Picture Quality / Size Options (7.0)
The Sony W30 captures JPEG images in either Fine or Standard compression. The compression can be chosen from the recording menu, but the image sizes themselves must be selected from the designated button at the bottom of the camera (it doubles as a delete button in the playback mode). The following sizes appear: 16:9, VGA, 2M, 3M, 3:2, and 6M. This menu shows that there is a variety of shooting formats – 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9. With the latter, users can flaunt their photos on the widescreen. The 3:2 mode captures pictures perfectly cropped for 4 x 6-inch prints and the remaining image sizes are captured in standard 4:3.
When users scroll through the image size options, the in-camera function guide provides some handy info. It displays how large users can print with each image size and how many pictures they can take on the loaded card or internal memory. For example, when the full resolution choice is selected, the function guide reads: “Up to A4/8 x 10” print. Appx. Image capacity xx pics.” This is handy for users just getting the hang of digital photography and memory; this is perfect for the W30’s audience.
Picture Effects Mode (7.0)
A few picture effects are possible via the recording menu. Normal, Natural, Rich, Sepia, and Black & White are all available with live views. We found that Natural makes the photo look bland, while the Rich oversaturates colors, and the Black & White and Sepia modes both look reasonably good for an in-camera effect. If, for some reason, users want to tweak the contrast anyway, the option is in the recording menu.. All of these effects are only accessible before taking the pictures; they cannot be added afterwards.
