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Connectivity
Software
The included HP Photosmart Premier program has plenty of viewing, editing, printing, and sharing options, which may help or hinder the target audience of beginning users. Even simply uploading the photos, users are faced with three direct choices: Quick Print, sharing through Snapfish.com, or transferring photos to the computer. For users who enjoy complete control, the software offers lots of options. For those who hate choices, the options are too many. The software could end up being a decision-maker’s worst nightmare with its overwhelming number of options.
Once users choose to transfer images from the camera to their computer, users have 6 main options: View, Edit, Print, Create, Share, and an interesting Backup feature for saving images to CD. The tiny folder tab headings are located on the top of the interface and could be improved upon with larger tabs. Each heading has a plethora of subcategories to choose from.
In View, users can preview their images as moderately sized thumbnails in a complete view, selected folders, or recently used images, among other choices. In addition, there is a linear filmstrip on the bottom the screen. Users can also view image information such as aperture and ISO, as well as slideshows. Many viewing options overlap; this section would have been improved with only a few basic choices.
Users encounter the same multiple choice problem when editing. Instead of all editing functions under one heading, users must oscillate between Basic and Advanced options, which contain choices within choices. Most editing tools show live previews that help the user decide. Finally when users edit, they must select to accept or cancel each change, making the editing process longer than need be. But for organizational types who like complete control, the software might be appealing.
Users again have a healthy number of choices for printing, ranging from images 2 x 2 inches to a full 8 x 10. There are various print layouts for at-home printing. Not surprisingly, there is also a direct option for sending photos to the HP-owned Snapfish for sharing and printing. Users can also print proof sheets for still photos and the first scene of video clips.
For the creative type, the software also has eight Create options to make calendars, flyers, greeting cards, and photo gifts through Snapfish.
Jacks, Ports, Plugs
The HP Photosmart M527 has two side ports: a USB port with an included cord to transfer images and a power adapter port that does not include a connecting cord. Hidden underneath a plastic door, the ports are protected from debris.
For users looking to view their photos on their TV, they will have to buy an additional HP M-series 6220 digital camera dock, not included in the package. The M-series dock recharges batteries, transfers photos to a desktop, and allows connection to view images on the TV. The optional dock is $39.99.
Direct Print Options
Like most point-and-shoots, the M527 has direct printing capabilities. The camera is compatible with PictBridge printers, including the HP-recommended 4 x 6 print compact Photosmart 335 printer and the 8-ink color HP Photosmart 8450.
The camera has a convenient designated button on the top of the camera to access the Photosmart Express menu. Although the function will not directly send photos to print since it lacks wi-fi capabilities, the function does tag which photos you want to print before connecting to a printer. Users can select up to 99 copies of an image. Once the camera is placed on an optional dock, users can send their photos to automatically print or share online.
Battery
The HP Photosmart M527 takes two AA alkaline batteries (included), NiMH, or photo Li batteries. Unfortunately the camera does not come with the optional M-series Photosmart 6220 dock which recharges the batteries. For an added $39.99, users can recharge the batteries on a dock.
For vacationers without access to docks or electrical outlets, the AA batteries can be found at any convenience store and are a good choice. Users can take up to 180 shots on alkaline, 380 shots on NiMH, and 600 shots on Li batteries, according to the HP spec sheet.
Memory
The Photosmart M527 has 16MB of internal memory. The camera is compatible with SD cards, although some newer cameras now take higher memory storage SDHC cards.
Other Features
Sound recorder – Users can record sound, separately from the video function. The M527 can record audio to be attached to a still image. Users should be mindful to turn off camera button sounds before recording audio.
Snapfish – The HP-owned online sharing site Snapfish is readily available for connection throughout Photosmart Premier software. Users can share images online or create photo gifts using the software and Snapfish connection.
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