Olympus Camedia D-380 2MP Digital Camera

For a compact, affordable digital camera that takes sharp pictures with enough detail for prints at sizes up to 8 by 10 inches, look no further than the Olympus D-370.

Optics and Resolution
This higher-resolution successor to the popular D-370 comes with a 2-megapixel sensor that captures enough detail for crisp 8-by-10-inch prints. For the typical family photographer, 2 megapixels is a great balance between price and performance. If you want a camera with even more resolution, you'll probably also want more manual controls than the D-380 offers--consider the Olympus C-3020 instead.

The glass Olympus focus-free 4.5mm lens (equivalent to 35mm in film cameras) has an aperture range of f4 to f8. The camera features a 5x digital telephoto zoom, but remember that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly.

To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.6-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to using a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll be capturing, use the LCD display.

More Features
A sliding clamshell lens cover simultaneously protects the lens and provides a simple way to turn the camera on and off. While the D-370 is clearly designed for point-and-shooters and beginning photographers, there are several manual features for more adventurous photographers, including macro mode, adjustable white-balance settings, exposure compensation, and the ability to shoot black-and-white and sepia images.

Power
Power is provided by four AA batteries or two LB-01 disposable lithium batteries--a set of LB-01 batteries is included. These lithium packs are the size of two side-by-side AA batteries, and they have a surprisingly long lifespan. However, they aren't rechargeable, so when they finally die, they go into the trash. If you use the camera once a month or less, the lithium batteries are a logical idea, since they'll hold their charge for years when sitting in an unused camera. If you use the camera more often, then the lithium packs don't make economic or environmental sense--we recommend getting a set or two of rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries and a charger. A digital camera will kill a set of alkaline batteries extremely quickly, especially if you're using the camera's LCD display, so they aren't recommended except in a pinch. To ensure you'll always be ready for action, we recommend having two sets of rechargeables so you can always have one set in the camera and the other set in the charger.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures silent video clips up to 60 seconds in length. The limited duration and resolution of your movies guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on SmartMedia memory cards. The included 8 MB card holds approximately 16 images at the camera's default settings. SmartMedia cards are reusable, but if you tend to take more than 16 images per outing (or plan to use the video feature frequently), then you'll want a bigger card. A 64 MB card will store well over 100 pictures. To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera. Your computer should automatically recognize your camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive.

Size
At 4.8 by 2.6 by 1.8 inches and 6.7 ounces, the D-370 is slim and compact enough to bring along in a purse or pocket

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the camera, 8 MB SmartMedia card, two long-life LB-01 lithium batteries, USB cable, carrying strap, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend these accessories to make the most of your camera: a carrying case, a set of NiMH rechargeable size AA batteries, and a higher-capacity SmartMedia memory card. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett

Pros:

• Compact, lightweight, and easy to use
• Focus-free lens means fast startups and quick operation between shots

Cons:

• Movie mode lacks sound
• 8 MB card and disposable batteries are fine for occasional users, but more frequent use will require upgrades to these accessories