Auto Mode
The auto mode is represented by a green camera on the mode dial. Once selected, users need only to point, zoom, and shoot. This mode is restrictive, but that’s how it is supposed to be. The Program Auto mode gives users a step toward manual functionality with access to options in the menus. During the time I spent with the S90, the camera’s crucial automatic functions were all rendered instantly with no perceivable lag - a critical element for all fully automatic users. In automatic mode, the Cyber-shot S90 will handle the sensitivity rating (ISO), focus, exposure and metering controls for the user.

Movie Mode
Unfortunately, Cyber-shot models often have hidden strings attached. Like fishing lines, these threads are nearly imperceptible at first glance; many of these models offer strong performance, an abundance of features, and a favorable design, but potential consumers beware: there are stipulations. For instance, many models in the new Cyber-shot crop of cameras offer an advanced 30fps movie mode feature – a feature appealing more and more to digital camera consumers; however, to utilize the movie mode on the Cyber-shot S90 at full capability, users will have to purchase the optional MemoryStick Pro, which offers sizes from 256 MB to 2 GB (ranging from $60 – $699 on Sony Style). Only when this memory card is used will the S90 record at full VGA resolution at a rate of 30 frames per second. Without that card, users can only use the MPEG Standard mode of 16 frame-per-second VGA or the Video Mail mode. The latter shoots 8 frames per second at 160 x 112 pixels. This drops an advanced movie mode to a very basic, video recording feature, requiring almost an additional third of the price to be applied for full video capabilities. Although this breaks no defined code of ethics, one has to question the value of the camera when additional parts are required for opitimal performance.

Fortunately, the S90 does include a built-in microphone and speaker, enabling audio recording and playback. The length of video clips is only limited by the capacity of the memory card - also enticing consumers to purchase a MemoryStick Pro card.

Drive / Burst Mode
The S90 has a weak burst mode, which is compounded by the camera’s lack of a strong action scene mode. Capturing 0.7 frames per second at full resolution, the S90 can shoot about 4 pictures before it has to stop and write to the card. In the 640 x 480 resolution, the camera can shoot at the same speed for up to 30 consecutive shots. Considering the slow burst mode, the Cyber-shot S90 would not make a good camera for shooting sports or analyzing golf swings.

Playback Mode
Along with the basic postproduction editing options encased within the S90’s playback mode, all basic playback options are also represented; users can choose to display still images in single frames or index pages, as well as play movies with sound through the S90’s built-in speaker. The Playback menu is as follows: Protect, DPOF, Print, Slide, Resize, Rotate, Divide, and Setup. These essential features keep the S90 competitive with other point-and-shoot models while the in-camera editing alternatives definitely distinguish the S90 from the rest of the pack.

Custom Image Presets
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S90 has seven preset scene modes, including the following: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, and Candle. The Soft Snap setting is similar to a Portrait scene mode on other models. It is represented by a Portrait or face icon on the mode dial. The only common scene mode that seems to be missing is an action or sports mode; most other digital cameras have this basic mode to capture rapid movements and stop motion. Otherwise, point-and-shooters' needs are well represented on the S90.

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