Digicam highs and lows in 2008

The first thing that hit us when Sigma announced the DP1 was that the shooter uses an APS-C-sized sensor (the same ones used in most dSLRs), and it promises image quality that will rival all point-and-shoots. We forgive it for not having a zoom (due to the size of the sensor and distance of optics to it), but its operation was horrendous. Sure, it did deliver exceptional great picture quality, but that couldn't hide the fact that it is pricey and not user friendly.


Nikon D3x
With the Canon EOS 5D Mark II already trumping Nikon's D700, we thought the latter would at least introduce video-capture function into its latest pro-level dSLR, the D3x. When that didn't happen, we were a little disappointed. But the real shock came only when we saw the US$8,000 price tag. For 3 megapixels lesser and a slower frame rate, we can get the 5D Mark II which has one of the undisputedly best video qualities for a digital still camera.


Polaroid's bankruptcy
Although the company said it was a case of fraud which led it to bankruptcy, we cannot deny the fact that digital photography has a hand in it, too. While Polaroid's Instant Film was a hit when film was widely used, digital cameras are now the cheaper alternative. While few would lament the loss, those of us who once learnt photography with film would still feel disappointed.


Special edition shooters
It can be seen as an almost desperate attempt to try and sell more cameras, but manufacturers are still doing it. From the Olympus limited edition E-420, Imperial stormtrooper white Pentax K2000 to the lust-worthy Leica D-Lux 4, it's as though the sales of snappers will shoot up when the aesthetic is changed. We're not sure if it did, but we rather the companies concentrate on making better cameras.

Tags: DSLR, Camera, Nikon Corp., video, 3D