Sony DSC-N2 Digital Camera (10.1MP, 3x Optical Zoom) 3.0" LCD

Let me open by saying this camera is an extremely good buy and I would recommend it to anyone! I just upgraded from its predecessor (the DSC-N1) which was also fantastic!

This camera is good for amateurs through to professionals. Its size provides simple portability and its weight is a perfect complement yet the list of features is huge. The camera is solidly built and just has a feel of quality about it, the 3'' crystal clear touch screen is revolutionary as it saves the need for masses of buttons and switches which maintains the attractiveness.

Features of interest include a higher ISO setting than the DSC-N1 which allows up to 1600 for very dark conditions. I have been making great use of the long exposure settings to capture stunning pictures in the dark or just to produce a very abstract piece of art. As expected there is the option of a forced flash, no flash, or auto flash, however there is a slow synchro too. Whereas amateurs may be better sticking to the auto function or the range of pre-programmed settings for events such as fireworks, beaches, or twilights there is also a fully manual, program, or high sensitivity function for the intermediate to professional photographer. This provides the user with extremely versatile equipment which rivals the abilities of a digital SLR.

The Carl Zeiss lens paired with a 10.1MP resolution awards the user with a masterpiece time after time. There is an option to use a lower resolution, take a photo for an email or even take a 16:9 image for use with a HDTV. An additional benefit of this is it can save memory as the picture takes up less space on the pro duo card.

A surprising extra to this superb camera is the video recording function. Most cameras predominately focus on high quality of images and then add a video option. Sony seems to have focused on not only their quality of images but on their video too. Obviously this is no match for a camcorder but I am sure you will be amazed at the quality such a compact manages to deliver when it comes to recording videos with sound.

I feel the pros outweigh the cons by a mile but I have highlighted the main points so you can decide for yourself.

Cons:

Pictures can be grainy when using higher ISO settings

Processing time on long exposures is lengthy

Small internal memory

Could incorporate a higher optical zoom

Camera must be steady during shots with no flash

Pros:

Battery life

Portability

Touch screen

Overall quality of pictures

Extensive features

Price

Video quality surprising for a digital camera

I recommend you accompany this product with at least a 1GB Sony pro duo memory card, a screen protector, and a carry case. I also bought a spare battery for when I go out on lengthy trips just in case.

Conclusion - Sony have produced a perfect camera for taking out for the night, taking on holiday, or even getting professional shots. The price is very reasonable with the sheer quality you are getting for it. Everything has a downside so I give this camera 4.5/5.

I absolutely love this camera! It's the best thing I have bought in ages. I haven't had a proper chance to explore it in-depth as yet but I have experimented with taking photos and using different formats such as colours etc. The quality of this camera is outstanding. The pictures I have taken have been unbelievably clear and exact. The 3" LCD screen is a little godsend in itself. It means that you can view photos clearly without having to put them onto the computer first. On one occassion my partner accidentally knocked my hand whilst I was taking a photo and still, the picture was clear and precise. I would highly recommend this camera. I've not got a huge amount of experience with cameras and photography but the people around me who have are hugely impressed.

I bought this camera around 8 months a go from Amazon and I have to say that initially I absolutely loved the device. You certainly can tell the difference in the quality of the images compared to my previous five cameras (which were all Casio or Canon) and the touch screen display is very easy to use and handy! The one thing that let the camera down for me was the unreliability of the device. Several of my friends and family have the same model and on occassions the retractable lence would jam, the camera would not switch on (despite charged) or failure messages would come on screen. I must add this was an occassional problem for us all but was a little frustrating if you want to get a quick snap.

I am a novice with cameras and just like a model that looks good, produces good quality photographs and is simple to use. This camera does all those things and should satisfy the needs of most. However, don't buy just because its a Sony as I feel that you could meet the same criteria with another big branded name for less.