Question on Digicams:

I just need some clarification on the two above cameras. I've shortlisted the two models based on my requirements and budget. I've seen the respective specs and the reviews and it's basically, correct me if I'm wrong, a case of speed and manual controls. I understand that Nikon L1 is lacking in these two areas compared with the Canon model. However, it has its strengths, too. Would appreciate your expert advice on the following:

1) When it comes to image quality, does the Nikon model have an advantage?

2) The Nikon model's USB connection speed is slower than that of the Canon model's (i.e. USB vs USB 2.0). Is that a big difference?

3) I don't want to pretend to be an expert and would like to know what the basic meaning and usefulness of the ISO settings and apertures are. In addition, are the manual controls for these two areas essential for an amateur/casual photographer?

Submitted by Reader

Answer:

(1) When it comes to image quality, the Nikon Coolpix L1 does not appear to have a significant advantage over the Canon PowerShot A700. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. For example, the Coolpix L1 delivered strong macro photographs while the PowerShot A700 produced saturated colors with minimal purple fringing.

(2) Generally there are three prevalent types of USB connections for digicams: USB 1.1 (1.5 Mbit per second); USB 2.0 Full-speed (12 Mbit per second); and USB 2.0 High-speed. Naturally, the USB 2.0 High-speed would deliver the fastest transfer rate at 480Mbit per second. However, unless you are transferring a huge amount of data, the speed shouldn't affect you significantly.

(3) ISO settings are also commonly referred to as sensitivity levels. The higher the ISO, the more susceptible the camera is to light. At higher ISO levels, you can shoot with a faster shutter speed as compared with taking a similar picture, but at a lower ISO setting. One thing to take note of: Shooting at high ISO levels usually results in noisy images and this is especially so for compact cameras. The advantage of being able to shoot at a faster shutter speed minimizes camera shake or subject movement.

As for your question on apertures, you might want to refer to a user question posted some time back here.

For the point-and-shoot, amateur and casual photography crowd, the availablility of manual controls (aperture-, shutter-priority and full manual) doesn't matter. These people are looking for instant gratification where you get a good image after clicking the shutter without having to tinkle with all the settings.

Hope that helps.