Hoods offer several benefits to the photographer. Primarily the hood shades the lens from stray light that may result in an unwanted discoloration or hazing of the image, or the appearance of lens flare. Shading your lens helps improve contrast and image quality. A hood is not required to eliminate these problems, as any item used to shade the lens will provide the same protection from stray light. The hood is convenient in that it is built to offer protection while ensuring that it will not inadvertently find its way into your image. Photographers often state the protective abilities of a hood as a reason to have one.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars works perfectly
Works as its supposed to. You can reverse bayonette it when not in use. Has already protected my lens a couple times when I’ve accidentally banged it against something. Plus, it looks cool!

5 Stars doveTouch
Canon has a great camera. It provides great flexibility with a lot of help to be more user friendly. Great pictures with a little study – nice – plenty of other things to do with your time.

4 Stars A good hood for a rather expensive price
Perfect Canon hood, but you can find a cheaper alternative that can get the job done.

5 Stars Nice lens Hood
This lens hood twists on and off very easily. Much better than the old screw-on version I thought I was saving money on (but not time). Too bad the lens hood does not come with the lens. Recommended.

4 Stars Fits
The thing fits forward and backwards for easy storage. I haven’t done a lot of testing for effectiveness but if you want a hood for this lens then this is it for you.

Buy/More Info

The Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital Camera incorporates a 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor; enhanced sensitivity up to ISO 1600; High-ISO Noise Reduction; Auto Image Optimization technology; and a precise 7-point autofocus system. The large, 2.5-inch 230,000 pixel LCD monitor makes it a pleasure to review images and scroll through menus. The Live View feature allows you to frame shots using the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder. Canon’s Integrated Self Cleaning System removes dust automatically from the sensor using ultrasonic vibration.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Love it!
Ordered this through Cameta… just as described… one downfall was I didnt know it came with the battery charger and almost purchased one but this was actually wonderful that it came with one! Love it! Thank you for the quick service, speedy delivery, well packaged and excellent price!

5 Stars Nice Price and great product
I was looking online for a new video card and the one I found required me to have a 600 watt or higher power supply. I found this great deal on an 850 watt power supply. It runs quiet and was easy to install. I thought I had forgot a step because I was done in a matter of minutes. I have installed power supplies before but, this was very simple. I love the mesh cables, makes it very easy to manage. I don’t have any cons at this timne.

5 Stars Canon XS DSLR
I have been shooting with film SLR all my life and I finally made the jump to digital this year. I was very excited about the deal i got because it came with a camera case, a sd card usb port, 2 batteries (which last forever), a charger, and a carrying strap. For the price it is a great camera. The quality is amazing, especially with the Image Stabilizing lens that it came with.

5 Stars excelent!!!
i ordered this package while deployed and it still arived in 16 days and in perfect condition. i love my new camera

5 Stars great camera.
i love this camera. it takes fantastic pictures, and for someone who knows nothing about cameras, it’s perfect for me. not confusing at all and very easy to use.

Buy/More Info

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Very happy with my new camera!
This is the second Canon Rebel camera that I have had. The first was a 35mm that I loved and was very happy to purchase the same in digital. I haven’t had it very long to be able to compare the quality of the photos but so far I really like that the feel of the camera is similar and the shutter speed is fast. I also purchased the same camera so that my old lenses would fit. It is very easy to use, turn it on, take off the lens cap and shoot.

4 Stars cool beans
very nice dslr. Huge difference from a conventional dig. camera. So far the photos that we have shot are very viverant and sharp. i still use kodak image editor though because of my printer. very nice camera. this does not take short movie clips, kinda weak considering all the other cameras at this price point do.

3 Stars Canon XSi great for recreational photos, not a workhorse.
We received a couple of new Canon XSi Digital rebels for crime scene work. Right out of the box one of them had battery issues. Last night at a homicide scene in sub freezing temps mine completely crashed. The associated speedlight couldn’t communicate with the camera resulting in underexposed, blurry night pictures. Then the camera began shutting down intermittently. I had to put it back in the car for several minutes until it began to operate again. Finally, after over an hour of annoying, unannounced shutdowns it started doing what it’s supposed to. The pictures it takes are nothing short of spectacular. I love the design and the interface. Overall a great camera. I’m afraid, however I will have to stick with my erstwhile Canon S2is. It may have fewer megapixels and tons of scratches and scars but it always turns on and takes pictures no matter what. Canon makes great cameras. They dropped the ball on these.

5 Stars Xsi good camera good price
I am a pro shooter who got this camera to use for fun and trips were i would be mad if i damaged my high end $$$ body.(like skiing) Any way i love the camera so far. I have not had the problems that i have read about with the auto focus or image quality. You however can not take this camera out of the box and get the best pictures it can take. they will be ok but you need to take the time and set up your camera. READ the book if you dont know what your doing. I got the kit camera with the 18-55 IS lens and it is ok. The camera takes much better pictures with my 35-350 72mm L lens on it, as will any camera, spend your money on the glass not the body.

If you want a good camera for the price this is the one for you. If you have older EOS cameras your old lenses will work with the new camera. I also use my 430EZ flash that is from my A2 EOS film camera, it is way over powering in the auto mode (as it is not a E-TTL flash only a TTL) but it works if you manual set it, for inside i use 1/16 or 1/32 (up to 10-15 feet works great) out side i set it to full power and i can light up a subject 100 feet away! (it is great for that)

If you have used a EOS before this works about the same. even from my old film EOS to this one, the basic-mid advance functions are the same.

BEWARE were you but from online. do not buy from a company who dose not have a good reviews (reviews not rating, and read the bad ones too). Personally i will not buy from 17st photo out of NY, to many nightmare stories . i try to buy from amazon directly and will do a lot of review reading if my item is supplied by anyone other than them. Spend a few extra $$ to make sure you can send it back it their are any problems. you will get what you pay for.

5 Stars Great SLR for price
This camera is a great digital SLR for the price.

Coming from regular point and shoot Canons and Sony around 7MP, this camera blows them away in image quality and is just as easy to use as the point and shoots.

Make sure to invest in quality UV or other quality lens protection depending on your intended use for the camera.

Also, getting the higher zoom lens is a must-have with this camera, although most of your pictures will be taken in the 18-55 range with the lens that comes with the camera.

Only thing that could improve on this camera would be to be able to see the picture on the LCD before shooting(like a point and shoot), but I suppose that defeats the whole digital SLR camera’s history and function.

Buy/More Info

12.3-megapixel effective recording * APS-C-size CMOS image sensor (23.6 x 15.8 mm) * high-def movie mode with sound * high-res 3″ LCD (920,000 dots) with Live View for composing shots on-screen in real-time * pentaprism optical SLR viewfinder (with diopter adjustment) * Dynamic Integrated Dust Reduction System to keep image sensor clean for spotless photos * Nikon EXPEED image processor for fast, accurate shooting and longer battery life * 51-point autofocus system for rapid, precise autofocusing * 1005-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering II for accurate automatic exposure control, plus center-weighted and spot metering modes * Active D-Lighting mode for better shadow and highlight detail in high-contrast shooting conditions * built-in flash and flash exposure compensation * in-camera image editing functions, including: edit movie, D-Lighting, image overlay, monochrome, NEF (RAW) processing and more * AVI movie files (Motion JPEG) up to 1280 x 720 resolution at 24 frames per second with mono sound *

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Nikon D300s
I am an advanced beginner. Have a Nikon D50 and the D300s is an addition and an upgrade – tried some shooting indoors with it – terrific results. Great camera! Still learning to use it fully though…If my experience with the D50 is any indication, then the D300s will also be fulfilling and satisfying!

4 Stars D300s Medium Range Prosumer
this review is for the average person wanting to upgrade from the D40/D5000

With it’s magnesium alloy inner body and rubber sealed buttons, this camera is an excellent piece of equipment for wildlife photography when paired wig the correct lens.

It is well constructed in the areas that it needs to be strong but quite honesly there are some places on the camera tha have been reduced in quality to cut costs such as the switches, buttons, or the flash release. Those components are higher quality on the D90 to be honest wh you.

Speaking of the D90, this camera has the exact same sensor as the D90. I lke to think of the D300s as a D90 with features and processing from the D3. This camera can shoot 720p motion JPEG based AVI video from a Live View mode activated by a dedicated button. This camera does have a 51 point auto focus system and color 1005 pixel light metering.

Now the ugly truth. If you put this camera next to a D90 in the same conditions, the D90 will out perform this camera in low light. If the D300s is used past ISO 3200 it produces the most horrid smuged and noisy pictures I have seen. The D90 with all of it’s “auto help the novice processing” will help you out and rescue your photos the best it can. The D300s is a professional APS-C camera which means it won’t help you out like that. You absolutly cannot take pictures in inadequate light without the proper equipment.

I would go with the D90 if you want a decent camera that will produce sharp pictures without all of the fuss. With the money you save you can get the AF-S 18-200 VRI. That comes in the D300s kit. If you must absolutly have the pro features such as wired remotes, flash box control, and so on go with the D300s.

5 Stars Nikon D300s 12MP
After much research I moved from a Nikon D70s to the D300s. I was very happy with the D70s however I needed a larger pixel count for the large prints I prefer to make (13×19″+). I agree with many pro’s that have advised that you don’t need more than 8MP if you are producing 8×10′s or even 11×14 full frame in most cases. If you go beyond that print size or crop severely for 11×14′s, then a larger pixel count is where you need to be.

The D300s has been a perfect camera for me. I certainly put it in the prosumer category. It should not be your first camera. If you shoot mostly Auto or like to point and shoot, the D300s is not for you even if you have the money. It is very full-featured/complex camera and to get good pictures and your money’s worth you need to be willing to invest the time to learn its many modes and capabilities. It is capable of shooting great pictures in very low light or in fast moving scenes with its wide ISO range, very low noise and advanced focus system. The ergonomics feel just right to me unlike many Canons I have tried. It has good balance and a very solid feel (metal frame). I shoot often with a Nikon 70-200mm f2.8 VR that is heavy and a good grip and balance is important for me.

I have found the color and resolution to be superb. I easily get professional (saleable) 13 x19″ prints working through Lightroom 2.5 and Photoshop CS4 to a Canon Pro 9000 MkII printer. The D300s’ many focus, white balance and color modes are a great help in a rapidly changing shoot. I have programmed several custom settings for both studio and outdoor work. Its great to be able to shift multiple camera settings with one button push. The “Info” button alone should keep you from buying the D300 vs D300s.

The dual memory card setup is also great. I switch between using the second card as a backup for important shoots to using it in overflow mode when I’m out for a long shoot. I shoot RAW most of the time and the safety of the overflow mode keeps me in the shooting flow so I don’t have to stop, lose the mood and change memory cards. I often add a power grip when I’m using multi-Speedlight set-ups with a remote commander. The Nikon Remote Commander can draw down the main battery over the course of a long studio shoot. Otherwise the battery will easily do a full day and hundreds of shots. The Info button instantly shows you battery condition as a % in both the main and power grip. Nice upgrade so you don’t have to look at a little battery icon and guess.

I am very happy with the D300s and highly recommend it if you are looking for a solid, pro-level camera. It has performed flawlessly for me. Amazon (B&H Photo) remains perfect for me with great price and on time delivery.

5 Stars Nikon D300s: a great camera (but you need to read the manual)
I have been using this camera for a couple of weeks and taken about 5000 exposures. This camera is great; however, it took me a little while to figure out the autofocus (AF) system. I switched from Canon because I truly do not like the size of their files (18MP is way beyond what I need). I like shooting when the subjects are in motion–not necessarily action–and learning how to focus properly is crucial for me. After reading the manual and playing around with the AF, I feel much better with the D300S. I am not new to photography–started with Minolta SLRs and then moved to Canon dSLRs–but I can safely say that the D300S has allowed me to take my best shots. I am still a bit reluctant to use the 6400 ISO, but the 3200 ISO works fine.

This camera is not for beginners. If you are not familiar with photography lingo, reading the manual would be frustrating. Moreover, the Program Mode is not the greatest. The video feature is dandy, but you have to keep the camera still. I have used the video feature a couple of times, and the image quality is fine as long as you use a tripod and don’t move the camera too much. In my opinion, the video recorded with this camera needs a lot of editing, and I don’t really have much practice editing videos.

In sum, this camera is a great buy for those who enjoy taking the time to take pictures. I would not recommend this to a first-time dSLR buyer, an inexperienced/casual photographer, or someone who wants to shoot video.

5 Stars Nice improvements over my D300
I upgraded from a Nikon D300 to the D300S mainly for the video capability. The video produced is not super HD quality, but I didn’t expect that. The video is actually quite good especially if you use a tripod and it allows me to travel without a dedicated video camera. The other improvements have proved to be fun and useful. I like the new door over the data cards, easier to use that the D300 lever. The new location of the live view button is very convenient, the extra frame per second is useful and the focusing and image quality seem marginally beter than the D300. The rocker switch on the back has tactile feedback which is better. All in all I am very happy to have upgraded. The service from Amazon was fabulous. I ordered the camera on Sunday, it was shipped (free of charge) on Monday and I had it in my hand a couple of days later. After I ordered on Sunday the price dropped $75.00 on Monday. I called customer service on Monday and they agreed to credit my VISA account with the $75.00 difference. You can’t beat that! cm

Buy/More Info

Fusing 12.3-megapixel image quality inherited from the award-winning D300 with groundbreaking features, the D90s breathtaking, low-noise image quality is further advanced with EXPEED image processing. Split-second shutter response and continuous shooting at up to 4.5 frames-per-second provide the power to capture fast action and precise moments perfectly, while Nikons exclusive Scene Recognition System contributes to faster 11-area autofocus performance, finer white balance detection and more. The D90 delivers the control passionate photographers demand, utilizing comprehensive exposure functions and the intelligence of 3D Color Matrix Metering II. Stunning results come to life on a 3-inch 920,000-dot color LCD monitor, providing accurate image review, Live View composition and brilliant playback of the D90s cinematic-quality 24-fps HD D-Movie mode.

User Ratings and Reviews

3 Stars Not Convinced I Make the Right Choice
I hate to make a review this soon, but after taking holiday pictures, I must say that I am not bowled over with my pictures. I had a Nikkon Coolpix 8mp and absolutely loved it. Thus my choice with this camera for moving up. My pictures are either very bad or great, but not really in between. I’m sure I need to learn more, but it’s not the quick pick up and shoot camera my other one was! I am disappointed for now.

5 Stars Great camera
The Nikon D90 is outstanding. My family can’t believe the pictures that I’m taking since I got the camera. The camera has a lot of bells and whistles. It’s takes a good time learning the camera but it’s worth it. Would recommend this camera for anybody that enjoys a well constructed camera.

4 Stars First time SLR Owner – Light Years better than ANY Point-and-Shoot
I have used DSLRs before but this is the first one I bought and was not at all disappointed.

It is the perfect camera to own as a first time SLR owner if you plan to use it often as it can autofocus with all the old Nikon lenses.

The picture quality is excellent but I recommend trying a wide angle lens such as the Nikkor 10-24mm or the Tokina 11-16mm which will create a whole new experience as you can create art with pictures.

If you consider yourself a semi-serious photographer who considers photos art and don’t mind a lot more weight compared to any Point-and-shoot, the D90 is for you. It takes excellent photos and most importantly is laid out very sensibly and is easy to navigate around the menus, not to mention is very, very very fast compared to a point-and-shoot.

If you just want to take snap shots with your friends and family and shoot on occasional trips you probably want a point-and-shoot or the Nikon D3000 or older entry level models which are smaller, lighter and cheaper while not sacrificing quality very much but slim on more advanced features.

5 Stars Must add a 5 star
The first few reviews sum this camera up pretty well. I love my camera, and I purposely chose this camera over the more expensive D300.

5 Stars Big bow to D90 it really rocks !!

Big bow to D90 it really rocks !! i recently bought Nikon D90 and we had a baby 1 week back and the pic’s experience was really different and amazing. I am not a professional photographer but still dared to put money on this and now i realize it really worth for money. The picture quality and features are brilliant, easy to operate. Do not think twice to buy this product , just go a head !!

Buy/More Info

The Canon BG-E7 Battery Grip holds up to two LP-E6 battery packs or six AA Batteries to offer double-length shooting time. The vertical shutter release makes shooting with the camera in a vertical position just as comfortable as shooting horizontally. The following functions are available in the vertical shooting position. Shutter-Release, Main Dial, AF Point Selection, AF/FE Lock, Index, Aperture, Exposure Compensation Button, Reduce Button.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Grips are great – Highly recommended
I have been buying all the battery grips for my Canon cameras (10D, 20D, 40D, and now 7D). This is the latest grip I bought for my new 7D. It was also the first accessory I purchased.

Pros:

* Overall GREAT accessory – very useful

* Significantly improves handling and feel of camera

* High build quality and feel

* Improved battery life with two LP-E6 lithium batteries

* Can take 6x AA batteries instead of the two LP-E6 batteries

* Includes a place in the grip to put the battery door so it doesn’t get lost

* Well designed with control buttons and knobs

* Makes you and your camera look like a PRO!

Cons:

* It costs a bit of money, but considering the price of a 7D, it worth the added cost

* (minor) Shutter button does not have the same feel as the one on the body – it’s easier to activate/more sensitive

5 Stars Essential
I love Battery Grips. Not just for the batteries, not just for the vertical shooting controls, but for the extra firmness it adds to my camera. Feels better in my hand. I also have the Wrist Strap which compliments this very well.

The only downside is I have to lay the camera on it’s side, since the camera will no longer sit on it’s bottom. (It’s lens pulls it forward.) But lying 90 degrees counter-cockwise solves this very effectively.

5 Stars Completes an already great camera
Why would you need a battery grip? When over a year ago I purchased the battery grip for my 450D (“XSi) I was surprised by how much more I got out of my camera by simply adding a battery grip. It’s not the fact that you have twice the amount of battery power – simply getting a second battery pack will do that, and since the grip comes without any batteries, you’ll have to purchase that anyway.

No, the best thing about a battery grip is that it literally allows you to get a better grip on your camera. Now, the 7D is somewhat larger than the 450D, and thus this may not be as important to people with smaller hands. But there are more than one reason to add the grip to the 7D: it transforms this great camera into a truly outstanding one:

- first of all, the grip significantly enhances the 7D’s handling. Since it is added to the bottom of the camera, it adds some height, making the camera fit your right hand much better. But that’s just the beginning. The grip has near-perfect molding (at least for my hand), making holding the 7D so much more comfortable.

- I shoot lots of portraits, and the grip adds shutter button, and main camera controls to the portrait orientation. Being able to hold the camera upright comfortably alone is worth the price of this grip. Again, the mold for this orientation is near perfect.

- (this may look obvious at first, but is often overlooked) you can remove the grip. The reason why I point this out is because with the grip installed, the 7D is very similar in size to the 1D. But if for some reason size or bulk is at a premium, you can take the grip off – something that is impossible with the 1D

- The grip is by no means light, and adds almost 50% of weight to the camera. This is a mixed blessing. The added bulk is noticeable, and on longer field excursions may add some discomfort. On the other hand, it balances the camera better with many of the heavier lenses. The added bulk will prevent you from shooting single-handedly in most situations, as steadying the camera with a mounted L lens now requires significant strength. That being said, the added bulk also makes it less susceptible to small movements, something I discovered to my advantage when shooting with a (non-IS assisted) macro lens.

Energy-wise, the grip is quite cleverly engineered: you can either load one or two battery packs into the grip, and the packs do not have to be charged evenly. You can, therefore, simply take a pack from the grip, load it into the camera, and discard the grip. After a while you can then reload the slightly more drained pack into the grip, and continue shooting with the grip. You can also replace the packs with 6 AA batteries for emergencies. Be carful, though – AA batteries get drained significantly faster than a normal battery pack, and the battery display will not correctly reflect charge status when you use AA.

The grip mounts from below into the 7D’s battery bay and tripod mount. The tripod mount is replicated on the bottom of the grip, so you don’t lose mountability with the grip installed. Unlike the BG-E5 (the grip for the EOS 450) this grip has much better weather sealing, making me much more comfortable using the 7D in weather. Also like the E5, this grip’s ‘On/Off’ switch does not control power but activates and de-activates the additional (portrait orientation) controls. Battery Pack are conveniently loaded from the back, and do not require a magazine like in the BG-E5. AA batteries do need to be inserted into a magazine first, though.

Although near perfect, the are some minor quibbles I’ve found:

- there is no way to charge the whole grip with batteries loaded. You have to take the packs out, charge them individually, and then put them back into the grip. Since you can use the grip with only one pack installed this is an inconvenienca rather than annoyance, but still…

- the grip cannot provide power to external flashes. If there is one thing Canon should improve than it is this. I do realize that this would require re-designing the grip – but having a flash feed from the grip would be a godsend, as the batteries in the flash unnecessarily increase bulk.

- the grip’s shutter button seems more sensitive than the one on my 7D, causing me to accasionally shoot where I wanted to aquire lock. I would have preferred if both shutters felt the same.

- A battery charge tester in the grip that is usable without turning on the camera (or for that matter: without being installed) would be a welcome addition (the camera *will* tell you the remaining charge)

Summary:

The battery grip turns the already great 7D into an exceptional camera. Especially if you shoot portraits a lot, this grip will immediately let you wonder how you ever got by without it. Although the improvements in handling are not as dramatic as with the BG-E5 (for the EOS 450/500), I feel it is still significant to warrant purchase. As a ‘bonus’ feature you get the option of doubling battery power, and even use AA batteries in an emergency. As a whole, I recommend this battery grip to anyone who wants to get more out of their (already great) 7D.

5 Stars Great fit
The grip fits much better the 7d than the grip for the 50d. A better contour fit at the bottom.

5 Stars Double your battery time and easier vertical shots!!!!
I had the sister unit to this for my 50D and just upgraded to the 7D. This is almost an identical unit to the last one I had and it works great just like my other one. Get this grip if you have massive hands like I do as it really helps you handle the camera better plus adds the fact you have vertical shot buttons and so much longer battery life. I am no professional but it would always seem like the batteries were dead or close to dead. Not anymore. I charge the batteries every once and a while and I’m good to go for a long time.

On top of all this you can also power your camera with AA batteries as it has a holster that goes into the grip rather than the actual Canon battery packs that cost a fortune. Go buy some rechargeable batteries and your set.

Buy/More Info

The Canon FS200 Flash Memory camcorder lets
you capture stunning video directly to SDHC memory
cards, and share memories quickly and easily. Plus, the
Canon FS200 features Canons 41x Advanced Zoom to
get you closer to the action and DIGIC DV II Image
Processor which reproduces images with vivid color and
stunning clarity. For lifes bumps and jumps, theres an
Image Stabilizer to make your shots rock-steady.
Pre-Record lets you capture video 3 seconds before you
press the record button, so you will never miss a precious
moment. And Video Snapshot Mode allows you to
create a series of 4-second video clips with music that
are perfect for sharing. Ultra-sleek and lightweight, the
Canon FS200 is lightning fast and stylishly designed. So exercise your options. Go for the
camcorder that gives you real choice–the Canon FS200.
Canon USA 1-year limited warranty included.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Great camera
This is a great video camera. It is not HD but the picture quality is excellent. The colors are great and the images are very sharp. I have worked in video production for the past 8 years and I can tell you that I have always been pretty disappointed by the quality of most consumer cameras. The canon FS200 however, far exceeded my expectations. This is by far the best camera you can get in this price range. The only draw back that I have found is that it doesn’t do the best in low light conditions, this however, is true for every consumer camera in and beyond this price range. I would recommend this camera to anyone who is looking for high quality visuals but does not want to venture into the world of HD.

5 Stars problem with MOD extention SOLVED
Just happy with my new purchase. I was reading others review and see they have problem with MOD extention, I had this problem too but no longer, I have tried many different software today to convert it to AVI or MPG ( include SDcopy) but I did something funny and that was easiest and couldn’t believe how easy was solution.

All I do to convert MOD files is to change .mod to .MPG or .AVI manually, I mean just rename extention to another format and it will work!!!

1 Star this camera is crap
this a camera is crap. I just bought it and have been trying to make it work for 4 days now. Problems:

the $[...] digital camera that also takes video had way better video quality.

the camera and the software that comes with it doesn’t work with a mac

you need to have every cable hook up at once to import video 2 power cords and the usb (it’s annoying when your infront of your home computer imposible anywhere else)

MOD files suck nothing opens them and you have to two or three steps to convert them into mpg or mov ( with all the damn wires everywhere )

the only reason I bought this camera was because it has an external mic port. but so what if the camera is, well it feels deliberatly annoying.

1 Star Incompatible video format
This would have been a winner hands down for the one feature that it has that every other camcorder in it’s price range lacks, an audio input jack for external microphone. Every other camcorder in it’s price range had neglected the need for good audio.

But, the video format, according to another reviewer, is not compatible with most professional editing software. Sorry. FAIL.

5 Stars great standard camcorder
I did a lot of research and decided the best route for me was to stay with a standard format rather than HD do to the additional expense of having to buy a newer DVD player and a more powerful computer. The software is not great but works…not very intuitive. Once I figured out the software burning a movie is easy and looks great played on my upconverting DVD player and viewed on my LCD TV.

Buy/More Info

Nikon Coolpix S620 12.2MP 4X 2.7in. LCD VR Digital Camera in Rich Pearl.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Shipping!!!
I can’t rate the camera yet (I’ll add to this later) because the box just arrived, so this review is just for Amazon. I had it sent Two Day Shipping, and it showed up at my door less than 24 hours later!!! Wow.

5 Stars Was not expecting so much!!
I was looking for a simple camera not too expensive just to have pics of birthday parties and trips. found a deal but this camera is way better thatn i thought for its price. starting with the size…it feels very confortable in the hand and is small.

picture quality is incredible for a point and shot digital camera, in 2 days using it i’ve taken pics that seem like taken with profesional cameras…it works incredibly well in the night with no flash and captures true colors with no flash as well (personaly i dont like using flash)

i works good in auto mode you feel like a pro taking pics. havent tried face detection or smile detection that much bec im not interested in those features so much.

usd cable is not the standar but i can use the sd cards to my laptop if have no cable

the start is not that fast but is compensated with the quickly shootting..

the anti shaking and vibration reduction works fine.

in conclusion my only complaint would be with the start time its about 4 seconds, all other features are just the best!! i would recomend this camera !

5 Stars Great camera and very fast shipping
I put two day shipping on the camera and it arrived in only one day! That alone made me happy. I have only had the camera for about a day and have only had a few hours to play around with it but so far I have no complaints. There are no problems with it and it was secure in the box it was shipped in. The one thing I haven’t done yet is use the Nikon software that came with the camera. I did install it but didn’t transfer the picture I took to my PC yet. It had no problems installing on Windows 7 64-bit though.

5 Stars Typical Nikon Quality
I replaced a Canon ELPH SD700 with this camera. The Nikon does not have the focus and lighting problems associated with Canon. I also like using the date imprint on prints and Nikon allows you to include this option at any resolution. Using maximum resolution at ASA 1600 is beyond most digital cameras.

5 Stars Travel perfect………..
I got my Nikon Coolpix two days before leaving for a two week trip to Thailand. My son-in-law actually advised me to get this camera for it’s simplicity and easy to use qualities. As usual,I am always late in getting organized. I ordered the camera from Amazon and thought there would be no way I’d get the camera before I left. It arrived in plenty of time. I had plenty of time on the plane to ‘study’ the instructions. Finally, in Bangkok and ready to shot pictures.

I had a blast on the trip and a ball using my new Nikon. It is so easy to use and takes great pictures. I have a wonderful pictoral history of my Thailand trip. I have clear, beautiful pictures of elephants and a cyrstal clear photos of ants marching one by one on top of a ledge. What fun. I’m not technical genius when it comes to new gadgets, but this Nikon turned me into a Ansel Adams, in my mind.

Come over I’ll show you the big elephants and the tiny ants.

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Its small enough to fit in a pocket, but why would you ever want to put it there? Whether out on the town or just hanging with friends, the Kodak Zi8 Pocket Video Camera captures every experience in stunning 1080p HD video. Stay in focus while youre on the move with integrated image stabilization. Then kick back and watch all the action on your HDTV or share your scene on YouTube with the built-in USB. The Zi8 pocket video camera has all you need to define yourself in high definition.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Great Camera, but think about buying it elsewhere!
Great camera, but Amazon sent me one in packaging that had obviously been opened. Was it a used camera? Who knows and that’s the point. If I’m paying for a new camera I want to know its new with sealed packaging. So I sent it back and asked for a NEW one. Got the same thing-packaging had been opened. I kept it b/c I couldn’t wait, but next time I’m going elsewhere for electronics. You might want to do the same…

4 Stars Nifty gadget at good price with packed features
Researched through multiple reviews aka bought with eyes wide open.

- No audio issues or need to upgrade FW

- Good picture quality for indoor recording under florescent light

- Poor picture quality under dimmer indoor lighting

- Good quality with EIS enabled for action recording (soccer game) with 720/60fps

- Shakiness pronounced with 1080p

- Upload to Youtube simple

Expected shortcomings:

- Battery life low. Bought Tekleon TekCharge MP1800 to make up.

- No SDHC card (somehow my impression was it came with 8G). Bought Class 6 Sandisk 16G.

If Flip could capture photos, Flip might rank better in ease of use.

2 Stars Get the Zi6 instead
I have had a Zi6 for a year and found it to be a great little camera. It has been used and abused but works like a champ. Wanted a second camera and figured I would get the latest model the Zi8. In this case I found the Zi8 a big disappointment. The Zi8 uses a Li-Ion battery verses the AA batteries used in the Zi6. With the Zi6 a pocket full of AA batteries kept you shooting video all day. I have two of the Li-Ion batteries and in 90 minutes I have discharged both batteries. The audio on the Zi8 has a lot to be desired. Bottom line: Get a Zi6 before they are all gone. In this case newer ISN’T better!

5 Stars Handy, Fun, Does what I wanted it to.
I am pleased with the Zi8. I have several Sony, Nikon, etc. photo, camera phones and camcorders. This fits in a niche. My first Kodak digital of any kind. Well done. Would have preferred an external SD card slot but 8 GB is plenty for what I do. Battery life is good,too.

2 Stars Lense broke in less than a month
Good product in concept. After a month the lense broke off of the camera. This lense is actually recessed into the camera. For it to fail ment the clips that hold into place snapped off.

Kodak no help in fixing.

Buy/More Info

Made of rugged nylon Canon Deluxe Backpack 200EG holds up to 2 camera bodies, 4 lenses, plus accessories. Due to its lightweight construction it features a well-arranged divider system for a secure storage and an easy access, padded shoulder straps and a comfortable back padding. Add to this tripod carrying straps and a front webbing ideal for lashing light jacket, sweater, etc.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Great camera bag
Great bag, inside is configurable with the velcro dividers. I can easily fit all my gear in it. Smaller front zippered pouch can fit a book and the other zippered pocket can hold my laptop (14″). It has accessory straps all over but I removed them – you can easily put them back on if needed. I also took a tip from one of the reviewers and sewed the buckle strap across the front for added security, simple needle and thread job. Front lashing is very useful and the overall material of the bag is very sturdy.

3 Stars Not great for heavy use
This bag has a lot of little pockets and straps on it and pretty good capacity inside, but I haven’t found it to be a good quality bag for regular use. After about a year both of the zipper pulls on the main compartment snapped off – like just broke in half. It’s obviously a design flaw – I’ve never had a zipper on anything break this way. I have to use a key ring now to open and close the zipper – not the most convenient. I like that the velcro compartments let you reshape how things fit inside, but with no straps or covers on any of the compartments I find that things slip around inside the bag unless I can make them really snug in the compartment. There are two large zipper compartments inside – would be better if they were divided into several small ones for things like batteries, cables, filters, etc. Like it is they are all just jumbled together in the two big pockets. The backpack straps are well padded and seem sturdy, and the fabric on the outside has remained in good shape for how much I lug it around. It’s not a bad little bag for the money if you don’t have lots of little pieces you carry along or don’t plan on giving it lots of use.

5 Stars Great Camera bag
The Deluxe Canon camera bag is really a great value. It is sturdy and well built. It has lots of space for your camera and lenses. I currently have two camera’s in the bag – it is that big. The interior has adjustable, movable walls so it can configured or re-configured as needed. The material is very durable. I would recommed this bag to anyone looking for a camera bag.

4 Stars Fantastic deal and I could not be happier
I went ahead and read most reviews on this back pack. One thing to realize is if you are looking for a backpack to carry a lot of your gear and protect it this may be for you. If you are looking for a “Pro” or custom back pack you may want to look else where. I looked at several options for back packs and for what I need as a hobbyist and not a professional this really fits perfectly. I read where people are wanting to have very easy access to their equipment while on the go and this is the type of backpack that you will need a little bit of time and area to set the pack down to remove equipment properly and safely. This is what I carry in my bag:

Canon 50d

18-55mm lens

50mm lens

1 flash

Sony hand held video camera

chargers for both cameras

memory cards

odds and ends

I still have room for the 24-70mm I want to pick up.

4 Stars Very nice backpack for a decent price
I own a Canon 30D with three lenses (a 50mm lens, a 70-300 lens, and a 28-75 lens) as well as a few other standard accessories such as an external flash, an extra battery and charger, and a few lens filters and caps. All fit perfectly in this bag and I still have room left in some of the other pockets for our small pocket digital camera, a small camcorder, a few cords and a chip reader. That STILL leaves room for the occasional bottle of water and other snacks you might want to throw in the bag if you only want to carry one bag onto an airplane or into an amusement park. We have two small (under 4) children and I find that this backpack is very light and is easily manageable even while carrying one of them. Now that you can find this bag for $30-35 bucks I highly recommend it for those who want a bag with lots of room but that’s lightweight. The only drawback is that you can’t easily retrieve the camera from the bag while wearing it on your back (the camera sits in the very top of the bag pointing down) – but as an amateur/novice I rarely find myself having a need to grab the camera that quickly anyway. I would also like to see it offered in more color combinations, but the dark green/black combination isn’t that bad.

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