Olympus Zooms In

The Olympus SP-550 UZ features a TruePic TURBO™ Image Processor and stands at the head of the pact with an 18x optical (28mm-504mm) zoom. Along with a solid 7.0 megapixel sensor, Olympus has created a camera that is fit for the beginner as well as the intermediate photographer.

Boasting an impressive optical zoom, Olympus’ aim to reach further has been achieved. The zoom on this camera was far more seamless than previous models and was easier to control even with the added focal length. The lens also offers the ability to focus at very close distances, measurably closer than many other cameras I have tested. Using the super macro mode produces high quality sharp images that are impressive for a camera at this price. With the addition of an image stabilizer, image quality at even 18x zoom is very good. Very little image noise is seen and the image appears sharp at distances where images usually appear somewhat blurry.

Olympus has included high speed shooting modes that make capturing fast-action shots a breeze. The camera records at a respectable 1.2 frames per second and also offers a high speed video mode which captures action at either at 7 or 15 frames per second, although reducing image resolution. ISO ranges from 50 to 5000 offering users several options when shooting in a variety of situations.

The SP-550 UZ offers users full manual control along with the ability to shoot in RAW or JPEG formats. The camera offers 30 different manual and automatic shooting modes, including 23 different scene modes that are tailored to specific environments like the beach, underwater, and night scenes. Olympus designed this camera with the consumer in mind; providing a comfortable ergonomic design and rubber grip, taking design elements from traditional SLR cameras. Controls are laid out in a reasonable fashion. The 2.5” screen offers 230,000 pixels is quite viewable, although it sometimes displays purple streaks when something bright strikes the lens. In addition, the screen is slow to adapt to changes in brightness, which in manual mode may lead to improperly exposed images. Fortunately, the electronic viewfinder offers a positive alternative especially in bright situations.

Form Factor

This camera incorporates many features, which make handling it and ultimately snapping the photograph more pleasurable. This camera is not meant to fit in your pocket, but does provide a great variety of features in a medium sized body. It offers the benefits of a larger camera in a more compact and portable design including some great standout features There are an extensive array of menus and options to customize the camera to fit your shooting style or allow you the ability to point and shoot. Picture quality is respectable for this level of camera

With a full range of features, easy to use beginner-friendly shooting modes, and extensive capabilities, taking pictures with this camera is more fun than ever A very effective 1 cm super macro mode creates detailed images indoors or out.

The camera weighs 12.9 oz (365g) without the media card and batteries. Like other Olympus cameras, the SP-550 UZ uses an xD media card that, although very small in size, only is offered in a maximum 2GB capacity.
 

Summary

Olympus has again created a camera that suits all who choose to use it. Nearly anyone can pickup the camera and begin taking great pictures. It offers great capability with its extensive zoom and comfortable design. The SP-550 UZ offers experienced photographers and amateurs alike an easy to use product, with an amazing zoom and quality design. With a street price of under $500 US, this camera provides lots of capability for a reasonable price.


Manufacturer: Olympus

http://www.olympus.com

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