Digital Camera Gift Ideas

Canon LP E5 Battery Pack for Canon Digital Rebel XS and XSi Digital SLR Camera

compatible with select Canon EOS digital SLR cameras * rated at 7.4V, 1080mAh * no memory effect — may be partially charged without reducing battery capacity * compatible with Canon LC-E5 and LC-E5E battery chargers *

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Original battery made in Japan
Quick on time delivery, Battery as was expected original battery in canon pack made in Japan.

5 Stars Canon Battery Pack
I am a professional photographer and have owned a variety of pro version cameras. I have bought ‘no name’ brands and the camera name brand batteries for all my cameras (Fuji and Canon). It really does make a difference. The actual name brand will last much longer. I bought two Canon LP-E5 Battery Packs through Amazon-by far the lowest price of ANY other retailer selling the Canon brand! Once I find the product I am looking for price dictates where I purchase. My batteries have staying power! This was a good purchase.

5 Stars Needed spare battery
haven’t used it enough yet to see how many pictures i can take with it

5 Stars Canon Lp-E5 Battery Pack
The battery was very reasonable in price and came very fast. I buy a lot from Amazon and have always been happy with every thing I get.

4 Stars Nice battey and average life
This battery look ok but when i compared to original Canon battery there is little difference between the text so i suspect this might not be original canon battery or Canon may release batteries different version for DSL cameras and spare batteries. I haven’t used the battery yet so i cannot comment on this battery. But i believe it is a good battery

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Joby Gorillapod Focus GP8 Flexible Tripod for Digital SLR Cameras

The JOBY GP8-01EN Gorillapod Focus Tripod was built for the professional photographer. It can support an amazing 11 pounds (5 kg), providing the stability of a standard tripod at a fraction of the size and weight-only 1.1 pounds (500g). Sturdy machined aluminum sockets with an anodized gunmetal finish offer incredible flexibility while ensuring a rock-solid hold in almost any environment. Cleverly designed to help capture hard to get images like time-lapse, available-light, night-time or long-exposure, the JOBY GP8-01EN Gorillapod Focus Tripod helps photographers refine their imaging skills. It is the biggest, strongest Gorillapod yet!

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars The Joby Ballhead is Necessary and Very Weak
I have tried and destroyed five gorillapods over the past few years on hikes, backpack trips, etc. I have progressed from the smallest gorillapod (when I had my point and shoot camera) to the plastic zoom models (when I bought a serious SLR camera) all the way to aluminum Focus GP8. The aluminum GP8 is the ONLY gorillapod that I did not break. All of the other gorillapods eventually failed near the leg joint. The legs would either fall off entirely or pop off after wrapping them around an object. The GP8 withstood the abuse. Unfortunately, I wish I could say the same for the Joby ballhead that is an expensive extra. The quick release failed after only two uses. It would not be fair for me to rate this product poorly since it is the only one that did not fail (thank you REI return policy). However, keep in mind that the Joby ballhead is an important (if not essential) add on for a serious photographer. It is too bad that it is very week.

2 Stars Good idea but wasn’t strong enough for my needs
I purchased the Gorillapod Focus after deciding that I would probably require the strongest gorillapod for my camera(canon 50d w/grip and canon 24-70mm f/2.8L). I mounted the manfrotto balljoint head on it (486RC2) and found that, while it was able to hold the weight while the camera was fully upright (for taking photos in landscape) as soon as I would adjust the camera to take a photo in portrait (so the weight of the camera is off centre) the gorillapod focus just could not cope with the weight no matter what configuration I put it in. I attempted to get the camera stable in this position for a good 20 minutes but it would just sag as soon as I let it go. The construction overall seems very good but the stiffness in the balljoints just wasn’t enough to cope with the weight of the camera being off centre. I’m very disappointed in this as I hoped this would be a good alternative to dragging my fullsize tripod around, however I found that this just doesn’t meet my needs and I would not trust this to securely keep my camera in place.

4 Stars 11 pounds may be an exaggeration.
7 pounds is pushing it. I put a D300 with battery pack and a Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 lens on this and it’s OK if not stellar. The lens has a tripod collar, so the weight is pretty evenly distributed, but I had to widen the legs of the Gorillapod, with one leg facing front, under the lens, just to be sure it wouldn’t tip over. Altogether the combo is just under 7 lbs. I was going to try it with my Sigma 150-500, but the weight is too far forward and I don’t want a busted lens mount. Or worse. In any case, the camera is hard to aim on the tripod, you have to aim up from the intended target, then let it come down to shooting position. There is also a lot of wobble, a cable release (or timer) is a necessity. So, you really need a head to aim it right, but the head will add height and make it more unstable. Catch 22.

I don’t think I will try to wrap it around a tree branch or fence pole with $4K of camera attached. I tried wrapping it around a light stand and different parts of a ladder, without my camera on it, and it held, but really needed something to keep it from sliding down. Since the legs are not necessarily under an equal load, they will not hold as much weight. A light camera would probably be OK. That being said, I wouldn’t mind walking around with this stuffed into a deep pocket or in my camera bag, it’s better than nothing, and the only tripod I can carry on the subway is one that nobody can see. I used to shoot with one of those tiny pocket tripods under a P&S. The hardest part was finding a ledge or something to put it on so it would be at eye level, at least at a squat. Without finding something you’re on your belly, which might make for an interesting perspective (and good with animals), but is hard in the rain and snow.

So, I’m glad I bought this, and I’ll carry it (it’s light by the way, just over 1 lb.), but it will not take the place of a real tripod or even a monopod.

This review was for the Focus GP8, rated at 11 pounds, as the reviews seem to have been messed up.

4 Stars Great Minipod, but mounting could be Improved
Pod works great, good for propping against rocks and trees,very stiff stays in place well . However screw mount needs much improvement . A very good pod to take along on hikes and had to get to areas like rocks and uneven terrains .

4 Stars Finally, a Gorillapod that will hold up my camera – usually
Gorillapods are great, but you need one thats one-model stiffer than what Joby says. For example, get this one if you have a D300, and dont expect it to hold it up very well with a 600mm/2.8 lens on it. But it will hold it up with medium size lenses. My previous one, one model down, was not strong enough for me to be comfortable putting a D300 on with anything heavier than the 18-200 mounted. Just be careful – its easy to dump your camera with this thing if you’re not.

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Canon EOS 7D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3 inch LCD Body Only

With a host of features designed to enhance every facet of the photographic process, from still images to video, the EOS 7D represents a whole new class of camera.Made to be the tool of choice for serious photographers and semi-professionals, the EOS 7D features an 18.0 megapixels APS-C size CMOS sensor and dual DIGIC 4 image processors, capturing tremendous images at up to ISO 12800 and speeds of up to 8 fps. The EOS 7D has a cross-type 19-point AF system with improved AI Servo AF subject tracking and user-selectable AF area selection modes for sharp focus no matter the situation. The EOS 7D’s Intelligent Viewfinder provides 100% coverage and displays user-selected AF modes as well as a spot metering circle and on demand grid lines. iFCL metering with 63-zone dual-layer metering system uses both focus and color information to provide accurate exposure even in difficult lighting. The EOS 7D also captures Full HD video at 30p, 24p and 25p with an array of manual controls, including manual exposure during movie shooting and ISO speed selection. The EOS 7D features a magnesium alloy body that is dust- and weather-resistant and shutter durability of up to 150,000 cycles.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Wonderful Machine. The lens, nothing especial.
I’ve recently buyed a EOS 7D. I’m delighted with the purchase.

It has a impressive technology.

It takes wonderful photographs.

The bestbuy for an amateur, on the verge of a professional machine.

4 Stars 7D or 40D and New Camcorder
I am an avid Canon SLR supporter and have owned the 20D, 30D & 40D. I am not a professional photographer per say, but I do wedding and event photography by word of mouth customers, So I do know something about the canon D-SLR line.

I had been contemplating upgrading to the 50D, but experiencing a lack of significant changes from the 20D on up I held off. Then the 7D came out with its claim to fame of its HD capability. I had been trying to decide to add video to photo lineup and when Canon offered the 7D with HD, it appeared both of my needs had been answered.

I am disappointed to say, that the video option of the 7D is not much to write home about. There is no auto-focus or exposure capability. You basically are entering live vue, press the half shutter to get the initial focus and exposure and then video from there. If your distance or exposure changes, your only option is to hit the auto-focus button, which has limited succes and travels in and out several times to find a setting. This is also very noisey depending on the lens you are using and is picked up very loudly on the audio recording. Yes, you can use remote mics, but again more money more set up for a one stop product. Please note, this is not just a low light issue either. It had similar problems outdoors in day light. Its amazing that canon makes other low end cameras like the Rebel and the SX1IS that do this dual mode with all the bells and whistles, but ther professional level SLRs do not.. If you want great sharp video and stills get the SX1IS for the everyday vaca shooting its great.

As far as an improved SLR, to many improvements to list. New sealed body for outdoor stuff, fast focus and focusing selections, with new info screen for ease of reading and changes. Again many many improvements, and definately several steps above the 40D. If your buying because of the HD, stick with you 40 or 50D and get a camcorder or the SX1IS…

5 Stars Canon 7D – a great buy for the price
Heavier than my old Canon Digital Rebal but packs a lot more punch. I have to hunt for some of the menu options but I’m getting used to it. I shot an HD video of a rental condo I own and the video feature worked very well.

I really appreciate the feature to shoot in JPG but to switch to JPG and RAW with the touch of one nicely placed button. Easy to switch from photo to video. The lens that comes with the camera (if you buy the basic lens and body option) has a much nicer range than my original rebal lens.

This is a fantastic camera, in regards to options, for an intermediate level photographer. There are lighter, smaller cameras that are easier to use but this camera has far more features and the ability to shoot in 1080p HD video.

4 Stars Great Features compared to XT, AF on the soft side
I had the Rebel XT (350D) for three going four years, and yes it is a awesome camera!

when I was looking for an upgrade to my rebel XT the T1i look really great, but then came the 7D and all of the new AF features and video. I think that the rebel body is lean and small even more now having a XD body.

If your on a budget the rebel T1i is a great upgrade with more MP (al dough with 8MP is more than enough) good video Q, live view and better high ISO performance than the XXXD and if you like the rebel series bodies then you should go for it, now if you don’t mind the video The 50D offers higher ISO and FPS than the rebel series and better IQ overall.

7D !!! :

I do recommend the upgrade to any one moving in that direction. The size is no issue when you get all that features, and it feels really good solid and hefty in your hands. The FPS & AF Are Fast. The high ISO performance is amazing comparing it to the XT, the low light focus and results are simply great. The AF points and versatile setup is so much better than the XT there is no comparing it.

The view finder and the LCD screen are just awesome… you cannot compare it to the Rebel 350D its on another league.

The battery life is longer, you can record RAW a JPG on at the same time or choose to do it with a press of a button. And the list of features goes on.

I Think that there is still much potential on the 7D via firmware cos it’s a awesome piece of hardware, no matter what they say.

18-270mm Tamron VC ( got it last year to upgrade the Rebel and now use with the 7D )

50D :

I think (money wise) that a Canon 50D is a good upgrade (IQ compared to the 7D) and don’t care for the video or faster AF.

If you are looking for the most IQ available today, it’s no brainer that the 5DMII is the choice (and don’t mind the extra money) performs better in low light than the 7D. Now the 7D is faster on Focus and in FPS, so if youre a sports shooter or wildlife photographer the 7D will suit you more.

Hope it helps you decide

The AF is not 100% accurate all the time ( got in touch with Canon Tech and they say maybe its because on the Tamron Lens? ) I get a bit soft images that you can improve with PP but overall you get very good IQ ( if want excellent IQ get the 5DMKII )

Highly Recommended!

5 Stars Canon’s Customer Relations
Ever had a problem with a camera? Ever missed the e-tailers 30 day return policy? Ever had to return the camera to the manufactor for repairs? Well, I have. To shorten this story I would like to say Canon stands behind their products. My 7d’s problem was an unidentifed error message(no number). This error occured whenever I made any adjustments or control changes. I returned the camera to Jamesburg, NJ with a full explaination and believe or not got the camera back in eight days. Alas, it had the same problem. I then called the factory tech and explained the problems. She transfered me to the Customer Relations Dept. where they did not fiddle around with excuses, they replaced the camera with a new copy. They also paid all shipping. My past expericences have not been close to this gradifing. I have not read the Canon warranty, but I feel they could have thrown me into the cycle of shipping and reshipping only to return to the fact that I would have had no confidence in the $1,700.00 repaired/unrepaired camera.

I was able to take about 280 exposures with the camera before the onious errors occured and found the 7d is a delight to use. Most exposures were clean and crisp, some where perhaps a little soft on the edges. As I only shot in RAW with little post processing I was very happy with my results.

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Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12 2 MP Digital SLR Camera with EF S 18 55mm f 3 5 5 6 IS Lens Black

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Canon Camera
I just received the camera and have been playing with it on some photos. I am not a professional photographer so it is taking me a while to handle the camera. I like the way my photos have been coming out and used one photo for a Christmas Card. The reason I gave the display only 3 stars was simply that I don’t see the image before I shoot it and can’t get everyone into the photo on the picture. I am sure if I read through the book there is a solution to this, but I just haven’t done so yet.

I love this camera and can’t wait to see all that it is capable of in the future.

5 Stars Great camera, great value!
I almost bought a similar camera, but less megapizels, at a local store, but saw this one on Amazon at the last minute and ordered it instead. I’m sure I got the better deal by far. We’re still learning all the features of the camera, but it is lightweight and does almost everything!

5 Stars Great Intro SLR
I switched from a point-and-shoot to this SLR about a year and a half ago and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve gotten way into photography after buying this camera. I’ll typically keep it at home if going somewhere where it will easily get spilled on or dropped (ie. bars, etc.), but for more events and photo ops it’s wonderful. It does take a little getting used to it’s size if you’re moving from a point-and-shoot to an SLR for the first time, but it is well worth the switch! When I purchased the XSi, I was deciding between this one and a Nikon equivilant. After playing with both of them, I ended up going with the Canon – the buttons are placed better and the features you get for the value were better in my opinion. Can’t go wrong!

1 Star Bad Image Quality
For a long time I refrained from writing this review, believing that probably I was to blame for the subpar image quality (out of focus) pictures I was getting. But my conclusion is that it was not me. It was the camera.

I had such a great experience with the Canon S2IS that I was ready to move up to my first DSLR camera, and what better than the same brand. I enthusiastically ordered the Xsi with the supplied kit lens. I soon realized that no matter which focus setting I used, many pictures, both indoor and outdoor, were slightly out of focus, and slightly underexposed. I took side-by-side pictures together with my S2IS, and was shocked to see that the older, 5 MP camera took pictures much, much better than the Xsi.

I wrote to Canon customer service, and they blamed it on the “kit” lens. They suggested I buy a lens with a wider aperture (which was about $1,000, so I thought, “You’re kidding”). I did not buy the lens, but I did buy an external flash ($350), and the image quality was just the same. I was so disgusted with the situation that I basically stopped using the camera, and continued using the old one instead.

After some time, I really gave up on the camera and decided to return it, together with the flash. Fortunately, Amazon has fantastic customer sevice, and everything worked out without a problem.

In conclusion, my camera definitely had focus problems. These focus problems caused the pictures to be improperly exposed, and the flash strength to be slightly inexact, all contributing to bad image quality. For me, my Xsi’s 12 MP sensor and all its other features were worthless if the image quality was lower than that of my 5 MP camera. I am now hesitant to buy another Canon camera, afraid of a repeat of this.

One star for the camera, and five stars for Amazon’s customer service.

4 Stars Great pictures but disappointed in the live view mode
I use my camera for taking pictures of our one year old mostly. It is a great camera for small children because it can take a picture so fast you don’t miss out on a good smile. I am disappionted in the live view mode. It is very hard to use and you can not use it in the auto modes. They don’t tell you that up front. If you want to take pictures mostly with your LCD screen in live mode this is not the camera for you. If you enjoy using the view finder this is a great camera for the price.

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Sony DPF D70 7 inch Digital Photo Frame

Experience full color, digital desk-top photos at an incredible value. This Sony Digital Photo Frame is a convenient device that lets you view and share your memories in brilliant, high-contrast color on a 7-inch LCD screen. You get 256MB of internal memory with optional image resizing to maximize internal memory, plus multiple display modes, including nine slideshow styles, to find the setting that you like most. A clock and a calendar is also included, and most memory card formats are supported.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Beautiful with minor flaws . . .
I bought this after buying and returning a perfectly acceptable digital picture frame which I judged to be overpowering because it was large and ugly because a turned frame really didn’t do it for me with a digital picture. So, I love the size of this and its sleek black frame, the face of which is completely smooth.

The picture quality is great, accepting multiple memory cards and having decent internal memory is all good as well.

The only ways in which it falls down are in the practical aspects:

- the lovely tripod-leg-like stabilizer has to be set ‘just-so’ or else it has a tendency to tip over;

- the controls are a bit awkward to manipulate and the black-on-black identification lettering is just awful.

However, it’s so pretty and does such a good job once you have it set up that I very much like it, overall.

4 Stars Amazing Picture
As a wife of a professional photographer, I always need to thoroughly research any photo-related gift before purchasing. This frame is super-cool. It has a sleek black design – no cheap wood-looking plastic. The picture is amazing – no pixelation at all. You can turn off the Sony logo light which was a bit distracting to me. I loaded pictures of my husband and I over the years and gave it to him as an anniversary present. He’s getting a new office soon, so it will be perfect.

The only (small) gripe that I have it that in the “random” mode, it seems to land on certain pictures more than others.

Other than that, it was easy to load, set up and program. This was also the best price I had found. Be sure to check to see if any “special offers” are being offered. I received 50 free prints form Shutterfly with the purchase of this frame through Amazon.

5 Stars Great Photo Frame
This photo frame once you get the hang of it is simply awesome. Great display, great clock, nice and clear display and best of all it is one of just a few photo frames that will accept the small memory stick pro duo….which it appears that none of the others will accept. I highly recommend this frame.

5 Stars Love it….
I love this Frame. Nice and Sharp image quality. It’s a Sony!… Easy use. Just that it has less internal memory but Flash memory cards are so cheap that even 1 or 2 GB Card would be enough to fill tonnes of pictures.

No video or MP3 which I couldn’t care less as I don’t need those features. Only needed are Sharp images and which is what I got. Thanks Sony.

5 Stars Great for the price
I like the frame overall. If you have your own memory cards, you can just save images to it then insert the card on the proper slot on the frame and your are set, no need to make folders or special paths for the frame to find. I would like it if it had an USB input, it only have a miniUSB that is used to connect to a computer to save images to the internal memory which is only 256MB. It will not play images from internal and external memory, only one or the other. So when you order it make sure that you get a memory card as well. The power plug is 100-220V, so that is great for us since we are military abroad, I didn’t need any external power transformer. I’ve had it for about 3 weeks and we only turned it off a couple nights, its been on 24/7 almost the entire time we’ve had it and it shuffles the images well enough to not show the same image twice before all are displayed, or at least that I have noticed. The price was excellent for a Sony product, I got it on sale, but even at regular price is excellent compared to other frames of same size with less memory or features. You can stand the frame vertical or horizontally and the frame knows how to present the picture upright with no input from you.

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