Shutterbug Strasse

Posted by AbeCollins (A) on May 26, 2009 at 13:10:41

In Reply to: RE: The Best Compact Camera For Poor Lighting: posted by Vinylly on May 26, 2009 at 12:38:26

In fact, I liked it enough to buy another one for me. The lens offers 5x optical zoom and in this case is the equivalent to 28-140mm if comparing to a typical 35mm film camera. It's not a long zoom but a good all around range. 28mm is wider than most digital cameras making it better suited for cramped indoor shots w/o always having to backup into a far corner to get everyone in the picture, or for wide scenic photos.

This Sony has done significantly better than a lower priced Canon A590 that was highly recommended by Consumer Reports. The Canon was a total waste of money. Super grainy images unless in ideal lighting. The Sony is so much better in low light and in general plus it's more compact (but it does cost more). The Sony also has an "Easy" mode so it's a no brainer and an Intelligent mode (also a no brainer) that takes several variables into account (strong backlighting, high contrast scenes, multiple metering and focus zones, etc) to always get you a great shot.

There are so many choices out there and you simply have to decide which features are most important to you. There are usually trade-offs associated with long zoom lenses which typically translate into picture quality issues especially at the extremes and slow lens speed at the longer focal lengths.

The Sony W290 also has a high-definition video recording mode and a couple other small features. If you don't need that, consider the less expensive Sony CyberShote W230 with similar specs for about $175.

We found the Sony W290 to be an all around good performer - but if you want the longest zoom - look elsewhere and be prepared for the trade-offs.

Sony W290 in Blue $228 at Amazon.com + Accessories

• Sony CyberShot W290   (Open in New Window)