Conversion in Progress (Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P12)

Member Name: knowkeys

Product:	Sony Cyber-shot DSC-P12
Date:	30/01/04 (515 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good range of features, Excellent Movie Mode, Compatible with new Sony standard

Disadvantages: Will all features be used?, Transfer software copies full contents every time connect to PC

It has taken me a long time to make the decision to move to and buy a digital camera. In fact I brought a new SLR two years ago because I believed that for my level of usage the cost (Particularly of printing) would not justify it.

Various factors have now changed (e.g. comparable processing charges at Boots with film), but I was not fully convinced. However, having purchased this camera I am now hooked.

The DSC-P12 is basically the DSC-P10 but in a fashionable "blue" case, the kit comes complete with soft carrying case and extra battery for "Stamina". I am not sure how long the battery lasts but the spare will always prove useful.

The kit should have come with a 32MB memory stick, but this was missing and I am hoping it arrives soon. However the camera makes use of the memory stick Plus system, which allows for faster data exchange between camera, stick and PC.

The camera can operate in fine or standard modes and has a 5.0 Mega pixel maximum quality. There are five modes including one which gives "photo" size output i.e. Rectangular as well as VGA. This gives file sizes from 2.4Mb down to 150Kb.

There is a 3x Optical zoom (there is a digital zoom - but I wouldn't use it). There are also options for changing exposure, film speed etc.

You can also turn off the annoying noise it makes when taking a photograph of the "shutter" closing. The camera itself is very light and will fit in your pocket.

There is a "movie" mode which gives you Mpeg files at 640 VGA quality as well as Mail mode (160). The built in microphone gives a crisp reproduction. The VGA quality is good enough to be viewed with clarity on TV. You will get 10 minutes of VGA quality on a 256Mb memory stick.

A "burst" mode allows 3 images to be taken after each other.

Other features include voice and date recording which can be recorded with the image. r>
There is a substantial manual and in-built menu which will keep you busy for a while; however the whole camera feels intuitive and easy to use. The menu allows you to organise and delete images, change all the settings and so on.

The USB interface and software allows easy transfer and manipulation of images from the camera, however the "default" (image transfer) mode will copy the complete memory stick every time you connect it to the PC, I advise that you use windows explorer to move files around.

My SLR (Nikon F60, 28-80mm, 80-300mm) will still be used however there will be no need to carry around two lenses as the Sony gives a 35-105mm equivalent. It is likely to get more use as I will have to worry about all the * ?sub-standard? * photographs I normally take and can print out the ones that are worth printing.

All in All, I would recommend that you buy this camera or the Sony DSC-P10.

Footnote: Sony is bringing out the DSCT1 ? which costs about £150 more but is much slimmer in February. That?s technology for you!!!