The Olympus Camedia C-5050 is a monster in terms of performance, compatibility, and unfortunately, price. This 5.0 megapixel camera captures images at some of the highest detail possible in a digital device. It also supports a variety of storage media including CompactFlash, SmartMedia, Microdrive, and XD (it ships with a 32 MB XD card).
The 3x optical zoom lens slides into the black body of the camera when it's turned off. Although this doesn't cut down much on the heft of the 13-ounce Magnesium device, its design still allows it to be easily held in one hand while shooting. Since its powered by four AA batteries, you'll want to pick up some rechargeable ones to save on battery swapping.
Its bright, large 1.8-inch LCD can be viewed easily even in high light environments. It also conveniently detaches from the camera body and swivels out into multiple positions to aid in atypically angled shots (although not through as wide a range as other cameras offering this feature).
All of the controls within this camera are adjustable, including aperture and shutter priority, Panorama, special effects, etc., as well as programmable into a My Mode, letting you customize your most oft-used settings. Captured images were incredibly detailed at the highest resolution of 2560 by 1960 (large enough for printing out at 13 by 17 inches). You can also capture video clips complete with sound with lengths limited only by your storage capacity.
The myriad buttons and dials on the top and back of the camera might prove a bit daunting to the novice digital photographer, although the power and price of this camera will most likely be attracting intermediate or advanced users.
This isn't a camera to get for your kid's sweet sixteen present, but if you're looking for a digital cam with the performance and range of features to compete with a high-end film camera, the C-5050 holds its own. --J. Curtis
Pros:
- Lots of features
- High resolution captures
- Video with audio
Cons:
- Pricey and hefty
- Menus have a learning curve
Product Description:
Professional features abound in the five-megapixel C-5050ZOOM. The ergonomically designed camera incorporates an ultra-bright f1.8-f2.6, 3x optical zoom lens system. Its many manual options give you the freedom to create the images you want. The tilting LCD monitor helps frame scenes when shooting from difficult angles, such as from the floor or above the head. A range of automatic modes is also included, enabling the quick reaction to capture the moment. Furthermore the C-5050ZOOM is compatible with the new digital image storage standard xD-Picture card, as well as SmartMedia, Compact Flash and Microdrive.
Olympus Camedia C-5050 5MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom