Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review

Oct 26, 2004 - By James Murray
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 is one of the more economically priced Cyber-shot models, retailing for around US $179.95. Containing a surprisingly large 1/2.7 inch, 4 MP CCD, this model is armed to surpass most similarly priced models with higher image quality. However, this camera is only capable of 3x digital zoom, with absolutely no optical zoom capability. With limited custom control settings available, the Cyber-shot P41 is clearly made for the point-and-shoot consumer. The focus is predominately Auto based, with distance settings available through the on-screen menu. The camera's compact shape, rounded corners and slight weight make it easy to transport within the user's pocket. The camera includes direct print capabilities, a 1.5 inch LCD and a real image optical viewfinder. The Cyber-shot P41 can shoot in 5 still image settings, with an additional three audio/video settings capable of shooting video at up to 30 fps.
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Viewfinder (3.5)
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 comes equipped with a real image optical viewfinder, located on the back of the camera body, directly above the LCD screen. It is exceptionally undersized and misplaced, forcing this reviewer to spend more time cleaning the LCD screen of my face sweat than actually using the viewfinder. Since zoom and other alterations to the image are not registered within the viewfinder, it is more convenient to use the LCD screen.

LCD Screen (5.5)
Since the included viewfinder is impractical for at least continuous usage, the user is directed to rely on the LCD screen for both composing and viewing images. Therefore, it is necessary to have adequate visibility and range in the camera's LCD monitor. On the DSC-P41, there is a decent range of motion available prior to solarization and discoloration of the onscreen image; however, the fact that the screen is embedded in the camera body, necessitates viewing images straight on. This model is equipped with a 1.5-inch 280 x 240 pixel TFT screen. While this is a decent size screen for some point-and-shoot cameras, it is diminished from the rest of the Cyber-shot series. The resolution has also been sacrificed slightly, providing the user with an adequate, but not exceptional viewing screen.

Flash (7.5)
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 comes equipped with an in-camera flash, mounted in the central area of the camera's front face. It is neatly positioned away from marauding fingers and the edge of the camera. It is possible to control the flash with the up arrow on the four-way controller. When the camera is in normal still mode, the user can choose between Auto, Forced Flash, Slow Synchro, or No Flash. When the mode is decided, the user can then enter the onscreen LCD menu and choose the level of flash via the Menu subsection labeled Flash +-. This is perhaps the hidden gem on the DSC-P41 and should be seen by the user as an advanced opportunity to shape the image.

Zoom Lens (2.0)
The major drawback with the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 is the lack of any optical zoom option, forcing the user to instead rely on a fixed focal length image if full quality is essential. There is a 3x digital zoom included on the camera; however, the user will have to sacrifice quality each time a closer viewing perspective is desired. Many other camera models within the same price range, MP range, and size range all come equipped with optical zoom as well as digital zoom, providing the user an opportunity to zoom in on a scene without sacrificing the image quality. As you may or may not be aware of, digital zoom is a means of enlarging the pixels compositing the image and thus blowing up the view. Each time digital zoom is engaged, there is severe degradation of quality and the image becomes more distorted. This is a MAJOR drawback to the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P41 and for this reason alone, I would suggest at least looking into other models. While the DSC-P41 will grant the user clear imagery, it will have to be at a fixed focal length because once the zoom is utilized, the camera's excellent quality is severely diminished.
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