%
WEIGHT 435g
per-pixel at apertures PRICE (STREET) £169
down to f/22.
CONCLUSION companion that will match the Nikkor in

terms of internal focusing and a ring-type
addition to the Tamron stable and WDC will
test it as soon as we can.
These are four very different lenses. The (rather than micro-type) USM AF mechanism. Whichever lens you choose you should
Nikkor is easily the best specified thanks to There is little to choose between Sigma’s expect there to be a progressive loss of
internal focusing, yet is only the second most OS lens and Tamron’s unstabilised lens quality as the focal-length setting is increased.
expensive lens. It also works well and overall, as the price difference is so large and However, the only time when the image
returned reasonable MTF results. In short, it’s the image quality results are so similar. To quality will deteriorate significantly is when a
the group winner. complicate matters, Tamron has announced a very small aperture is selected. This
Canon’s lens is an older design yet is Vibration Compensation version that will also vulnerability is not shown in the MTF graphs
snapping at the heels of the latest Nikon have a superior Ultra-Sonic Drive AF system. but it is genuine and serious. If possible, avoid
model and is about to be joined by a pro-spec This could well prove to be a very important setting any aperture smaller than f/16. JT
CONTAX FIT 645 A/F PHASE 1 DIGITAL BACK ........................................MINT- £595.00 SIGMA 50 - 150mm f2.8 MKII APO EX DG HSM ..........................MINT BOXED £459.00
Digital Photography Contax ‘G’ Compacts & SLR FUJI GW 670 MK III C/W 90mm f3.5 LENS ..................................MINT BOXED £695.00
MAMIYA 50mm f4 G LENS FOR MAMIYA 6L ..............................MINT + HOOD £645.00
SIGMA 50 - 500mm ff4/6.3 EX APO RF HSM................................MINT BOXED £699.00
SIGMA 55 - 200mm f4/5.6 DC..........................................................MINT BOXED £69.00
CANON EOS 1D MK III COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS..........MINT-BOXED £1,599.00 CONTAX MILLENIUM KIT "G" BLACK COMPRISING OF : G2 BODY WITH 28mm, MAMIYA 150mm f4.5L G LENS FOR MAMIYA 6 ........................................MINT £399.00 SIGMA 70 - 200mm f2.8 EX DG HSM APO MACRO ....................MINT BOXED £525.00
CANON EOS 1D MK II COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ............MINT- BOXED £775.00 45mm,90mm LENSES. TLA 200 FLASH UNIT AND ALL HOODS IN LTD MAMIYA 65mm L f4 LENS FOR RZ............................................................MINT- £399.00 TAMRON 17 - 50mm f2.8 XR Di II LD ASPH IF (LATEST) ..........MINT + HOOD £275.00
CANON EOS 5D BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ............MINT-BOXED £845.00 EDITION HARD CASE........................................................................................£1,075.00 MAMIYA 250mm f4.5 LENS FOR RZ..........................................................MINT- £299.00 TAMRON 19 - 35mm f3.5/4.5 A/F "D" ..............................................MINT BOXED £99.00
CANON EOS 7D BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ........MINT BOXED £1,045.00 CONTAX 28mm f2.8 BIOGON "G"..................................................MINT CASED £175.00 MAMIYA BACKS,BELLOWS HOOD,POL BACK ..................................IN STOCK PHONE TAMRON 28 - 75mm f2.8 XR Di LENS (LATEST MODEL)............MINT BOXED £289.00
CANON EOS 10 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ............MINT-BOXED £179.00 CONTAX 90mm f2.8 SONNAR "G" ................................................MINT BOXED £139.00 MAMIYA 150mm f3.5 A/F FOR 645 A/F ......................................................MINT £299.00 TAMRON 70 - 300mm f4/5.6 LD MACRO 1:2 A/F "D" ....................MINT BOXED £89.00
CANON EOS 20D BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS..........MINT BOXED £259.00 CONTAX 35 - 70mm f3.5/5.6 VARIO SONNAR T* ........................MINT BOXED £399.00 MAMIYA 210mm f4 SEKOR C FOR 645 ........................................MINT CASED £195.00
CANON EOS 30D BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS..........MINT BOXED £365.00 CONTAX TLA 140 FLASH ................................................................MINT CASED £49.00 MAMIYA POLAROID FILM HOLDER FOR 645 A/F ....................................NEW £159.00
CANON EOS 40D BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ......................MINT £475.00 CONTAX TLA 200 FLASH ................................................................MINT CASED £95.00 MAMIYA 120 BACK FOR RB............................................................MINT BOXED £99.00 Nikon Manual
CANON EOS 350D BODY WIT CANON 18 -55 LENS ..................MINT BOXED £269.00 CONTAX TLA 200 FLASH BLACK ..................................................MINT CASED £95.00 PENTAX 55mm f3.5 TAKUMAR SMC FOR 6x7 ..........................................MINT- £299.00 NIKON F3 HP "P" PRESS + MF-6B BACK + P/WORK ....MINT BOXED (V RARE) £1,295.00
CANON EOS 300D KIT WITH CANON 18 - 55 LENS COMP ......MINT BOXED £189.00 CONTAX LEATHER ERC + LONG FRONT COVER "G2" ............................MINT- £79.00 ROLLEIFLEX 2.8 GX LTD ED 60 yr + PRESENTATION BOX NIKON F3 HP BODY (SLIGHT TRIPOD RING ON BASE) ............MINT-BOXED £465.00
CANON G11 COMPACT COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ..........MINT CASED £325.00 CONTAX ERC SHORT/LONG FRONT COVER ONLY "G2" ........................MINT- £35.00 ......................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £1,495.00 NIKON F2 PHOTOMIC BODY CHROME........................................MINT-BOXED £395.00
CANON 420 EX SPEEDLITE..........................................................MINT CASED £149.00 CONTAX TITANIUM HOODS, FILTERS, etc FOR "G" ....MINT BOXED PHONE PLEASE ROLLEIFLEX 2.8F PLANAR + PRISM HEAD + CASE............................MINT- £1,195.00 NIKON F2 PHOTOMIC S BODY BLACK ..................................................EXC++ £299.00
CANON 550 EX SPEEDLITE..........................................................MINT BOXED £199.00 CONTAX ARIA BODY (SUPERB,STRAP, INSTRUCTIONS) ..........MINT BOXED £325.00 ROLLEIFLEX 3.5F PLANAR + LEATHER CASE ....................................EXC+++ £595.00 NIKON FM3A CHROME BODY ..................................................................MINT- £399.00
CANON 580 EX SPEEDLITE WITH ALL ACCESS........................MINT- BOXED £239.00 CONTAX ST BODY..................................................................................EXC+++ £269.00 YASHICAMAT 124G MINT CASED + HOOD..................................MINT CASED £245.00 NIKON FM3A BLACK BODY........................................................................MINT- £399.00
CANON BG-E2 BATT GRIP FOR EOS 20D/30D ..........................................MINT £69.00 CONTAX RTS II QUARTZ BODY ................................................................EXC+ £119.00 NIKON FM2N CHROME BODY ..............................................................EXC+++ £199.00
CANON BG-E2N BATT GRIP FOR EOS 20D/30D/40D/50D..........MINT BOXED £119.00
CANON BG-ED3 BATT GRIP FOR EOS 10 D30,D60 ....................MINT BOXED £59.00
CONTAX FIT YASHICA 28mm f2.8 SUPERB CONDITION ..........................MINT £85.00
CONTAX 45mm f2.8 TESSAR PANCAKE....................................................MINT- £175.00
Hasselblad NIKON FE2 BODY CHROME ......................................................................MINT- £169.00
NIKON FE BODY BLACK BODY....................................................................EXC+ £95.00
CANON BG-E7 BATT GRIP FOR EOS 7D ....................................MINT BOXED £135.00 CONTAX 200mm f3.5 TELE TESS T* AE ....................................................MINT £199.00 HASSELBLAD 500CM CLASSIC + 80mm CF LENS + A12 NIKON FE BLACK BODY ................................................................................EXC £75.00
CANON FIT BATT GRIP + 2 BATTS FOR 50D,40D,30D,20D........................MINT £59.00 CONTAX 28 - 70mm f3.5/4.5 VARIO SONNAR T* MM ..................MINT CASED £299.00 ........................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £895.00 NIKON FE BODY CHROME ........................................................................MINT- £119.00
CANON RS 80-N3,1Ds MKIII, 1D MKIII, 5D MKII, 50D ................................MINT £35.00 CONTAX 28 - 85mm f3.3/4 VAR SON ........................................................MINT- £399.00 HASSELBLAD X PAN + 45mm + ALL ACCESSORIES ..............MINT-BOXED £1,075.00 NIKON FM BLACK BODY............................................................................EXC++ £99.00
CONTAX SL300R T* DIGITAL ........................................................MINT BOXED £129.00 CONTAX TLA 20 FLASH ..........................................................................EXC+++ £29.00 HASSELBLAD 90mm f4 FOR X PAN ............................................MINT BOXED £395.00
LEICA V - LUX 1 WITH VARIO ELMARIT LENS............................MINT BOXED £465.00 CONTAX TLA 30 FLASH ..................................................................MINT CASED £49.00 HASSELBLAD 90mm f4 FOR X PAN......................................MINT- IN KEEPER £365.00 NIKON FM BODY CHROME........................................................................MINT- £129.00
NIKON D700 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESSMINT BOXED AS NEW £1,575.00 CONTAX T3 COMPACT (SUPERB LENS)......................MINT BOXED AS NEW £375.00 HASSELBLAD H1/H2 UPGRADE +AE FDR,MAG,80mm ..........MINT-BOXED £1,795.00 NIKON FM BODY CHROME ......................................................................EXC++ £115.00
NIKON D300S BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS MINT BOXED AS NEW £995.00 HASSELBLAD 35mm f3.5HC for H SYSTEM..............................MINT BOXED £1,799.00 NIKONOS 1Va + 35mm f2.5 + SB 101 STROBE (AS NEW)..........MINT CASED £399.00
NIKON D300 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ..................MINT BOXED £865.00 HASSELBLAD 150mm f3.2HC for H SYSTEM............................MINT BOXED £1,299.00 NIKONOS 20mm f2.8 UW NIKKOR + FDR..................................................MINT £495.00
NIKON D200 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ..................MINT BOXED £459.00 Leica “M”, “R” & Screw & Binoculars HASSELBLAD 210mm F4HC for H SYSTEM ..........................................MINT £1,299.00 NIKON 20mm f3.5 UD NIKKOR ..................................................................MINT £295.00
NIKON D90 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ....................MINT BOXED £525.00 LEICA M9 BODY BLACK COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS HASSELBLAD HC 50 - 110 f3.5 FOR H SYSTEM ......................MINT BOXED £2,495.00 NIKON 20mm f3.5 AI....................................................................................MINT- £275.00
NIKON D70 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ..............................EXC++ £189.00 ......................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £4,295.00 HASSELBLAD 503 CW WITH 120BACK & 80mm T* ..............................MINT- £1,195.00 NIKON 24mm f4 PC PERSPECTIVE CONTROL ..........................MINT CASED £499.00
NIKON D1 BODY KIT COMPLETE ................................................MINT BOXED £369.00 LEICA M8 BODY BLACK COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ......MINT BOXED £1,695.00 HASSELBLAD 500CM +WLF+BACK + 80mm CF..................................EXC+++ £795.00 NIKON 28mm f3.5 AIS ..................................................................................MINT- £99.00
NIKON D80 BODY COMPLETE WITH ALL ACCESS ....................MINT BOXED £375.00 LEICA M7 FLAG (LTD EDITION UK 30)......................................MINT BOXED £1,595.00 HASSELBLAD 500EL/M + A12 + 80mm F2.8 T*............................MINT-BOXED £595.00 NIKON 35mm f2.8 AI......................................................................................MINT £99.00
NIKON SB900 SPEEDLIGHT FLASH UNIT ..................................MINT BOXED £265.00 LEICA M7 BODY BLACK ..........................................................................MINT- £1,275.00 HASSELBLAD 500EL/M + A12 BLACK BACK..........................................EXC++ £299.00 NIKON 35mm f1.4 AIS (THIS LENS IS "UNUSED") ......................MINT BOXED £695.00
NIKON SB800 SPEEDLIGHT FLASH UNIT ..................................MINT-BOXED £245.00 LEICA M6 TTL CHROME (SUPERB AS NEW CONDITION)......MINT BOXED £1,095.00 HASSELBLAD 40mm f4 DISTAGON CF ..................................................MINT £1,095.00 NIKON 35mm f2 AIS ....................................................................................MINT- £195.00
NIKON SB600 SPEEDLIGHT FLASH UNIT ..................................MINT BOXED £185.00 LEICA M6 TTL CHROME BODY ....................................................MINT-BOXED £975.00 HASSELBLAD 150mm f4 SONNAR CF..................................................EXC+++ £399.00 NIKON PC NIKKOR 28mm f4 ........................................................MINT CASED £475.00
NIKON SB 50DX SPEEDLIGHT ......................................................MINT BOXED £69.00 LEICA M6 TTL BLACK BODY ........................................................MINT BOXED £995.00 HASSELBALD 250mm f6 SONNAR T* CF ..................................................MINT £899.00 NIKON 35mm f2.8 PC PERSPECTIVE CONTROL........................MINT CASED £475.00
NIKON MB - 10 BATTERY GRIP FOR D300..................................MINT BOXED £219.00 LEICA M6 TITANIUM BODY ........................................................................MINT- £999.00 HASSELBLAD PLAIN PRISM..........................................................................EXC £75.00 NIKON 35mm f2.8 PC PERSPECTIVE CONTROL ................................EXC+++ £375.00
NIKON MB - D200 BATTERY GRIP FOR D200 ............................................MINT £79.00 LEICA M6 BODY BLACK................................................................MINT- BOXED £775.00 HASSELBLAD PME3 PRISM ....................................................................EXC++ £195.00 NIKON 50mm F1.8 AIS ....................................................................MINT BOXED £89.00
NIKON MB - D80 BATT GRIP FOR D90/D80 ..............................................MINT £115.00 LEICA M6 BODY CHROME ..........................................................MINT- BOXED £899.00 HASSELBLAD PM PRISM ..........................................................................MINT £199.00 NIKON 50mm F1.4 AIS ................................................................................MINT £225.00
NIKON FIT HAHNEL HN 90 BATTERY GRIP FOR D80/90 ..........................MINT £60.00 LEICA M4-2 BLACK BODY ..........................................................MINT - BOXED £775.00 HASSELBLAD A12 BACK BLACK AND SILVER............................MINT BOXED £145.00 NIKON 55mm f1.2 NIKKOR S.C..............................................................EXC+++ £295.00
NIKON MH 19 CHARGER QUICK CHGR FOR EN-EL3/3E........................MINT £149.00 LEICA M3 BODY D/W + LEICA ERC CASE............................................EXC+++ £445.00 HASSELBLAD A12 BACK BLACK AND SILVER ........................................MINT - £99.00 NIKON 55mm f2.8 MICRO AIS ....................................................................MINT £169.00
NIKON ML3 REMOTE TRANS & RECEIVER COMP ....................MINT BOXED £129.00 LEICA M3 BODY (REALLY NICE USER)......................................EXC++CASED £399.00 NIKON 55mm ff3.5 NIKKOR P.C MICRO + M2 TUBE ............MINT IN KEEPER £145.00
OLYMPUS E620 + 14-42mm & 40-150mm 2 LENS KIT MINT BOXED AS NEW £545.00
OLYMPUS PEN E-P1 WITH OLYMPUS 14-42mm LENS ............................NEW £369.00
LEICA M2 BODY + LEATHER ERC ........................................................EXC+++ £495.00
KONICA HEXAR RF + 50mm f2 + KONICA FLASH ......MINT BOXED AS NEW £799.00
Nikon Auto-Focus NIKON 55mm ff3.5 NIKKOR P.C MICRO........................................................MINT £89.00
NIKON 105mm f1.8 AIS ............................................................................EXC++ £395.00
OLYMPUS FLASH FL 14 FOR E-P1 CAMERA............................................NEW £135.00 LEICA 5cm f3.5 COLL ELMAR....................................................................MINT- £245.00 NIKON F5 BODY..........................................................................................MINT- £399.00 NIKON 105mm f4 MICRO NIKKOR AI............................................MINT BOXED £295.00
OLYMPUS FIT SIGMA 18 - 125mm f3.5/5.6 DC SLD ....MINT BOXED AS NEW £159.00 LEICA 21mm f2.8 ELMAR BLK M ASPHERIC WITH FINDER NIKON F5 BODY........................................................................................EXC++ £295.00 NIKON 135mm f2.8 AIS ..............................................................................MINT- £195.00
OLYMPUS 14 - 45mm f3.5/5.6 ZUIKO DIGITAL ..........................................MINT £125.00 ......................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £2,195.00 NIKON F4 BODY (SUPERB CONDITION) ..................................................MINT- £345.00 NIKON 180mm f2.8 NIKKOR P ......................................................MINT-CASED £275.00
OLYMPUS 40 - 150mm f4/5.6 ED LENS......................................................MINT £149.00 LEICA 35mm f1.4 SUMMILUX M ASPHERIC BLACK ................MINT BOXED £2,245.00 NIKON F90X BODY WITH NIKON MB10 BATT GRIP..................................MINT £119.00 NIKON 300mm f4.5 NIKKOR H (SUPERB CONDITION) ............................MINT £295.00
PANASONIC G1 BLACK WITH 14 - 45mm LENS COMP ..........................MINT £325.00 LEICA 50mm f2 COLLAPSIBLE SUMMICRON ......................MINT IN KEEPER £395.00 NIKON F80 BODY SILVER ..............................................................MINT BOXED £85.00 NIKON 300mm f4.5 AIS (SHARP MAN FOCUS LENS)..........................EXC+++ £175.00
PENTAX D-BG3 GRIP FOR PENTAX K200D ..................................MINT BOXED £99.00 LEICA 50mm f2 SUMMICRON BLACK (LATEST NOT 6 BIT) ......MINT BOXED £895.00 NIKON F55 BODY ............................................................................MINT-BOXED £59.00 NIKON 300mm f4.5 AI (SHARP MAN FOCUS LENS) ..................MINT -BOXED £175.00
RICOH GX 200 VIEWFINDER KIT COMPLETE 12.1 Mp..............MINT CASED £249.00 LEICA 50mm f2.8 ELMAR COLLAPSABLE ................................................MINT £295.00 NIKON 18mm f2.8 A/F "D" + HOOD (SUPERB LENS) ..................MINT BOXED £799.00 NIKON 500mm f4 I/F ED "P" WITH CPU DIGI COMPAT ......MINT- FLT CASE £2,795.00
MINOLTA/SONY 28mm f2.8 A/F ..................................................................MINT £125.00 LEICA 50mm f2.8 ELMAR M COLLABSABLE BLACK ..MINT BOXED AS NEW £545.00 NIKON 18mm f2.8 A/F "D" + HOOD................................................MINT CASED £745.00 NIKON 500mm f8 MIRROR LENS + FILTERS ..............................MINT CASED £395.00
SONY 135mm f1.8 ZA SONNAR T*................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £995.00 LEICA 50mm f2 SUMMICRON BLACK 6 BIT LATEST ..................MINT BOXED £995.00 NIKON 28mm f2.8 A/F "D"............................................................................MINT £175.00 NIKON 600mm f4 ED I/F TELEPHOTO AND FLIGHT CASE ..................EXC+ £1,795.00
SONY/MINOLTA 300mm f2.8 APO "G" D SSM + CASE ............MINT BOXED £2,995.00 LEICA 90mm f2 SUMMICRON CHROME ......................MINT BOXED AS NEW £799.00 NIKON 45mm f2.8D ED PC-E Micro Nik ED ("UNUSED") NIKON 800mm f5.6 IF-ED + HOOD & FLIGHT CASE ................MINT-/EXC++ £2,795.00
SONY 16 - 80mm f3.5/4.5 ZA VARIO SONNAR T* DT ..MINT BOXED AS NEW £495.00 LEICA 90mm f4 ELMAR M MACRO SET + FINDER 6 BIT ........MINT BOXED £1,995.00 ......................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £1,195.00 NIKON 28 - 85mm f3.5/4.5 ZOOM NIKKOR ................................................MINT £279.00
MINOLTA/SONY 75 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 A/F "D" ................MINT BOXED AS NEW £125.00 LEICA 90mm f4 ELMAR M MACRO WITH FINDER SILVER ..................MINT £1,645.00 NIKON 50mm f1.4 A/F "D" ..............................................................MINT BOXED £225.00 NIKON 28 - 50mm f3.5 AIS ..........................................................................MINT £345.00
SONY RM-S1AM REMOTE RELEASE ............................MINT BOXED AS NEW £25.00 LEICA 135mm f2.8 ELMARIT M FOR M3....................................................MINT £345.00 NIKON 50mm f1.8 A/F "D" ................................................................MINT BOXED £89.00 NIKON 35 - 70mm f3.5/4.8 AIS ......................................................................MINT £99.00
KENCO TUBE SET DG 12,20,36 FOR SONY DIGITAL..MINT BOXED AS NEW £115.00 LEICA 135mm f4.5 HEKTOR + HOOD + FINDER M..................................MINT- £199.00 NIKON 60mm f2.8 A/F "D" MACRO................................................MINT BOXED £275.00 NIKON 35 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 AIS ....................................................MINT BOXED £175.00
LEICA 200mm f4 TELYT + HOOD ..............................................................MINT £495.00 NIKON 85mm f1.4 A/F "D"............................................................................MINT £699.00 NIKON 35 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 AIS ................................................................MINT - £159.00
Canon Autofocus LEICA HANDGRIP FOR M6,M7,MP etc ............................MINT BOXED AS NEW £79.00
LEICA MOTOR M ............................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £395.00
NIKON 200mm f2 "G" IF-ED AF-S VIBRATION REDUCTION ....MINT-CASED £2,595.00
NIKON 500mm f4 I/F ED "P" WITH CPU DIGI COMPAT ......MINT- FLT CASE £2,795.00
NIKON 35 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 AIS..............................................................EXC+++ £139.00
NIKON 35 - 135mm f3.5/4.5 A/F ..................................................................MINT £159.00
CANON EOS 1V HS BODY ............................................................MINT-BOXED £699.00 LEICA SF20 FLASH ........................................................................MINT CASED £119.00 NIKON 12 - 24mm f4 DX AF-ED AFS (1 ONLY) ............................MINT BOXED £545.00 NIKON 43 - 86mm f3.5 AI ZOOM ..................................................................MINT £99.00
CANON EOS 1V BODY ..................................................................MINT BOXED £599.00 LEICA ERC LEATHER CASE (114876) ..........................................MINT BOXED £169.00 NIKON 14 - 24mm f2.8 "G" I/F ED AF-S (LATEST) ......MINT BOXED AS NEW £1,125.00 NIKON 80 - 200mm F4 AI ............................................................................MINT £165.00
CANON EOS 1V BODY ..................................................................MINT-BOXED £565.00 LEICA ERC CASE FOR M6/M7 BLACK........................................................MINT- £75.00 NIKON 16 - 85mm f3.5/5.6 "G" ED DX AF-S VIBRAT RED............MINT BOXED £365.00 NIKON PN11 AUTO EXTENSION RING ......................................................MINT £125.00
CANON EOS 1NRS BODY..............................................................MINT-BOXED £465.00 LEICA M4-2 WINDER BLACK ........................................................MINT BOXED £175.00 NIKON 17 - 55mm f2.8 DX ED I/F AF-S ..........................MINT BOXED AS NEW £699.00 NIKON MD4 DRIVE FOR F3........................................................................MINT £175.00
CANON EOS 1NRS BODY..........................................................................MINT- £425.00 LEICA FIT M8 BATTERY (LOW USE)............................................................MINT £40.00 NIKON 18 - 35mm f3.5/4.5 A/F "D" ED IF ......................MINT BOXED AS NEW £395.00 NIKON TC14A TELECONVERTER AIS ....................................................MINT - £199.00
CANON EOS 1NHS ........................................................................MINT-BOXED £299.00 LEICA 65mm f3.5 ELMAR + 16464K FOC RING ..........................MINT/BOXED £395.00 NIKON 18 - 55mm f3.5/5.6 "G" ED DX AF-S VIBR RED................................MINT £89.00
CANON EOS 3 BODY......................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £195.00 LEICA 90mm f4 ELMAR SCREW CHR + 90mm FDR ..................MINT CASED £245.00 NIKON 18 - 70mm f3.5/4.5 DX AF-S "G" ED + HOOD ................................MINT £145.00 NIKON TC14B TELECONVERTER AIS ....................................................EXC++ £225.00
CANON EOS 3 BODY..................................................................................MINT- £179.00 LEICA 9cm f4 HEAD + 16467 FOC MOUNT FOR VISO ............................MINT £199.00 NIKON 18 - 105mm f3.5/5.6 DX "G" ED AF-S VIB RED ..............................MINT £175.00 NIKON TC 200 CONVERTER........................................................................MINT £75.00
CANON EOS 5 BODY ..............................................................................EXC+++ £60.00 LEICA 9cm f4 ELMAR SCREW BLACK......................................................EXC++ £79.00 NIKON 18 - 200mm f3.5/5.6 "G" I/F ED AF-S VIBR RED ..............MINT BOXED £399.00 NIKON TC 201 CONVERTER ......................................................................MINT £125.00
CANON EOS 30E BODY................................................................................MINT £75.00 LEICA 19mm f2.8 ELMARIT R ROM R................................................EXC+++ £1,095.00 NIKON 24 - 85mm f3.5/4.5 "G" ED AF-S......................................................MINT £225.00 NIKON SB16 + F3 MOUNT + FM2/FM3/FE/FE2 FIT ....................MINT CASED £159.00
CANON EOS 500N BODY ............................................................................MINT- £49.00 LEICA 21mm f4 SUPER ANGULON R ..........................................MINT-BOXED £599.00 NIKON 24 - 120mm f3.5/5.6 G I/F ED AF-S VIB RED ....MINT BOXED AS NEW £375.00 NIKON SB 10 FLASH ......................................................................MINT BOXED £49.00
CANON EOS RT BODY (PELICAL MIRROR) ............................................MINT- £119.00 LEICA 50mm f1.4 SUMMILUX (3 CAM) ..................................................EXC ++ £395.00 NIKON 28 - 80mm f3.3/5.6 "G" A/F................................................................MINT £69.00 NIKON DR3 R/ANGLE FINDER ....................................................................MINT £99.00
CANON 10 - 22mm f3.5/4.5 USM + HOOD ....................MINT BOXED AS NEW £545.00 LEICA 100mm f2.8 APO MACRO ELMARIT R ............................MINT-CASED £1,195.00 NIKON 28 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 A/F "D"............................................................MINT- £159.00 TAMRON 90mm f2.5 + EXTENSION TUBE NIKON MOUNT ........MINT BOXED £145.00
CANON 15 - 85mm 3.5/5.6 USM IMAGE STABILISER ..............................MINT £499.00 LEICA 180mm f4 ELMARIT R 3 CAM ......................................................EXC++ £345.00 NIKON 35 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 A/F NIKKOR ZOOM ..........................MINT BOXED £145.00
CANON 17 - 40mm f4 USM "L" ......................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £475.00
CANON 24 - 70mm F2.8 USM "L" ..................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £845.00
LEICA 560mm f6.8 TELYT R ......................................................................MINT- £995.00
LEICA 28 - 70mm f3.5/4.5 VARIO ELMAR ROM ........................................MINT- £369.00
NIKON 55 - 200mm f4.5/6 "G" DX I/F ED AF-S VIBR RED............MINT CASED £189.00
NIKON 70 - 200mm f2.8 "G" IF/ED AF-S VIBR REDUCTION ....MINT BOXED £1,195.00
Olympus Manual
CANON 24 - 105mm f4 USM "L" IMAGE STABILISER ..................MINT CASED £775.00 LEICA 28 - 70mm f3.5/4.5 VARIO ELMAR R..........................................EXC+++ £299.00 NIKON 70 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 "G" IF/ED A/F "D" ..........................................MINT- £175.00 OLYMPUS OM2n BODY CHROME ............................................................EXC++ £99.00
CANON 28 - 300mm f3.5/5.6 USM "L" IS....................MINT BOXED AS NEW £1,775.00 LEICA 35 - 70mm f3.5 VARIO ELMAR R 3 CAM ........................................MINT- £299.00 NIKON 70 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 "G" IF/ED AF-S VIBR REDUCT ........MINT CASED £369.00 OLYMPUS OM2 SPOT BLACK......................................................................EXC+ £99.00
CANON 28 - 300mm f3.5/5.6 USM "L" IS ..................................MINT CASED £1,695.00 LEICA 70 - 210mm f4 VARIO ELMAR R ..................................................EXC++ £399.00 NIKON 80 - 200mm f2.8 A/F "D" ED I/F LATEST 2 TOUCH ........EXC++CASED £645.00 OLYMOUS 28mm f3.5 ZUIKO ........................................................................MINT £49.00
CANON 70 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 DO USM IMAGE STABILISER........MINT BOXED £865.00 LEICA MOTOR WINDER R8/R9................................................................EXC++ £145.00 NIKON 80 - 200mm f2.8 A/F "D" ED I/F AF-S ................................MINT-CASED £895.00 OLYMPUS 50mm f1.8 ZUIKO........................................................................MINT- £29.00
CANON 14mm f2.8 USM "L" (SUPERB) ....................................MINT CASED £1,299.00 LEICA 10 x 25 BCA TRINOVID COMPACT BINOS........................MINT CASED £295.00 NIKON 80 - 400mm f4.5/5.6 "D" ED I/F VIBRATION RED ............MINT BOXED £975.00 OLYMPUS 50mm f3.5 MACRO ......................................................MINT CASED £169.00
CANON 200mm f2.8 MKII USM "L" + HOOD ................MINT BOXED AS NEW £565.00 MINOX 10x24 BR COMPACT BINOCULARS + CASE ................................MINT £125.00 NIKON MF 23 DATABACK FOR F5..............................................................MINT £295.00 OLYMPUS 80mm f4 MACRO + ZOOM MACRO TUBE ..............................MINT £275.00
CANON 300mm f4 USM "L" IMAGE STABILIZER..........................MINT CASED £975.00 LEICA 10 x 42 BA TRINOVID BINOCULARS + CASE ................................MINT £675.00 NIKON SB 22S FLASH ....................................................................MINT BOXED £59.00 OLYMPUS 100mm f2.8 ZUIKO ......................................................MINT CASED £175.00
CANON 400mm f5.6 USM "L" ........................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £899.00 NIKON SB 23 FLASH UNIT..............................................................MINT BOXED £45.00 OLYMPUS 135mm f2.8 ZUIKO ......................................................................MINT £89.00
CANON 600mm f4 USM "L" IMAGE STABIL (LATEST)........MINT-FLT CASED £5,995.00 NIKON SB 24 FLASH FOR F4 ETC ................................................MINT CASED £89.00 OLYMPUS 135mm f3.5 ZUIKO ........................................................MINT BOXED £75.00
CANON 20mm f2.8 USM................................................................MINT BOXED £299.00 Voigtlander & Ricoh & Compacts NIKON SB 26 FLASH ................................................................................EXC ++ £89.00 OLYMPUS 200mm f4 ZUIKO ....................................................................EXC+++ £95.00
CANON 20mm f2.8 USM..............................................................................MINT £275.00 VOIGTLANDER BESSA R2a BLACK BODY ..................MINT BOXED AS NEW £499.00 NIKON SB 28 FLASH ......................................................................MINT- CASED £95.00 OLYMPUS 1000mm f11 ZUIKO TELE ( RARE)..............................MINT CASED £895.00
CANON 24mm f2.8 EF ..................................................................MINT BOXED £279.00 VOIGTLANDER 15mm f4.5 S/W HELIAR ASP + FDR (B) ............MINT BOXED £299.00 NIKON TC 17E II AF-S TELECONVERTER....................................MINT CASED £259.00 OLYMPUS 35 - 70mm f4 ZUIKO ......................................................MINT CASED £69.00
CANON 24mm f2.8 EF ................................................................................MINT £259.00 VOIGTLANDER 25mm f4 SKOPAR + FINDER SIL........................MINT BOXED £295.00 NIKON TC 20E II AF-S TELECONVERTER ....................MINT BOXED AS NEW £259.00 OLYMPUS 35 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 ZUIKO ......................................................MINT £125.00
CANON 17 - 85mm f4/5.6 IMAGE STABILIZER ..........................................MINT £269.00 VOIGTLANDER 28mm f2 ULTRON VM LENS ..............................MINT BOXED £375.00 NIKON TC 16 A/F CONVERTER ......................................................MINT BOXED £90.00 OLYMPUS 65 - 200mm F4 ..........................................................................MINT £149.00
CANON 18 - 55mm f 3.5/5.6 IMAGE STABILISER ........................................MINT £89.00 VOIGTLANDER 90mm f3.5 APO LANTHAR (BLK)........................MINT BOXED £245.00 SIGMA 20mm f1.8 EX DG RF ASPHERIC (LATEST) ....................MINT BOXED £345.00 OLYMPUS 75 - 150mm f5.6 ZUIKO ..............................................................MINT- £79.00
CANON 20 - 35mm f3.5/4.5 USM....................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £195.00 RICOH GV-1 21mm/28mm FINDER FITS ALL R/FIND CAMS......................MINT £75.00 SIGMA 28mm f1.8 EX DG MACRO ASPHERIC ............................MINT BOXED £245.00 OLYMPUS CONVERTER A............................................................................MINT £59.00
CANON 20 - 35mm f3.5/4.5 USM................................................................MINT- £179.00 RICOH GR1 DATE BODY PRESENTATION BOX..........................MINT- BOXED £185.00 SIGMA 30mm f1.4 EX DC HSM (LATEST) ....................................MINT BOXED £315.00 OLYMPUS WINDER 2 ................................................................................EXC++ £35.00
CANON 28 - 80mm f3.5/5.6 USM ..................................................................MINT £99.00 RICOH GR10 FILM COMPACT......................................................................MINT £99.00 SIGMA 70mm f2.8 EX DG MACRO (LATEST)................MINT BOXED AS NEW £299.00 OLYMPUS T10 RING FLASH & CONTROLLER ....................................EXC+++ £165.00
CANON 28 - 105mm f3.5/4.5 USM + HOOD ..............................................MINT £169.00 SIGMA 18 - 50mm f2.8 EX DC D ..................................................MINT CASED £225.00 OLYMPUS T20 FLASH ..................................................................MINT - CASED £20.00
CANON 28 - 135mm f3.5/5.6 USM IS (IMAGE STABILIZER) ........MINT BOXED £319.00
CANON 35 - 80mm f4/5.6 EF ZOOM LEMS..................................................MINT £39.00
Medium & Large Format SIGMA 18 - 250mm f3.5/6.3 DC HSM OPT STABILISING
........................................................................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £325.00
OLYMPUS T32 FLASH......................................................................MINT-BOXED £45.00
OLYMPUS F 280 FLASH ............................................................EXC+++ CASED £79.00
CANON 55 - 250mm f4/5.6 IMAGE STABILISER............MINT BOXED AS NEW £169.00 BRONICA ETRSi,COMP + 75mm PE,WLF,120 BACK ..................MINT BOXED £289.00 SIGMA 28 - 135mm f3.8/5.6 MACRO ............................................................MINT £99.00 OLYMPUS EXTENSION TUBES 7mm,14mm,25mm ....................................MINT- £69.00
CANON 70 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 USM IMAGE STABILISER ..............MINT BOXED £329.00 BRONICA ETRS,75mm,120 BACK + WLF LTD ED SILVER ......................MINT £245.00
CANON 75- 300mm f4.5/5.6 USM IMAGE STABILISER ............................MINT £299.00 BRONICA ETRS BODY ONLY ......................................................................MINT- £75.00
CANON 75 - 300mm f4.5/5.6 USM MK III (LATEST) ......MINT BOXED AS NEW £169.00 BRONICA ETRSc BODY +120 BACK..........................................................EXC++ £85.00
CANON 75 - 300mm f4.0/5.6 MK III ............................................................MINT £119.00 BRONICA 40mm f4.0 ZENZANON MC ......................................................MINT- £195.00
CANON EF 2.0 x EXTENDER........................................................MINT BOXED £215.00 BRONICA 40mm f4 PE LENS ........................................................MINT BOXED £289.00
CANON FIT JESSOPS 2 x TELECONVERTER (T/PLUS) ..............MINT CASED £79.00 BRONICA 50mm f2.8 ZENZANON MC........................................................MINT £145.00
CANON EXTENSION TUBE EF12 MKII ..........................................MINT BOXED £65.00 BRONICA 100mm f4 MACRO ZENZANON PE ..........................................MINT £299.00
CANON ANGLE FINDER C ............................................MINT BOXED AS NEW £145.00 BRONICA 105mm f4.5 ZENZANON MACRO PE 1:1 ....................MINT BOXED £299.00
CANON PB E2 BOOSTER FOR EOS 1V/EOS3 etc......................MINT - BOXED £99.00 BRONICA 150mm f3.5 ZENZANON E MC ....................................MINT BOXED £149.00
CANON PB E2 BOOSTER FOR EOS 1V/EOS3 etc ....................................MINT- £75.00 BRONICA 150mm f3.5 ZENZANON E MC ..................................................MINT £129.00
CANON BP - E1 BATT PACK FOR EOS 1/EOS 3 etc ..................................MINT £59.00 BRONICA 150mm f4 PE ..............................................................................MINT £169.00
CANON 540 EZ FLASH + INST......................................................MINT CASED £109.00 BRONICA 150mm F4 E ................................................................................MINT- £99.00 We urgently require your used photographic equipment. We have
CANON 540 EZ FLASH + INST ......................................................MINT- CASED £99.00 BRONICA 250mm f5.6 MC............................................................MINT + HOOD £195.00
CANON 430 EZ FLASH....................................................................MINT CASED £75.00 BRONICA 500mm f8 ZENZANON ..............................................................MINT £795.00 customers waiting for: Nikon, Canon, Leica, Contax, Bronica,
CANON TC 80N3 REMOTE CONTROLLER....................................MINT BOXED £99.00 BRONICA MOTOR DRIVE Ei II ......................................................MINT-BOXED £195.00
CANON LC3 TRANSMITTER AND RECIEVER ..........................................MINT £179.00 BRONICA E120 BACK................................................................................EXC ++ £30.00 Hasselblad and most other makes of camera lenses, accessories,
CANON LC4 TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER..........................................MINT- £225.00 BRONICA ETRSi 120 ,BACK ........................................................................MINT £69.00
CANON LC-5 WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROLLER SET....MINT BOXED AS NEW £279.00 BRONICA AEII PRISM FINDER ....................................................................MINT- £99.00 binoculars and collectables.
SIGMA 15mm 2.8 EX FISHEYE (SUPERB LENS) ........MINT BOXED AS NEW £395.00 BRONICA SQA BODY WITH 80mm PS AND 120 BACK ............................MINT £345.00
SIGMA 20mm f1.8 EF DG ASPHERIC RF (LATEST) ....................MINT BOXED £345.00 BRONICA SQAM BODY + GRIP DRIVE ....................................................MINT- £125.00
SIGMA 20mm f1.8 EX DG ASPHERIC RF (LATEST)..................MINT - CASED £299.00 BRONICA 50mm f3.5 ZENZANON S ......................................................EXC+++ £149.00
SIGMA 28mm f1.8 EX DG (LATEST) UNUSED ............................MINT BOXED £279.00 BRONICA 100mm f4 MACRO ZENZANON PE ..........................................MINT £245.00 We will buy for cash from you, or we are happy to sell on
SIGMA 30mm f1.4 EX DC HSM (LATEST) ....................................MINT CASED £315.00 BRONICA 150mm f3.5 ZENZANON S ........................................................MINT- £165.00
SIGMA 300mm f2.8 EX APO DG HSM (LATEST)........MINT BOXED AS NEW £1,745.00 BRONICA SQAi 120 BACK ..............................................................MINT BOXED £89.00 your behalf on a commission basis. Best prices paid. We can
SIGMA 55 - 200mm f4/5.6 DC ......................................................................MINT £69.00 BRONICA SQ 120 BACK ..........................................................................EXC+++ £35.00
SIGMA 100 - 300mm f4 EX IF DG HSM (LATEST)........................MINT-BOXED £675.00 CONTAX 645 A/F COMP WITH PRISM ,BACK ,80mm f2 ..........................MINT- £865.00 arrange collection and even call and collect and pay on the
SIGMA 150 - 500mm f5/6.3 APO DG HSM OPTICAL STABIL ....EXC++BOXED £599.00 CONTAX 45mm f2.8 DISTAGON T* LENS FOR 645 A/F ..............MINT CASED £865.00
TAMRON 28 - 300mm f3.5/6.3 XR Di LD ASP MACRO VC ..........MINT BOXED £365.00 CONTAX 140mm f2.8 SONNAR T* LENS FOR 645 A/F................MINT CASED £699.00 spot if necessary anywhere in the UK.
TOKINA 16 - 50mm f2.8 AT-X DX Superb lens (LATEST)MINT BOXED AS NEW £445.00 CONTAX 210mm f4 SONNAR T* LENS FOR 645 A/F................................MINT- £799.00
TOKINA 300mm f2.8 A/F SD AT-X (SUPERB LENS) ....................MINT CASED £795.00 CONTAX 120 BACK FOR 645 A/F ..............................................................MINT- £125.00
Visitors are welcome, please phone for an appointment. PO Box 1052, Cottenham, Cambridge, CB4 8WU
www.whatdigitalcamera.com 109
+ CA 2
M 00
OV
OV
ER
ER
00 E
10
AC R
CE A
SS S
OR
IE
S
What to buy... and how to use it
BUYER’S GUIDE
DSLR MICRO COMPACTS LENSES FLASH TRIPODS BAGS SOFTWARE PRINTERS
The UK’s BIGGEST Gear Guide

Every month, What Digital
Camera’s highly experienced
technical team tests the latest
cameras and accessories to help
you sort the wheat from the chaff.
We subject our review samples to field
tests and, in the case of cameras and
lenses, lab analysis using software from
DxO and Imatest, making them among
the most authoritative in the UK.
Whilst there are far too many
products for us to test every one, we
aim to cover all the main contenders.
The prices listed are the RRPs at launch,
and current prices may be significantly
lower. Prices can change almost weekly
so shop around for the best deals.
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

GETTING STARTED recommended retail price, to ensure you
There’s a dizzying number of megapixels and LCD size, get all of the
digital cameras to choose from, alongside a number of important
with over three hundred on attributes specific to each information for
the market and more being camera type. For example, each camera,
released each week. At What DSLRs will take a particular rather than to find a camera,
Digital Camera we list every kind of lens depending on the overloading the compare it to
current camera, from the manufacturer, and a compact sections with another model and
cheapest compact through to camera may not feature a superfluous information. decide which is best for you.
high-spec DSLRs. viewfinder. With the simple layout and Every reviewed model also has
We also list important Because of this each section straightforward approach to a score and the issue that it can
information such as the is laid out slightly differently displaying information it’s easy be found in for the full review.
The Buyer’s Guide is organised by RRP, 1 Category 4 Tested issue date 7 Spec headers
THE putting cameras of similar ilk within
touching distance. There’s then a price 2 Make and model 5 Score and award 8 Specifications
KEY and a date tested, followed by a short

summary of the camera’s attributes.
3 Recommended
retail price
6 Summary and any
extra info
9 Spec markers
and number info
7 SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA DIMENSIONS

Battery Life (Shots)
Image Stabilisation
DSLR £400 - £600 1

HD Movie Mode
8
Coverage (%)
Scene Modes
Height (mm)
Manual Modes
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Four Thirds
Four Thirds
Burst (FPS)
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
Viewfinder
Anti-Dust
MS Card
SD Card
Live View
Auto Mode
xD Card
AF Points
Weight
Pentax
Canon
12800
25600
CMOS
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
15 MP
18 MP
21 MP
Nikon
Flash
1600
3200
6400
Sony
CCD
CF
NAME & MODEL NUMBER RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
£450 11/9 86% ✪ More evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the D3000 takes 5 11 3 95 n/a 126 97 64 485g
Nikon D3000 great images and is easy to use, making it an ideal first DSLR
9
kit
2 3 4 5 6
For all the very latest gear reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 1111 11
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
BUYING INTO A
DSLR SYSTEM
CANON
Canon’s EOS system has
DSLR
BUYING ADVICE
been going for over 20 Digital SLRs offer
years now, with six numerous advantages
models in the current over compacts. Here are
range. The 550D combines some key considerations
a small lightweight body with great image to make when choosing
quality, while the 50D benefits from a more
solid magnesium alloy construction and faster
a camera
burst rate. At the business end of things, the 1D
Mk III offers a 10fps burst rate, with the 1Ds Mk SIZE Digital SLRs vary greatly in
III offering hair-splitting detail thanks to its size and weight. At the lower and this causes problems such improves image quality and
21MP full-frame sensor. end of the market the beginner as image noise. A DSLR sensor file size.
CURRENT MODELS: EOS 1000D, EOS 450D, models are light, with few is physically larger than that of SYSTEMS AND LENSES Each
EOS 500D, EOS 550D, EOS 50D, EOS 7D, buttons and an easy-to-handle the average compact, which manufacturer uses a different
EOS 5D Mk II, EOS 1D Mk IV, EOS 1Ds Mk III frame. Although the grip means the pixels have more mount for attaching lenses.
NIKON position is different from the
average compact, DSLRs are
room to gather light and
construct a well-exposed image.
Canon, Pentax and Nikon utilise
the same mount as their 35mm
Both entry-level and
professionals are served designed to feel natural with As a result the megapixel rating range, whereas Sony makes use
equally well by Nikon’s the right hand holding the on a DSLR may be extremely of the Minolta SLR mount
DSLR line, with the body, and the left supporting similar to a compact, but the meaning each model produced
successful D3000 model at the lens. Moving up through end quality far superior. by those manufacturers offers
the lower end of the scale, followed by the the DSLRs the bodies become SENSOR TYPE Even within an amount of compatibility with
D5000 and D90. For the aspiring semi-pro sturdier and more resistant to DSLRs there are different sensor older lenses. Olympus has a
there’s the D300s and full-frame D700, with the weather, and at the pro end of sizes, although the two most bespoke system that doesn’t
D3s and D3x models combining stunning image the scale can weigh over 1kg common varieties are APS-C have any magnification issues
quality with a solid build and impressive low without a lens. and Full Frame. APS-C is the which can appear on standard
light versatility.
PIXELS Don’t obsess about the smaller variety found in lenses when being used on
CURRENT MODELS:
number of pixels a DSLR camera beginner to semi-pro models, APS-C bodies. Third-party
Nikon D3000, D90, D5000, D300s, D700,
D3s, D3x has. The more pixels are whereas the 35mm-sized full manufacturers sch as Sigma
squeezed into a given space, frame is used in pro models and Tamron make lenses for
FOUR THIRDS the smaller they have to be, only. The increased scale vastly multiple systems.
They may be small in
stature, but the Olympus
E-420 and E-620 are
packed full of technical
innovations, as is the KEY FEATURES memory is important; it’s
where images are stored
before they’re saved. The
more semi-pro E-30, while the company’s LOW-LIGHT CAPABILITY
flagship E-3 combines waterproof sealing, an larger this is, the more images
If you’re likely to want to shoot
articulated LCD screen and a speedy autofocus you can shoot before it fills
in low light, whether it’s sunset
system. CURRENT MODELS: E-450, E-620, and the camera grinds to a
landscapes or cosy jazz clubs,
E-30, E-3 (temporary) halt.
good low-light performance is
SONY a must. Most DSLRs can shoot
at ISO 1600 and some go to
ANTI DUST Every time you
Sony has increased the change the lens on your DSLR,
ISO 3200, but performance
number of Alpha DSLRs on tiny dust particles can enter
varies a lot between different
offer steadily since their the exposed lens mount and
debut on 2006. The A290 cameras. A higher ISO speed
land on your sensor, appearing
makes for a great and makes the sensor more
as annoying marks on your
easy-to-use entry-level DSLR, with the A330 and sensitive, meaning it can shoot
pictures. Dust is also created
A380 adding live view along with tilting LCD with less light. Some pro DSLRs
by wear and tear of the
screens. The A850 and A900 are pro-spec, sturdy can shoot in pitch black
moving parts inside the
models that are serious contenders to similar conditions and still produce
camera. Most manufacturers
full-frame offerings from Nikon and Canon. reasonable quality results.
have a dust-removal system
CURRENT MODELS: Alpha A230, A290,
that cleans the sensor in one
A330, A380, A450, A500, A550, A850, A900 IMAGE STABILISATION Also
way or another.
known as anti-shake or
PENTAX vibration reduction, this is
HD VIDEO The increasing
Pentax’s DSLRs are either built into the lenses
easy-to-use, lightweight popularity of shooting home
(Nikon, Canon) or is sensor-
models that range from BURST MODE/FRAME RATE movies or even professional
based and built into the
beginner to intermediate. Particularly important for films on DSLR means that the
camera itself (Sony, Pentax,
The K-7 offers a 14MP action and wildlife appearance of a high-
Olympus). Though it’s
sensor, live view and protection against dust photographers is the ability definition video mode is
considered that lens-based
and water, while the K-x has scored well too, to fire off a number of images becoming all the more
stabilisation is slightly better, it
thanks to its ease of use and decent spec. Both in quick succession. Even the important. Plenty of DSLRs
ties you into buying pricier
models have been on the market a little while, most basic DSLRs now boast a now offer the function, from
so we’re expecting new developments soon. lenses to get the benefit;
frame rate of 2.5fps but some the beginner EOS 550D up to
CURRENT MODELS: K-x, K-7 sensor-based stabilisation
are much faster. A good buffer the pro end models.
works with any lens.
112
112
For all the very latest DSLR reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
Buyer’sguide
SENSOr lENS MAx ISO ShOOTINg SCrEEN MEDIA DIMENSIONS

Image Stabilisation
HD Movie Mode
DSLR £400 - £600
Coverage (%)
Scene Modes
Height (mm)
Manual Modes
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Four Thirds
Four Thirds
Burst (FPS)
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
Viewfinder
Anti-Dust
MS Card
SD Card
Live View
Auto Mode
xD Card
AF Points
Weight
Pentax
Canon
12800
25600
CMOS
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
15 MP
18 MP
21 MP
Nikon
Flash
1600
3200
6400
Sony
CCD
CF
NAME & MODEl NuMbEr rrP TESTED SCOrE SuMMArY
£400 Similar to the existing Alpha 280, but with a redesigned grip 7 9 2.5 95 500 128 97 79 456g
Sony Alpha 290 kit
NYT for better purchase and a 14.2MP sensor
£450 08/09 84% The smallest E-system DSLR. Live view is excellent and the Art 18 3 3.5 95 500 129 91 53 380g
Olympus E-450 kit Filters are fun, but it’s a shame there are only three AF points
£500 05/10 85% ✪ The 7fps burst rate is very impressive, as is the camera’s price 6 9 7 95 500 137 104 81 520g
Sony Alpha 450 body point, but it does feel a little plasticky
£520 11/09 85% ✪ At this price the A230 has plenty going for it, but there’s little 6 9 2.5 95 510 128 97 67 450g
Sony Alpha 230 kit change over the A200 and handling can be problematic
£550 A 10.2MP sensor, image stabilisation and a new graphic user 6 9 2.5 95 510 128 97 71 490g
Sony Alpha 330 kit
NYT interface all feature on the Alpha 330
£580 09/08 85% ✪ A great entry-level mode from Canon. Lightweight and easy to use, 6 7 3 95 500 126 97 61 450g
Canon EOS 1000D kit image quality is great but the buffer could be larger
£579 A high-spec DSLR aimed at the beginners, which includes some 6 11 3 95 500 124 96 75 455g
Nikon D3100 kit NYT highly impressive features such as a HD movie mode
£599 With a compact frame and 6fps there’s far more to this beginner 6 11 6 96 560 125 92 68 580g
Pentax K-r kit NYT DSLR than meets the eye

Image Stabilisation
HD Movie Mode
Coverage (%)
DSLR £600 - £1000
Scene Modes
Height (mm)
Manual Modes
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Four Thirds
Four Thirds
Burst (FPS)
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
Viewfinder
+3 in LCD
Anti-Dust
MS Card
SD Card
Live View
Auto Mode
xD Card
AF Points
Weight
Pentax
Canon
12800
25600
CMOS
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
15 MP
18 MP
21 MP
Nikon
Flash
1600
3200
6400
Sony
CCD
CF
£600 01/10 87% ✪ Plenty of useful features and great image quality, all in a small 10 11 4.7 96 n/a 122 91 65 581g
Pentax K-x kit body. The menu system is a little dated, though
£610 06/09 85% ✪ Art Filters and the vari-angle LCD screen are fun, particularly 13 7 4 95 n/a 130 94 60 475g
Olympus E-620 kit with the superb live view. High ISO noise still an issue, though
£610 09/09 85% ✪ Not a major upgrade from the A350, but noise levels have at 6 9 2.5 95 500 128 97 71 490g
Sony Alpha A380 kit least improved. Handling might not be to everyone’s taste
£650 This camera looks incredibly impressive on paper, offering 8 15 7 95 560 137 104 84 599g
Sony Alpha A560 Kit NYT high-resolution images and HD video
£680 06/08 89% ✪ Much the same as the EOS 1000D but with a handful of extras, 5 9 3.5 95 500 128 97 61 475g
Canon EOS 450D kit the 450D is an excellent DSLR that produces lovely images
£690 07/09 90% ✪ If video is your thing and you value a vari-angle LCD screen, 19 11 4 95 n/a 127 104 80 560g
Nikon D5000 kit the D5000 is worth a closer look
£700 A new breed of cameras from Sony with a transparent mirror, 8 15 6 100 270 124 92 85 433g
Sony Alpha A33 kit NYT meaning uninterrupted preview but no optical viewfinder
£750 Very similar to the Alpha A560, adding a higher resolution 8 15 7 95 560 137 104 84 599g
Sony Alpha A580 Kit NYT sensor to the list of features
£800 Using the same technology as the A33, swapping the 14MP 8 15 6 95 270 124 92 85 441g
Sony Alpha A55 Kit NYT sensor for a 16MP
£850 11/08 91% ✪ A worthy alternative to the Nikon D300, and while the video 5 11 4.5 96 850 132 103 77 620g
Nikon D90 body mode is a little fiddly, image quality is high
£900 05/10 91% ✪ With similar specs to the EOS 7D at a fraction of the price, the 5 9 3.7 95 440 128 97 62 530g
Canon EOS 550D kit video-enabled EOS 550D has an awful lot going for it
£900 Replacing the SD14, Sigma’s latest model retains the 14MP 0 5 3 98 n/a 144 107 80 680g
Sigma SD15 body NYT Foveon X3 sensor and adds a 3in 460k dot LCD screen
£970 06/09 90% ✪ Everything about the EOS 500D feels refined, with handling 5 9 3.4 95 400 128 97 61 480g
Canon EOS 500D kit and performance in particular being close to flawless
£1000 04/09 88% ✪ Excellent design and a great LCD screen combined with great 16 11 5 98 750 141 107 75 655g
Olympus E-30 body performance. Only high-ISO noise lets the E-30 down a touch

Image Stabilisation
HD Movie Mode
Coverage (%)
DSLR £1000 - £7000

Scene Modes
Height (mm)
Manual Modes
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Four Thirds
Four Thirds
Burst (FPS)
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
Viewfinder
+3 in LCD
Anti-Dust
MS Card
15/16 MP
SD Card
Live View
Auto Mode
xD Card
AF Points
102,400
+24 MP
Weight
Pentax
12,800
25,600
Canon
CMOS
12 MP
14 MP
18 MP
21 MP
Nikon
Flash
3200
6400
Sony
CCD
CF

£1099 The next generation in the semi-pro EOS range offers a vari- 9 5 96 1100 145 106 79 755g
Canon EOS 60D Body NYT angle screen for low angle shooting
£1230 10/09 88% ✪ A fantastic, long-awaited model with a number of welcome 11 5.2 100 740 131 97 73 980g
Pentax K-7 kit changes over the K20D, although the kit lens is a little poor
£1500 12/09 93% ✪ A subtle enhancement to the already excellent D300, with the 51 7 100 950 147 114 74 840g
Nikon D300s body HD movie mode being the only significant difference
TBC A hard-wearing DSLR with HD video and capable of up to 5fps 11 5 100 143 117 75 813g
Olympus E-5 NYT continuous shooting
£1700 XMAS 94% ✪ Good enough to be used as a regular camera by semi-pros, the 19 8 100 800 148 110 73 820g
Canon EOS 7D body 09 7D is a welcome addition to the EOS line
£1800 02/10 87% ✪ The most affordable full-frame DSLR currently on the market, 9 3 98 850 156 116 81 850g
Sony Alpha 850 body but there’s no live view or video which let it down a touch
£2000 10/08 95% ✪ Taking all the good bits from the D3, the D700 delivers a 51 5 95 1000 147 123 77 995g
Nikon D700 body number of groundbreaking features at a lower price point
£2100 12/08 89% ✪ An incredible level of detail and a beautiful viewfinder, but 9 5 100 880 156 117 82 850g
Sony Alpha 900 body high-ISO image quality is behind its peers
With its predecessor as its template, the 5D Mk II adds an 9 3.9 98 850 152 113 75 810g
Canon EOS 5D Mk II £2300
body
02/09 92% ✪ excellent HD movie mode and takes stunningly detailed images
£4200 03/10 95% ✪ Building on the success of the acclaimed D3, the D3s is a 51 9 100 4200 159 157 87 1,240g
Nikon D3s body serious pro camera which produces beautiful images
The power of this camera is immense, while its ability to shoot 45 10 100 1550 156 156 80 1,180g
Canon EOS 1D MK IV £4500
body
04/10 95% ✪ 16MP 14bit Raw files at 10fps while AF tracking is amazing
£5500 03/09 94% ✪ A stunning camera that pushes the boundaries of DSLR 51 5 100 4400 159 157 87 1,220g
Nikon D3x body performance with excellent image quality
£7000 03/08 94% ✪ The most expensive DSLR on the market, with superb noise 45 5 100 1800 156 159 80 1,210g
Canon 1Ds Mk III body control, a stunning level of image detail and a solid build
For all the very latest DSLR reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 113113
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
MICRO
SYSTEM
BUYING ADVICE
WHAT ARE THEY? Hybrid cameras they use an electronic viewfinder some of the more advanced
are developed to appeal to an from the sensor. dedicated AF systems featured on
audience wanting to upgrade MOVIE FUNCTION The lack of DSLRs.
The newest system to enter from a compact camera but don’t mirror system in these cameras VIEWFINDER Another symptom
the digital camera market want the bulk of a full DSLR. They means they are much more suited of lacking a mirror is Micro
offers an impressive share much of the creative to shooting video – as your view System cameras having either a
combination of compact size potential as their full-size cousins is coming straight from the sensor separate optical viewfinder which
and removable lenses. Much but with smaller bodies and anyway. For this reason they are sits on top of the camera, or an
like DSLRs, there are a number smaller lenses. Their design makes able to give DSLRs a run for their electronic version, called an
of different fittings and it impossible to include a money in the HD video stakes. Electronic View Finder) which is
mounts available, and plenty pentaprism mirror which also AUTOFOCUS Without a mirror, simply a smaller version of the
of models now offer high- defines a camera as an SLR. So, autofocus is achieved using a LCD screen. Although the quality
definition video too by definition, despite their contrast-detect system from the from an EVF won’t be as good as
interchangeable lenses, looks and sensor which, while vastly the optical, through-the-lens
creative functions, they cannot be improved from early live view option on a DSLR, it does offer a
classed as digital SLRs. Instead offerings, has still not matched worthy alternative to the LCD.
SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA DIMENSIONS

Mic. Four Thirds
Image Stabilisation
Viewfinder (EVF)
HD Movie Mode
Optional finder
MICRO SYSTEM £450 - £1300
Samsung NX
Scene Modes
Height (mm)
Manual Modes
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Four Thirds
Burst (FPS)
Ricoh GXR
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
Anti-Dust
MS Card
SD Card
Live View
Auto Mode
xD Card
AF Points
Weight
Sony E
Canon
12800
25600
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
15 MP
18 MP
21 MP
CMOS
Flash
1600
3200
6400
CCD

TBC A stylish variation on the NX10, with a slimmer body and 14 420 120 71 35 282g
SAMSUNG NX100 NYT
lacking in a viewfinder
27 23 3.2 380 124 83.6 74 336g
PANASONIC G10 £450 09/10 86% ✪ A cost-effective and functional camera. Easy to use, with well
kit laid out controls - the G10 is a winner
19 11 3 290 114 72 41 296g
OLYMPUS E-PL1 £450 05/10 88% ✪ To achieve this level of image quality in such a small body is a
kit significant development. Overall an excellent hybrid choice
na 25 7 330 117 62.6 33.4 239g
SONY NEX-3 £500 10/10 90% ✪ While the menu system could be a bit better, the NEX-3 is still
kit an absolute bargain with class-leading image quality
na 25 7 330 110 58.8 38.2 229g
SONY NEX-5 £530 08/10 90% ✪ The NEX-5 produces class-leading images that outshine some
kit stiff competition from its Micro Four Thirds peers
While image quality is decent, the P10 kit is highly priced next 5 na 5 440 113 70.2 49.8 367g
RICOH GXR + P10 £550 10/10 84%
kit to Ricoh’s CX3 compact (which uses the same sensor and lens)
9 35 3 400 123 87 39.8 353g
SAMSUNG NX10 £600 06/10 88% ✪ A new addition to the hybrid range with an APS-C sized sensor,
kit and some superb attributes such as the AMOLED screen
27 23 3.2 371 124 83.6 74 593g
PANASONIC G2 £630 07/10 87% ✪ A class-leading AF system and the new movie mode make the
kit G2 a standout camera
19 11 3 300 120 70 35 335g
OLYMPUS E-P1 £630 09/09 88% ✪ Appeals to the style-conscious and the traditional camera fan,
kit and with a good standard of image quality
17 23 3 380 119 71 36.3 285g
PANASONIC GF1 £700 12/09 89% ✪ While there’s room for improvement, the GF1 is an excellent
kit compact camera with great image quality
The close-up shooting capability is a bonus, but image quality 5 na 5 410 113 70.2 44.4 325g
RICOH GXR + S10 £748 03/10 78%
kit fails to live up to expectations
19 11 3 300 120 70 35 335g
OLYMPUS E-P2 £900 03/10 88% ✪ The update to the EP-1 doesn’t make any huge leaps and
kit bounds, but the in-camera stabilisation and LCD score points
An impressive optical performance, with great shallow depth 5 na 4 320 113 70.2 77.1 423g
RICOH GXR + A12 £1020 03/10 79%
kit of field control and good control over noise
25 23 3 300 124 89.6 45.2 385g
PANASONIC GH1 £1300 08/09 85% ✪ An exceptional camera, but more than anything an exceptional
kit video camera. Because of the lens, however, it’s a little pricey
SONY NEX- 5 £530 OLYMPUS E-P1 £630 PANASONIC GF1 £700

The NEX-5 brings forward the best elements of combining Just when it looked like Micro System cameras would be ruled by the Looking like the more sensible cousin to Olympus’s E-P1, the GF1
pocketable size with ease of use, making the NEX capable of some DSLR-lite, the Olympus E-P1 added some much-needed style. For all offers a similar aesthetic without the same level of flair. In spite
truly stunning images. The flip-out screen also means there’s no its flaws, which mainly stem from being a touch too expensive, the of this the camera beneath is a robust, simple-to-operate option
definitive way of holding the camera, and that high or low angle E-P1 has a consistently high level of image quality and is laid out which appeases those upgrading from a compact. With a built-in
shots are far easier to frame. Much like a number of its peers similarly enough to a DSLR to ensure anyone moving across won’t flash the GF1 also manages to one-up its Olympus rival, and
the NEX-5 operates using an entirely new lens system, making spend hours fiddling benefits from being similar to the Panasonic LX3 compact in looks
it necessary to buy around in menus.
ED IT O R’S and operation. The price
new lenses, but the
versatility and image CHOICE The lack of a built-in is still a touch too high
flash is annoying, but but it’s a consistent, if not
quality of the camera the camera is still an spectacular, performer
makes it one of the impressive blend of style
best in its field. all round.
and substance.
EDITOR’S
CHOICE
90% 88% 89%
114 For all the very latest Micro System reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
Buyer’sguide
COMPACT
CAMErAS
BUYING ADVICE
There’s no such thing as an Compact cameras go from 9MP up to longer zoom does put more pressure on create problems with loss of colour tone.
14MP sized sensors, all of which can both stabilisation and focus, making it IMAGE STABILISATION This
‘average’ compact camera, easily produce an A4 print. There are important to get decent quality optics. comes in three forms: optical, sensor
as some are waterproof, other attributes worth considering ISO The higher the ISO, the lower the based and ISO based. The first
have long zooms or can beyond the number of megapixels that light the camera can operate in. This compensates for camera shake by
record high-definition video. can still heavily influence the image doesn’t necessarily mean the image shifting elements within the lens, the
In this section of the Buyer’s quality. ZOOM Barring a couple of quality is usable though, as noise can second works by shifting the sensor, and
Guide we break down each exceptions every compact camera has become more visible, producing red and the third by adjusting the ISO. The latter
camera’s important specs an optical zoom. The larger the zoom, green specks across the image. Some is the least-preferred option, as it gives
and features, as well as an the larger a far away subject can appear, cameras offer an amount of processing less control over noisy images; the other
making the camera more versatile. The to hide the noise, but this can also two being equally effective as each other.
overall summary
seNsOR leNs mAX isO shOOTiNg scReeN mediA bATTeRY dimeNsiONs

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom
COMPACTS £50 - £100
Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
NAme & mOdel NumbeR RRp TesTed scORe summARY
Fujifilm A160 £59 NYT Entry-level point-and-shooter with slimline dimensions 3x 32 96 17 N/A 93.0 60.0 21.9 120g
Fujifilm A170 £69 NYT With Panoramic shooting mode for automatic image stitching 3x 32 96 17 N/A 93.0 60.0 21.9 120g
Nikon l21 £69 NYT Features Smile Timer and Blink Proof technology for perfect portraits 3.6x 41 145 15 500 92.0 61.1 28.3 169g
Kodak c142 £69 NYT Cheap and cheerful point-and-shooter with VGA video recording 3x 34 102 20 N/A 92.9 62.0 29.6 170g
Kodak c180 £74 NYT Offers VGA-quality movie recording and in-camera editing 3x 32 96 16 N/A 92.5 62.0 24.7 110g
Kodak c182 £74 NYT With Smart Capture automatic scene recognition function 3x 32 96 17 N/A 95.9 62.0 27.9 125g
Kodak m320 £79 NYT Panoramic stitch mode automatically stitches multiple images together 3x 34 102 20 N/A 97.2 59.7 21.0 125g
Fujifilm Av130 £79 NYT Slimline point-and-shoot compact with 720p HD movie recording function 3x 32 96 14 N/A 93.0 60.2 27.8 119g
pentax e90 £79 NYT Features six digital filters for creative effects plus Digital Panoramic stitch mode 3x 32 96 16 N/A 92.5 60.0 28.0 170g
Nikon l22 £79 NYT Easy-to-use point-and-shoot compact with VGA movie recording 3.6x 37 134 16 660 97.7 60.5 28.3 183g
Fujifilm Av100 £89 NYT Entry-level compact with 720p HD movie recording 3x 32 96 14 N/A 93.0 60.2 27.8 119g
Kodak m340 £89 NYT Basic point-and-shoot with five-face Face Detection and VGA movie recording 3x 35 105 18 N/A 95.5 58.5 19.2 115g
samsung es15 £89 NYT Features a built-in ‘Help Guide’ to help you take better pictures 3x 38 114 11 N/A 94.1 62.7 25.2 120g
casio eX-Z16 £99 NYT A budget price model with an impressive array of options 3x 35 106 16 170 98.8 58.4 21.7 140g
casio eX-Z36 £99 NYT Impressive resolution for an £100 budget model 3x 35 105 16 220 98.8 57.3 20.4 134g
Kodak m341 £99 NYT Style-led compact with Smart Capture technology for easy picture-taking 3.6x 37 134 16 600 97.7 60.5 28.3 183g
Kodak m530 £99 NYT Features Kodak Share for direct uploads to YouTube, Facebook and Flickr 3x 36 108 21 N/A 93.7 57.7 22.7 130g
Olympus Fe-4050 £99 NYT Offers six Magic Filters for some impressive creativity 4x 27 108 14 N/A 91.7 56.0 19.9 112g
samsung es65 £99 NYT Slimline compact with 27mm wideangle lens and 5x optical zoom 5x 27 135 16 N/A 96.3 58.0 21.9 114g
samsung es17 £99 NYT Features Beauty Shot in-camera portrait retouching and VGA video recording 3x 35 105 12 N/A 94.1 62.7 25.2 121g
samsung es55 £99 NYT Fun and easy compact with in-camera Photo Help Guide mode 3x 35 105 9 N/A 90.0 59.0 22.0 116g
seNsOR leNs mAX isO shOOTiNg scReeN mediA bATTeRY dimeNsiONs

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom

Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
14 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
NAme & mOdel NumbeR RRp TesTed scORe summARY
casio eX-Z330 £109 NYT Stylish compact with 720p HD movie recording facility 3x 35 106 32 260 96.9 56.5 19.0 100g
Nikon s3000 £109 6/10 79% Slim and lightweight, but image quality is generally disappointing 4x 27 108 16 220 94.3 55.9 19.0 116g
sony s2000 £109 NYT Easy-to-use entry-level model with Smile Detection 3x 35 105 08 190 97.6 61.0 27.2 175g
casio eX-Z33 £119 2/10 78% Entry-level compact with Easy Mode and 23 Best Shot scene modes 3x 35 106 23 N/A 94.1 56.1 18.1 102g
casio eX-Z350 £119 NYT Sleek compact with 27mm wideangle setting and 4x optical zoom 4x 27 108 23 210 98.6 57.9 19.7 121g
casio eX-Z670 £119 NYT With a YouTube ready video mode this compact is perfect for the web-savvy 4x 27 108 23 210 98.6 57.9 19.7 121g
canon A495 £119 4/10 86% ✪ A great camera that’s affordable, easy to use, responsive and nice-looking 3.3x 37 122 13 150 93.5 61.7 30.6 175g
samsung es70 £119 NYT Entry-level compact with 27mm wideangle and 5x optical zoom 5x 27 135 16 N/A 96.3 58.0 21.1 119g
samsung es71 £119 NYT Identical model to the Samsung ES70 5x 27 135 16 N/A 96.3 58.0 21.1 119g
samsung pl50 £119 NYT With Perfect Portrait mode to eliminate redeye, blinking and skin blemishes 5x 35 175 11 N/A 97.0 59.0 24.5 139g
sony s2100 £119 NYT With Smile Shutter technology for cheesy grins every time 3x 35 105 08 170 97.6 61.0 27.2 184g
Olympus Fe-5040 £119 NYT A well-featured compact with Magic Filters and an image stabiliser 5x 26 130 13 N/A 96.0 57.8 20.1 130g
pentax m90 £119 NYT With Digital Panoramic in-camera image stitching feature and 5x zoom 5x 28 140 16 200 98.9 58.5 22.9 133g
pentax Rs1000 £119 NYT An interchangeable front compact with a 4x optical zoom 4x 27 110 21 N/A 92 56 20 130g
Fujifilm Z70 £129 NYT With 720p HD movie recording and Automatic Scene Recognition mode 3x 35 105 15 N/A 91.0 57.1 20.1 124g
Fujifilm J30 £129 NYT Easy-to-use 12MP compact with 3x optical zoom 3x 32 96 14 N/A 92.0 55.9 20.0 113g
casio eX-Z85 £129 3/09 88% ✪ With YouTube video capture mode for easy uploading 3x 38 114 38 240 89.7 51.7 19.0 100g
casio eX-Z550 £129 NYT 14MP compact with 26mm wideangle setting and 4x optical zoom 4x 26 104 42 250 99.5 55.4 22.4 137g
For all the very latest compact reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com

115
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA BATTERY DIMENSIONS

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom
COMPACTS £100 - £150 (CONT’D)
Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
+14 MP
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
Casio EX-Z90 £129 4/10 80% Easy enough to use, but let down by disappointing image quality 3x 35 105 32 230 89.7 51.7 19.4 102g
Casio EX-Z25 £129 5/10 80% Features 720p HD movie recording and a Make-up mode for flattering portraits 3x 35 105 32 230 89.7 51.7 19.4 102g
Pentax H90 £129 6/10 84% An ideal entry-level point-and-shooter offering generally very high quality 5x 28 140 23 210 94.5 56.5 24.5 114g
Kodak M550 £129 7/10 69% A decent enough camera to use, but images are heavily compressed 5x 36 140 21 N/A 99.0 58.0 23.0 125g
Kodak Z915 £129 9/09 81% Boasting a 10x optical zoom and PASM shooting controls 10x 35 350 17 N/A 107 72.4 35.7 220g
Olympus FE-5050 £129 NYT A stylish camera available in an abundance of colours 5x 26 130 14 N/A 92.0 55.0 18.8 114g
Panasonic FS62 £135 2/10 91% ✪ Excellent IS, exposure metering and colour rendition make it great value for money 4x 33 132 25 N/A 97.0 54.4 21.2 115g
Fujifilm Z300 £139 NYT Features touchscreen controls, a 5x optical zoom and Scene Recognition mode 5x 36 180 11 N/A 92.0 56.5 18.5 130g
Fujifilm A235 £139 NYT Simple point-and-shoot with Scene Recognition and Digital Panorama modes 3x 32 96 17 N/A 93.0 60.0 21.9 120g
Casio EX-Z280 £149 1/10 84% Decent, affordable all-rounder with 26mm wideangle setting 4x 26 104 14 250 98.2 54.9 20.1 112g
Fujifilm Z35 £149 NYT Colourful and fun entry-level compact with Scene Recognition mode 3x 35 105 11 N/A 89.0 57.9 23.0 115g
Kodak M575 £149 NYT 84% Headline specs include a 14MP sensor, HD video recording and a 5x optical zoom 5x 28 140 20 N/A 99.0 58.0 18.5 132g
Samsung ST60 £149 NYT With HD video recording, Smart Capture mode and creative filter effects 3x 27 110 14 N/A 96.9 56.0 16.5 96.3g
Samsung PL60 £149 NYT Featuring optical Image Stabilisation, Perfect Portrait mode and a 5x zoom 5x 35 175 11 N/A 94.0 59.0 23.7 138g
Sony W310 £149 NYT Intelligent Auto with Smile Detection and in-camera retouching menu 4x 28 112 07 220 95.3 55.0 18.7 137g
Casio EX-Z800 £149 NYT With some interesting shades the Z800 is highly stylish 4x 27 108 23 280 91.0 52.3 19.5 124g
PANASONIC FS62 £135 CANON PANASONIC FX550 £299

Proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a decent
compact camera that can take high-quality photos. In fact the IXUS Few cameras offer quite as many features in a reasonably
compact frame, while keeping the whole package capable of
FS62 mainly belies the budget price, with the build and optics
being of the highest order. The Intelligent Auto mode lets even the
95IS £189 taking a decent photo. The FX550 offers touchscreen, AF tracking,
full manual controls and much more, while still maintaining the
EDITOR’S
It’s almost a fore- ability to take an excellent image. The 25mm wideangle lens and
most uninitiated of photographers take a snap in the majority of
conditions, as it will cater the
gone conclusion that CHOICE superb Leica optics are
a camera in the certainly a large factor
camera automatically to IXUS range is going to be stylish, but the IXUS 95IS also has the
the likes of a landscape of this, as is the FX550’s
added benefit of being excellent at taking a snap. With optical ability to adjust to a
or macro shooting style. image stabilisation, even though the optical zoom is only 3x, any EDITOR’S
Highly recommended for number of challenging CHOICE
shaking is duly dealt with so the focus isn’t affected. The exposure lighting situations with
those on a budget. and colour quality are consistently impressive and have few flying colours.
problems in dealing with a variety of situations,
91% making the IXUS 95IS a versatile
compact with plenty to offer. 90%
EDITOR’S
CHOICE SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA BATTERY DIMENSIONS

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom

Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
+14 MP
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
Canon A3100 IS £159 NYT Essentially the same model as the A3000 IS, but with an extra 2MP 4x 35 140 23 240 97.2 58.2 28.1 155g
Olympus FE-4040 £159 NYT With Dual Image Stabilisation and built-in Art Filters for creative effects 4x 26 105 13 N/A 96.8 56.2 23.1 137g
Olympus FE-4030 £159 NYT Same specs as FE-4040 but smaller and with an extra scene mode 4x 26 105 14 N/A 92.5 55.5 21.6 116g
Panasonic FS10 £159 NYT With 5x optical zoom, 720p HD movie recording and iA (Intelligent Auto) mode 5x 28 140 24 310 98.4 55.2 23.4 145g
Panasonic FP1 £159 NYT Slimline design, 720p HD movie recording and enhanced ISO 6400 4x 35 140 24 300 98.6 58.9 18.6 141g
Samsung ST45 £159 NYT Ultra-slim design and Smart Auto scene recognition for easy use 3x 35 105 11 N/A 96.0 56.9 17.7 105g
Samsung PL55 £159 3/10 80% Easy to use compact with Smart Auto and Perfect Portrait modes 5x 35 175 13 N/A 97.0 59.0 24.5 139g
Sony W320 £159 NYT Slimline compact with 26mm wideangle and Scene Recognition mode 4x 26 105 07 240 92.9 51.9 17.3 117g
Fujifilm XP10 £169 11/10 84% Shockproof (1m), waterproof (3m), freezeproof (-10°C) and dustproof too 5x 36 180 16 N/A 95.6 63.8 23.2 135g
Olympus FE-5030 £169 NYT 14MP compact with 5x zoom and Dual Image Stabilisation 5x 26 130 14 N/A 94.1 55.8 19.9 124g
Panasonic FS7 £169 4/10 91% ✪ Great noise control and overall image quality make this a fantastic compact 4x 33 132 24 N/A 97.0 54.4 21.7 117g
Samsung WP10 £169 NYT Dustproof and waterproof to three metres, and with HD movie recording 5x 35 175 14 N/A 93.8 61.0 18.5 121g
Canon A3000 IS £179 4/10 82% Exclusive to Argos, the A3000 IS offers good image quality and performance 4x 35 140 13 230 97.2 58.2 28.1 155g
Fujifilm S1600 £179 NYT 15x superzoom with PASM controls and electronic viewfinder. Takes 4x AA batteries 15x 28 420 16 N/A 110 73.4 81.4 337g
Kodak M580 £179 NYT With Kodak Easyshare, HD video capture, 8x optical zoom and 28mm wideangle 8x 28 224 20 N/A 100 59.5 26.7 150g
Panasonic FS30 £179 NYT Well-specified with 28mm wideangle, 8x optical zoom and HD movie recording 8x 28 224 24 300 100 56.5 27.8 160g
Pentax I-10 £179 10/10 79% Styled like a mini DSLR, the I-10 offers creative filters and HD movie recording 5x 28 140 22 250 105 65.0 28.0 132g
Pentax RZ10 £179 NYT With a 10x optical zoom this compact has plenty to offer in versatility 10x 28 280 24 260 97 61 33 178g
Samsung ST70 £179 NYT Dual Image Stabilisation, 720p HD video capture and Smart Filter effects 5x 27 135 14 N/A 96.3 55.8 16.6 120g
Samsung PL150 £179 10/10 79% Front-facing LCD for easy self-portraits plus Smart Face Recognition 5x 27 135 10 N/A 99.2 59.0 19.2 137g
Samsung PL65 £179 NYT 5x optical zoom, Dual Image Stabilisation and Smart Auto mode 5x 35 175 12 N/A 94.0 59.0 23.7 138g
Sony-W350 £179 NYT With Sweep Panorama and HD movie recording 4x 26 105 10 240 90.7 51.5 16.7 117g
Canon IXUS 105 £189 NYT Style-driven compact with automatic Scene Detection and 28mm wideangle 4x 28 112 18 240 90.5 55.8 21.2 140g
Canon 95 IS £189 9/09 90% ✪ A complete bargain, with great image quality and a lovely design 3x 35 105 06 260 88.5 54.8 21.8 120g
Panasonic FS11 £189 4/10 88% ✪ Affordable, a pleasure to use and capable of very nice overall image quality 5x 28 140 24 310 98.4 55.2 24.0 147g
Canon SX130 £199 NYT A superzoom that gives the user full control 12x 28 336 24 130 113 73.2 45.8 308g
Casio EX-S200 £199 NYT Superslim compact that’s still got the specs to compete 4x 27 108 24 270 100 55.3 17.8 132g
Panasonic FS33 £199 NYT Another stylish addition to the Lumix range 4x 35 140 25 300 100 56.5 27.2 140g
Fujifilm S1800 £199 NYT An 18x optical zoom together with a 28mm wideangle 18x 28 504 16 N/A 110.2 73.4 81.4 337g
Fujifilm S1500 £199 8/09 88% ✪ A capable all-rounder, with a decent build and good image quality 12x 33 396 14 N/A 102.5 73.0 67.8 324g
Fujifilm Z33WP £199 7/09 87% ✪ Images are a little flat, but the button layout makes it easy to use underwater 3x 35 105 16 N/A 92.0 59.6 20.6 110g

116
Buyer’sguide
SENSOR LENS MaX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIa BaTTERY DIMENSIONS

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom
Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
+14 MP
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
NaME & MODEL NUMBER RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMaRY
Nikon S5100 £TBC NYT A colourful and impressive addition to the COOLPIX range 5x 28 140 18 N/A 97.1 56.9 21.6 132g
Ricoh CX4 £TBC NYT A high-speed-shooting compact with some impressive video quality 10x 28 300 10 330 101 58.6 29.4 184g
Ricoh G700 £TBC NYT Perfect for a building site, offering industrial-strength covering 5x 28 140 6 360 118 71 41 310g
Casio EX-Z2000 £200 NYT Long battery life and the latest Exilim 5 processing engine 5x 26 130 40 580 100 58.5 19.8 122g
Casio EX-Z450 £200 NYT Claimed to give 550 shots on a full charge 4x 28 112 39 550 96.9 57.6 23.0 131g
Casio EX-H10 £200 12/9 84% The wideangle lens is a bonus, but image noise can be problematic 10x 24 240 38 1000 102 62 24.3 164g
Casio EX-Z400 £200 NYT With the latest Exilim 4.0 engine and a 28mm wideangle lens 4x 28 112 39 N/A 96.9 57.6 23.0 131g
Casio EX-S12 £200 9/09 84% Easy to use and as small as a camera can’t get without being too fiddly 3x 36 108 41 280 94.2 54.6 14.9 113g
Canon SX120 IS £209 1/10 86% ✪ Good control over noise and affordable, but build quality could be better 10x 36 360 20 130 110.6 70.4 44.7 245g
Sony DSC-W380 £219 6/10 89% ✪ Impressive image quality and performance, but a better LCD would be nice 5x 24 120 8 220 91.7 51.9 19.7 108g
Fujifilm F80 EXR £229 7/10 85% ✪ Image quality is average at best, but low-light performance is excellent 10x 27 270 18 N/A 99.3 58.9 28.4 183g
Fujifilm S2000HD £229 1/09 85% ✪ One of the most versatile superzoom models on the market and good value too 10x 27 414 13 N/A 111 78.9 75.7 386g
Fujifilm S2500HD £229 8/10 86% ✪ Good results at the wideangle end, but otherwise a bit of a mixed performance 18x 28 504 16 N/A 110.2 73.4 81.4 337g
Olympus Mju-7040 £239 NYT AF tracking, YouTube mode and a 7x zoom, along with 2GB of internal memory 7x 28 196 14 N/A 94.5 55.5 25.9 144g
Nikon S4000 £239 NYT Touchscreen camera with four anti-blur technologies in a slim metal body 4x 27 108 16 190 94.5 56.5 20.4 131g
Casio EX-ZR10 £249 NYT A high-speed shooter with plenty to offer 7x 28 196 42 N/A 101 58.7 27.4 176g
Sony DSC-H55 £249 NYT Sweep Panorama and 30fps HD movie recording, as well as a 25mm wideangle 10x 25 250 8 310 102 57.7 28.9 170g
Samsung WB500 £249 2/10 84% Image quality is reasonable and the 10x zoom is a bonus 10x 24 240 14 N/A 105 61.4 36.5 219g
Samsung ST550 £249 10/09 89% ✪ With a front-facing LCD to take the hassle of group shots and self-portraits 4.6 x 27 124 15 N/A 99.8 59.8 19.1 149g
Samsung ST5000 £249 NYT Touchscreen LCD and a range of Smart Filter effects feature on the ST5000 7x 31 217 13 N/A 103 58.3 19.6 156g
Samsung WB600 £249 NYT Full manual control and a built-in HDMI port, as well as a 720p movie mode 15x 24 360 15 N/A 106 60.5 28 210g
Nikon S8000 £249 3/10 82% HD movie recording with stereo sound, together with a 10x optical zoom 10x 30 300 15 210 103 57.0 27.3 183g
Casio EX-H15 £250 NYT 1,000-shot battery life and a 3in LCD with a 460k dot resolution 10x 24 240 42 1000 102 62.1 29.3 162g
Casio EX-G1 £250 4/10 81% Keenly priced but image stabilisation is only ISO-based (and only microSD) 3x 38 114 12 N/A 103 64.2 19.9 154g
Casio EX-FC150 £250 NYT 1000fps video recording and 40fps stills shooting 5x 37 185 na N/A 99 58 28 175g
Panasonic DMC-FT10 £250 NYT A tough camera that’s virtually indestructible 4x 35 140 25 300 100 63 21 152g
Olympus SP-600UZ £259 NYT Superzoom bridge model with AF Tracking and a 3MP 10fps burst mode 15x 28 420 13 N/A 109 72.1 75.1 433g
Sony DSC-H20 £269 9/09 84% The HD video and 10x zoom are great, but it’s a shame there’s no wideangle 10x 38 380 10 290 107 68.7 47.1 250g
Panasonic DMC-FX60 £269 X/09 85% ✪ It’s a little expensive, but both build and image quality impress 5x 25 125 28 360 97.2 54.1 19.4 126g
Panasonic DMC-ZX1 £269 10/9 90% ✪ An excellent camera for the price, with bright and punchy images 8x 25 200 29 330 97.8 54.6 26 138g
Canon IXUS 130 £269 NYT Wideangle lens in a smooth metal body, with HD video and an HDMI port 4x 28 112 16 230 92.2 56.1 17.8 133g
Panasonic DMC-FX70 £269 NYT Combines HD movies and an impressive resolution in a compact shell 5x 24 120 24 360 102 55.0 22.8 144g
Nikon L110 £279 5/10 83% Good value for money, even if image quality is a little underwhelming 15x 26 678 15 N/A 114 82.7 98.6 481g
Fujifilm F70 EXR £279 1/10 93% ✪ A quality lens and a quality sensor, the F70 EXR outperforms its peers 10x 27 270 15 N/A 99.3 58.9 22.7 180g
Olympus Mju-9010 £289 NYT A slim and stylish compact with a 10x zoom 10x 28 280 14 N/A 94 57.6 31.1 171g
Casio EX-H20G £299 NYT GPS is built in on this compact 10x 24 240 42 N/A 102 67.5 28.8 216g
Ricoh CX3 £299 5/10 89% ✪ A good compact, but it’s a shame there’s no Raw mode or full manual control 10.7x 28 300 13 310 101 58.3 29.4 185g
Kodak Slice £299 NYT A generous 3.5in touchscreen display, 2GB internal memory (plus microSD slot) 5x 35 175 14 N/A 104 60 17 158g
Panasonic DMC-TZ8 £299 8/10 89% ✪ Not a huge upgrade, but a great-value compact with an excellent build quality 12x 25 300 29 340 103 59.6 32.6 191g
Panasonic DMC-FX550 £299 7/09 91% ✪ Great image quality at lower ISOs and a cracking wideangle lens 5x 25 125 25 350 94.9 57.1 21.9 150g
Panasonic DMC-ZX3 £299 NYT Similar in design to Panasonic’s TZ series, with AVCHD movie recording 8x 25 200 29 330 97.8 54.8 26.0 137g
Sony DSC-TX1 £299 X/09 89% ✪ Sony’s innovative Exmor R CMOS technology inside a super-slim body 4x 35 140 12 250 93.8 58.2 16.5 119g
Samsung WB550 £299 8/09 85% ✪ Despite a few image quality issues, the WB550 is a great-value model 10x 24 240 14 N/A 105 61.4 36.5 219g
Samsung ST550 £299 12/9 89% ✪ Poor battery life and soft high-ISO images, but a great high-res LCD screen 4.6 x 27 124 15 N/A 99.8 59.8 19.1 165g
Samsung WB1000 £299 NYT Full manual control and a large 3in AMOLED screen 5x 24 120 14 N/A 97 61 21 160g
Samsung WB650 £299 8/10 88% ✪ Despite some issues with performance and exposure, image quality is good 15x 24 360 16 N/A 106.6 60.5 28.0 214g
Pentax X70 £299 7/09 82% A capable superzoom, but a Raw mode and a larger LCD would be better 24x 26 624 21 N/A 110.5 82.5 89.5 390g
POinT And ShOOT LiFESTYLE ALL-WEAThER/ EnThUSiAST SUPERZOOM

Most of us want a portable If style is important to you then ShOCKPROOF These may require a steep The optical zoom capability offered
camera that will slot into a there’s a bewildering array of Another way in which learning curve for the beginner, by these enthusiast-targeted
trouser or shirt pocket for spur- cameras to choose from.The manufacturers differentiate their but they offer plenty of manual models will come in handy for
of-the-moment snaps, and work camera’s body will be fashioned to compacts is by giving them sealed control. They may not feature a those wanting such a range in a
out for itself the best focus and a greater degree from metal rather weatherproof or waterproof huge zoom capacity, but they’re small package.The downside is that
exposure. Budget models with than plastic, and of course the price bodies, with some manufacturers generally stacked with real superzooms are bulkier than other
fewer such features tend to have reflects this. Still, you’ll typically have also marketing their cameras as photographic features. As such, types of ‘compact’, and ideally need
the lowest resolution on offer, but a resolution of between 8 and 10 shockproof. So if you like sports or enthusiast models set themselves a decent image-stabilisation system
that’s sufficient quality for photo- megapixels, often with an internally you’re simply butter-fingered, have up as ideal back-up cameras for when shooting at the telephoto end
realistic prints at regular sizes. stacked zoom lens. a look at these. those who already own a DSLR. of the zoom.

117
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA BATTERY DIMENSIONS

Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom
Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
+14 MP
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
Casio EX-FH100 £300 7/10 82% Useful features such as a Raw option, but for the price we could expect more 10x 24 240 18 300 105 63.2 29.9 227g
Olympus Tough-6020 £319 NYT Waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof, together with TAP control technology 5x 28 140 19 N/A 96.7 64.4 25.8 178g
Canon D10 £319 7/09 90% ✪ Reliable image quality from this waterproof compact 3x 35 105 17 220 103.6 66.9 48.8 190g
Panasonic DMC-FZ38 £320 11/9 90% ✪ Not a major upgrade from the FZ28, but competent nevertheless 18x 27 486 23 470 117.6 75.8 88.9 367g
Panasonic DMC-FT1 £320 7/09 88% ✪ A little on the pricey side, but a great design is matched by great image quality 4.6x 28 128 24 340 98.3 63.1 23 162g
Sony DSC-TX5 £329 NYT With Sony’s latest Exmor R technology and Sweep Panorama mode 4x 25 100 9 250 94 56.9 17.7 128g
Canon SX210IS £329 5/10 89% ✪ Very good HD video and a range of creative modes, while still small and light 14x 28 392 5 260 105 59.3 31.9 215g
Nikon S80 £329 NYT A touch-sensitive model with an impressive look 5x 35 175 17 150 98.8 62.6 16.5 133g
Sony DSC-WX1 £329 12/9 90% ✪ Quality results in low light and a few nifty features – overall an impressive model 5x 24 120 11 350 90.5 51.8 19.8 120g
Nikon S1100pj £TBC NYT A compact with a built-in projector 5x 28 140 17 220 100 62.7 24.1 180g
Canon IXUS 1000HS £349 NYT A fast shooting and stylish new compact 10x 36 360 16 150 101 58.5 22.3 190g
Panasonic FX700 £349 NYT A HD-movie-shooting compact with impressive resolution 5x 24 120 27 300 103 55.8 24.5 176g
Panasonic FZ45 £349 NYT A fully featured superzoom that offers manual controls 24x 25 600 17 580 120 79.8 91.9 498g
Samsung WB5000 £349 3/10 83% You get a lot for your money and image quality is good, but high ISOs are noisy 24x 26 624 11 N/A 116 83 91 398g
Samsung ST5500 £349 11/10 85% ✪ A massive 3.7in AMOLED screen joins 720p HD movie recording 7x 31 217 13 N/A 103 58.3 19.6 161g
Pentax X90 £349 NYT Updating the X70, Pentax’s latest offering sports a 26x optical zoom 26x 26 676 20 255 111 84.5 110 400g
Panasonic DMC-TZ7 £349 5/09 90% ✪ An excellent superzoom camera, with great image quality and a high-res LCD 12x 25 300 27 300 103.3 59.6 32.8 206g
Panasonic DMC-TZ10 £349 5/10 89% ✪ Update to the popular TZ7, with impressive image quality and a solid build 12x 25 300 27 300 103.3 59.6 32.6 218g
Nikon P100 £349 9/10 82% A strong features list and a good zoom range, but performance is mixed 26x 26 678 17 250 114.4 82.7 98.6 481g
Fujifilm F200 EXR £349 5/09 91% ✪ The first camera to sport Fujifilm’s EXR sensor, and the benefits show in low light 5x 28 140 15 N/A 97.7 58.9 23.4 175g
Sony DSC-HX5 £359 5/10 91% ✪ A versatile superzoom, with nice images and great HD performance 10x 25 250 8 310 102 57.7 28.9 170g
Samsung ST1000 £359 1/10 85% ✪ 100MB Internal memory and a microSD slot, also with GPS, Bluetooth and Wi-fi 5x 35 175 11 N/A 99.8 60.8 18.9 N/A
Canon IXUS 210 £359 NYT Latest IXUS with DIGIC 4 processing and Smart Shutter mode 5x 24 120 10 220 99.3 55.7 22.0 160g
Olympus SP-800UZ £369 NYT 2GB internal memory and a whopping zoom range 30x 28 840 17 N/A 107 73.4 84.7 418g
Panasonic DMC-FT2 £370 4/10 87% ✪ A great all-weather camera with good image quality too 4.6 x 28 128 29 360 99.3 63.1 24.3 167g
Nikon P6000 £379 1/09 88% ✪ A 13.5MP sensor and Raw recording make this enthusiast’s compact a winner 4x 28 112 15 260 107 65.5 42.0 240g
Canon SX20 IS £389 NYT A vari-angle LCD and a hotshoe for external flashguns feature on the SX20IS 20x 28 560 13 340 124 88.3 86.9 647g
Olympus TOUGH-8010 £399 NYT Waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof, the TOUGH 8010 fits extreme conditions 5x 28 140 19 N/A 98.3 63.6 23.9 215g
Nikon S1000PJ £399 X/09 84% It may be the first digital camera with a projector, but image quality is average 5x 28 140 16 220 99.5 62.5 23 155g
Panasonic DMC-LX3 £399 11/08 91% ✪ A serious alternative to the likes of Canon’s G-series, with superb image quality 2.5x 24 60 24 380 108.7 59.5 27.1 265g
Sony DSC-TX7 £399 NYT Despite its slim body, a wideangle lens and Sony’s Sweep Panorama both feature 4x 25 100 9 230 97.8 59.5 17.5 133g
Canon S95 £399 NYT The kind of compact every DSLR owner should appreciate 4x 28 105 16 300 99.8 58.4 29.5 193
EDITO EDITO EDITO

R R R
CHOIC ’S CANON D10 £319 CHOIC ’S SONY DSC-HX5 £359 CHOIC ’S PANASONIC LX3 £399
E E E
A top-drawer example Filled to the rim with the latest The Panasonic LX3 is one of the best
of the tough camera is the Canon cutting-edge technology, the cameras currently on the market, with
D10, which can withstand being Sony HX5 has GPS, HD video full manual controls and top-notch
submerged up to 10m underwater, a a 10x optical zoom with full optical quality making it perfect for
short drop and down to -10°C while stabilisation, excellent lens quality
also taking a decent photo. Canon DSLR owners looking for a compact.
and sweep panorama mode and
90%
has also added an extremely useful
optical image stabiliser. 84% still takes superb images.
91%
SENSOR LENS MAX ISO SHOOTING SCREEN MEDIA BATTERY DIMENSIONS
Image Stabilisation
Max Focal Length
HD Movie Mode
Min Focal Length
LI-ION Battery
Face Detection
Optical Zoom
COMPACTS £400 - £5000

Intelligent Auto
Scene Modes
Manual Modes
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
AA Battery
Viewfinder
2.5 in LCD
2.7 in LCD
+3 in LCD
MS Card
SD Card
xD Card
+14 MP
Weight
12800
10 MP
12 MP
1600
3200
6400
9 MP
Casio EX-FH25 £400 NYT With a 10MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a 20x optical zoom 20x 26 520 18 340 122.6 81.4 84.5 483g
Fujifilm Real 3D W1 £429 X/09 85% ✪ A fun camera to play with but the 3D technology is still very much in its infancy n/a 28 n/a 13 N/A 123.6 68 25.6 260g
Fujifilm S200EXR £429 12/9 82% Impressive images with bright colours, but handling is no match for a DSLR 14.3x 30 436 17 N/A 113.4 93.6 145 820g
Fujifilm HS10 £439 7/10 88% ✪ The Evf may not be great, but feature-wise the HS10 offers good value for money 30x 24 720 14 N/A 130.6 90.7 126 636g
Canon S90 £439 1/10 90% ✪ Excellent image quality and small size make the S90 a winner 3.8x 28 105 17 220 100.0 58.4 30.9 175g
Fuji Real 3D W3 £449 NYT The second generation of Fuji's pioneering 3D technology 3x 35 105 13 N/A 124 66 28 250g
Canon SX30IS £449 NYT Offers the world’s longest fixed-lens zoom 35x 24 840 14 370 112 92.4 107 601g
Panasonic FZ100 £450 11/10 87% ✪ A highly impressive superzoom with plenty of DSLR-lite features 24x 25 600 17 410 124 81 95 540g
Panasonic LX5 £450 11/10 89% ✪ Full manual controls and excellent optical quality ensures superb images 3.8x 24 90 22 400 109 65.5 43 271g
Nikon P7000 £489 NYT Nikon's answer to the Canon G series has the tools to impress 7x 28 200 18 350 114 77 44 360g
Leica V-Lux 20 £495 NYT Leica’s equivalent to Panasonic’s TZ10 12x 25 300 28 300 103 62.0 33.0 218g
Sony DSC-HX1 £499 5/09 90% ✪ Good image quality and innovative features make the HX1 a great bridge camera 20x 28 560 8 390 114.5 82.8 91.8 453g
Ricoh GRD III £499 11/9 91% ✪ A superb camera for a number of reasons, even if it is a little expensive n/a 28 n/a 4 370 108.6 59.8 25.5 188g
Canon G12 £539 NYT All the manual controls a pro would need in a compact shell 5x 28 140 21 370 112 76.2 48.3 401g
Sigma DP1s £562 NYT Based on the previous DP1 model, with a handful of improvements thrown in n/a 28 n/a na N/A 109 60 31 270g
Canon G11 £569 12/9 92% ✪ Excellent image quality, and the vari-angle LCD is a bonus 5x 28 140 16 390 112.1 76.2 48.3 355g
Sigma DP2s £599 NYT Similar to the previous DP2, but with changes to the AF system and design n/a 41 n/a na 250 113 59.5 56.1 260g
Leica D-Lux 4 £630 4/10 87% ✪ Excellent image quality and Raw recording is useful - but at a Leica cost 2.5x 24 60 23 380 108.7 59.5 44 228g
Leica X1 £1395 7/10 80% While image quality is great, the X1 certainly doesn’t come cheap n/a 36 n/a 0 260 124 52 39.5 286g

118
BUYER’SGUIDE
LENSES
BUYING ADVICE
A DSLR or Micro System camera is
hugely affected by the lens
attached to the front, as the light
hitting the sensor impacts focus,
exposure and image quality. Be
sure to do some research here
before you purchase
LENS MOUNTS Each camera manufacturer has MAXIMUM APERTURE You pay a premium for floating element inside the lens and a
their own lens mount and most aren’t lenses with wider maximum apertures, but for gyroscope to cancel out our body movement.
compatible with one another. If you own a many users they’re worth it. Wider apertures It’s effective enough to give us two or three
Canon DSLR, for example, you can’t use Nikon mean you can use faster, motion-stopping extra stops of extra shutter speeds to play with
lenses, though you can use independent shutter speeds, and shoot handheld in before shake becomes visible. Some cameras
brands such as Sigma, Tamron and Tokina – if available light with less camera shake. Zooms (e.g. Sony, Pentax, Samsung and Olympus) use
you get them in the right mount. In the Micro whose maximum apertures are fixed a moving sensor instead, so IS/VR lenses aren’t
System ranges Panasonic and Olympus lenses throughout the range (instead of getting necessary.
are interchangeable, and as Sony took over smaller as you zoom) also cost more. BUILT-IN FOCUS MOTOR Some lenses
Minolta a few years ago any lenses from the 35MM COMPATIBILITY Most digital sensors incorporate a motor within the lens to drive
older 35mm system may well work. are smaller than 35mm, which is why lenses the autofocusing, while others are powered by
MAGNIFICATION FACTOR If you’re migrating designed for digital can be smaller than those motors within the camera. Lenses with their
from a 35mm SLR, your lenses won’t provide designed for 35mm. own motors will generally focus quicker than
the same field of view on a DSLR unless you ANTI-SHAKE It’s impossible to hold a camera those without. Some cameras, such as the
have a ‘full-frame’ model such as a Canon 5D dead steady without support, but at the faster Nikon D60, don’t have a built-in focus motor
Mark II. Otherwise, for Nikon, Pentax and Sony shutter speeds our shakiness isn’t noticeable in so you can only use lenses that have their own.
DSLRs, magnify the focal length by 1.5x to get pictures. As the shutter speed drops pictures Canon brands its lens motors USM (Ultrasonic
the 35mm equivalent (e.g. a 100mm lens become progressively less crisp until they’re Motor), Sigma calls its HSM (Hypersonic
becomes 150mm); for Canon it’s 1.6x; Sigma is blurry. Optical Image Stabilisation (used by Motor) and Nikon’s are called Sonic Wave.
1.7x; and the Four-Thirds mount, 2.0x. Canon) and Vibration Reduction (Nikon) uses a
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
CANON
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
NAME & FOCAL LENGTH RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Canon EF-S 10-22mm £990 09/09 89% ✪ A good performer, with solid MTF curves and minimal chromatic aberration f/3.5-4.5 USM 6 24 77 83.5 89.8 385g
Canon EF 14mm £1800 L-series construction and optics, with a rear drop-in filter holder and a fixed hood f/2.8 L USM 5 25 n/a 77 89 550g
Canon EF 14mm £2810 07/10 90% ✪ Updated version of above lens, with impressive resolution at f/8 but less so wide open f/2.8 L II USM 6 20 n/a 80 94 645g
Canon EF 15mm £880 Fisheye lens with rear drop-in filter holder and a fixed petal-type hood f/2.8 FE 5 20 n/a 73 62.2 330g
Canon EF-S 15-85mm £900 4-stop image stabilisation and Super Spectra coatings, together with a useful range f/3.5-5.6 IS USM 7 35 72 81.6 87.5 575g
Canon EF 16-35mm £1400 Three types of aspherical elements and highly resistant to dust and water droplets f/2.8 L USM 7 28 77 83.5 103 600g
Canon EF 16-35mm £1790 06/10 91% ✪ Mark II of above lens, and a good performer with strong results at f/8 in particular f/2.8 L II USM 7 28 82 88.5 111.6 635g
Canon TS-E 17mm £2920 Tilt and shift optic with independent tilt and shift rotation and redesigned coatings f/4 L 8 25 77 88.9 106.9 820g
Canon EF 17-40mm £940 11/08 88% ✪ Designed to match the needs of demanding professionals - and does so with ease f/4 L USM 7 28 77 83.5 96.8 500g
Canon EF-S 17-55mm £1210 3-stop image stabilisation and Super Spectra coating, as well as a circular aperture f/2.8 IS USM 7 35 77 83.5 110.6 645g
Canon EF-S 17-85mm £600 11/08 80% Doesn’t really live up to its promises. The zoom range is excellent but there are better alternatives f/4-5.6 IS USM 6 35 67 78.5 92 475g
Canon EF-S 18-55mm £n/a Standard kit lens without image stabilisation, with optimised lens coatings f/3.5-5.6 6 28 58 68.5 79.9 190g
Canon EF-S 18-55mm £220 11/08 85% ✪ Given the low price of this zoom its results are very impressive f/3.5-5.6 IS 6 25 58 68.5 70 200g
Canon EF-S 18-135mm £560 4-stop image stabilisation and automatic panning and tripod detection f/3.5-5.6 IS 6 45 67 75.4 101 455g
Canon EF-S 18-200mm £740 Automatic panning detection (for image stabilisation) and a useful 11x zoom range f/3.5-5.6 IS 6 45 72 78.6 102 595g
Canon EF 20mm £610 Wideangle lens with a floating rear focusing system and a USM motor f/2.8 USM 5 25 72 77.5 70.6 405g
Canon EF 20-35mm £370 06/05 89% ✪ As an analogue lens this is a remarkable performer f/3.5-4.5 USM 5 34 77 83.5 68.9 340g
Canon EF 24mm £2010 Subwavelength structure coating, together with UD and aspherical elements f/1.4 L II USM 8 25 77 93.5 86.9 650g
Canon EF 24mm £550 Small wideangle optic with a floating rear focusing system f/2.8 - 6 25 58 67.5 48.5 270g
Canon TS-E 24mm £2550 Tilt and shift optic with independent tilt and shift rotation and redesigned coatings f/3.5 II 8 21 82 88.5 106.9 780g
Canon EF 24-70mm £1540 07/09 92% ✪ A solid performer with an excellent reputation that only years in the field can secure f/2.8 L USM 8 38 77 83.2 123.5 950g
Canon EF 24-85mm £310 USM motor and an aspherical element to supress distortion f/3.5-4.5 6 50 67 73 69.5 380g
Canon EF 28mm £570 NYT USM motor and an aspherical element, together with a wide maximum aperture f/1.8 USM 7 25 58 73.6 55.6 310g
Canon EF 28mm £240 NYT Lightweight and inexpensive lens, with a single aspherical element f/2.8 - 5 30 52 67.4 42.5 185g
Canon EF 28-80mm £n/a Standard, no-frills zoom lens with a Micro Motor for focusing f/3.5-5.6 II 5 38 58 67 71 220g
Canon EF 28-80mm £n/a Standard zoom lens with flare-blocking diaphragm and Micro USM f/3.5-5.6 V USM 5 38 58 67 71 220g
Canon EF 28-90mm £140 Inexpensive zoom with an aspherical element and lead-free glass f/4-5.6 II 5 38 58 67 71 180g
Canon EF 28-105mm £340 Ring-type USM and full-time manual focusing, as well as a seven-blade diaphragm f/3.5-4.5 II USM 7 50 58 72 75 375g
For all the very latest lens reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com

119
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
CANON
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
Canon EF 28-105mm £190 Inner focusing system means front does not rotate and interfere with mounted filters f/4-5.6 USM 6 48 58 67 68 210g
Canon EF 28-105mm Inner focusing system (as above) and a single aspherical element f/4-5.6 6 48 58 67 68 210g
Canon EF 28-135mm £560 12/09 90% ✪ Excellent optical performance, with the benefit of image stabilisation f/3.5-5.6 IS USM 6 50 72 78.4 96.8 540g
Canon EF 28-200mm Highly resistant to dust and moisture and focusing up to 45cm over the zoom range f/3.5-5.6 6 45 72 78.4 89.6 495g
Canon EF 28-200mm £490 Compact zoom with Micro USM and focusing up to 45cm over the zoom range f/3.5-5.6 USM 6 45 72 78.4 89.6 500g
Canon EF 28-300mm £3290 L-series optic with expansive range, image stabilisation and a circular aperture f/3.5-5.6 L IS USM 8 70 77 92 184 1670g
Canon EF 35mm £320 09/08 83% Not an outstanding performer but consistent and workable at its maximum aperture f/2 - 5 25 52 67.4 42.5 210g
Canon EF 35mm £1720 NYT L-series construction and a wide maximum aperture, with a ring-type USM f/1.4 L USM 8 30 72 79 86 580g
Canon EF 35-80mm The third incarnation of this lightweight lens boasts an aspherical element f/4-5.6 III 5 40 52 65 63.5 175g
Canon EF 35-350mm 10x zoom range and rear focusing system with USM, in L-series putty-white casing f/3.5-5.6 L USM 8 60 72 85 167.4 1385g
Canon TS-E 45mm £1670 Wide-aperture tilt and shift optic with a rear focusing system f/2.8 8 40 72 81 90.1 645g
Canon EF 50mm £1910 NYT Very wide maximum aperture and Super Spectra coatings, and a circular aperture f/1.2 L USM 8 45 72 85.8 65.5 580g
Canon EF 50mm £450 02/10 96% ✪ Brilliant performer, with a highly consistent set of MTF curves. AF motor is a tad noisy though f/1.4 USM 8 45 58 73.8 50.5 290g
Canon EF 50mm £130 NYT Lightest EF lens in the range, with wide maximum aperture and a Micro Motor f/1.8 II 5 45 52 68.2 41 130g
Canon EF 50mm £350 Compact macro lens with floating system f/2.5 Macro 6 23 52 67.6 63 280g
Canon EF 55-200mm £330 11/07 79% A good and consistent performer that is let down by control over chromatic aberrations f/4.5-5.6 II USM 6 120 52 70.4 97.3 310g
Canon EF-S 55-250mm £330 Ideal budget addition to the 18-55mm kit lens, with image stabilisation and USM f/4-5.6 IS 7 110 58 70 108 390g
Canon EF-S 60mm £540 08/06 88% ✪ Great build and optical quality, with fast, accurate and near-silent focusing f/2.8 Macro USM 7 20 52 73 69.8 335g
Canon MP-E65 £1250 Macro lens designed to achieve a magnification greater than 1x without accessories f/2.8 1-5x Macro 6 24 58 81 98 710g
Canon EF 70-200mm £1540 Non-stabilised L-series optic, with rear focusing and four UD elements f/2.8 L USM 8 150 77 84.6 193.6 1310g
Canon EF 70-200mm £2800 10/10 96% ✪ A great lens but also a costly one. Peak resolution at 0.4 cycles-per-pixel is simply amazing f/2.8 L IS II USM 8 120 77 88.8 199 1490g
Canon EF 70-200mm £790 A cheaper L-series alternative to the f/2.8 versions available f/4 L USM 8 120 67 76 172 705g
Canon EF 70-300mm £1700 3-layer diffractive optical element and image stabilisation f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM 6 140 58 82.4 99.9 720g
Canon EF 75-300mm £300 Essentially the same lens as the 75-300mm f/4.0-5.6 III USM but with no USM f/4-5.6 III 7 150 58 71 122 480g
Canon EF 75-300mm £350 09/07 77% Good but not outstanding. The inclusion of a metal lens mount is positive, though f/4-5.6 III USM 7 150 58 71 122 480g
Canon EF 75-300mm £470 11/10 88% ✪ USM and image stabilisation as well as an eight-bladed diaphragm f/4-5.6 IS USM 8 150 58 78.5 138.2 650g
Canon EF 80-200mm Lightweight telephoto zoom for those on a budget f/4.5-5.6 II 5 150 52 69 78.5 250g
Canon EF 85mm £2640 08/06 88% ✪ A well-crafted lens, with fast and quiet AF with good vignetting and distortion control f/1.2 L II USM 8 95 72 91.5 84.0 1025g
Canon EF 85mm £470 NYT Non-rotating front ring thanks to rear focusing system, as well as USM f/1.8 USM 8 85 58 75 71.5 425g
Canon TS-E 90mm £1670 Said to be the world’s first 35mm-format telephoto lens with tilt and shift movements f/2.8 8 50 58 73.6 88 565g
Canon EF 90-300mm Lead-free glass and a redesigned diaphragm for a nearly circular aperutre. Also USM f/4.5-5.6 USM 7 150 58 71 114.7 420g
Canon EF 90-300mm £140 Similar to above lens but without USM technology f/4.5-5.6 7 150 58 71 114.7 420g
Canon EF 100mm £650 11/09 89% ✪ A solid performer, but weak at f/2.8 (which is potentially good for portraits) f/2.8 Macro USM 8 31 58 79 119 600g
Canon EF 100mm £1060 L-series macro lens with new Hybrid image stabilisation system and ring-type USM f/2.8 L Macro IS USM 9 30 67 77.7 123 625g
Canon EF 100mm £560 NYT Rear focusing system with USM motor. Focal length and aperture suited to portraiture f/2 USM 8 90 58 75 73.5 460g
Canon EF 100-300mm £440 Useful focal range, together with a rear-focusing system and USM f/4.5-5.6 USM 8 150 58 73 121.5 540g
Canon EF 100-400mm £1940 L-series construction and optics, including fluorite and Super UD elements f/4.5-5.6 L IS USM 5 180 77 92 189 1380g
Canon EF 135mm £1360 NYT L-series construction with two UD elements and wide maximum aperture f/2 L USM 8 90 72 82.5 112 750g
Canon EF 135mm £520 NYT Soft-focus feature with two degrees of softness f/2.8 SF 6 130 52 69.2 98.4 390g
Canon EF 180mm £1870 L-series macro lens with inner focusing system and USM technology f/3.5 L Macro USM 8 48 72 82.5 186.6 1090g
Canon EF 200mm £7350 NYT 5-stop Image Stabilisation with tripod detection and Super Spectra lens coatings f/2 L IS USM 8 190 52 128 208 2520g
Canon EF 200mm £960 NYT Two UD elements and a rear-focusing system in this L-series optic f/2.8 L II USM 8 150 72 83.2 136.2 765g
Canon EF 300mm £5630 NYT Image stabilisation, one fluorite lens and two UD lenses, all in a putty-white casing f/2.8 L IS USM 8 250 52 128 252 2550g
Canon EF 300mm £1740 NYT Two-stop image stabilisation with separate mode for panning moving subjects f/4 L IS USM 8 150 77 90 221 1190g
Canon EF 400mm £9810 NYT Super telephoto with ring-type USM, one flourite element and image stabilisation f/2.8 L IS USM 8 300 52 163 349 5370g
Canon EF 400mm £8000 NYT Multi-layer diffractive optical element to correct for chromatic abberation f/4 DO IS USM 8 350 52 128 232.7 1940g
Canon EF 400mm £1660 NYT Super UD and UD elements, as well as a detachable tripod mount and built-in hood f/5.6 L USM 8 350 77 90 256.5 1250g
Canon EF 500mm £8280 NYT Full-time manual focus, a single flourite element and dust and moisture protection f/4 L IS USM 8 450 52 146 387 3870g
Canon EF 600mm £10820 NYT Inner focusing system with USM and compatibility with EF 2x Extender f/4 L IS USM 8 550 52 168 456 5360g
Canon EF 800mm £15260 NYT 4-stop image stabilisation with tripod detection and dust and moisture sealing f/5.6 L IS USM 8 600 52 163 461 4500g
FIXED FOCAL LENGTH STANDARD ZOOM WIDEANGLE ZOOM

Fixed lenses offer some advantages Most DSLRs come with a Wideangle lenses make subjects
over zooms. They’re generally smaller standard zoom – that is, one seem further away, enabling you
and lighter, with wider maximum which spans from moderate to get more in the shot – perfect
apertures and superior image quality. wideangle to short telephoto. for landscapes and architecture.
An ultra-fast (eg f/1.8) 50mm lens These ‘kit’ lenses are fine for Among the most popular
is perfect for low light, 85-105mm most purposes, but there are wideangle zooms are the 10-
is ideal for portraits, while a fast alternatives that offer superior 20mm and 12-24mm ranges.
300mm (or longer) tele is a popular image quality and/or wider Superwide lenses cause more
addition to any wildlife or sports maximum apertures – at a price distortion but can also create a
shooter’s kit. premium, of course. sense of drama.
120 For all the very latest lens reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
BUYER’SGUIDE LENSES
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Image Stabilisation
Filter Thread (cm)

Min Focus (cm)
Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
NIKON
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
Nikkor 10.5mm £664 Digital-only fisheye lens with Nikon’s Close-Range Correction system and ED glass f/2.8 G ED DX Fisheye 14 n/a 63 62.5 300g
Nikkor 10-24mm £817 10/09 88% ✪ MTF performance is good from wide open to f/11, only breaking down past f/22 f/3.5-4.5 G ED AF-S 7 24 77 82.5 87 460g
Nikkor 12-24mm £1022 09/09 87% ✪ This venerable optic may be a little weak at f/4, but otherwise it’s a good performer f/4 G ED-IF AF-S DX 30 77 82.5 90 485g
Nikkor 14mm £1522 07/10 92% ✪ A really nice lens that handles well and offers excellent image quality f/2.8 D ED AF 20 n/a 87 86.5 670g
Nikkor 14-24mm £1635 02/08 93% ✪ A remarkable piece of kit, producing sharp images with little chromatic aberration f/2.8 G ED AF-S 9 28 n/a 98 131.5 970g
Nikkor 16mm £746 Full-frame fisheye lens with Close-Range Correction system and 25cm focus distance f/2.8 D AF Fisheye 25 n/a 63 57 290g
Nikkor 16-35mm £1050 06/10 96% ✪ A fantastic lens that deserves to be taken seriously, with very little CA throughout f/4 G ED AF-S VR 9 28 77 82.5 125 685g
Nikkor 16-85mm £562 Boasting Nikon’s second-generation VR II technology and Super Integrated Coating f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR AF-S DX 7 38 67 72 85 485g
Nikkor 17-35mm £1839 Aspherical and ED glass, together with a nine-bladed diaphragm f/2.8 D ED-IF AF-S 9 28 77 82.5 106 745g
Nikkor 17-55mm £1328 12/08 89% ✪ The lens drips with true professional build and image quality, but it’s expensive for a DX optic f/2.8 G ED-IF 36 77 85.5 110.5 755g
Nikkor 18-35mm £613 7-blade rounded diaphragm and internal focus, as well as ED and aspherical glass f/3.5-4.5 D ED 7 33 77 82.7 82.5 370g
Nikkor 18-55mm £153 12/08 84% A competitively-priced lens, with good MTF performance but significant chromatic aberrations f/3.5-5.6 G AF-S VR DX 28 52 73 79.5 265g
Nikkor 18-55mm £184 05/08 87% ✪ An improvement over the above version, with excellent resolution the benefit of VR f/3.5-5.6 G II AF-S DX 28 52 70.5 74 205g
Nikkor 18-70mm £219 12/08 90% ✪ An excellent multi-purpose zoom lens that is both affordable and versatile f/3.5-4.5 G ED-IF AF-S DX 38 67 73 75.5 420g
Nikkor 18-105mm £286 Kit lens for Nikon D90 with Silent Wave Motor and Vibration Reduction f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR AF-S DX 7 na 67 76 89 420g
Nikkor 18-200mm £746 4-stop VR II system, two ED and three aspherical elements in this superzoom lens f/3.5-5.6 GIF-EDAF-SVRDX 50 72 77 96.5 560g
Nikkor 20mm £572 Compact wideangle lens with Nikon’s Close-Range Correction system f/2.8 D AF 25 62 69 42.5 270g
Nikkor 24mm £419 Compact wide lens with Close-Range Correction system f/2.8 D-AF 30 52 64.5 46 270g
Nikkor 24mm £1950 08/10 93% ✪ Nothing short of stunning. Aside from its high price there is very little to dislike about this optic f/1.4 G ED AF-S 9 25 77 83 88.5 620g
Nikkor 24mm £1737 Perspective Control lens with Nano Crystal Coat and electronic control over aperture f/3.5 D ED PC-E 7 21 77 82.5 108 730g
Nikkor 24-70mm £1533 07/09 94% ✪ An excellent set of MTF curves that show outstanding consistency, easily justifying the price of this lens f/2.8 G ED AF-S 9 38 77 83 133 900g
Nikkor 24-85mm £644 9-bladed rounded diaphragm and both hybrid and moulded aspherical elements f/2.8-4 D IF AF 9 50 72 78.5 82.5 545g
Nikkor 24-120mm £674 12/09 86% ✪ A well-specified lens that fails to sparkle, and its higher-than-average price may put some off f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR 50 72 77 94 575g
Nikkor 28mm £276 Compact wideangle lens with a minimum focusing distance of 25cm f/2.8 D AF 25 52 65 44.5 205g
Nikkor 35mm £204 Designed for digital, with a wide maximum aperture and SWM f/1.8 AF-S DX G 7 30 52 70 52.5 200g
Nikkor 35mm £317 09/08 80% At wide-aperture settings this optic achieves respectable resolution, which decreases with aperture f/2 D AF 25 52 64.5 43.5 205g
Nikkor 45mm £1737 Perspective Control lens with ED glass and Nano Crystal Coating f/2.8 D ED PC-E 9 25 77 83.5 112 780g
Nikkor 50mm £286 02/10 94% ✪ Despite its previous-generation technology, this compact optic is a good performer at a great price f/1.4 D AF 45 52 64.5 42.5 230g
Nikkor 50mm £133 Simple construction makes for a lightweight and inexpensive standard lens f/1.8 D AF 45 52 63 39 160g
Nikkor 50mm £368 02/10 96% ✪ Internal focusing and superior AF drive makes this a good alternative to the D-series 50mm f/1.4 f/1.4 G AF-S 9 45 58 73.5 54 280g
Nikkor 55-200mm £235 Digital-only lens which features two ED elements and a Silent Wave Motor f/4-5.6 G ED AF-S DX 95 52 68 79 255g
Nikkor 55-200mm £307 Designed for DX-format cameras, with Vibration Reduction and SWM technology f/4-5.6 AF-S VR DX na 110 52 73 99.5 335g
Nikkor 60mm £490 Micro lens with 1:1 repro ratio, as well as a Silent Wave Motor and Super ED glass f/2.8 G ED AF-S Micro 9 18 62 73 89 425g
Nikkor 70-200mm £2043 10/10 98% ✪ Very little to fault here, with stunning imge quality and consistent results at different focal lengths f/2.8 G ED VR II AF-S 9 140 77 87 209 1540g
Nikkor 70-300mm £542 11/10 89% ✪ Feature-packed optic, with a VR II system, 9-bladed diaphragm, SWM and ED glass f/4.5-5.6 G AF-S VR 9 n/a 67 80 143.5 745g
Nikkor 80-400mm £1482 3-stop Vibration Reduction with panning detection and a nine-bladed diaphragm f/4.5-5.6 D ED VR AF 230 77 91 171 1340g
Nikkor 85mm £511 Micro lens with a 1:1 reproduction ratio, VR II system and ED glass f/3.5 AF-S G ED VR 9 28 52 73 98.5 355g
Nikkor 85mm £1717 Perspective Control lens with ED glass and Nano Crystal Coating f/2.8 D PC-E 9 39 77 82.7 107 650g
Nikkor 85mm £1124 Fast mild-tele lens with an internal focusing system and rounded diaphragm f/1.4 D AF 85 77 80 72.5 550g
Nikkor 85mm £378 Rear-focusing system and distance window in this medium telephoto lens f/1.8 D AF 85 62 71.5 58.5 380g
Nikkor 105mm £766 11/09 91% ✪ A very sharp lens, with swift and quiet focusing and consistent MFT results f/2.8 GAF-SVRIIMicro 9 31 62 83 116 720g
Nikkor 135mm £1206 Defocus-Image Control and a rounded diaphragm in this telephoto optic f/2 D AF DC 110 79 120 815g
Nikkor 180mm £766 Useful telephoto length and internal focusing technology, together with ED glass f/2.8 D ED-IF AF 150 72 78.5 144 760g
Nikkor 200mm £1400 1:1 reproduction range in this Micro lens, with a Close-Range Correction system f/4 D ED-IF AF Micro 50 62 76 104.5 1190g
Nikkor 200mm £3934 Super ED and ED glass, as well as Vibrtation Reduction and manual focus override f/2 G ED-IF AF-S VR 190 n/a 124 203 2900g
Nikkor 200-400mm £6028 Stabilised tele-zoom, with a useful focal range and SWM technology f/4 G ED-IF AF-S VR 200 52 124 358 3275g
Nikkor 300mm £5100 This lens promises fast and quiet AF, and is fitted with Nikon’s latest VR II system f/2.8 G ED VR II AF-S 9 230 52 124 267.5 2900g
Nikkor 300mm £1206 M/A mode for easy switching between manual and AF modes, as well as ED elements f/4 D ED-IF AF-S 145 n/a 90 222.5 1440g
Nikkor 300mm £5100 Nikon’s first lens to offer Nano-Crystal coating, this optic goes on to offer VR f/2.8 ED-IF AF-S VR 220 n/a 124 268 2850g
Nikkor 400mm £8378 With Nikon’s new VR II system and resistance to both dust and water f/2.8 G ED VR AF-S 9 290 52 159.5 368 4620g
Nikkor 500mm £7357 Nikon’s latest VR II system as well as Nano Crystal Coating and ED glass f/4 G ED VR AF-S 9 400 52 139.5 391 3880g
Nikkor 600mm £8889 Nikon’s latest VR II system offers 4 stops of image stabilisation in this optic f/4 G ED VR AF-S 9 500 52 166 445 5060g
TELEPHOTO ZOOM SUPERZOOMS MACRO LENSES

Telephotos make subjects Want a one-lens solution for your Many lenses misleadingly sport
seem closer. They’re great for photography? Get a superzoom. the ‘macro’ moniker, but a true
sport and wildlife, while short While they rarely compare with dedicated macro lens lets you get
teles are good for portraits. sponsor’s area
shorter-range lenses in image close enough to reproduce your
Telephotos magnify camera quality, a 18-200mm type lens subject at life-size (or half life-size)
shake, so consider one with offers the benefit of speed and on the sensor. Macro lenses come
Image Stabilisation if your convenience. Good for shooting at in a range of focal lengths, from
camera doesn’t already have moderate print sizes, don’t expect standard to telephoto, and can
it, or buy one with a wide to be making pin-sharp, aberration- even be used with extension tubes
maximum aperture. free prints at exhibition size. for greater magnification.
For all the very latest lens reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 121
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Micro Four Thirds
Number of Blades
OLYMPUS
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Nikon
Olympus 7-14mm £1900 06/08 92% ✪ An excellently constructed objective, with image quality to match f/4 ED 7 25 n/a 86.5 119.5 780g
Olympus 8mm £930 Diagonal fisheye lens, offering a 180 degree view and a splash-resistant construction f/3.5 ED Fisheye 7 13 n/a 79 77 485g
Olympus 9-18mm £630 09/09 87% ✪ Good results up to f/11, past which point resolution drops a little f/4-5.6 7 25 72 79.5 73 280g
Olympus 11-22mm £1000 This optic boasts a dust and splashproof construction and aspherical elements f/2.8-3.5 7 28 72 75 92.5 485g
Olympus 12-60mm £1130 11/08 90% ✪ While not quite as consistent as the 14-54mm, this optic is perhaps more versatile F/2.8-4 ED SWD 7 25 72 79.5 98.5 575g
Olympus 14-35mm £2400 Pro lens with Supersonic Wave Drive AF system and dust and splashproof casing f/2 ED SWD 9 35 77 86 123 915g
Olympus 14-42mm £179 11/08 85% ✪ A competent standard zoom and an excellent entry-level performer
Olympus 14-54mm £449 11/08 90% ✪ A great lens, with excellent resolution and only small amounts of barrel distortion f/2.8-3.5 7 22 67 73.5 87.5 435g
Olympus 14-54mm II £660 12/09 88% ✪ An affordable lens with great resolution - only CA control lets it down a touch f/2.8-3.5 II 7 22 67 74.5 88.5 440g
Olympus 17.5-45mm Close focusing distance of 28cm at any focal length with this lens f/3.5-5.6 7 28 52 71 70 210g
Olympus 18-180mm £560 06/10 87% ✪ A good performer everywhere except at 180mm, with a solid feel to it f/3.5-6.3 ED 7 45 62 78 84.5 435g
Olympus 25mm £270 09/08 86% ✪ Excellent image quality from such a tiny optic, but the lens cap is a little fiddly f/2.8 Pancake 7 20 43 64 23.5 95g
Olympus 35mm £270 Macro lens equivalent to 70mm on a full-frame camera f/3.5 Macro 7 14 52 71 53 163g
Olympus 35-100mm £2630 One Super ED and four ED elements inside this telephoto optic f/2 9 140 77 96.5 213.5 1650g
Olympus 40-150mm £300 ED and aspherical elements in this optic, together with an internal focusing system f/4-5.6 ED 7 90 58 65.5 72 220g
Olympus 50mm £600 08/06 86% ✪ A fast, high-quality lens, with excellent MTF curves and low chromatic aberration f/2 ED Macro 7 24 52 71 61.5 300g
Olympus 50-200mm £1300 Supersonic Wave Drive focusing system and an equivalent focal range of 100-400mm f/2.8-3.5 ED SWD 9 120 67 86.5 157 995g
Olympus 70-300mm £450 Three ED elements and multi-coatings feature in this popular tele-zoom optic f/4-5.6 ED 9 96 58 80 127 620g
Olympus 90-250mm £6200 Dust and splashproof lens with 3 ED elements and a 180-500mm equivalent range f/2.8 ED 9 250 105 124 276 3270g
Olympus 150mm £2650 Splashproof telephoto lens with a wide maximum aperture f/2 ED 9 140 82 100 150 1610g
Olympus 300mm £7800 Splashproof telephoto lens with three ED elements and an inner focusing system f/2.8 ED 9 240 43 129 281 3290g
Olympus 9-18mm (Micro) £630 This super wideangle lens offers an equivalent focal range of 18-36mm in 35mm terms f/4-5.6 ED 7 25 52 56.5 49.5 155g
Olympus 14-42mm (Micro) £300 05/12 88% ✪ Generally a good performer, but control over chromatic aberrations could be a little better f/3.5-5.6 ED 7 25 40.5 62 43.5 150g
Olympus 14-150mm (Micro) £630 A useful 28-300mm equivalent range, including ED and Dual Super Aspherical lenses f/4-5.6 - 7 50 58 63.5 83 280g
Olympus 17mm (Micro) £300 05/10 87% ✪ Results are impressive across the most-used apertures given the wide angle of view offered f/2.8 Pancake 5 20 37 57 22 71g
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Micro Four Thirds

Number of Blades
PANASONIC MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Nikon
Leica D Vario Elmarit 14-50mm £1400 With two large-diameter aspherical lenses and an aperture ring f/2.8-3.5 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 29 72 78.1 97.4 490g
Leica D Vario Elmar 14-50mm £900 Contrast AF support, MEGA O.I.S. and a circular aperture feature in this optic f/3.8-5.6 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 29 67 74 93 434g
Leica D Vario Elmar 14-150mm £1100 With an equivalent focal range of 28-300mm, and MEGA O.I.S. technology f/3.5-5.6 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 50 72 78.5 90.4 535g
Leica D Vario Summilux 25mm This 50mm-equivalent optic boasts ED elements and support for contrast AF f/1.4 ASPH 7 38 62 77.7 75 510g
Lumix G Vario 7-14mm (Micro) £1300 05/10 94% ✪ For a wideangle zoom, the overall level of resolution is very impressive f/4 ASPH 7 25 - 70 83.1 300g
Lumix G 8mm Fisheye (Micro) £730 The world’s lightest and smallest fisheye lens for an interchangeable lens camera f/3.5 - 7 10 22 60.7 51.7 165g
Lumix 14-42mm (Micro) £200 Continuous AF/AE function for both stills and movies, plus a circular diaphragm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 30 52 60.6 63.6 165g
Lumix 14-45mm (Micro) £280 05/10 93% ✪ For a low-cost kit lens, the 14-45mm delivers an impressive set of MTF curves f/3.5-5.6 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 30 52 60 60 195g
Lumix 14-140mm (Micro) £900 GH-1 kit lens, designed specifically for video recording with quiet autofocusing system f/4-5.8 ASPH MEGA OIS 7 50 62 70 84 460g
Lumix 20mm (Micro) £350 05/10 89% ✪ High resolution from wide open through to around f/16 - and so justifying its price f/1.7 ASPH 7 20 46 63 25.5 100g
Leica Macro Elmarit 45mm (Micro) £730 05/10 91% ✪ Although maximum and minimum aperture are a tad weak, mid-range scores impress f/2.8 DG ASPH MEGA OIS 7 15 46 63 62.5 225g
Lumix G Vario 45-200mm (Micro) £330 Superzoom lens with three ED elements and Mega O.I.S. technology f/4-5.6 MEGA OIS 7 100 52 70 100 380g
OLYMPUS 7-14MM PANASONIC LUMIX 14-45MM

£1900 £235
Although the focal length of the lens may sound extreme, don’t panic; it’s actually It’s very rare that a kit lens is good enough to warrant praise, let alone not be replaced
a 14-28mm after the magnification adjustment. In spite of this the lens produces almost as soon as the photographer advances beyond the beginner stage. Panasonic’s
some amazing results, and is especially rapid when attached to the E-3 body. The Lumix 14-45mm lens bucks the trend quite spectacularly, providing some excellent
fixed aperture is a huge help to this, and there’s no visible aberration, making it a results for the Micro Four Thirds range of Micro System cameras. Although the lens
must-have lens for a landscape or architecture photographer who’s able to afford extends significantly beyond the storage length it offers accurate focus at a rapid rate
EDITOR’S the rather hefty price tag. The only real downside is the lack of EDITOR’S and does so virtually silently, removing the need to purchase
CHOICE CHOICE 93%
ability to attach filters, which makes it prone to damage.
92% a replacement.
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
PENTAX
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
DA 10-17 mm £590 Fisheye zoom lens with Super Protection coating and Quick Shift manual focus f/3.5-4.5 smcEDIF 6 14 n/a 71.5 68 320g
DA 12-24 mm £1050 2 aspherical elements, ELD glass and a constant aperture of f/4 in this wide zoom f/4 smcEDALIF 8 30 77 83.5 87.5 430g
DA 14 mm £730 07/10 90% ✪ Best performance lies between f/5.6 and f/11, but good results can be had at f/4 too f/2.8 smcEDIF na 17 77 83.5 69 420g
DA 15mm £820 Limited edition lens with hybrid aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements f/4 smcEDALLimited 7 18 49 39.5 63 212g
DA 16-45 mm £300 01/09 82% Despite the fixed aperture, this lens is best between f/5.6 and f/11. Better results at longer focal lengths f/4 smcEDAL 6 28 67 72 92 365g
DA* 16-50mm £950 01/09 85% ✪ A nice balance and robust feel, but poor sharpness at f/2.8 (which significantly improves from f/4 onwards) f/2.8 smcEDALIFSDM 9 30 77 98.5 84 600g
DA 17-70mm £630 Featuring Pentax’s Supersonic Direct-drive (SDM) focusing system f/4 smcALIFSDM 7 28 67 75 93.5 485g
DA 18-55mm £220 01/09 86% ✪ Something of a bargain. Only the maximum apertures and awkward manual focusing really let it down f/3.5.5.6 smcIIEDALIF 6 25 52 68 67.5 220g
DA 18-55mm A weather resistant construction and an aspherical element, as well as SP coating f/3.5-5.6 smcALWR na 25 52 68.5 67.5 230g
DA 18-250mm 01/10 85% ✪ Peak sharpness at short and medium focal lengths is excellent, but longer focal lengths are weaker f/3.5-6.3 smcEDALIF na 45 62 75 85.5 455g
DA 21mm £600 This limited-edition optic offers a floating element for extra-close focusing f/3.2 smcALLimited 7 20 49 63 25 140g

122
Buyer’sguide LeNses
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Number of Blades
PENTAX
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
NAMe & FOcAl leNgTh RRP TesTed scORe sUMMARY
FA 31mm £1307 Aluminium body with a metallic silver finish. Equipped with a flower-shaped hood f/1.8 smc AL Limited na 30 58 68.5 65 345g
dA 35mm £640 09/08 90% ✪ Despite slight edge softness, this lens performs excellently and is a pleasure to use f/2.8 smc Macro 9 14 49 46.5 63 215g
dA 40mm £450 Pancake lens with SMC coating and Quick Shift focusing system f/2.8 smc Limited 9 40 49 63 15 90g
FA 43mm £653 With an SMC coating for ‘clear, high-contrast images’, as well as a wide aperture f/1.9 smc Limited na 45 49 27 64 155g
d-FA 50mm £550 Macro lens capable of 1:1 reproduction and with a Quick Shift focus mechanism f/2.8 smcMacro 8 19 49 60 67.5 265g
dA* 55mm £800 02/10 91% ✪ Even despite questions about the particular sample tested, this lens scores highly f/1.4 smcSDM 9 45 58 70.5 66 375g
dA* 50-135mm £1200 Weather-resistant and dust-resistant construction, and a constant f/2.8 aperture f/2.8 smcEDIFSDM 9 100 67 76.5 136 765g
dA 50-200mm £220 Quick Shift focus system and an ED element in this tele-zoom lens f/4-5.6 smc ED 6 110 52 66.5 78.5 255g
dA 50-200mm £210 Weather-resistant construction, Quick Shift focus system and an SP coating f/4-5.6 smcEDWR 6 n/a 49 69 79.5 285g
dA 55-300mm £370 The lens boasts a useful focal range, as well as a dirt-resistant SP coating f/4-5.8 smcED 6 140 58 75 111.5 440g
dA 60-250mm £1450 With a constant f/4 aperture and an ultrasonic motor for speedy focusing f/4 smcEDIFSDM 9 110 67 167.5 82 1040g
dA 70mm £600 Medium telephoto lens with an aluminimum construction and a Super Protect coating f/2.4 smc AL Limited 9 70 49 63 26 130g
FA 77mm £1050 With Pentax’s Fixed Rear Element Extension focusing system for ‘sharp, crisp images’ f/1.8 smc Limited na 70 49 48 64 270g
d-FA 100mm £700 Designed for both digital and film cameras, this macro lens boasts a 1:1 repro ratio f/2.8 Macro 8 30 49 67.5 80.5 345g
d-FA 100mm £680 Aluminium construction and weather resistant seals, as well as multi-layer coatings f/2.8 MacroWR na 30 49 65 80.5 340g
dA* 200mm £1000 SDM focusing system on the inside, and dirtproof and splashproof on the outside f/2.8 smcEDIFSDM 9 120 77 83 134 825g
dA* 300mm £1300 This tele optic promises ultrasonic focus and high image quality thanks to ED glass f/4 smcEDIFSDM 9 140 77 83 184 1070g
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Samsung/Pentax
Number of Blades
SAMSUNG
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Samsung NX
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Canon
Nikon
10-17mm £260 NYT Wide zoom lens with fixed petal-shaped hood f/3.5-4.5 D-XENON 6 14 n/a 68 71.5 320g
12-24mm £435 09/09 90% ✪ An impressive performance from this well-specified and competitively-priced optic f/4 D-XENON ED 8 30 77 84 87.5 430g
16-45mm £280 NYT Wide zoom with Quick Shift focus system and two aspherical elements f/4 D-XENON 8 28 67 72 92 365g
18-55mm £170 NYT Standard kit lens with a minimum focusing distance of 25cm f/3.5-5.6 D-XENON 6 25 52 68.5 67.5 225g
35mm £300 NYT Samsung’s only prime lens for the GX series, with distance window and wide aperture f/2 D-XENON 6 30 30 64 44.5 195g
50-200mm £170 NYT With an ED glass element to minimise chromatic aberration f/4-5.6 D-XENON ED 6 110 52 66.5 78.5 255g
18-55mm (NX) £150 09/10 90% ✪ Not an outstanding set of MTF curves but accpetable nevertheless. Weaker at 18mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS 28 58 63 65 198g
18-55mm (NX) tbc NYT Standard zoom lenses f/3.5-5.6
18-200mm (NX) tbc NYT Superzoom lens f/3.5-6.3 OIS
20mm (NX) tbc NYT Wideangle pancake lens f/2.8
20-50mm (NX) tbc NYT Compact zoom lens f/3.5-5.6
30mm (NX) £230 09/10 87% ✪ This pancake optic exhibits very impressive peak sharpness at around f/4-5.6 f/2 25 43 61 21 85g
50-200mm (NX) £180 09/10 88% ✪ Performance at the 50mm end is good, though this drops off at the tele end f/4-5.6 OIS 98 52 70 100 417g
60mm (NX) tbc NYT Macro optic f/2.8
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Number of Blades
SIGMA
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
sigma 4.5mm £715 Circular fisheye lens designed for digital, with SLD glass and a gelatin filter holder f/2.8 EX DC 6 13 n/a 76 77.8 470g
sigma 8mm £766 The world’s only 8mm lens equipped with autofocus also boasts SLD glass f/3.5 EX DG 6 13 n/a 73.5 68.6 400g
sigma 8-16mm £800 10/10 89% ✪ Excellent performance at 8mm which sadly drops at the 16mm end f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM 7 24 72 75 105.7 555g
sigma 10mm £613 A Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) and built-in hood in this diagonal fisheye lens f/2.8 EX DC 7 13 n/a 75.8 83 475g
sigma 10-20mm £664 03/10 95% ✪ An absolute gem of a lens that deserves a place on every photographer’s wish list f/3.5 EX DC HSM 7 24 82 87.3 88.2 520g
sigma 10-20mm £561 08/09 92% ✪ A fine all-rounder, thanks to MTF curves which stay above 0.25 cycles-per-pixel down to f/16 f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM 6 24 77 83.5 81 470g
sigma 12-24mm £868 08/09 88% ✪ A tightly matched set of MTF curves, but APS-C users are advised to look at the 10-20mm instead f/4.5-5.6 EX DG HSM 6 28 n/a 87 102.5 600g
sigma 15mm £613 07/10 88% ✪ This fisheye optic puts in a very solid performance - not to be dismissed as a gimmick! f/2.8 EX DG 7 15 n/a 73.5 65 370g
sigma 17-50mm £650 FLD and aspherical elements, a constant f/2.8 aperture and Optical Stabilisation f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM 7 28 77 83.5 92 565g
sigma 17-70mm £338 02/09 88% ✪ Not a fantastic performance and poor technical results, but picture quality is good nevertheless f/2.8-4.5 DC Macro 7 20 72 79 82.5 455g
sigma 17-70mm £408 04/10 91% ✪ It’s hard to believe this lens is for real: stunning resolution and optical stabilisation for a bargain price f/2.8-4 DCMacroOSHSM 7 22 72 79 88.9 520g
sigma 18-50mm £306 Designed for cropped-sensor DSLRs, with ELD and SLD glass and an Optical Stabiliser f/2.8-4.5 DC OS HSM 7 30 67 74 88.6 395g
sigma 18-125mm £326 12/09 84% Overall a useful lens that justifies its weaknesses by being at least £100 cheaper than its peers f/3.8-5.6 DC OS HSM 7 35 67 74 88.5 490g
sigma 18-200mm £338 03/08 83% Good CA control at 200mm but otherwise an average performer f/3.5-6.3 DC 7 45 62 70 78.1 405g
sigma 18-200mm £449 03/08 89% ✪ Excellent resolution and consistent performance, but control over CA could be a little better f/3.5-6.3 DC OS 7 45 45 79 100 610g
sigma 18-250mm £572 01/10 91% ✪ A very capable set of MTF curves that only shows minor weakness at wide apertures f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM 7 45 72 79 101 630g
sigma 20mm £613 This wideangle optic is equipped with two aspherical elements and a rear focus ring f/1.8 EX DG 9 20 82 88.6 89.5 520g
sigma 24mm £510 Aspherical glass and a dual focus system, together with a wide maximum aperture f/1.8 EX DG 9 18 77 83.6 82.5 485g
sigma 24-70mm £541 Dual Focus system with a large focusing ring and three aspherical elements f/2.8 EX DG Macro 9 40 82 89 115.5 715g
sigma 24-70mm £919 08/09 94% ✪ Not perfect, but an excellent alternative to Canon and Nikon’s 24-70mm lenses, with great MTF curves f/2.8 EX DG IF HSM 9 38 82 88.6 94.7 790g
sigma 28mm £408 A dual focus system and aspherical elements, for both full-frame and APS-C cameras f/1.8 EX DG 9 20 77 83.6 82.5 500g
sigma 30mm £490 09/08 83% A consistent performer, with slightly weaker but not unacceptable performance wide-open f/1.4 EX DC HSM 8 40 62 76.6 59 430g
sigma 50mm £459 02/10 97% ✪ This lens may be priced above the norm, but it delivers results which are similarly elevated f/1.4 EX DG HSM 9 45 77 84.5 68.2 505g

123
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Number of Blades
SIGMA
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
Sigma 50mm £326 Floating focusing system and coatings for better colour and to minimise aberrations f/2.8 EX DG Macro 7 19 55 71.4 66.5 320g
Sigma 50-150mm £715 Inner focus and inner zoom systems, along with SLD glass and Multi-Layer coatings f/2.8 EX DC HSM II 9 100 67 76.3 135 770g
Sigma 50-200mm £306 With a useful tele range, this lens combines an Optical Stabiliser with HSM technology f/4-5.6 DC OS HSM 8 110 55 74.4 202 420g
Sigma 50-500mm £1399 A 10x zoom range, SLD elements and compatibility with 1.4x and 2x teleconverters f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM 9 50-180 95 104.4 219 1970g
Sigma 70mm £510 SLD elements and a focus limiter switch in this macro optic f/2.8 EX DG Macro 9 25 62 76 95 527g
Sigma 70-200mm £817 10/09 92% ✪ A particularly attractive alternative to Canon and Nikon’s 70-200mm lenses, particularly at this price f/2.8 EXDGMacroHSMI 9 100 77 86.6 184 1345g
Sigma 70-200mm £1500 Two FLD glass elements, said to have the same dispersive properties as fluorite f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM 9 140 77 86.4 197 1430g
Sigma 70-300mm £235 A 9-bladed diaphragm and two SLD elements in this tele-zoom lens f/4-5.6 APO DG Macro 9 95 58 76.6 122 550g
Sigma 70-300mm £408 11/10 85% ✪ Four-stop Optical Stabiliser and Super Multi-Layer coating, and a single SLD element f/4-5.6 DG OS 9 150 62 76.5 126 610g
Sigma 70-300mm £173 05/09 83% Generally unremarkable MTF curves, and particularly poor at 300mm f/4-5.6 DG Macro 9 95 58 76.6 122 545g
Sigma 100-300mm £1021 Inner focus and inner zoom together with a constant f/4 maximum aperture f/4 EX DG 9 180 82 92.4 227 1440g
Sigma 105mm £510 11/09 82% Impressive peak resolution makes this macro lens one to consider f/2.8 EX DG Macro 8 31 58 74 97.5 460g
Sigma 120-300mm £2247 A minimum focus distance of 150cm throughout the zoom range f/2.8 EX DG HSM 9 150-250 105 113 271 2660g
Sigma 120-400mm £766 Reaf focusing system and a four-stop Optical Stabiliser in this tele zoom f/4.5-5.6 DG OS HSM 9 150 77 92 203 1640g
Sigma 150mm £715 Telephoto macro lens with SLD glass, HSM and Super Multi Layer coating f/2.8 EXDGMacroHSM 9 38 72 79.6 137 895g
Sigma 150-500mm £916 06/09 83% Significant softness at wide maximum apertures for all focal lengths f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM 9 220 86 94.7 252 1780g
Sigma 180mm £613 Full-time manual focus with HSM and an inner focusing system in this tele lens f/3.5 EXDGMacroHSM 9 46 72 80 182 965g
Sigma 200-500mm £24521 A beast of a lens, with a built-in LCD panel to display focal length and distance info f/2.8 EX DG 9 200-500 72 236.5 726 15700g
Sigma 300mm £2758 Extra Low Dispersion (ELD) glass, multi-layer coatings and a Hyper Sonic Motor f/2.8 APO EX DG 9 250 46 119 214.5 2400g
Sigma 300-800mm £7152 A constant aperture of f/5.6 throughout the expansive 300-800mm zoom range f/5.6 EX DG HSM 9 600 46 156.5 544 5880g
Sigma 500mm £4802 Telephoto lens with multi-layer coatings to ‘optimise the characteristics of DSLRs’ f/4.5 APO EX DG 9 400 46 123 350 3150g
Sigma 800mm £5108 HSM and compatibility with Sigma’s 1.4x EX APO and 2x EX APO teleconverters f/5.6 APO EX DG 9 700 46 156.5 521 4900g
SIGMA 70-200MM SONY 50MM ZEISS 16-35MM

£817 £359 £1699
Very few third-party lenses overtake the own-brand Although it may not have half the alphabet- For those with a few years in photography behind them,
equivalents, but the Sigma 70-200mm offers plenty soup of acronyms after the name, Sony’s Zeiss is a name of real quality. Although the prices may
beyond the price to make it an attractive prospect for 50mm lens is anything but below par. The be extremely high, the optical quality is almost always
Nikon and Canon owners. Having a fixed f/2.8 aperture optical quality is good enough to make the worth the extra expense. The 16-35mm is a superb
throughout the range makes it quick, and able to 50mm worthy of using in a number of situa- example of that, offering some stunning image quality
operate on lower shutter speeds while keeping a tions, and is lightwieght enough to sit in the throughout the focal range. Unsurprisingly the lens is
decent level of sharpness. As a result of the high-end camera bag without becoming a nuisance, designed for the full-frame Sony cameras to maximise
optics there’s plenty of weight behind the lens, making although the compact size does make the the impressive results it produces, giving those with
it a touch difficult to hold for long periods. Otherwise manual focus tricky to use. With Sony more an Alpha 900 or 850 something to aspire to. The build
it’s a superb mid-range zoom lens for anyone looking limited for choice of lenses than the likes of Canon and Nikon, having the option of quality also shows what can be achieved in a top-class
to do more sports and wildlife photography before a quick, fixed-focal-length lens with the impressive abilities of the Sony will make lens by feeling extremely robust, as well as having the
advancing to a longer, fixed DSLR owners from that brand far happier, especially as it EDITOR’S ability to operate in manual
telephoto lens. 92% manages to be comparatively cheap. 84% CHOICE focus mode at all times. 84%
MOUNT DIMENSIONS
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Number of Blades
SONY
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Sony NEX
Weight
Pentax
Sigma
Nikon
Sony 11-18mm £599 09/09 84% A solid overall performance that simply fails to be outstanding in any way f4.5-5.6 DT 7 25 77 83 80.5 360g
Sony 16mm £699 Fisheye lens with a close focusing distance of 20cm and a 180 degree angle of view f/2.8 Fisheye 7 20 n/a 75 66.5 400g
Sony 16-105mm £549 03/09 83% An ambitious lens that is good in parts. Quality drops off at 105mm f/3.5-5.6 DT 7 40 62 72 83 470g
Sony 18-55mm £159 Designed for cropped-sensor DSLRs, with a SAM focusing and a circular aperture f/3.5-5.6 DT SAM 7 25 55 69.5 69 210g
Sony 18-200mm £499 04/08 82% While the focal range is certainly useful, the lens is an overall average performer f/3.5-6.3 DT 7 45 62 73 85.5 405g
Sony 18-250mm £549 01/10 85% ✪ Good overall, but performance dips at longer focal lengths f/3.5-6.3 DT 7 45 62 75 86 440g
Sony 20mm £549 Wideangle prime lens with rear focusing mechanism and focus range limiter f/2.8 - 7 25 72 78 53.5 285g
Sony 28mm £219 General-purpose wideangle lens with built-in lens hood and wide aperture f/2.8 - 7 30 49 65.5 42.5 185g
Sony 28-75mm £699 A constant f/2.8 aperture and a Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) in this standard zoom f/2.8 SAM 7 38 67 77.5 94 565g
Sony 30mm £179 Macro lens designed for digital with 1:1 magnification and Smooth Autofocus Motor f/2.8 DT SAM Macro 7 12 49 70 45 150g
Sony 35mm £1349 With an equivalent focal length of 52.5mm, a wide aperture and aspherical glass f/1.4 G 9 30 55 69 76 510g
Sony 50mm £519 Macro lens with 20cm minimum focusing distance and a circular aperture f/2.8 Macro 7 20 55 71.5 60 295g
Sony 50mm £159 03/10 91% ✪ A very useful lens that performs well and carries a rock-bottom price tag f/1.8 DT SAM 7 34 49 70 45 170g
Sony 50mm £359 02/10 93% ✪ While this lens performs well overall, performance at f/1.4 could be better f/1.4 - 7 45 55 65.5 43 220g
Sony 55-200mm £219 Designed for cropped-sensor DSLRs, with a Smooth Autufocus Motor f/4-5.6 DT SAM 9 95 55 71.5 85 305g
Sony 70-200mm £1849 Super Sonic Wave motor and a constant f/2.8 aperture in this pro-grade tele zoom f/2.8 G 9 120 77 87 196.5 1340g
Sony 70-300mm £849 G-series lens with ED elements, Super Sonic wave Motor and a circular aperture f/4.5-5.5 G SSM 9 120 62 82.5 135.5 760g
Sony 70-400mm £1599 G-series lens with ED elements, Super Sonic wave Motor and a circular aperture f/4-5.6 G SSM 9 150 77 94.5 196 1490g
Sony 75-300mm £219 Compact and lightweight zoom with a circular aperture f/4.5-5.6 - 7 150 55 71 122 460g
Sony 100mm £649 Macro lens with circular aperture, double floating element and wide aperture f/2.8 Macro 9 35 55 75 98.5 505g
Sony 135mm £1099 Smooth Trans Focus lens with special optical elements for a smoother defocus effect f/2.8 STF 9 87 72 80 99 730g
Sony 300mm £5499 Super Sonic Wave motor, two Direct Manual Focus modes and a wide aperture f/2.8 G 9 200 42 122 242.5 2310g
Sony 500mm £659 Mirror lens with focus hold button (aperture cannot be changed) f/8 Reflex na 400 55 89 118 665g
Sony 16mm (NEX) £220 Pancake lens for NEX system, with a circular aperture and Direct Manual Focus f/2.8 - 7 24 49 62 22.5 67g
Sony 18-55mm (NEX) £270 Optical SteadyShot, said to be silent during movie capture, and a circular aperture f/3.5-5.6 - 7 25 49 62 60 194g
Sony 18-200mm (NEX) £699 Superzoom optic with an 11x range, SteadyShot and a 7-blade circular aperture f/3.5-6.3 - 7 30-50 67 75.5 99 524g
124 For all the very latest lens reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
Buyer’sguide LeNses
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Image Stabilisation
Min Focus (cm)

Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
TAMRON
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
NAMe & fOcAl leNgTh RRP TesTed scORe sUMMARY
Tamron 10-24mm £511 02/10 86% ✪ Good consistency at 10mm and 18mm, but a steep decline at 24mm f/3.5-4.5 SP AF Di II LD Aspherical IF 7 24 77 83.2 86.5 406g
Tamron 17-50mm £450 02/09 90% ✪ Very good optical performance, which peaks at f/5.6-8 f/2.8 SP AF XR Di II LD Aspherical IF 7 27 67 74 81.7 434g
Tamron 17-50mm £541 04/10 91% ✪ Very strong performance at longer focal lengths but weaker at the other end f/2.8 SP AF XR Di II VC LD Aspherical IF 7 29 72 79.6 94.5 570g
Tamron 18-200mm £306 03/08 84% Excellent CA control in the centre, but unremarkeable wideangle performance f/3.5-6.3 AF XR Di II LD Aspherical IF Macro 7 45 62 73 83.7 423g
Tamron 18-250mm £511 01/10 82% A compact size for such a lens, but performance at longer focal lengths is a tad weak f/3.5-6.3 AF Di II LD Aspherical IF Macro 7 45 62 74.4 84.3 430g
Tamron 18-270mm £613 01/10 90% ✪ Much better results at shorter focal lengths than longer ones, but still impressive f/3.5-6.3 AF Di II VC LD Aspherical IF Macro 7 49 72 79.6 101 550g
Tamron 28-75mm £460 Standard zoom with constant f/2.8 aperture and minimum focusing distance of 33cm f/2.8 SP AF XR Di LD Aspherical IF Macro 7 33 67 73 92 510g
Tamron 28-200mm £327 Full-frame and cropped-sensor compatibility with this multiple-layer coated lens f/3.8-5.6 AF XR Di Aspherical IF Macro 7 49 62 71 75.2 354g
Tamron 28-300mm £664 A useful 10.7x zoom range and low-dispersion elements in this optic f/3.5-6.3 AF XR Di LD Aspherical IF Macro 9 49 62 73 83.7 420g
Tamron 28-300mm £409 Vibration Compensation and Extra Refractive glass for the benefits of image quality f/3.5-6.3 AF XR Di VC LD Aspherical IF Macro 9 49 67 78 99 550g
Tamron 55-200mm £153 05/09 85% ✪ Very good performance at short and medium focal lengths, but less so at longer ones f/4-5.6 AF Di II LD Macro 9 95 52 71.6 83 300g
Tamron 60mm £552 Macro lens designed for APS-C sensor cameras, with 1:1 reproduction ratio f/2 SP AF Di II LD IF Macro 7 23 55 73 80 400g
Tamron 70-200mm £817 10/09 89% ✪ No image stabilisation and no advanced AF system, but at this price it’s a steal f/2.8 SP AF Di LD IF Macro 9 95 77 89.5 194.3 1150g
Tamron 70-300mm £300 Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) technology for focusing and Vibration Compensation f/4-5.6 SP VC USD 9 150 62 81.5 142.7 765g
Tamron 70-300mm £170 11/10 85% ✪ Low dispersion glass and compatible with both full-frame and cropped-sensor DSLRs f/4-5.6 AF Di LD Macro 9 95 62 76.6 116.5 435g
Tamron 90mm £470 11/09 88% ✪ A very nice macro lens that is capable of producing some fine images f/2.8 SP AF Di Macro 9 29 55 71.5 97 405g
Tamron 180mm £896 Two Low Dispersion elements and internal focusing system in this 1:1 macro lens f/3.5 SP AF Di LD IF Macro 9 47 72 84.8 165.7 920g
Tamron 200-500mm £1124 06/09 90% ✪ A well-matched and consistent set of MTF curves, with good performance at f/8-11 f/5-6.3 SP AF Di LD IF 9 250 86 93.5 227 1237g
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
TOKINA
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
AT-X 107 (10-17mm) £550 Fisheye zoom lens with Water Repellent coating and Super Low Dispersion glass f/3.5-4.5 AF DX Fisheye 6 14 n/a 70 71.1 350g
AT-X 116 (11-16mm) £515 Wide zoom with a One-Touch Focus clutch mechanism and a constant f/2.8 aperture f/2.8 PRO DX 9 30 77 n/a 89.2 560g
AT-X 124 (12-24mm) £450 08/09 88% ✪ While f/4 performance at 12mm is poor, otherwise this is a very consistent lens f/4 AF PRO DX II 9 30 77 84 89.5 540g
AT-X 165 (16-50mm) £490 With a Water Repellent (WR) caoting on the front element and SLD glass f/2.8 PRO DX 9 30 77 84 97.4 610g
AT-X 16.5-135 (16.5-135MM) £610 Three aspherical and two SD elements, together with a useful focal range f/3.5-5.6 DX 9 50 77 84 78 610g
AT-X M35 (35mm) £300 Minimum focusing distance of 14cm in this 1:1 macro lens f/2.8 PRO DX Macro 9 14 52 73.2 60.4 340g
AT-X 535 (50-135mm) £615 A constant aperture of f/2.8 and a built-in tripod collar on this zoom lens f/2.8 PRO DX 9 100 67 78.2 135.2 845g
AT-X 840 (80-400MM) £570 Zoom lock switch, built-in tripod collar and multi-coatings on the elements f/4.5-5.6 AF-D 8 250 72 79 136.5 1020g
AT-X M100 (100mm) £360 11/09 88% ✪ Some weaknesses wide-open, but reasonable MTF curves make this a decent optic f/2.8 AF PRO D Macro 9 30 55 73 95.1 540g
MOUNT diMeNsiONs
Filter Thread (mm)

Min Focus (mm)
Image Stabilisation
Number of Blades
MaX Aperture
Length (mm)
ZEISS
Designation
Width (mm)
Digital Only
Four Thirds
Sony Alpha
Weight
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
16-35mm £1699 09/09 91% ✪ While the price is high, so is the quality of both the lens and the results is produces f/2.8 ZA SSM T* 9 28 77 83 114 900g
16-80mm £699 04/09 90% ✪ Great technical performance and a robust feel – overall a cracking lens f/3.5-4.5 DT ZA T* 7 35 62 72 83 445g
18mm £1150 08/10 94% ✪ No AF, but the optical and build qualities of this lens are nothing short of stunning f/3.5 ZF.2 9 30 82 84 87 470g
24mm £1100 New Distagon T* lens with Super Sonic Wave motor and 2 ED elements f/2 ZA SSM T* 9 19 72 78 76 555g
24-70mm £1649 07/09 92% ✪ Overall a very impressive performer, but expensive when compared with its peers f/2.8 ZA SSM T* 9 34 77 83 111 955g
85mm £1349 Wide aperture lens with a wide focus ring and focus-hold mechanism f/1.4 ZA T* 9 85 72 81.5 72.5 560g
135mm £1399 Two ED elements and an internal focusing mechanism. Ideal for portraits f/1.8 ZA T* 9 72 77 88.5 115 1050g
LENS SuffIx GuIdE dX

ed
Nikon’s designation for digital lenses
Nikon lenses featuring Extra Low
N
Os
PrO
Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coating
Sigma’s Optically Stabilised lenses
Tokina’s Professional range of lenses
used by manufacturers Dispersion elements and Olympus and
Leica (Panasonic) lenses with low rF Sigma and Nikon lenses with Rear Focusing
Ad Tamron Anomalous Dispersion elements dispersion elements sd Tokina’s Super Low Dispersion element
AF-dC Nikon defocus feature eF Canon’s designation for full-frame lenses sdM Pentax’s Sonic Direct Drive Motor
AF-s Nikon lenses with Silent Wave Motor eF-s Canon lenses designed for APS-C sized sensors sF Canon lenses with Softfocus feature
APO Sigma Apochromatic lenses eX Sigma’s ‘Excellent’ range sHM Tamron’s Super Hybrid Mount
AsL Tamron lenses featuring aspherical elements FC Tokina’s Focus Clutch Mechanism siC Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating
AsP Sigma lenses featuring aspherical elements Fe Canon’s fisheye lenses sLd Sigma lenses with Super Low Dispersion
AT-X Tokina’s Advanced Technology Extra Pro range of lenses Fe Tokina lenses featuring a floating element elements
CONV Sigma lenses compatible with teleconvertors g Nikon lenses without a manual aperture ring sP Tamron’s Super Performance range
CrC Nikon’s Close Range Correction system HF Sigma’s designation for Helical Focusing ssM Sony/Minolta Supersonic Motor lenses
d Nikon lenses that communicate distance information Hid Tamron’s High Index Dispersion glass sWd Olympus lenses with Supersonic Wave Drive
dA Pentax lenses optimised for APS-C sized sensors HLd Tokina’s High refractive/low dispersion glass sWM Nikon lenses with a Silent Wave Motor
dC Sigma’s designation for digital lenses HsM Sigma’s lenses with a Hypersonic Motor Ts-e Canon lenses with Tilt and Shift function
dF Sigma lenses with dual focus facility iF Sigma/Tamron/Nikon/Tokina Internal Focusing ud Canon lenses with Ultra Low Dispersion glass
dg Sigma’s designation for digital and full-frame lenses irF Tokina’s Internal Rear Focusing lenses usM Canon lenses with an Ultrasonic Motor
di Tamron lenses designed for full-frame sensors is Canon’s Image Stabilised lenses VC Tamron’s Vibration Compensation feature
di-ii Tamron lenses designed for APS-C sized sensors L Canon’s ‘Luxury’ range of lenses Vr Nikon’s Vibration Reduction feature
dO Canon lenses with a diffractive optical element Ld Tamron lenses featuring Low Dispersion glass Xr Tamron lenses with Extra Refractive Index glass
dT Sony lenses optimised for APS-C sized sensors M-Ois Panasonic’s ‘Mega Optical Image Stabilisation’ ZL Tamron’s Zoom Lock feature
For all the very latest lens reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 125
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
FLASH
CHOOSING A FLASH manual control is still useful to have for unusual
Many DSLRs have built-in situations or creative purposes.
flash units, which are Another advantage of a separate flash unit is
adequate for general snaps, that it will offer faster recycling times than on-
GUNS
but have limitations. If you camera units, which is useful if you’re taking many
want to get creative with photographs quickly. There’s also battery power to
flash, or just fire out more consider; flash draws a lot of power, and this can
power with better light, a seriously reduce the life of your camera battery,
separate unit is essential. but a flashgun has its own batteries – usually a set
BUYING ADVICE Like lenses, though, you
need to find a flash that’s
of AAs. Finally, the danger of redeye is reduced
because the light is further from the lens axis.
If you’re taking pictures in compatible with your camera – a Canon flash WHAT TO LOOK FOR When buying a flashgun, it’s
low light, or just adding some won’t work with a Nikon camera, for example. worth bearing in mind that you generally get
fill-in, a dedicated flashgun There are also independent manufacturers who what you pay for. Cheaper flashguns are a mainly
will expand your range and make versatile and powerful units in a variety of automated affair, with a few preset settings that
allow you to balance even the fits, while you may want something more match with the aperture that you are using. These
strongest backlighting specialised such as a hammerhead or ring flash. are fine for the beginner or occasional user. More
Modern units offer tremendous automation and expensive models benefit from better build quality,
much of the mathematics that used to be required greater coverage and manual control.
when using flash is now redundant. However,
COMPATIBILITY DIMENSIONS
Lens Coverage (mm)

Guide Number
HOTSHOE MOUNT
Samsung GX
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
Panasonic
Olympus
Minolta
Pentax
Weight
Canon
Sigma
Swivel
Nikon
Sony
Tilt
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Canon High Power HF-DC1 £98 NYT Bracket-mounted high power flash unit for use with Canon PowerShot cameras 18 46 66 29.7 65g
Canon Speedlite 270EX £150 08/09 87% ✪ Compact flash unit with zooming head and bounce 27 28 64 65 72 1 45g
Canon Speedlite 430EXII £300 NYT Updated mid-range model with full manual control 43 14 72 122 101 330g
Canon Speedlite 530EXII £560 NYT The flagship model with dustproof and water-resistant performance 58 24 102 255 100 680g
Jessops 360AFD £100 12/05 86% ✪ Dedicated digital flashgun with digital LCD panel and swivel control 36 35 72 100 105 270g
Metz mecablitz 20 C2 £45 NYT Simple, universal hotshoe-mounted flash unit 20 35 65 98 54 120g
Metz mecablitz 28 CS-2dig £146 NYT Bracket-mounted universal slave-flash unit 28 24 58 85 32.5 100g
Metz mecablitz 36 C-2 £78 NYT A compact non-dedicated flashgun, ideal for a bridge camera 36 28 73 110 87 205g
Metz mecablitz 54 MZ-4i £432 12/05 92% ✪ Fully featured universal flashgun, compatible with TTL systems and slave 54 35 75 125 108 480g
Metz mecablitz 36 AF-4 £87 NYT Entry-level alternative to manufacturers’ own dedicated flashguns 36 35 71 115 95 205g
Metz mecablitz 48 AF-1 £215 NYT Mid-range dedicated flashgun available in a range of fittings 48 18 71 137 99 340g
Metz mecablitz 58 AF-1 £347 NYT High-performance dedicated flashgun, can be updated by USB 58 24 71 148 99 355g
Nikon SB-400 Speedlight £153 05/07 90% ✪ Lightweight dedicated hotshoe flashgun with tilting front 21 35 66 56.5 80 127g
Nikon SB-600 Speedlight £286 11/05 90% ✪ As good as it gets for a mid-range flashgun but slightly on the pricey side 30 24 68 124 90 300g
Nikon SB-900 Speedlight £409 05/09 92% ✪ Nikon’s top-of-the-range flashgun, an excellent device with loads of options 34 24 78 146 118.5 415g
Nissin Di28 £94 NYT Slim, compact hotshoe-mounted flashgun with exposure compensation 20 14 58 37 92 100g
Nissin Di466 £154 NYT Entry-level flash with TTL control, remote firing, and exposure compensation 33 18 67 105 95 240g
Nissin Di622 £170 07/08 85% ✪ A low-cost alternative to manufacturers’ devices with TTL control 44 14 77 130 103 315g
Nissin Di866 £305 11/09 87% ✪ A powerful and simple-to-use device for Nikon and Canon DSLRs 60 24 134 74 110 380g
Olympus FL-14 £160 NYT Simple, retro-designed unit to suit the Micro FourThirds Pen cameras 14 14 70 42.5 57 84g
Olympus FL-20 £180 08/07 85% ✪ Useful, compact, even illumination and good colour 20 24 56 96 28 74g
Olympus FL-36R £290 NYT A well-specified flashgun with wireless remote control 36 12 67 95 108 260g
Olympus FL-50R £630 NYT Olympus’s flagship flashgun with wireless remote control 50 12 78 141 107 385g
Panasonic DMW-FL220E £138 NYT Simple, compact flashgun with TTL control 22 24 61 97.7 46.1 111g
Panasonic DMW-FL360E £201 NYT Mid-range dedicated flashgun for Lumix cameras with manual control and TTL 36 12 67 108 95 270g
Panasonic DMW-FL500E £413 NYT High-end flashgun for Lumix cameras with TTL and manual control options 50 12 79.4 141 107 375g
Pentax AF-200FG £160 NYT Easy-to-use, compact flashgun 20 24 68.6 83.8 94 193g
Pentax AF-360FGZ £330 NYT Mid-range flashgun with modelling and strobe functions, plus slave firing 36 20 68.6 109 114 272g
Pentax AF-540FGZ £480 NYT Pro-level flashgun with high power output and manual control 54 20 76 142 107 370g
Samsung ED-SEF20A (NX) £130 NYT Compact hotshoe-mounted flash for use on Samsung NX models only 20 18 64.3 43 88.3 122g
HOTSHOE RINGFLASH TWINFLASH HAMMERHEAD

MOUNTED For macro Similar to ringflashes in Generally offering
These sit on your and fashion their suitability for more power than
camera’s hotshoe photography, a macro work, but hotshoe-mounted
and work either ringflash is ideal these feature two models, these
independently or as it provides an flash units around sit alongside the
with your camera’s even concentration the lens, which can camera’s body on
TTL system. Some of light around the be supplemented brackets and provide
models feature swivel and lens, helping to with additional a better, off-centred
tilt heads, for bouncing light around. eliminate shadows. flashes. lighting angle.
For all the very latest flashgun reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com

126
BUYER’SGUIDE
Weight
Lens Coverage (mm)
Guide Number
HOTSHOE MOUNT (CONT’D)
Samsung GX
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
SCA 3002
Olympus
Minolta
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Swivel
Nikon
Sony
Tilt
Samsung ED-SEF42A (NX) £230 NYT More powerful flashgun for the NX models only 42 - 70 96.5 98.5 220g
Samsung SEF-36PZF £155 02/08 86% ✪ A good solid unit with a more-than-acceptable price 30 20 70 110 116 380g
Samsung SEF-54PZF £230 02/08 88% ✪ Powerful unit with plenty of features 45 20 72 142 107 380g
Sigma EF 530 DG ST £163 03/08 86% ✪ A good performance at a reasonable price 53 17 77 139 117 305g
Sigma EF 530 DG Super £255 0709 84% Good power at a great price 53 17 77 139 117 305g
Sony HVL-F20AM £150 NYT Compact flash unit with adjustable bounce angle 20 - 94 62 24 90g
Sony HVL-F42AM £270 08/08 87% ✪ A good performer and reasonably priced 42 16 75 123 100 340g
Sony HVL-F58AM £530 NYT High-performance model with innovative quick shift bounce system 58 16 77 147 106 440g
Sunpak PF30X £128 08/07 84% A solid performer with some nice features at a decent price 30 19 100 68 92 220g
Sunpak PF20XD £77 NYT Compact universal flash - fires on slave from your camera’s flash 20 24 58 78 29 100g
Sunpak PZ42X £225 NYT Mid-range flashgun with TTL control for most models 42 20 116 64 102 260g
Sunpak RD2000 £91 NYT A compact flashgun with TTL control for Canon and Nikon models 20 22 43.5 60 88 100g
Weight
Lens Coverage (mm)
Guide Number
Tilt and Swivel

SPECIALIST FLASH
Samsung GX
Height (mm)
Depth (mm)
Width (mm)
SCA 3002
Olympus
Minolta
Pentax
Canon
Sigma
Nikon
Sony
Canon MR-14EX Macrolite £375 05/07 86% ✪ Simple to use Macro ring flash with manual mode for creative control 14 na - - - -
Canon MT-24EX Macro Twin lite £600 05/07 86% ✪ This twin flash unit has good illumination, especially for close-ups 24 na - - - -
Marumi DRF14 ringflash £120 NYT Simple Macro ringflash available in a range of dedicated versions 14 na 70 45 150 250g
Metz 15 MS-1 £337 NYT New digital Macro ringflash system with TTL control from various manufacturers 15 na - - - -
Metz 45CL-4 digital £562 NYT Hammerhead flash system with TTL for Canon and Nikon models 45 28 - - - -
Metz 76MZ-5 digital £817 NYT High-powered hammerhead flash system with TTL for Canon, Nikon, and Minolta 76 24 - - - 1120g
Nikon R1C1 commander kit £727 05/07 89% ✪ Twin light kit with two wireless SB-R200 remote Speedlites and SU-800 wireless comander unit - - - - - -
Olympus FS-SRF11 ringflash £880 0507 86% ✪ Ringflash kit for macro photography, easy to use and solid but limited in compatibility 11 na 120 135 24 145g
Olympus FS-STF22 twin flash £1150 05/07 86% ✪ Twin flash kit including Macro flash controller and two adjustable flash heads 22 na 73 50 39 105g
Pentax AF160 FC £650 NYT Ring lighting kit suitable for Macro work and portraits 14 na 113 113 29.5 405g
Sigma EM-140 DG Macro £250 05/07 84% A well-powered Macro ring light for Macro and portraits in a range of dedicated fittings 14 na 127 129 31 430g
Sony HVL-RLAM Ring light £330 NYT An LED based ringflash designed specifically for Sony DSLRs 12 na 124 141 24 180g
Sunpak Auto 16R Pro Ring £485 NYT Pro ring flash with circular flash tube, compatible with a range of DSLRs 16 na 120 120 32 450g
TRIPODS LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS
Folded length (cm)

& SUPPORTS Max Height (cm)
BENBO
Max Load (g)
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Plastic
Head
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE
Benbo Classic £145 NYT 2 157-256 84-114 3.4-3.7

Benbo Trekker £73 NYT 3 71-150 55-84 1.5-2.0
BUYING ADVICE LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS

Folded length (cm)
Max Height (cm)
BENRO
Max Load (g)
Whether you’re shooting Weight (g)

Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Plastic
landscapes or the kids in your

Head
front room, if your camera isn’t Benro MG NYT 50 4.0-25 71-200 29-65 0.8-2.6
held steady, you’re going to get Benro Transformer NYT 6 6.0-12 160-165 42-44 0.8-2.0
blurred images. The best Benro Travel Angel NYT 12 1.3-12 134-169 38-45 0.6-1.5
solution is a tripod or monopod Benro Versatile NYT 16 6.0-12 160-184 53-59 1.4-2.1
TRIPOD The three-legged photographer’s LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS

Folded length (cm)
friend. Look out for sturdy models that

Max Height (cm)
CAMLINK
Max Load (g)
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
you know will support the weight of

Models
Plastic
Head

both your camera and chosen lens.
HEAD A good head – whether it be ball Camlink Carbon Fiber 150 NYT 2 162-163 69-72 2.4-2.7
and socket or pan and tilt – is essential Camlink Premium £30 NYT 4 147-165 62-70 1.1-1.7
for quick operation, firm support and Camlink Professional £75 NYT 4 151-200 61-86 1.8-3.5
flexibility. Camlink Value £17 NYT 5 61-163 32-65 0.6-1.4
MONOPOD A smaller and lighter
LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS
alternative to a tripod, monopods are
Folded length (cm)
ideal for panning subjects and

Max Height (cm)
DIGIPOD
Max Load (g)
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
anywhere else where a tripod is

Aluminium
Models
Plastic
Head
impractical. NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE
OTHER TYPE OF SUPPORT There are Digipod Aluminium NYT 28 2.5-12 137-171 33-135 0.9-8.0
many versatile ways to make sure your Digipod Attitude NYT 6 2.0-4.0 137-169 47-57 2.0-4.0
camera is stable. If you don’t fancy a Digipod Carbon Fiber 06/07 87% ✪ 28 2.5-12 130-173 33-149 2.5-12
tripod, then maybe a beanbag or Digipod Lightweight NYT 18 1.0-5.0 106-170 35-71 0.4-1.6
window support is for you.
For all the very latest tripod and support reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
127
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
Folded length (cm)

Max Height (cm)
FALCON EYES
Folded length (cm)

Max Load (g)
Max Height (cm)

MISC
Max Load (g)

Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Plastic
Head
Models
Plastic
Head
Falcon Eyes Carbon NYT 6 2.5-11 134-174 38-57 0.8-1.7
Jessops NYT 1 5.0-6.0 153-153 64-64 1.5-1.5
Falcon Eyes Lightweight NYT 11 1.5-4.0 110-170 35-86 0.5-17
National Geographic NYT 1 1.0-1.0 152-152 15-15 0.4-0.4
Falcon Eyes Pro NYT 21 2.5-11 125-180 38-820 1.0-5.0
Opticron NYT 6 158-172 32-66 1.3-2.4
LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS Sony £25 NYT 7 3.0-5.0 100-167 35-63 0.6-1.7
Swarovski £180 NYT 3 4.0-5.0 160-180 41-59 1.6-3.7
Folded length (cm)

Max Height (cm)
GIOTTOS
Max Load (g)
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
1
Aluminium
Tamrac £40 NYT 1.4-1.4 112-112 38-38 0.3-0.3
Models
Plastic
Head
Giottos MG NYT 8 3.0-5.0 119-135 47-60 0.8-1.3

Giottos MGL
Giottos MT
NYT
10/08 88% ✪
8 3.0-5.0 137-163 45-57 0.9-1.3
17 3.0-12 144-202 51-80 0.9-3.5 MANFROTTO 055X PROB
Giottos MTL 03/09 86% ✪ 44 3.0-10 143-181 48-73 0.8-2.5 £160
Considered something of a design classic by many, the alumini-
LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS um-built 055XPROB features a versatile centre column that can
be swung round and used horizontally. This makes it practical for
Folded length (cm)

Max Height (cm)
GITZO Max Load (g) use with low-down subjects as well as more standard angles of
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
EDITOR’S
Aluminium
view. Overall, this is a very stable and solid tripod, well suited to
Models
Plastic
CHOICE
Head
enthusiasts who require solid

92%
Gitzo Aluminium NYT 4 9.0-18 163-185 60-63 1.9-3.2 performance and good durability.
Gitzo Basalt NYT 6 7.0-15 113-168 42-68 1.2-2.7
Gitzo Explorer NYT 2 12-12 164-170 54-64 1.8-1.9
Gitzo Leveling
Gitzo Mountaineer
NYT
NYT
2
12
12-12 158-172 61-64 1.6-1.7
5.0-18 131-181 53-60 0.7-2.1
GITZO SYSTEMATIC GT3541LS
Gitzo Ocean/Vintage NYT 3 4.0-6.0 139-156 41-43 1.2-1.8 £600
Gitzo tripods are like the Ferrari equivalent of the tripod world,
Gitzo Systematic 03/09 89% ✪ 14 18-25 133-153 28-79 1.3-5.5 with prices to match. The carbon-fibre GT3541 LS is from Gitzo’s
Gitzo Traveler NYT 3 2.0-12 140-146 35-43 1.0-1.3 Systematic range and offers the ultimate combination of strength
and light weight. It’s also a modular system that can be built up EDITOR’S
LEG SECTIONS BUILD DIMENSIONS with a number of centre column options depending on specific CHOICE
needs. Tripods don‘t come much more
89%
Folded length (cm)
Max Height (cm)
MANFROTTO exotic (or costly) than this!

Max Load (g)
Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Plastic
Head

2
GIOTTOS MT
Manfrotto 028 NYT 12-12 227-227 82-82 4.1-4.1
Manfrotto 055 05/08 92% ✪ 10 7.0-8.0 165-178 54-65 1.6-2.4
Manfrotto 058 NYT 2 12-12 217-217 94-94 6.1-6.1 £192
Manfrotto 161 NYT 2 20-20 267-267 105-105 8.0-8.0 The Giottos MTL8350B is constructed from carbon-fibre legs and
a die-cast aluminium crown with a neat ‘cobalt’ paint finish.
Manfrotto 190 09/08 93% ✪ 12 4.0-5.0 131-178 46-57 1.1-2.3 This results in a lightweight yet durable tripod that’s also rather
Manfrotto 458 03/07 85% ✪ 1 8.0-8.0 156-156 64-64 2.4-2.4 striking. Each leg can be set to one of three angles and employs
2 quick-release leg locks for the sections. It also features an
Manfrotto 475 NYT 12-12 162-162 80-80 4.3-4.3
adjustable centre column that can be locked EDITOR’S
Manfrotto 709
Manfrotto 714
NYT
NYT
2
2
2.0-2.0 11-11
2.5-2.5 121-163 35-44 1.0-1.2
20-20 0.2-0.2 at any angle through a 180° arc. 88% CHOICE
RRP TESTED SCORE

Manfrotto 715 NYT 2 1.0-2.5 122-165 37-46 1.1-1.2 DIMENSIONS
Manfrotto 718-732 NYT 6 2.5-3.5 123-165 41-52 1.2-1.8
Folded length (cm)

Max Height (cm)
Max Load (kg)
MONOPODS
Weight (kg)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models

Plastic
Head

Folded length (cm)
Max Height (cm)
SLIK 1
Max Load (g)
Benro Classic NYT 4.5-4.5 157-157 57-57 0.6-0.6

Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Benro Quick Lock NYT 6 18-25 150-170 47-55 0.6-0.7

Plastic
Head
Slik Carbon Fiber NYT 7 5.0-10 120-153 42-46 0.7-1.4 Benro Trans-Functional NYT 6 158-172 32-66 1.3-2.4
Slik Digital NYT 3 1.9-2.2 163-165 36-48 7.4-10 Benro Twist Lock NYT 6 8.0-12 146-154 46-47 0.3-0.5
Slik Pro 03/07 86% ✪ 15 4.9-10 155-184 65-95 2.6-3.2 Camlink CMP £18 NYT 3 1.5-2.8 120-140 67-72 0.3-0.4
Slik U Series NYT 1 2.0-2.0 150-150 59-59 1.5-1.5 Digipod Alumium NYT 9 4.0-8.0 145-170 46-50 0.4-0.7
Digipod Carbon NYT 9 4.0-8.0 145-170 46-50 0.3-0.5
Falcon Eyes GL NYT 2 5.0-8.0 146-150 40-44 0.5-0.6
Folded length (cm)
Max Height (cm)
VANGUARD
Max Load (g)
Falcon Eyes MP NYT 3 3.0-5.0 164-178 55-63 0.4-0.8

Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
2
Plastic
Head
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE Falcon Eyes TL NYT 5.0-8.0 146-150 40-44 0.5-0.6
Vanguard Alta £80 NYT 18 2.0-8.0 145-160 53-57 1.4-1.7 Giottos MM 03/08 85% ✪ 24 15-15 130-185 48-60 0.5-1.4
Vanguard Digi £45 NYT 1 2.0-2.0 98-98 26-26 0.5-0.5 Giottos MML NYT 10 15-15 150-188 48-51 0.5-0.7
Vanguard Espod £57 NYT 2 2.0-3.0 145-160 57-62 1.3-1.8 Giottos MV NYT 8 3.0-3.0 150-184 55-67 0.6-0.9
Vanguard Espod+ £75 NYT 4 2.0-3.0 145-145 52-57 1.0-1.4 Gitzo GM NYT 10 2.0-25 143-192 36-81 0.3-0.7
Vanguard MK £25 NYT 2 142-163 56-62 0.9-1.5 Manfrotto 334 NYT 1 8.0-8.0 166-166 68-68 0.5-0.5
Vanguard Tracker £139 NYT 4 8.0-10 171-188 72-80 3.6-4.1 Manfrotto 679-695 09/07 87% ✪ 7 5.0-12 154-172 48-75 0.6-1.2
Manfrotto 776 NYT 1 4.5-4.5 152-152 48-48 0.3-0.3
Vanguard Elite £100 NYT 3 158-174 55-60 0.5-0.7
Folded length (cm)
Max Height (cm)
VELBON
Max Load (g)
Vanguard MP £19 NYT 2 143-145 47-59 0.2-0.5

Weight (g)
Carbon Fibre
Aluminium
Models
Plastic
4
Head
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE Vanguard Tracker £40 NYT 145-176 47-60 0.4-0.9
Velbon Digital NYT 10 1.5-2.0 48-161 20-39 1.5-2.0 Velbon Neopod NYT 3 153-170 48-58 0.6-0.9
Velbon Geo NYT 19 2.0-9.0 121-201 41-82 0.8-3.3 Velbon RUP 09/07 89% ✪ 3 158-169 48-53 0.3-0.4
Velbon Lightweight NYT 14 1.8-4.0 145-162 54-61 1.8-1.8 Velbon Ultra 09/07 78% 4 130-155 32-42 0.2-0.2
Velbon Semipro NYT 17 3.5-7.0 167-180 62-82 1.9-5.1 Slik Monopods 09/07 89% ✪ 7 1.2-5.5 151-170 47-63 0.4-0.6
128
BUYER’SGUIDE
TRIPOD HEADS
DIMENSIONS
Mount Thread (in)
Max Load (kg)

Quick Release
BALL & SOCKET HEADS
Bubble Level
Weight (g)
Height (mm)
Tripod heads come in tilt heads allow greater accuracy and
Models
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE various forms and the their ability to alter just one plane at
Acratech ballheads £300 NYT 4 All 11.4 108 450 type you choose is down a time can make them more suitable
Arca Swiss Monoball Z1 £300 NYT 4 All 60 103 680 to the type of photography you take and for panning. You’ll find all the major
Benbo Ball and socket heads NYT 4 1/4 8-20 80-115 175-530 often personal preference. Ballheads series of heads listed here, plus some
Benro J Series Ballhead NYT 4 1/4 12-40 88-118 - offer the most freedom; while pan and more specialist ones too.
Benbo V series Ballhead NYT 4 1/4 12-40 65-98 330-690
DIMENSIONS
Benbo B series Ballhead NYT 6 1/4 6-40 75-120 210-600
Mount Thread (in)
Max Load (kg)

Quick Release
Benbo BH series Ballhead NYT 4 1/4 2.5-8 - 180-400
PAN & TILT HEADS
Bubble Level
Weight (g)
Height (mm)
Models
Digipod BH-0N Ballhead NYT 3 - 6-12 78-91 208-420
Digipod BH-1N Ballhead NYT 3 - 6-12 84-95 263-422 Benro HD NYT 3 1/4 4.0-12 94-132 500-900
Digipod BH-1 Ballhead NYT 2 - 4 - 325-350 Digipod 2-way NYT 1 1/4 3.0-3.0 96-96 800-800
Digipod BH-2 Ballhead NYT 3 - 8-18 106-120 290-700 Digipod 3-way NYT 3 1/4 4.0-4.0 100-100 700-700
Digipod BH-5 Ballhead NYT 6 - 8-18 104-112 400-755 Falcon Eyes PH NYT 3 1/4 5.0-5.0 100-145 500-1000
Digipod BH-5A Ballhead NYT 3 - 6-8 101-107 210-285 Giottos MH 04/09 89% ✪ 4 1/4 4.0-6.0 102-120 400-800
Digipod BH-6 Ballhead NYT 2 - 8-12 101-107 420-540 Gitzo Fluid NYT 5 1/4 4.0-10 80-107 400-2300
Falcon Eyes BH Series NYT 2 - 6-8 95-110 400-550 Gitzo Low Profile NYT 4 1/4 5.0-10 93-105 700-1300
Falcon Eyes KJ Series NYT 2 - 4-6 95 300-330 Manfrotto 056-229 NYT 4 1/4 3.0-12 100-160 500-2000
Falcon Eyes KK-S Series NYT 2 - 6-10 95-100 320-430 Manfrotto 329-391 NYT 3 1/4 5.0-9.0 95-137 500-1200
Falcon Eyes NB-S Series NYT 3 - 6-12 95-115 330-570 Manfrotto 460-804 NYT 2 1/4 3.0-4.0 105-120 430-750
Falcon Eyes PH Series NYT 4 - 4 110-160 584-710 Slik QF NYT 2 1/4 100-105 620-1200
2 Slik SH NYT 4 1/4 135-135 170-290
Falcon Eyes MPH Series NYT - - - -
10 Vanguard MH £40 NYT 7 1/4 3.0-10 350-750
Giottos MH3300-1304 Pro £49 NYT All 2-20 56-128 75-1040
Vanguard PH NYT 2 1/4 2.0-3.0
Giottos MH 7000 series £35 03/08 84% 17 All 2-8 56-125 55-789
Velbon PHD 04/07 86% ✪ 8 1/4 70-120 240-810
Giottos MH3000-1005 Pro NYT 15 All 2-15 52-150 52-1392
Gitzo off-centre ball £160 NYT 5 1/4 5-12 100-142 480-1000
DIMENSIONS
Gitzo centre ball £35 NYT 10 1/4 1-21 60-126 100-700
Mount Thread (in)
Folded Length (cm)

Max Load (Kg)
Max Height (cm)

Min Height (cm)
Gitzo systematic ball £225 NYT 2 All 3 91-101 700 OTHER SUPPORTS
Weight (g)
Aluminium
Plastic
Joby ball head /ball head x £40 NYT 2 All 3-5 68-83 150-262 NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE
Manfrotto Midi £85 NYT 3 1/4 8 115-135 520-700 Delkin Fat Gecko £70 07/09 87% ✪ 3.6 1/4 - 19.7 - -
Manfrotto 496 £55 NYT 2 3/8 6 90-100 320-420 Joby Gorillapod SLR £25 87% ✪ 0.8 - - - 25 165
Manfrotto 494 £45 NYT 2 3/8 4 75-85 220-320 Gitzo GS3750D Pano head £145 NYT 1.2 1/4 - 2.3 - 200
Manfrotto 492 £38 NYT 1 3/8 2 60 140 Manfrotto 303 Quicktime VR kit £300 NYT 5 All - 31.3 - 2030
Manfrotto 468 Hydrostatic £219 NYT 6 3/8 10-16 120-135 650-840 Manfrotto 405 Pro Geared head £290 NYT 7.5 All - 16 - 1600
Manfrotto joystick £100 NYT 1 All 2.5 210 780 Red door Nodal Ninja VR head £160 NYT 3.2 All - 155 - 475
Manfrotto grip ball head £110 NYT 3 All 3.5-5.5 101-103 430-700 SteadePod £25 NYT - 1/4 - - - -
National Geographic NGEH1/2 £220 NYT 2 All 10-12 124-125 700 Monsterpod X £20 NYT 0.3 1/4 - - - 150
Slik SBH ball head £25 NYT 3 1/4 2-5 64-140 100-1800 Wildlife watching double bean bag £40 NYT - - - - - 2000
Slik Trigger head £89 NYT 2 All 3-4.5 125-140 526-870 Trek-Tech MagBag1 £23 NYT - - - - - 200
Velbon QD/QHD £49 NYT 7 1/4 1.5-7.5 46-107 46-820 Giottos window mount - 3way head £30 NYT 4 - - 1.3 - 524
Trek Tech Mag Mount £30 NYT 3 All 4-6 - - Wimblerley Gimbal head MkII £510 NYT - - - - - 1429
BALL
HEADS PANORAMIC
Ball and socket PAN & TILT HEADS HEADS SUPPORTS
heads, or ball heads for short, allow Pan and tilt heads, as their name These specialist heads are Aside from tripods there is a wide range
your camera to be quickly adjusted in suggests, provide their principal designed to allow the camera to rotate of other devices designed to help steady
all directions and then clamped still in adjustments with a horizontal pan and around the exact ‘nodal’ point. By doing your camera and avoid camera shake.
one single movement. This makes them a vertical tilt, and often add a third this it makes the process of stitching Depending on the type of photography
ideal for when speed is of the essence sideways movement for levelling or images together, to form a panorama, you are doing, or where you are taking
and when your subject, or composition, portrait shooting (a three-way head). much easier as it avoids parallax errors it, using a tripod isn’t always possible
needs adjusting for across more than By loosening all of the adjustment (foreground in relation to background). so these devices offer a support in other
one plane. Over recent years the ball screws it is possible to move freely in To correctly set these heads up requires ways. Beanbags are a popular choice for
head has overtaken the traditional any direction – much like the ball head some preparation and the positioning nature and travel photographers as they
three-way head due to their flexibility – but by tightening one you can limit will vary for different lenses. Many allow you to shoot from a low angle
and often that they are lighter units too. movement in a certain axis. This makes photographers will mark the positions or steady the camera easily on a rough
More advanced ball heads sometimes these heads ideal for tracking subjects for each lens. The weight and added surface or ledge. Joby’s Gorillapods
offer resistance control to allow for finer such as cars or wildlife. Their precise bulk of these heads mean they are are also a handy alternative and have
adjustment, spirit bubbles for levelling, control over each axis also makes not suitable for general use but, if you bendable legs that can wrap around
and quick-release plates for easier them suited to landscape and studio want a perfect panorama, you should objects to position your camera almost
attachment. photography. definitely consider one. anywhere.
129
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
BAGS
SHOULDER BAGS Useful for easy access while on the
move, with external pockets. Look for wide and padded
straps, which are comfortable if carrying for extended
periods. BACKPACKS Backpacks offer better support for
your spine, especially if you have a lot of gear to carry.
BUYING ADVICE Some have space for laptops and straps for tripods, but
they’re not as good for rapid access to gear. SLING BAGS
If you’re investing hundreds of A hybrid shoulder/back pack offering an easy swing to
pounds on the gear listed the side for access. Lowepro’s Slingshot range is perhaps
the most popular. ROLLING CASES Cases with wheels
here, chances are you’re going
and handles for carrying heavy equipment. Smaller
to want to keep it safe. This versions also double as a backpacks and are ideal for
list covers a broad range of holding use travelling. HARD CASES Aluminium cases are
the most popular bags on the ideal for airline travel or long-term storage/protection in a
market, covering everything range of sizes from attaché case to large trunk-types.
from giant hard cases to small TYPE
bum bags. For full listings,
Number of Models
visit the manufacturers’ own KATA
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Rolling
websites
Sling
Bumblebee DL-210 £140 NYT Functional, lightweight and protective 1

Bumblebee PL-220 £260 NYT Fits up to 3 DSLRs and a laptop 1
TYPE Digital DR £65 NYT Unique TST Rib protection design 3
3in1 DPS £90 NYT Sling design offers 3 carrying methods 3
Number of Models
BILLINGHAM
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Digital DB £55 NYT Dual-side adjustable elasto-guard 2

Shoulder
Rolling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY Press Reporter GDC £140 NYT Quick access and dual carrying modes 3
F/Stop £131 NYT Lightweight, adaptable shoulder bag 2 Digital Holster PL £70 09/10 89% ✪ Excellent hiking pack with lots of space 5
07 £245 NYT Evolution of Press Top range 3 Digital Holster DL £25 NYT Compact, holster-style design 5
550 £500 NYT Historic soft camera bag 1 Torso Pack DL £50 NYT Innovative sling / shoulder hybrid 3
5 £245 NYT Features Billingham’s TukTop design 3 Elements Cover GDC £60 NYT Rain protection for DSLR and flash 1
Hadley £105 04/07 82% Classic Khaki/Canvas design 4 TLB Tele-lens £180 NYT Fits large DSLR and telephoto lens 2
Packington £235 NYT Popular large camera bag 1 Banana £270 NYT Heavy-duty for production gear 2
TYPE TYPE
Number of Models
Number of Models
CRUMPLER LOWEPRO
Waist Pack
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Shoulder
Rolling
Rolling
Sling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Jimmy Bo £30 NYT Lightweight waist pack 5 Fastpack £40 04/08 90% ✪ Small and lightweight backpack 4
Easy Weasy £170 NYT Backpack with space for a laptop 1 Flipside £60 05/08 90% ✪ Unique rear compartment entry system 3
Pony Box £190 NYT Removable rain cover included 1 Trekker £50 NYT A host of models at a variety of sizes 11
Company Gigolo £100 NYT Designed to fit a DSLR 6 Pro Runner £80 NYT Includes large rolling backpack 6
New Delhi £120 05/09 85% ✪ Spacious, padded and secure bag 5 Vertex £90 NYT Designed for adventure photographers 3
Master Delhi £160 NYT Delhi bag with a leather finish 5 Classified £70 NYT Smart and stylish shoulder bag 7
New Waist Belt £35 NYT Also fits on to several Crumpler bags 1 Magnum £120 NYT Fits a large DSLR and laptop 5
Messenger Boy £55 NYT Fits entry-level DSLR and small lens 5 Nova £25 NYT A host of colours also available 6
Messenger Boy Pouch £20 NYT Sized for a compact camera 3 Rezo £17 NYT Complete with raincover 7
Muffin Top £100 NYT Fits pro-sized DSLR and lenses 1 Stealth Reporter £40 02/05 87% ✪ Traditional photojournalist design 6
Singapore Sling £35 NYT Features 3 different carrying modes 1 Slingshot £65 NYT Hybrid shoulder / backpack design 7
TYPE Pro Roller £300 NYT Heavy-duty carrying solution 4
Outback £50 NYT Modular beltpack system 3
Number of Models
DOMKE
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Rolling
Sling
TYPE
Number of Models
J series £145 NYT Journalist-style shoudler bags 3

TAMRAC
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Rolling
F series £60 NYT Extensive range of shoulder bags 28

Sling
TYPE Aero £17 NYT Features padded inner shell 10

Adventure £16 07/06 86% ✪ Range including pouches and satchels 13
Number of Models
JESSOPS
Waist Pack
Hard case
Backpack
Velocity £25 NYT 10x model doubles as backpack 6

Shoulder
Rolling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY Expedition £40 NYT Versatile range of modular backpacks 8
Trek 2 £20 NYT Full range of types of bag 7 Cyberpack £150 NYT Suited to the travelling photographer 2
Cam Case £15 NYT Affordable, briefcase-style hard case 3 Evolution £100 NYT Both backpacks and messenger bags 3
TYPE Digital Zoom £20 NYT Small, single camera pouch-style bags 5
Speedroller £180 NYT Large, rolling hardcase 1
Number of Models
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
Waist Pack
Pro £30 NYT Variety of ample storage shoulder bags 6

Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Rolling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY Digital £20 NYT Suited to a range of DSLR sizes 11
Explorer £50 07/08 86% ✪ Khaki, rugged camera bags 5 System £30 NYT Comprised of ballistic nylon 3
Walkabout £70 05/09 89% ✪ Subtle, everyday satchel and backpack 5 Explorer £20 NYT Compact shoulder carrying solutions 5
130 For all the very latest bags and cases reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
Buyer’sguide
TYPE TYPE
Number of Models
Number of Models
tENBA thINk tANk
Waist Pack
Waist Pack
Hard case
Hard case
Backpack
Backpack
Shoulder
Shoulder
Rolling
Rolling
Sling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE
Messenger £100 NYT Casual, understated, lightweight 2 Streetwalker £100 05/09 88% ✪ Solidly built, narrow bag 3
Shootout £60 NYT Host of varying carry solutions 10 Shapeshifter £220 NYT Expands and contracts to fit your kit 1
Mixx £50 NYT Lightweight, small capacity bag 1 Glass Taxi £100 NYT Can be converted for longer lenses 1
Black Label £75 NYT Flagship collection 5 Rotation 360 £180 NYT Integrated rotating wait pack 1
Transport £170 NYT Extensive range of air cases 11 Urban Disguise £50 NYT Features inconspicuous design 8
Roadies £210 NYT Rolling bulk gear carrying solutions 3 Retrospective £80 NYT Timeless design with new features 10
Speed £80 NYT Fits waists from 28in to 60in 3
TYPE
Change Up £90 06/08 86% ✪ Versatile shoulder or waist pack 1
Multimedia £30 NYT Holds range of multimedia DSLR kit 7
Number of Models
othEr
Waist Pack
Airport £100 NYT In-flight baggage carrying solutions 8
Hard case
Backpack
Shoulder
Rolling
Sling
NAME & MODEL RRP TESTED SCORE Digital Holster £20 NYT Basic bag with pop-down base 6
Samsonite Trecking Premium £25 06/05 89% ✪ Smartly-designed holdalls 5 Thin Skin £20 NYT Belt to affix modular units 1
Peli £25 NYT Ultra-tough hard cases 41 Lens Changer £20 NYT Adaptive lens carry units 6
Camera Armour Seattle £30 NYT Waterproof tough bags 00 Bazooka £50 NYT Trio of tripod cases 3
SoftwArE The most well-known is image enhancement and
BUYING ADVICE manipulation software, such as the ubiquitous Adobe

Photoshop. Then there’s the plethora of organising,
viewing and image-management software. Raw
There’s a bewildering variety of processing software, designed specifically for working
software available – from simple, with Raw image files, is a growing sector, along with
automated fixes to powerful many specialist applications and Photoshop plug-ins. If
image-editing suites. WDC you want a physical copy of the software lots of retailers
regularly tests the most useful still offer hard copies on CD. However, more and more
software designed to help you get companies are opting to offer their product as a
the best from your images download-only package.
TYPE PLATFORM
Raw Conversion
Web Site Creation

Image Editing
SoftwArE
Organising
Video Editing
Filter Effects
Macintosh
Slide Show
Windows
Resizing
Plug-In
Back Up
Linux
NAME RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Gimp 2.6 FREE 02/07 87% ✪ A free editing program that doesn’t skimp on the features, including layer functionality
Google Picasa 3 FREE 02/07 85% ✪ A powerful organise and search program with some basic editing tools
Adobe Photoshop Mobile FREE 09/10 89% ✪ A mobile version of the editing program
Global Delight Camera+ £1 09/10 89% ✪ The ultimate iPhone photo app
Synthetic Corp Hipstamatic £2 09/10 87% Turn your iphone analogue with this filter app
Tiffen PhotoFX £2 09/10 81% Add some classic filters to your iPhone camera
Apple iMove for iPhone £5 09/10 90% ✪ A scaled-down version of the beginner editing program
OnOne DSLR Camera Remote £12 NYT Control your camera from your iPhone
Apple Quicktime 7 Pro £20 NYT Create and convert video files
Corel PaintShop Pro Express £29 NYT Beginner photo editing
Cyberlink MediaEspresso 6 £29 NYT Convert video, music and images rapidly
Cyberlink MediaShow 5 £29 NYT Simple, cheap and able to edit video and photos
Magix Digital Photo Maker 9 £39 NYT A simple-to-use photo organiser
CyberLink PowerDirector 8 £40 10/09 83% A basic video editing program with some decent features
Imagenomic Noiseware £45 NYT Noise-reducing plug-in
Photodex Proshow Gold 4.1 £45 NYT Simple slideshows rapidly made
Cyberlink PowerProducer 5 £53 NYT Create DVDs and slideshows
Corel Digital Studio 2010 £59 12/09 87% ✪ A very capable editing package
Imagenomic Real Grain £64 NYT Add true grain to your images
Adobe Premiere Elements 8 £66 NYT A video editing program for novices
Magix PhotoStory on CD & DVD £69 NYT Create impressive slideshows on disc
Nero Multimedia Suite 4 £69 NYT Do far more than just burn discs with this new package
Roxio Creator pro 2010 £69 NYT A complete media suite that can edit and output
Apple iLife '09 £71 NYT Includes iPhoto, iMovie and more
Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 £75 12/09 92% ✪ One of the best beginner photo-editing programs
Corel PaintShop Pro Photo X3 £79 04/10 85% ✪ Cost effective with powerful features
Corel VideoStudio pro X3 £79 NYT A fully featured video-editing program
Phase One Capture One 5 £81 NYT A more basic version of the full Pro incarnation
Avid Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Collection £99 NYT Excellent for beginners to video editing
Magix Photo Premium 9 £99 NYT A compilation of photo-editing programs
Apple Final Cut Express 4 £129 NYT Video editing for advancing novices
For all the very latest software reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 131
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
TYPE PLATFORM
Raw Conversion
Web Site Creation

Image Editing
SOFTWARE
Organising
Video Editing
Filter Effects
Macintosh
Slide Show
Windows
Resizing
Plug-In
Back Up
Linux
Nikon Capture NX2 £130 10/06 87% ✪ A superb tool for organising NEF tools
Photodex Producer £160 NYT Create professional slideshows
Nik Viveza 2 £165 NYT Simple editing with some powerful features
Apple Aperture 3 £169 05/10 91% ✪ Good alternative to Lightroom, and immensely powerful
Imagenomic Portraiture 2 £191 NYT Plug-in collection for portraits
Adobe Lightroom 3 £200 09/10 90% ✪ Good update to a fantastic piece of software
Nik Complete Collection £247 NYT Nik's software gathered into one package
Phase One Capture One 5 Pro £249 NYT An immediate editing tool direct from capture
DxO Optics Pro 6 £269 NYT Can be a touch slow but excellent processing
OnOne Plugin Suite 5 £370 04/10 85% ✪ Can be slow but has loads of professional options
Adobe Dreamweaver CS5 £420 NYT High-end web-creation software
Corel Draw Graphics Suite X5 £469 NYT Perform technical drawings and illustrations
Adobe Photoshop CS5 £560 08/10 90% ✪ A winner and further asset to the Photoshop legacy
Adobe Premiere Pro CS5 £793 NYT Professional level video editing program
Apple Final Cut Studio £816 NYT A superb video editing package for a pro
PRINTERS
for simplicity and convenience, but they
aren’t as versatile as inkjet printers. Unlike
with inkjet printers though, there’s no
& SCANNERS ambiguity about the cost per print, with

dye-sub print cartridges usually coming
with a matching pack of paper.
BUYING ADVICE PAPER As with inks, manufacturers’ own-brand

papers are optimised to produce best results with
What better way to enjoy their printers, and so are generally recommended
your images than to print for accuracy. Of course, results can be achieved
INKS There are two basic types of inkjet printer ink:
them? We’ve listed all the dye-based and pigmented. The correct ink must be with other brands of paper, and using them
current models for your used with the correct printer, otherwise the printer generally poses less of a risk than using third-party
consideration. Plus, to get could be damaged. Third-party inks are also inks. Paper comes in a variety of formats, from
your old negs and prints on available, though best results are generally obtained matt, pearl and satin through to glossy and ultra-
to the PC, there’s a range with the manufacturer’s own brand. Dye-sub glossy, with these different papers varying the final
of scanners too printers, meanwhile, earn their place in the market look and feel of an image.
TYPE PRINT RES INKS
4800 x 1200 (dpi)

300 x 300 (dpi)
300 x 600 (dpi)
COMPACT PRINTERS
LCD Screen
Borderless
Bluetooth
Overcoat
Dye-Sub
3 Colour
5 x 7in
6 x 4in
Inkjet
WiFi
Canon Selphy CP760 £109 01/07 85% ✪ Budget option with a 2.5in LCD screen, memory card slots and prints said to be ready in 52 seconds. Prints are also claimed to last 100 years
Canon Selphy CP770 £159 NYT Card slots and a 2.5in LCD screen on this Selphy, while prints boast an instant-dry coating and are said to last 100 years
Canon Selphy CP780 £129 NYT Auto red-eye and image correction, 100-year prints and three types of memory card slots. There’s also a 2.5in LCD screen for displaying images
Canon Selphy CP790 £169 NYT A 3in LCD screen and Easy-Scroll Wheel, as well as Auto Image Correction, a Creative Print mode and Noise Reduction
Canon Selphy ES20 £159 NYT Vertical design with a carry handle for portability, together with a 2.5in LCD screen, card slots for common memory card formats and red-eye correction
Canon Selphy ES30 £159 NYT Easy-Scroll Wheel and a 3in LCD screen, along with claims of 100-year print longevity with Canon’s ink and paper
Canon Selphy ES40 £189 NYT A 3.5in LCD screen and Easy-Scroll Wheel on the front, built-in voice guidance and a range of Creative Print Options
Canon Selphy ES2 £189 10/08 85% ✪ Vertical design and with its own carry handle for portability. There’s also a 3in LCD screen, red-eye correction and automatic image optimisation
Canon Selphy ES3 £209 04/09 81% A 3.5in LCD screen and 1GB of internal memory feature on the ES3, as do Creative Print options and an Easy-Scroll Wheel
Polaroid PoGo CZA-10011 £99 NYT Instant mobile printer with revolutionary ZINK 2x3in photo paper - requires no added ink or ribbon
Sony DPP-FP65 £69 NYT A 2.4in LCD screen and memory card slots and wireless image transfer via Bluetooth with an optional adaptor
Sony DPP-FP67 £130 NYT Automatic correction of common image problems and compatibility with Sony’s S frames via a USB cable, as well as a 2.4in LCD screen
Sony DPP-FP75 £220 NYT A tiltable 3.5in LCD screen, Auto Red-eye Reduction button and prints in 63 seconds
Sony DPP-FP77 £140 NYT A 2.5in LCD screen and HDMI output together with Face Detection and a range of slots for different memory cards
Sony DPP-FP95 £215 NYT A HDMI output for optimised viewing on Bravia televisions, as well as Face Detection, Auto Touch Up functions and a 3.6in LCD screen
Sony DPP-FP97 £205 NYT A tiltable 3.5in LCD screen and 20MB of internal memory, together with Enhanced Creative Print functions to make calendars, ID photos etc
Sony DPP-F700 £180 NYT An all-in-one digital picture frame and photo printer in one unit with 17.8cm VGA LCD screen and 1GB internal storage
FUNCTION PRINT RES INKS

4800 x 1200 (dpi)
6000 x 1200 (dpi)
5760 x 1440 (dpi)
9600 x 2400 (dpi)
A4 PRINTERS
LCD Screen
Borderless
10 Colours
Bluetooth
3 Colours
4 Colours
5 Colours
6 Colours
7 Colours
8 Colours
9 Colours
Gloss
Scan
Copy
Print
WiFi
Fax
A4

Canon PIXMA IP1900 NYT Entry-level home photo printer
Canon PIXMA IP100 £279 NYT Portable document and photo printer (available with rechargeable battery for £329)
Canon PIXMA IP2600 £49 NYT Value photo and document printer
Canon PIXMA IP2702 NYT Value photo and document printer
Canon PIXMA IP3600 £79 NYT Mid-range photo printer with five individual ink tanks
132 For all the very latest printer & scanner reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
Buyer’sguide
fUnCTIOn PRInT RES InkS
4800 x 1200 (dpi)

6000 x 1200 (dpi)
5760 x 1440 (dpi)
9600 x 2400 (dpi)
a4 printers
LCD Screen
Borderless
10 Colours
Bluetooth
3 Colours
4 Colours
5 Colours
6 Colours
7 Colours
8 Colours
9 Colours
Gloss
Scan
Copy
Print
WiFi
Fax
A4
nAME RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Canon PIXMA IP4700 £99 NYT Canon’s ultimate A4 printer
Epson Stylus Photo P50 £89 NYT Mid-range photo printer with six inks
Epson Stylus Photo R800 £300 03/04 88% ✪ Epson’s flagship A4 printer with 8-ink setup and CD/DVD printing
Epson Stylus Photo S21 £39 NYT Entry-level home photo printer
HP Deskjet D5560 £50 NYT Wireless photo printer
fUnCTIOn PRInT RES InkS
4800 x 1200 (dpi)

6000 x 1200 (dpi)
5760 x 1440 (dpi)
9600 x 2400 (dpi)
a4 multifunctionals
LCD Screen
Borderless
10 Colours
Bluetooth
3 Colours
4 Colours
5 Colours
6 Colours
7 Colours
8 Colours
9 Colours
Gloss
Scan
Copy
Print
WiFi
Fax
A4
nAME RRP TESTED SCORE SUMMARY
Brother DCP-395Cn £89 NYT Network-ready all-in-one with LCD screen, USB and media card slots
Brother DCP-375CW £102 NYT Multifunction device with WiFi and memory card slots
Brother DCP-585CW £110 NYT Multifunction device with WiFi, ethernet, LCD screen and memory card slots
Canon PIXMA MP250 £55 NYT Affordable easy-to-use multifunction model
Canon PIXMA MP270 £65 NYT Affordable easy-to-use multifunction model
Canon PIXMA MP272 £70 NYT Affordable easy-to-use multifunction model with PictBridge
Canon PIXMA MP490 £85 NYT Easy-to-use multifunction model with memory card slots and 4.5cm TFT display
Canon PIXMA MP492 £ NYT Easy-to-use multifunction model with memory card slots and 4.5cm TFT display
Canon PIXMA MP550 £ NYT Advanced home photo all-in-one with PictBridge, memory card slots and 4.5cm TFT display
Canon PIXMA MP560 £155 NYT Advanced home photo all-in-one with PictBridge, memory card slots and 4.5cm TFT display, plus WiFi
Canon PIXMA MP640 £185 06/10 89% ✪ Premium home photo all-in-one with PictBridge, memory card slots, 7.5cm TFT, WiFi and networking
Canon PIXMA MP990 £330 NYT Ultimate all-in-one model with PictBridge, memory card slots, 9.5cm TFT, WiFi and networking
Epson Stylus SX115 £50 NYT Budget option featuring Epson’s DURABrite Ink system, Easy Photo Fix and PhotoEnhance technology
Epson Stylus SX215 £60 NYT A 3.8cm LCD screen is joined by card slots and Epson’s DURABrite Ultra Ink system for ‘water and fade-resistant prints’
Epson Stylus SX415 £75 NYT A 6.3cm LCD screen, DURABrite Ink technology and slots for all common memory cards on this budget multifunctional
Epson Stylus SX100 £60 NYT Printing and copying at the touch of a button, while prints are said to be resistant to water, fading and smudges
Epson Stylus SX105 £60 NYT With ABBYY Finereader OCR software for editing text on scanned documents, and DURABrite Ultra Ink technology
Epson Stylus SX125 £70 NYT Epson’s Easy Photo Fix is included, said to bring ‘old faded photos back to life’, as are four separate colour ink cartridges
Epson Stylus SX218 £80 NYT A 1200dpi scanner and 3.8cm LCD screen feature on the SX218, as do memory card slots for direct printing
Epson Stylus SX200 £80 NYT An affordable all-in-one with PictBridge and memory card slots for direct printing
Epson Stylus SX205 £80 NYT 34 page-per-minute printing, memory card and PictBridge printing, and Easy Photo Print and Easy Photo Fix features
Epson Stylus SX610fW £150 NYT Wireless print, scan and fax, an Auto Document Feeder for multiple jobs, and print speeds of up to 38 pages per minute
Epson Stylus SX515W £100 10/9 82% ✪ WiFi-enabled model with DURABrite ink technology for water, smudge and fade resistance, and four individual inks
Epson Stylus SX425W £120 NYT Wireless functionality and a 3.8cm LCD screen, together with a 1200dpi scanner and ABBYY Finereader OCR software
Epson Stylus SX405 £120 NYT Memory card slots and a 6.3in LCD screen, as well as red-eye removal and colour control courtesy of Easy Photo Fix technology
Epson Stylus Photo PX650 £130 4/10 91% ✪ A true photographer’s all-in-one, with 6-ink system for high-quality prints
Epson Stylus SX600fW £150 NYT All-in-one, print, copy, scan, fax, with PictBridge and WiFi capability
Epson Stylus Photo PX810fW £250 NYT A 19.8cm touch panel with an LCD screen, duplex printing and wireless printing, scanning and faxing
Epson Stylus Photo PX700W £200 NYT Aimed at enthusiast photographers, the PX700W claims to exceed lab-quality photo quality with its Claria 6-ink system
Epson Stylus Photo PX710W £150 NYT All-in-one, six-colour model with integrated WiFi
Epson Stylus Photo PX800fW £300 NYT High-end multifunctional unit with Epson’s Claria 6-ink system, wireless capability and a 19.8cm touch-panel with an LCD
HP Photosmart £59 NYT Entry-level all-in-one device
HP Photosmart Plus £150 NYT Advanced all-in-one with wireless and touchscreen LCD
HP Photosmart Premium £199 02/10 80% Advanced all-in-one with one-touch wireless and large touchscreen LCD
HP Photosmart Premium fax £150 NYT Advanced all-in-one with wireless, touchscreen LCD, and fax
HP Photosmart Wireless £79 NYT Easy-to-use all-in-one with wireless networking and one-touch WiFi setup
HP Photosmart Wireless e £88 NYT Easy-to-use all-in-one with WiFi and web printing
HP Photosmart C4700 £99 NYT All-in-one device with wireless networking and one-touch WiFi setup
HP Photosmart C4600 £80 NYT All-in-one device with four-colour printing
HP Deskjet 2050 £52 NYT Entry-level all-in-one device
HP Deskjet f2400 £51 NYT Entry-level all-in-one device
Lexmark Impact S305 £99 NYT Entry-level all-in-one device
Lexmark Interpret S405 £130 NYT All-in-one device with memory card slots, wireless and fax
Lexmark Intuition S505 £150 NYT All-in-one device with memory card slots, wireless and LCD screen
Lemark Interact S605 £200 02/10 91% ✪ High spec all-in-one with fast (n) WiFi and web-enabled touch screen technology
kodak ESP 5 £90 NYT All-in-one system with 6-ink system across two cartridges, and large 7.6cm (3in) LCD
kodak ESP 7 £130 10/09 89% ✪ All-in-one system with 6-ink system across two cartridges, large 7.6cm (3in) LCD, and WiFi
kodak ESP 9 £250 02/10 85% ✪ All-in-one system with 6-ink system across two cartridges, large 7.6cm (3in) LCD, WiFi, and fax
kodak ESP 3250 £70 NYT Entry-level all-in-one system with 3.8cm (1.5in) LCD and intelligent paper sensor
kodak ESP 5250 £100 NYT Mid-level all-in-one system with 6.1cm (2.4in) LCD, WiFi, and intelligent paper sensor
kodak ESP 7250 £170 NYT Advanced all-in-one system with 6.1cm (2.4in) LCD, High speed (n) WiFi, and intelligent paper sensor
kodak ESP Office 6150 £180 NYT Advanced office-ready all-in-one with 2.4in LCD, High speed (n) WiFi, and fax
For all the very latest printer & scanner reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com 133
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA function print res inks
4800 x 2400 (dpi)

6000 x 1200 (dpi)
5760 x 1440 (dpi)
9600 x 2400 (dpi)
a3 printers / multifunctionals
LCD Screen
Borderless
10 Colours
3 Colours
4 Colours
5 Colours
6 Colours
7 Colours
8 Colours
9 Colours
Bluetooth
Gloss
Scan
Copy
Print
A3+
WiFi
Fax
nAMe rrp testeD score suMMArY
canon piXMA pro 9000 Mk ii £529 NYT Professional A3+ printer, with 8 single inks and Adobe Photoshop Elements included
canon piXMA pro 9500 Mk ii £779 NYT 10 Lucia pigment inks and Adobe Photoshop Elements included, as well as an Ambient Light Correction function
canon piXMA iX4000 £280 NYT Affordable single-ink A3 system
canon piXMA iX7000 £430 NYT The ultimate office A3 machine
epson stylus photo 1400 £320 NYT Six individual cartridges and five-level droplet control per nozzle, as well as optional Ethernet and Wi-Fi
epson stylus photo r1900 £430 NYT UltraChrome Hi-Gloss2 ink means prints are resistant to water spills, fading and smudging on this A3+ printer
epson stylus photo r2880 £660 NYT Professional-grade A3+ printer with UltraChrome K3 ink and a vivid magenta cartridge
Brother Dcp-6690cW £293 NYT Compact multifunction A3 printer with Wireless and ethernet
tYpe res filM forMAt DMAX
2400 x 4800 (dpi)

4800 x 9400 (dpi)
4800 x 9600 (dpi)
6400 x 9600 (dpi)
scanners
4000 (dpi)
Flatbed
35mm
Slide
3.2D
3.4D
3.5D
4.0D
4.8D
Film
120
220
4x5
6x7
6x9
rrp testeD score suMMArY
canon canoscan liDe 700f £125 NYT Innovative 3-way design means this scanner can be used in portrait, landscape or vertical positions
canon canoscan 5600f £160 NYT Scans 35mm film negatives and slides, and provides 7 EZ buttons for one-touch operation, such as for instant scanning to PDF
canon canoscan 8800f £230 NYT Scan four mounted slides or 12 frames of 35mm negative film at once, as well as medium format film
canon canoscan 9000f £230 NYT Top of the range scanner with 9600 x 9600dpi scan resolution, Auto Fix II and Auto Document Fix features
epson perfection V30 £70 NYT Entry-level flatbed scanner with LED technology
epson perfection V300 £90 NYT With a lid that opens on both the portrait and landscape sides, 48bit colour depth and both negative and slide scanning
epson perfection V350 £120 11/07 91% ✪ An Auto Film Loader and four one-touch buttons for convenient operation, as well as Dust Removal for film
epson perfection V500 £220 NYT Digital ICE technology for dust and scratches, and an adaptor to handle 35mm negatives, mounted slides and medium format film
epson perfection V600 £280 NYT Support for 35mm, mounted slide and medium format film, as well as Digital ICE technology for dust and scratches
epson perfection V700 £500 05/06 92% ✪ Film scanning up to 6400dpi and a moving blue LED to indicate the progress of a job. Also includes Silverfast SE software
epson perfection V750 £700 08/06 92% ✪ This top-end scanner scans at 6400dpi and supports film formats up to 4x5. Digital ICE technology is included for dust and scratches
Hp scanjet G2710 £61 NYT One-touch scan, copy and scan-to-PDF buttons, as well as features to handle dust and scratch removal and colour restoration
Hp scanjet G3110 £80 NYT Up to four slides or five 35mm negative frames may be scanned at once, while documents may be converted straight to PDF files
Hp scanjet G4010 £128 11/07 85% ✪ 6-colour 96bit photo scanning is said to give superior colour accuracy. Red-eye removal and adaptive lighting options also included
Hp scanjet G4050 £199 NYT Built-in materials adaptor holds 35mm slides, negative strips and medium format film - and even a 4x5 transparency
nikon super coolscan 9000 £2250 NYT Nikon’s professional negative scanner, capable of scanning negatives and transparencies up to 6x9in in size
plustek smartphoto p60 £85 NYT Simple to use, basic 600dpi photo scanner
plustek opticfilm 7600i Ai £420 NYT Dedicated 7200dpi film scanner with SilverFast AI technology
plustek opticfilm 7600i se £290 NYT Dedicated 7200dpi film scanner with SilverFast SE plus technology
plustek opticfilm 7400 £220 NYT Dedicated 7200dpi film scanner with SilverFast SE plus technology
contacts
Hp www.hp.co.uk meDia carDs HeritAGe colour confiDence
koDAk www.kodak.co.uk Delkin www.delkin.com www.heritage-bag.com www.colourconfidence.com
leXMArk fujifilM www.fujifilm.com jessops www.jessops.com corel www.corel.com
www.lexmark.co.uk kinGston cYBerlink
useful WeBsites for more info Microtek www.kingston.com kAtA www.kata-bag.com www.cyberlink.com
www.microtek.co.uk leXAr www.lexar.com loWepro www.lowepro. DXo www.dxo.com
cameras sonY www.sony.co.uk nikon www.nikon.co.uk pnY www.pny.com com eXtensis www.extensis.com
Acer www.acer.co.uk tAMron www.intro2020.co.uk olYMpus nAtionAl GeoGrApHic fiXerlABs
tokinA pretec www.pretec.com
BenQ www.benq.co.uk www.olympus.co.uk sAnDisk no website www.fixerlabs.com
cAnon www.canon.co.uk www.intro2020.co.uk plustek www.sandisk.co.uk peli www.peli.com GiMp www.gimp.org
cAsio www.exilim.co.uk Zeiss storM www.stormcase.com GooGle www.google.com
www.plustek.com/uk sonY www.sony.co.uk
fujifilM www.fujifilm.co.uk www.zeiss.com/photo sAGeM tAMrAc iMAGenoMic
koDAk www.kodak.co.uk www.sagem.co.uk tripoDs anD heaDs www.intro2020.co.uk www.imagenomic.com
leicA www.leica.co.uk filters sonY www.sony.co.uk BenBo www.patersonphoto- tenBA www.tenba.com irfAnVieW
nikon www.nikon.co.uk B&W www.bwfilter.com www.irfanview.com
cokin www.cokin.co.uk graphic.com
olYMpus www.olympus. inkjet paper cAluMet stuDio/lighting koDAk www.kodak.co.uk
co.uk HitecH www.formatt.co.uk fotospeeD BoWens www.bowens.co.uk MAGiX www.magix.com
HoYA www.intro2020.co.uk www.calumetphoto.co.uk
pAnAsonic www.panasonic. www.fotospeed.com Giottos www.giottos.co.uk elincHroM Mr.site www.mrsite.com
co.uk lee www.leefilters.com ilforD www.ilford.com nikon www.nikon.co.uk
siGMA GitZo www.gitzo.co.uk www.theflashcentre.com
pentAX www.pentax.co.uk innoVA www.innovaart.com GorillApoD HeDler onone
ricoH www.sigma-imaging-uk.com kentMere www.intro2020.co.uk www.theflashcentre.com www.ononesoftware.com
www.ricoh-cameras.co.uk tiffen www.tiffen.com interfit pHAseone www.phaseone.
www.kentmere.co.uk jessops www.jessops.com
sAMsunG HAHneMuHle MAnfrotto www.interfitphotographic.com com
www.samsungcamera.co.uk flashguns www.hahnemuehle.com www.manfrotto.co.uk kAiser pHotoDeX
siGMA cAnon www.canon.co.uk HArMAn
jessops www.jessops.com nAtionAl GeoGrApHic www.kaiser-fototechnik.de/en www.photodex.com
www.sigma-imaging-uk.com www.harman-inkjet.com no website lAstolite piXelGenius
sonY www.sony.co.uk MetZ www.intro2020.co.uk olMec www.ici-imagedata.com
nikon www.nikon.co.uk slik www.intro2020.co.uk www.lastolite.com www.pixelgenius.com
perMAjet uni-loc posterAZor
lenses olYMpus www.novadarkroom.com www.ukray.com/uniloc softWare http://posterazor.sourceforge.
cAnon www.canon.co.uk www.olympus.co.uk
VelBon AcDsee www.acdsee.com net
leicA www.leica.co.uk pAnAsonic Digital storage ADoBe www.adobe.com silVer oXiDe
www.intro2020.co.uk
lensBABY www.intro2020. www.panasonic.co.uk ArcHos www.archos.com WiMBerleY Alienskin www.silveroxide.com
co.uk pentAX www.pentax.co.uk epson www.epson.co.uk www.alienskin.com softWAre iMAGinG
siGMA www.tripodhead.com
nikon www.nikon.co.uk innoplus AnDY http://nexi.com/156 www.softwareimaging.com
olYMpus www.sigma-imaging-uk.com www.innoplus.com Bags Apple www.apple.com stuDioline
www.olympus.co.uk sonY www.sony.co.uk joBo www.jobo.com BenVistA www.benvista.com
sunpAk BillinGHAM www.studioline.net
pentAX www.pentax.co.uk lAcie www.lacie.com/uk www.billingham.co.uk BiBBle lABs tesco www.tesco.co.uk
scHneiDer www.intro2020.co.uk MAXtor www.maxtor.com ccs www.fotolynx.co.uk www.bibblelabs.com tHeoXforDeYe
www.schneideroptics.com sMArtDisk cruMpler BluBoX www.blubox.com www.oxfordeye.co.uk
siGMA printers/scanners www.smartdisk.com www.intro2020.co.uk cArBonite VertustecH
www.sigma-imaging-uk.com cAnon www.canon.co.uk Vosonic www.vosonic.com
epson www.epson.co.uk DoMke www.tiffen.com www.carbonite.com www.vertustech.com
134 For all the very latest printer & scanner reviews, visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com
TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PLEASE PHONE 020 3148 2929 FAX 020 3148 8315
Camera + Case + 4GB Card
£279.99
CALL IN FOR A DEMONSTRATION TODAY
187 Edgware Road,

Marble Arch, K.K. 126 Edgware Road,
Marble Arch,
London W2 1ET
Tel: 020 7723 1436
ELECTRONICS London W2 2DZ
Tel: 020 7402 4592
Fax: 020 7224 8243 www.kkelectronics.co.uk Fax: 020 7723 8359
WILDLIFE WATCHING
SUPPLIES
SUP
PPLIES
ALL YOU NEED TO GET YOU
CLOSER TO THE WILDLIFE
Protect your kit whatever the weather
Wildlife - Landscape - Sports
Wide range of hides,
lens, camera and
scope covers, scrim,
bean bags, clothing
and outdoor
equipment.
ONLINE
SHOP
Tel:
Tel:01884
01884254191
254191 Fax:
Fax:01884
01884250460
250460
WEBSITE PHOTO TIPS

How to photograph wildlife
Feeding stations and hides
infra red trips
For a copy of our brochure contact:
Kevin Keatley, Wildlife Watching Supplies, Tiverton Way
Photos © Kevin Keatley Tiverton Business Park, Tiverton EX16 6TG
Tel: 01884 254191 Fax: 01884 250460
www.
ww ildll if
w. w ild ife w a t c hin
e wa hing pplie
g s u ppli s . co
e s. c o.. u k
ACCESSORIES HOLIDAYS & COURSES
INTERNET DIRECTORY
EARN A LIVING from photography. Become

a qualified professional photographer /
skilled digital editor and printer. Unique
individual tuition. Proven outstanding
successes over many years. Tel Winstan
Ingram FBPA, FRSA, FISTC, ARPS, LCGI.
Accommodation available.
Tel: 020 8459 2543 (anytime)
WHAT DIGITALCAMERA
WORTH
WIN! £380
CONTACT US AT: WDC@IPCMEDIA.COM
WWW.WHATDIGITALCAMERA.COM
A CANON
What Digital Camera, Blue Fin Building,
110 Southwark Street, London SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4797
IXUS 105 IS
AND IKELITE HOUSING WITH CAMERAS UNDERWATER
EDITORIAL
Editor Nigel Atherton
Deputy Editor Mat Gallagher
Art Editor Steven Crabb
News & Features Paul Nuttall
Dive into underwater photography 12.1 MP, 28mm wideangle lens and Technical Writer Mike Lowe
with this incredibly compact and Smart Auto – perfect for landscapes and Staff Writer Matt Tuffin
simple to use combination from group shots as well. Production Editor Jacqueline Porter
Cameras Underwater. All camera controls are fully functional PUBLISHING
The ultra compact housing is high through the housing which is depth Managing Director Paul Williams
Publishing Director Alex Robb
quality, built to last, and backed by rated to 200ft (60m). The kit Includes one Product Photography Alan McFaden
Ikelite’s long-standing reputation for 1cc tube of silicone lubricant, vinyl Senior Marketing Manager Estelle Hicks-Bennett 020 3148 4321
excellence. The IXUS 105 brings a great lanyard, flash diffuser and flash deflector. Online Manager Karen Sheard
Thanks to Michael O’Connell, Matt Golowczynski
combination of ease of use, high image Find Cameras Underwater on Twitter
quality and IXUS design that stands out at @camerasuw or join the conversation ADVERTISING TEAM
Head of Sales Chris Templeman 020 3148 2053
from the crowd. The lightweight on the Facebook group or visit Advertising Manager Lee Morris 020 3148 2517
compact captures stunning detail with www.camerasunderwater.co.uk Business Development Manager Dave Stone 020 3148 2516
Display Sales Executives Julia Spencer 0203 148 2637 and
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN… Simon Gerard 0203 148 2510

Display Ad Production David Smithers 020 3148 2674
Simply visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com/ Copy Chaser Kumu Vithlani 0203 148 2645
Classified Sales Manager Nicola Jago 0203 148 2608
camerasunderwater and answer the following question: Classified Sales Executive Ellie Smith 020 3148 2576
Midlands Office Robert Selvey, 51 Lingfield Drive, Great Wyrley,
Q What is the maximum depth you can take your Walsall, West Midlands, WS6 6LS. Tel: 01922 412720
Inserts Innovator 020 3148 3710
IXUS 105 underwater, with the Ikelite Housing? Repro by Camden Town Typesetters Ltd 0208 523 6700
Printed by Southernprint Ltd
WIN! EXPERIENCE
Covers printed by Wyndeham Impact
Distributed by Marketforce, Blue Fin Building, 110
Southwark Street, London SE1 0SU 020 3148 3333
SEMINARS
SUBSCRIPTIONS & BACK ISSUES
£W3 00
SUBSCRIPTIONS One year rates (12 issues): UK £51.88;
Europe/Eire 89.78 euros; USA $117.14; Rest of the world
2x £150 VOUCHERS FOR ANY TRAINING SEMINAR

£69.83 (all air mail) Enquiries: email ipcsubs@qss-uk.
ORTH OF com or telephone +44 (0)1444 475675
OR DVD LISTED IN THEIR BROCHURE OR ONLINE VOUCHERS TO BACK ISSUES Each £4.50 from: Back Issues Department,
GIVE AWAY PO Box 772, Peterborough PE2 6WJ. The 24-hour number
We are giving 2 lucky readers £150 worth is 01733 385170; http://www.mags-uk.com/ipc
of vouchers towards any training seminar IPC MEDIA
or DVD listed in the Experience Seminars What Digital Camera™ is published by IPC Inspire, part of IPC Media
brochure or online. Choose from a range of Ltd, Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street, London SE1 0SU
IPCMedia reserves the right to use any submissions sent to What
39 courses presented by the UK’s number one Digital Camera in any format or medium, including electronic.
training company on the Canon EOS system.
Everything from getting to know your EOS to
photographing Big Cats face-to-face in Kent.
What Digital Camera™is a trademark of IPC Media Ltd
You an also buy from their series of DVDs, or © 2010 IPC Media Ltd ISSN No. 1366-5324
camera specific training courses. Courses and LEARN HOW TO USE YOUR CANON
training days start from £109; DVDs from £19.99. BOOK ONE OF THEIR AMAZING
PHOTOGRAPHIC SEMINARS ON
LOCATION!
HOW TO CONTRIBUTE
The best images sent to us each month will be published
For more information visit
CHOOSE FROM ONE OF MANY in WDC or on our website gallery and may even win a prize!
www.experience-seminars.co.uk TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE DVDS
or call 01487 772 804. BY EMAIL: Email up to five JPEG images to: wdcgallery
@ipcmedia.com • Min 1800x1200 pixels (approx 15cm x
10cm at 300ppi • Max 3000x2000 pixels, approx 25x17cm
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN… at 300ppi – an OPEN file size of 17MB. • Keep total email
sizes below 5MB. Send on several emails if necessary.
Simply visit www.whatdigitalcamera.com/experience
answer this simple question: BY POST: Send up to 20 JPEGs or TIFFs on a CD to the
address above. • Minimum sizes as above, but there’s no
Q
maximum size limit. • A printed sheet of thumbnails would
How many courses do Experience Seminars offer? be useful for reference. • Please include your details and
caption information as a text document on the CD.
ON THE WEB: Upload your images (in the JPEG format)

Competitions close on 30th November 2010 (UK residents only) to www.whatdigitalcamera.com/galleries (images should
Normal IPC terms and conditions apply, for full details visit: be kept under 1000 pixels width) • Or link to our Flickr site:
www.whatdigitalcamera.com http://www.flickr.com/groups/whatdigitalcamera/

What Digital Camera - November 2010

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

What Digital Camera - November 2010

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

What Digital Camera - November 2010

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

NOVEMBER 2010 ISSUE 167 £3.

THIS MONTH’S TOP FEATURES

OUR FAVOURITE CHOICE

SHOOT competition of a surfer off Chile’s west coast

AUTUMN 08 LIVE VIEW

LANDSCAPES First Looks of the Canon D60, Nikon D7000

31 INDIA HOLIDAY - READER OFFER!

34 ROUGH GUIDE TO: TRIPODS

50 TECHNIQUE: TIME LAPSE PHOTOGRAPHY

53 JOIN OUR HOME STUDY COURSE

86 LENS GROUP TEST

114 MICRO SYSTEM CAMERAS

126 FLASH / TRIPODS

130 BAGS / SOFTWARE / PRINTERS

SOMETHING TO SAY? CONTACT US

View THE CAMERAS OF 2011

CANON EOS 60D

CANON POWERSHOT G12

Nikon’s range… ISO: 100-6400 (25,600 extended)

CONTINUOUS 6fps burst rate

PENTAX K- r PENTAX K-5

sony a560, a580, a33 & a55

Sony has created an entirely new type of

Panasonic gh2 sPecs

LastoLItE trIFLash sync

toshIba sdhc cards

thInk tank Photo bag

We tested the Nikon D3000 and Canon EOS

How do I balance my Are they the

Is there an adaptor for READER’S GEAR REVIEWS

How do I fix wonky horizons? PHOTO-SHARING

To enrol or for more information visit

HELP ME! i want a micro

oPTion 1 oPTion 2 oPTion 3

*At www.jessops.com *At www.warehouseexpress.com *At www.srsmicrosystems.co.uk

Tripods ...and other supports

TRIPOD MONOPOD POD

Quick Release Plates

GORILLAPOD BEANBAGS SUCTION CUPS

Send us your best pictures and you

IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK 37

ABOVE: GULL ROCK AT TWILIGHT

ABOVE: BURTON BRADSTOCK

ABOVE: GULL ROCK NO.1

RIGHT: BOSSINEY STEPS

• 10.1MP, CMOS APS-C 22.2 x 14.8mm sensor

ABOVE: ESCAPING THE RAIN

TOP LEFT: FISHING AT SUNSET

IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWW.MANFROTTO.CO.UK 4

Home Tel No: (inc. area code)

Plus – WIN one of three holidays

Sort Code: Account No:

The most noticeable facet of an autumnal scene

is deer, as they have recently lost the fur from

KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN

a sharper sho t and

whereabouts in your image you focus: your depth

Niall Benvie (all three images)

shutter speed and therefore the

At www.jessops.com At www.warehouseexpress.com *At www.srsmicrosystems.co.uk