Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review

Sony decided to up the ante this year and transform their line, entering the “ultra zoom” race with the release of a long-lens Cyber-shot digital camera. The resulting 5.1 megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 has a 12x optical zoom lens, equating to a 36-420mm variable focal range (35mm format), with image stabilization and conversion lens compatibility. The Sony H1 is designed for photography enthusiasts who want increased performance, flashier features, and longer lasting battery power in a compact camera body. The Cyber-shot H1 will be available for retail purchase in June 2005 for $499.95 (USD).
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Connectivity
Software — The H1 comes with the Cyber-shot Life tutorial, as well as software for Windows or Macintosh. For Windows, users receive the Sony Picture Package CD-ROM. For a Mac, users get the Pixela ImageMixer VCD2 software.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs — NiMH rechargeable batteries are included with the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1; the batteries load into the bottom of the camera. On the side of the camera is a door to the A/V-out and USB jacks. The A/V-out jack is NTSC or PAL selectable; the other jack accepts USB 2.0 cables.

Direct Print Options — The Sony H1 is PictBridge compatible. The in-camera print menu lets users choose the quantity of prints, as well select an index or dated print.

Memory
Sony’s new crop of digital cameras include internal memory; the H1 comes with 32 MB of built-in storage. There is also a slot for Memory Stick or Memory Stick Pro cards up to 2 GB. The inclusion of internal memory adds to the inclination to group the H1 in with the popular SLR-shaped EasyShare models, but if it works for Kodak…

Other Features
Live Histograms — The H1 can display real-time histograms, which aid users in capturing optimal light.

Self-Timer — There is an included 10-second self-timer on the Sony H1.

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