Sunday, October 5, 2014
Owls Family Design Protective Decal Skin Sticker (Matte Satin Coating) for Kodak PlaySport Zx5 HD W
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Lorex Digital Wireless Outdoor Security Camera with Audio LW2220
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I have used several different wireless cameras in the past. This particular model is the best one so far. I have 2 of these cameras working flawlessly outside of my home. I have tried using similar cameras, the Lw2110 for instance, this is the best one. It costs twice as much as the Lw2110 but it actually works. I have them both going through a stucco wall and 2 interior walls and the reception is amazing. The cameras are about 80 feet from the DVR. Night vision is very clear and day vision is great, colors are great as well.Read Best Reviews of Lorex Digital Wireless Outdoor Security Camera with Audio LW2220 Here
I wont say this is the best camera out there, but picture quality is good. Nothing much more to say concerning a camera like this other than it is a solid product.Want Lorex Digital Wireless Outdoor Security Camera with Audio LW2220 Discount?
working good, I use about 75 feet in my control room picture is clear No distortion My operator happy with it.Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Moultrie D55-IR Game Spy 5 Megapixel Digital Infrared Game Camera (Camo)
That being said, the camera has worked perfectly for my needs. It is easy to set up; the quick start guide steps you through setting up the time, photo/video, photo resolution, number of shots per trigger, and period between triggers. It has a nice, long adjustable strap for placing around trees, fence posts, etc. The camera's heavy-duty case is also lockable, as long as the lock has a small bar. I used a small padlock which is locked to a cable bike lock and the camera. At one feeding station location, the camera was vandalized by kids who tried unsuccessfully to remove the camera; failing at that, they tried to smash the lens. They managed to scratch the plastic lens shield, but the camera still takes good photos despite the scratches. The plastic covering of the digital info display was cracked open as well, but the camera still functions perfectly.
The night-vision works very well. I have placed the camera at a maximum of 3 feet from the feeding station, and can easily tell on the night photos whether a cat is black, gray, white, or tabby. The camera also has an aim feature that allows you to determine where the lens is aimed for optimal placement.
I was also concerned at first, because I'd heard that some of the game cameras won't detect smaller animals like cats. This camera has captured 7 different cats at 3 feeding station locations (none of them was my cat, sadly), as well as people walking by, crows, dogs, and bushes waving in the wind. I imagine that, if I were a hunter, I would find this to be a very useful tool for spotting game. I also am favorably impressed by the battery life. This camera has been running more or less constantly for 2 weeks straight on 6 C-cells, and the battery life indicator is at 89%. At this rate, I don't anticipate needing to replace the batteries for a couple of months. If I were placing this out in the bush, I would be able to rely on it staying on for quite a long time without needing to be babysat; I think the SD card would fill up before the battery ran out.
I give it 4 stars because there is no on-board memory, and it requires an SD card in order to operate. Also, there's no onboard display, so if you were a hunter, you'd either need to take the SD card all the way home to review the photos, or take your laptop out to the bush with a card reader. Not ideal. I have no idea if the photos taken by the Moultrie would show on another digital camera's display or not; I know other game cameras have problems with this kind of cross-compatibility. The camera does have a USB out feature, but that apparently only works for PCs, and I'm a Mac user.This camera is outstanding, definitely 5 stars. I highly recommend it. I have several different cameras-this one is far superior to the others. The key with any camera is to not face it East because off morning sun unless you are in Pine trees or shaded area. It is good to face it where a trail comes toward it. The battery life is amazing, and the fast triggering exceptional. I had a large buck rub and scrape--I positioned camera about 20' from rub and the camera took 21 pictures of the buck crystal clear at night-great photographic quality. Surprisingly the flash had no affect on him as far as scaring him. Daytime photos are better than my other more expensive cameras. Programing the Moultrie couldn't be easier. I couldn't be happier with this camera. I also bought lock box for it and purchased a heavy chain and lock. No need to donate great camera to the wood's fairy. Don't hesitate buy Moultrie, buy the best.
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This is my third Moultrie camera. All three are in the woods taking pictures of deer as I write. I purchased the D-55IR early in October and and has been in the woods for around 4 weeks. Still running on original batteries and taking great pictures. What I like about all my Moultrie cameras is that you can set them up without the manual. As far as not seeing the pictures in the woods, take your point and shoot camera with you. You can zoom in on the pictures to see whats on them. Sometimes I exchange the cards before I hunt and look at them while I'm in the stand. I am looking at buying a couple more of the D-55IR just so I don't have to buy three different si zes of batteries that my other cameras use.Nov. 2011 update
I told my coworker how much I liked the D55IR and he bought two. He took these to the U.P. (Michigan). one camera took some nigh time photos and the other would not take any. He set the two next to each other, deer tracks in the snow and all the bait gone but no pictures. He asked me to check them out so I put them behind my house with my camera (now have three DIR55's and all work great) and the first one of his had few night time pictures 50 total, his second had 200 pictures with night time photos and mine had 500. I am going to tell him to send them back for repair.
Read Best Reviews of Moultrie D55-IR Game Spy 5 Megapixel Digital Infrared Game Camera (Camo) Here
This item was purchased brand new and didn't work right from the box. The directions were followed too the letter with no results. The company's customer service is non-existent. Attempted 7 phone calls and was put on hold each time for up to 40 minutes. Attempted several emails using their website with no response or results. The warranty is equally worthless because you have to contact their customer service department for their reimbursement procedures. My advice save your money and purchase another product. Moultrie Gamespy 5 Megapixel Digital Infrared Game CameraWant Moultrie D55-IR Game Spy 5 Megapixel Digital Infrared Game Camera (Camo) Discount?
Bought the camera when something killed my Tom turkey. The critter had drug the carcass to a corner of the orchard and covered it with leaves. I knew it would be back. I set up the camera, it was easy to do, the instructions are easy to understand. No pictures the first night, except close-ups of me positioning the camera. The next night the critter came back, uncovered the carcass and had a feast. But not one picture!I spent an hour during the next day trying to figure it out. Found out it has a detection limit of about 15 feet (does not mention that in the instructions). I had it set up about 25' from the carcass. The package says a 50' flash, big deal if it does not sense movement beyond 15'!!!
I will fool around with it a bit more but as it stands today I am sorely disappointed. I do not recommend this camera.
Monday, August 4, 2014
Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)
Just like all its (DSLR) siblings, the D40 powers on instantly and take pictures with almost no shutter lag which are the major advantages of a DSLR over a point and shoot camera. In addition to the P,S,A,M mode, the picture quality of the auto settings (auto, child mode, landscape etc) are also very good. With 2.5 frames per second you can capture movement progress in sports like football, basketball, baseball etc. Also great to photograph your family or child (child mode). The D40 is a great all around camera.
Some notable new features:
1. Auto (no flash) mode. Without this mode the flash will pop-up (on all other pre-programmed mode) even when you don't want to use flash (which can be annoying). The internal flash will not pop up automatically with the P,S,A,M settings.
2. In camera editing capability such as black and white, sepia and some filter effects etc. While sounds gimmicky, these features are useful especially for those who doesn't have Adobe Photoshop (or other image editing software).
To date, D40 is the smallest and lightest among all the Nikon DSLR (even smaller than the Canon Rebel XT/XTi, however the D40 is more ergonomics). I believe that choosing a camera that fits comfortably with your hands is important. Therefore, I recommend people to test the camera before buying (even if you want to buy online, please do go to a physical store and test the camera first whenever possible).
The D40 has only 3 (horizontal) autofocus point (5 for D50 and 11 for D80). If you know "The Rule of Thirds", the additional AF points above and below the center focus point (available in D50 and D80) are handy to help create the horizontal third line. However, the 3 horizontal AF point in D40 is still helpful to create the vertical third line. Also one can focus with the middle AF point and after the focus is lock then move the frame upwards/downwards to create the horizontal third line. Just make sure the exposure level is still accurate when you move the frame after you lock the focus.
About the 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens: A good lens producing sharp photos (though not a very fast lens). Also decent for close-up/macro photography. Lens uses internal focus technology and focusing operation is silent. A very decent kit lens.
Lens compatibility: Notice that with D40, autofocus function will not work for non AF-S/AF-I lens. If you already have non AF-S/AF-I Nikon lenses and want a backup or replacement camera, you will be better off buying D50, D70s or D80. If you buy the D40, it will be convenient to stick with AF-S and AF-I type lenses. I'm not sure why Nikon choose this route for the D40 (whether to enable smaller size camera or from now on Nikon will only make AF-S lens compatible camera). There are a lot of good Nikon AF-S lenses (price range added: low, medium, high) that are fully compatible with the D40 such as:
Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX (L)
Nikon 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G ED IF AF-S DX (L)
Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX (L)
Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S DX VR (M)
Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX VR (L)
Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR (M)
Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF AF-S DX (M)
Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX (H)
Nikon 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR (H)
Nikon 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro (M)
And several other expensive prime tele/zoom lens like 200-400mm, 300m, 400mm, 500mm, 600mm.
High priced lens ($1000+) are usually pro level lens which usually have better construction, faster (f-stop), and produce better quality picture. However, often times, lower price lens will serve your needs just fine. I think it is important to know what you want to use the camera for before deciding which camera and lens to buy.
Image quality of the D40 is very good which is #1 factor that I look for in a digital camera.
Here are the pros and cons of the D40 in my opinion:
Pros:
1. Nice out of the camera result picture quality
2. Affordable price
3. Compact size and light weight
4. Large and bright 2.5 inch LCD
5. 2.5 frames per second
6. B/W, Sepia, several more in-camera editing features.
7. Instant power on, fast autofocus and no shutter lag
8. Noise is acceptable at high ISO settings. Auto ISO settings available.
9. Great 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens.
10. Great battery life (400+ on a single charge. 1000+ if flash is not used).
11. Auto (flash off) mode available
12. 1/500 flash sync
Cons:
1. No direct button to change QUAL, WB and ISO settings
2. Grip comfortably but might be a bit too small for some people
3. No top LCD and no front command dial
4. Autofocus will not work with non AF-S or non AF-I lenses (such as the 70-300m G and 50mm f/1.8D lens)
5. No AF/MF switch (have to use the switch on the lens)
6. Only 3 autofocus point
7. 6 Megapixel (More Megapixel needed to print larger than 12 X 18 at 300 dpi)
8. No night landscape mode in pre-programmed settings
9. No in camera image stabilization (like Sony and Pentax) but Nikon has lenses with it (VR).
10. No depth-of-field preview button
In conclusion, the D40 is perfect for those who want high quality pictures, more control (than a point and shoot camera), and have a DSLR experience (instant power on and no shutter lag), without having to carry a bulky camera. And unless you are shooting sports/actions professionaly (which faster focusing processor, faster frames per second and larger memory buffer might be needed), the D40 is pretty much all you will need.
Happy Photographing!
Sidarta TanuThe x2 is actually the second D40 I have purchased. The first one was for my personal use and after my daughter used it for some horse training pictures she was hooked also. The camera makes it easy to take professional looking shots and working with horses and riders fast focusing is a must and this camera delivers .
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It's hard to believe after nearly six years, anyone would consider using a six megapixel DSLR camera. While six meg will still provide a fully usable image on even the largest computer monitors, this camera still outperforms modern point and shoots with more than double the pixels. That's because there's more to imaging than how many pixels there are. Things like how much noise reduction the electronics have, and how well Nikon lenses reproduce a sharp, distortion free image.Used D40 bodies can be purchased for 200 dollars, making this a better choice than any 200 dollar point and shoot, regardless of pixel count. The D40 is a purely still camera with no video. It's straightforward simple menu allows dozens of choices from fully manual to fully automatic, with dozens of selections in between. The ASA ranges from 200 to 3200, and the D40 is one of the few cameras of this vintage that can use SDHC cards up to 32 Gig.
The D40 benefits from the ability to use of most of the Nikon lenses and automatic flash units. It's an easy to use, rock solid workhorse that still produces cleaner images in low light than most of today's point and shoots.
Read Best Reviews of Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only) Here
This little Nikon classic is compact, light and packed with all the tools you need to get you started in the world of digital photography. It was the gold standard entry-level DSLR of its time, a few years back, and it remains a classic today because of its image quality, size, ease of use, and pro-level flash-sync.If you can get one used under $300.00, you can't go wrong =)
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I love the feel of this camera in my hand. I used one for years before it took a swim. Then I bought a higher end camera. Although I enjoy the bells and whistles on the 5000, I enjoy the feel of the D40 in my hand. It is part of me and takes wonderful pictures. I bought it second hand, as a back up, and to take on paddling trips, but it's my favorite.Monday, April 14, 2014
Canon EOS Rebel T3i 18.0 MP Digital SLR Camera Body & EF-S 18-55mm IS II Lens with 75-300mm III
Great package deal, with high quality products.This is more than I expected, somehow I thought the bag and tripod where going to be too small for the camera, but everything is perfect and the camera is what I had dreamed a camera should be.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Cmple - 6FT Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 1080p HDTV LCD Pink
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Saturday, February 1, 2014
Sony MVCFD100 FD Mavica 1.2MP Digital Still Camera w/ 3x OPtical Zoom
Overall the camera is very nice, the superfine resolution is great. But it eats floppys so get a 64 or 128 mb memory stick.
Also be sure to get another battery pack... No sound on the movies, but its not ment to be a camcorder. Included are lens cover, shoulder strap, video out cable, a/c adapter & charger & USB cable....Well, thought it was time for me to get with the times so I finally got myself a digital camera. I've always wanted one, but just really never had the money for one. I was able to get my hands on the Sony MVC-FD100 Digital Camera a couple of weeks ago, and I can say that I am very pleased with it.
You don't have to be a computer wiz to know how to operate it, which is one of the best qualities. It is VERY easy to use and I seriously think that anyone can learn to use it in a matter of minutes. It's a little bigger than most cameras, but this is because it allows you to save pictures to a floppy disk (which means that you really never have to hook up the camera to your PC to view or share your pictures). You can also use memory sticks as well (they're expensive, but can hold lots of memory and is more convenient than switching floppies non-stop).
There's a lot of neat things you can do with the camera. You can zoom in and out with ease, change the effects to make your pictures look different, and you can make short MPEG videos (with no audio). All of these features are very easy to use and are easy to learn.
A main drawback to this digital camera is the price. It is rather costly, but I think it's worth it. If this seems to be out of your price range then you should look at some others. There are plenty of others that are less expensive.
All in all, I am very pleased with the Sony MVC-FD100 Digital Camera. It's easy to use and is very convenient. If you're looking for a high quality digital camera that can be operated by just about anyone, then I highly recommend that you check this one out.
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There was a little piece of advice I always gave people upon choosing their first digital camera, that being: 1)Take the megapixel count you are interested in, and 2)Multiply it by 100 3)If you spend within 50 dollars of that, you have basically gotten a good deal. If you pay less, you are probably missing some fundamental feature (a zoom is often the first thing to go) and if you pay more, you are getting more than you probably wanted (some special lens made from a glass that NASA uses to make the microwaves on the shuttle or something like that). With the Mavica FD series, the extra 100 or 200 dollars is going to its method of storing pictures, on simple, inexpensive floppy disks.If that still does not seem to justify the price, consider this: a floppy disk drive runs anywhere from 40 to 60 dollars, now take that drive and stick it on the back of a digital camera (thus making it self-powered).
And then there is the media itself: Smartmedia and CompactFlash cards are down in price (averaging less than a dollar per megabyte) and are available in sizes in the giga-range. That all seems fine and dandy, until you consider the phrase "don't put all your eggs in one basket." The cards are like any other data storage media, and thus prone to corruption and electromagnetic interference. So, because of a simple error in the camera (it is a computer like any other, and thus prone to all the same weaknesses), a whole 64+ megabytes of memories can be lost forever. And, to add insult to injury, that card was really expensive! Meanwhile, a box of 40+ floppy disks (at about 1.44MB per disc) costs a little less than 10 dollars. Now get out your calculators....Okay....PENCILS DOW--I MEAN, CALCULATORS DOWN!
Of course, the problem with floppy disks is that there are so many of them that lugging them around your vacation spot can be a complete pain. Fortunately, unlike the FD-75, you have the option of using Memory Sticks. In fact, if you take someone's picture on the MemStick, but want to give them one of the photos, simply insert a floppy disk and copy (just like in a computer) the picture to the floppy and give them that disk. Beats making them wait for a print.
Also, Sony's sensibility guided them toward making the FD Mavicas out of HandyCam parts, meaning that some of the accessories you got for/with your Handycam (if you have one)can be used with the mavica, namely the battery (that little crummy one that came with it that you have probably not used since you got that even better 8-hour one!) which is exactly the same as the battery that comes with the FD! So, out of the box, you have doubled the battery life of the camera. Also, the camera has a 37mm filter thread, which allows you to attach neat accessories like color filters and fisheye lenses.
Final word: a little pricey and not much for resolution, but for Handycam owners, it is a new lease on life for those old batteries!
Read Best Reviews of Sony MVCFD100 FD Mavica 1.2MP Digital Still Camera w/ 3x OPtical Zoom Here
I have purchased this particular camera due to its ability to record images to the floppy disk. I traveled across the country by bicycle and uploaded pictures from public libraries along the way, where computers would not allow to install software and have USB port, but always had available floppy drives. This worked very well!The camera showed amazing performance in representing the colors in its pictures. Focus was always good, images were clear and beautiful. Macro mode worked extremely well. Camera is reliable and battery life is superb.
With 1.3 Mega Pixels, images are perfect for computer use or make print outs of standard size.
Shutter delay makes it difficult to shot moving objects unless you are used to guessing the right moment. Sensitivity in dark conditions was very low, on automatic mode at least. I don't know if adjusting white balance or exposure compensation would improve the sensitivity. I always found automatically taken pictures to be of best quality.
If there is a need to use the MAJOR feature of the Sony MVC FD 100 function floppy drive, then this is the excellent choice.
FD 200 that replaced 100 in 2003 offers 2.0 Mega Pixels Matrix with identical features.
Here are few sample pictures taken with this camera:
All in all, this camera provided exceptional service and I recommend it to anyone that needs to use its ability to save images on floppy disks.
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I bought my Mavica as my first digital camera and have never been disappointed with it. It has travelled everywhere with me and has taken many awesome pictures. It was very easy to learn to use and the manual for it is well written and understandable.I'm just now getting around to getting a memory stick for it so that I can record my photos as TIFFs. I suspect that after I use that, I will love it even more.
I have learned everything that I know about digital photography with my Mavica by my side. I learned how to set white balance, ISO speed, and spot metering easily and quickly. I would love to have a camera with a bigger resolution and a smaller size, but my Mavica takes such beautiful pictures that I'm not going to replace it.
I use it mostly to take pictures of my daughter and her classmates. The individual pictures taken indoors in UV light with a flash are amazing. In fact, after her class Christmas party (2003) they were so good that I printed them onto photo fabric and made the teacher a scarf with pictures of the children.
I love this camera and have been VERY happy with it. I would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
Friday, December 20, 2013
JVC GZHM960BUS Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom and 3.5-Inch LCD Screen (Black)
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Thursday, November 14, 2013
Lorex LIVE Wireless Security Cameras (White)
I am returning it and will try another brand.when we found out we were having twins, we had a hard time finding a solution for a video baby monitor, times 2 (can you say, expensive?!)! we decided instead to find an affordable security set that came with two cameras. we chose the lorex live wireless cams and they have been PERFECT! we love the easy setup and simplicity of moving the receiver from room to room when needed. the only small disappointment is the sound, a little crackly/staticy, but we have a traditional baby monitor as well (old school walkie-talkie style) and just turn the volume down on the tv and use the other monitor for sound. we turn to the "twin channel" as i like to call it every night before bed, so we don't have to disturb them by going into their room. it has been so helpful for peace of mind and a quick check when they are napping, and the price is AWESOME for how much we've used it. the video quality is also great, MUCH better than most actual "baby" video monitors on the market. the night vision is super crisp as well -which is great for watching them sleep at night. overall i would definitely recommend this product, and as always, amazon shipped fast and cheap and delivered another great product!
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These cameras arrived when I expected them to, but they are not worth the money. I set them up, and firstly, they don't reach very far before they're overcome with static and the batteries are drained within minutes.Read Best Reviews of Lorex LIVE Wireless Security Cameras (White) Here
This item is a good low cost method of providing closet circuit observation. Downside is that the range between the camera and the receiver is limited and receiver often needs to be moved and antenna adjusted to get decent picture.I have looked at a few surveillance systems to monitor our twins. You can't do better than this system unless you want to spend a whole lot more. Number one thing to consider, do you need a perfect picture? If you do, go with a corded unit or digital. One is hard to set up and one is costly. Number 2 thing to remember, WIFI runs on 2.4gh. If you get a camera with a 2.4gh you will HATE it if you have wifi yourself, or around you! Trust me on this one, I tried one. If it is 2.4gh DIGITAL it will work, but only digital. I noticed most wireless camera systems are 2.4gh (not digital), so they are all junk for the common user (there are 7 wifi routers in my range). We have had this unit in use for 1.5 years and never had an issue outside of some intermittent static. This Lorex unit runs off a 900mhz. Plugs into video and one audio rca jack. The night vision is ok in total darkness and great with a little light. I feel that if the other negative reviewers purchased the cameras in competition with this unit (as I did) they would know this is a great value and there are always flaws with wireless. When using both cameras it shows each pic for about 2 seconds. I purchased this LW1002W under $100.Monday, August 12, 2013
Premium Grade (6 Foot) HDMI to Mini HDMI Cable replacement
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I'm sure there's a "serious videophile" who'll claim to see some difference on his TV when using solid gold, jewel encrusted cables sheethed in the braided hairs of the firstborn daughters of a small town outside Vienna, but they're lying. HDMI carries a digital signal which is not subject to "noise" or signal degredation like analog cables. This cable works very well for me and is well constructed. Most importantly, it fits my Canon Vixia HF200--the sole reason I bought it.Read Best Reviews of Premium Grade (6 Foot) HDMI to Mini HDMI Cable replacement Here
The cable works as advertised and the price is unbeatable. I am not using it for a camcorder but for a canon elph camera with HDMI out. The photos and videos look greatWant Premium Grade (6 Foot) HDMI to Mini HDMI Cable replacement Discount?
I'm using this to view pictures and video from my "point and shoot" camera. The cable is very good for short money, the pictures in HD through the HDMI cable are wonderful.Friday, July 19, 2013
Wireless Infrared Motion Night Vision Network Color Camera w/Pan & Tilt Control, Microphone
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Sharp VLZ7U MiniDV CCD Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, Memory Slot and 8MB Card
It has tons of features and options, more than I will probably use. The manual provided is extremely helpful in guiding you through the many features. I was recording within 10 minutes of opening the box.
I have read negative reviews regarding the on screen menus, the manual, still images; let me just say that I have not had any problems with any of those. I find the menu EASY to navigate. And the manual explains everything. I read it from front to back without ANY confusion. It does not have an index in the back, but it has a table of contents at the beginning if you'd rather just browse. I have not seen a CAMCORDER that has better still images than this one. I have seen better pictures from a digital CAMERA. I suspect some people may not have the patience, or interest, in learning how to utilize all of the features that may yield the best quality images. Or, perhaps they're just used to a different product.
Some of the most commonly used features like playback on TV, downloading to PC, editing, I think are easy to use and just plain fun!
Anyway, I must emphasize that the overall quality of this camcorder is great. Every product is different, we pick and choose. I use mine for recording life's little (and big) events.
If you're still comparing camcorders, be sure to consider this one.I teach video productions and I've tried many camcorders. I like the Sharp's ability to rotate the body of the camera with my hand and still be able to get good shots at various angles without putting my wrist in traction. The drawbacks I've found are the lack of an external mic input (which isn't usually a requirement for most family videos) and a small button to control tape playback. This is a problem with us fat thumbed people. I would recommend buying an additional battery since there isn't an external charger available. Other than that, I think the camera has excellent video quality and a nice compact body yet still large enough for larger hands to operate without problem.
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I found that Sharp VLz7u is good enough for me. I normally use it for record the activity around my house. I chose this model because of its swivel grip. It gives me convenient in many recording angle (e.g. over the head and low angle view).The thing I like about this camcorder are:
1.3MP photo shot
built in flash (for camera mode)
terminal for Zoom mic (though I cannot find Sharp's Zoom mic available anywhere at this time)
and other features that should be available in other camcorder (e.g. 10x zoom, digital effect, stabilizer, etc)
The things I want to have in the camcorder (though it's not a big deal to me) are:
Microphone input
night shot mode
Since this is my first camcorder, I don't know if other camcorder have better picture quality or not. But it looks good to me both on TV and after captured onto computer.
For home movie, outdoor/indoor activity, events, you will love this camcorder. For those who look for high quality picture, or professional movie, you probably should go for other model.
Read Best Reviews of Sharp VLZ7U MiniDV CCD Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, Memory Slot and 8MB Card Here
very satisfied. that is how i would describe my experience up to this point with the sharp vlz7u. i bought mine for [$$$] in may of 03 and for the price i am very satisfied. no where else will one get the still picture quality in a camcorder for a comparable price. the recessed mic is nice and the swivel action is priceless. who hasn't had to hold their arm, elbow and wrist in that uncomfortable vertical position for extended amonts of time in order to capture that killer shot? you know, that shot that in retrospect [was bad] due to fatigue. the flash is a flash for picture mode, not a light like i thought but it is still a handy option. TWO downsides. night mode [is not good] because there is none. you can shoot in low light but the low light mode is only for low light, not no light. and the worst part about it is that it turns itself off the second you pan across light, so you have to keep turning it on when your in a low light room lit by a single light. the other down side is that the battery is recessed in the body of the camera which equates to a somewhat limited battery life. don't expect any upgrades either says the sharp rep i spoke with. so buy 2 or 3 spares. that's it. enjoy because i really do.Want Sharp VLZ7U MiniDV CCD Camcorder with 2.5" LCD, Memory Slot and 8MB Card Discount?
I had high hopes about this camcorder. It was cute, lightweight, the 1.3Megapixel CCD and everything appeared to be great. But once I shot the video and reviewed it on my TV. ***TOTAL DISAPPOINTMENT***. What can be more important than video quality? It just sucks big time. My old Panasonic VHS camcorder has better video quality. Also, the camera picked up extremely high motor noise when ambient sound level was low or silent. NOT a good design. I read several reaviews prior to buying to camcorder and I must agree that WAIT for the next revision. Video is extremely NOT SHARP!!!
