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As compact digital cameras go,
the Sony Cyber-shot DSC- W120 has all the latest technologies--face and
smile detection, image stabilization and red-eye reduction--as well as
a few interesting twists of its own. For instance, it has an optical viewfinder--something
not found in many snappers in this category.
This 7.2 megapixel point-and-shoot digital camera is small--3.5 inches
wide, 2.38 inches high and less than an inch deep--and affordable. Its
price range is about $180-$200.
Given the rash in recent days of digcams with displays of three inches
or more, the W120's 2.5-inch LCD may appear small to some pockerazzi.
Nevertheless, I found the screen bright and sharp and satisfactorially
reflected what was being shot when used in optimal viewing situations.
In bright light use, however, composition using the display could be challenging.
For a camera this size, the unit's controls are responsive and very easy
to finger. Clustering all the primary controls together--zoom control,
mode dial, navigation pad and task buttons--reduces needless hunting for
functions.
The controls are also intuitive to learn--especially for experienced
compact camera shooters--because they mirror designs frequently used across
the board for the industry. Sony saw no need to reinvent the wheel, a
temptation irresistable to some camera makers who sometimes mistake change
for innovation.
One snag for me when using the DSC was its battery/card compartment.
It opened fine, but closing it was too fussy for my liking.
Some design choices by Sony also seemed a little puzzling. On the one
hand, it expands the camera's focusing capabilities with "semi manual"
focusing, but omits automatic exposure bracketing. The ability to set
focusing zones based on distance is a nice feature to have, but most lensslingers
could live without it. On the other hand, AEB adds so much value to the
exposure compensation features already built into the camera that it seems
a shame that it was omitted.
This model takes above average photos for pocketcams in this category.
For snapjacks looking for a totally automated experience, the shuterbox
will capture decent images in most situations. For the more adventuresome,
the ability to modify exposure settings, focusing modes, light sensitivity
and flash output will give them more flexibility in their photographic
endeavors.
The photo software packaged with this Cyber-shot is average fare for
this kind of camera. It allows you to organize images and do some rudimentary
editing. In addition to a traditional directory tree arrangement, there's
an agreeable calendar view that provides a quick way to find pictures
by date. However, only a Windows version of the application is included
with the camera.
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Introduction
