| Likes |
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- Thin build is a positive departure from thicker framed models previously released by HP
- Image Advice and Image Information helpfully inform novice point-and-shoot users how to improve image quality
- Simple menu navigation will reduce time spent within camera controls
|
| Dislikes |
|
- On/Off button is ludicrously undersized, making use awkward and difficult
- Poor positioning of flash
- Inability to actually control settings encountered within Design Gallery
- Lack of an included printer dock
|
Conclusion
The HP Photosmart R725 is a small and easily portable camera for both beginning and casual point-and-shoot enthusiasts. The menu structures are easy to navigate, with a plethora of partial and full text options provided with both live view and example thumbnails. The inclusion of an automatic red-eye reduction feature is handy. The camera does move somewhat beyond sheer Auto mode, providing both custom image presets and manual control over settings like Bracketed Exposure, Exposure Compensation, Flash, Metering, and other options.
The Design Gallery is both a success and a failure. It provides some feasible and interesting options like Kaleidoscope, but also includes an aggravating border mode that doesn’t let users dictate color. Although this feature isn’t going to satisfy those already familiar and comfortable with Photoshop, these settings will most likely appeal to users who want a postproduction experience without expending much effort.
The lack of a cabled or WiFi printer dock is unfortunate; the user will however be able to upload photos via the USB port (thought it's only USB 1.0). Users of the HP camera R-series can also save their images and digital video/audio clips to Snapfish, a website which allows users to order prints, and share images with approved members.
All in all, the HP Photosmart R725 provides some interesting additions to the point-and-shoot marketplace, and it definitely improves upon HP models of the past few years. Whether or not these cameras will result in a real challenge to the emerging EasyShare empire will be decided with further testing and examination.
