Customer Reviews for Sony Cybershot DSC-T1 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

Sony Cybershot DSC-T1 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom
by Sony

Sony Cybershot DSC-T1 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom Our Price: $32.00
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Category: Digital Camera
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Sony Cybershot DSC-T1 5MP Digital Camera with 3x Optical Zoom

Customer Review: SONY's T1 is an Excellent Compact Digital Camera
Summary: 5 Stars

Comments: Testing this SONY DSC-T1 during February 2004, has been a pleasure, carrying it in my pocket all day, every day. The size and weight is ideal for ultimate portability. Using this 5M pixel camera at 3M pixel resolution, using the smart zoom feature, or 5 MP mode produces excellent results. The T1 also allows in-camera cropping of images, and in-camera image resizing for e-mail purposes. The high quality movie mode is comparable to high quality digital-video tape camcorders, 30 frames per second at 640x480 pixel size image, with the exception of typical camcorder better optical zoom capability. The camera also allows one to view and edit-out portions of the video. The image quality is stunning, and color quality and saturation is also spectacular. HQ (fine) video where 3 minutes fills 256MB card, however, the video is movie quality with very smooth moving objects, in great color definition. Quite a bonus for a digital still image camera. SONY has definitely placed a great deal of engineering muscle into this device. I have produced a number of 8x10" photos and am stunned at the color and image detail. The trick in any photography activity is knowing how to take good pictures and finding correct lighting, etc. Taking care of business, when framing the image, and setting the camera features, will produce truly great results. "The camera that one can take everywhere is the best camera to have," is the remark I deliver to my students, and this device does not disappoint. Spend a few minutes, try 60 minutes, reviewing the 100 page instruction book, buy several high speed 256MB memory cards, and have a great time capturing images every place you go throughout the day. As to a Camera Rating, it has earned a solid A+. FYI, I also shoot action sports events for FAU, NCAA Atlantic Sun Conference, and others using Canon's best digital equipment. Therefore, when I do not desire to carry large Digital 35mm size equipment, SONY's T1 is an ideal companion.

Regarding SONY's DSC-T1's low-light operation in the still-image and movie modes, this camera as many that have a maximum aperture of f3.5 coupled with maximum ISO level of 400, will experience image blur if care is not taken at exposure. In using this camera extensively in many lighting situations, one would have to sacrifice low light sensitivity in exchange for extreme portability. In movie mode and still photography, in dim lighting, extreme care must be taken at exposure to prevent image blur. When in very-low-light environments where the design limits of the imager peak at 400 ISO, image noise may become unacceptable, when compared to larger SLR cameras like Canon's EOS-10D which performs quite well at ISO 800 at long exposures. The trade-off is size and weight of the equipment. For flash photography, the T1 operates quite well for small group shots where camera-to-subject distances are within 4-6 feet, which is within its design limits. The tiny built-in flash will not be able to create enough (flash) light for large groups with low-available-light conditions, where the camera is 3 or more meters, or 10 or more feet from the subject. As to red-eye reduction, the mechanism is for the camera to emit short flash-bursts prior to the actual image capture, in effort to close the iris's of the subject when the main flash and exposure occurs. All human conditions do not operate so regularly, where perhaps the subject's iris' did not close sufficiently to prevent the main-flash's reflection from the subject's retina. We have not experienced an unusual level of red-eye problems, however, occasionally it can occur, particularly if the subject's iris does not react to the pre-flash light.

Problems
One issue to be careful about is the placement of the right most button which activates the close-up feature. One's thumb may accidentally press this right-arrow button when holding the camera, when close-ups are not intended. So look on the LCD panel often at the lower left corner to see the Flower symbol. If shown, you're in close-up mode. Simply press the right-arrow button again to turn-off close-up mode. My only complaint is SONY's insistence on using obscure, proprietary, expensive, memory cards. In this case the "Memory Stick Duo Pro." SONY may have been better served had it chosen an industry standard SD card which is now available in 1 GB sizes. However, SONY says that with the DSC-T1 set in high quality FINE video mode, SONY's card is necessary because of its theoretical 20 MB per second transfer speed; presently that speed is unavailable by other SD card manufacturers. And after you see what this high quality FINE mode looks like, you too will be a SONY believer. As one may notice, even with a few complaints, I'm quite enthusiastic with the results.

James L Wilson Professor,Principles.of.Digital.Photography and Post.Image.Processing Florida.Atlantic.University Boca.Raton.Campus Operating.Entity.BocaDigital.LLC. Quality.Digital.Imaging...


Customer Review: VERY GOOD! Super happy with this potent lil' baby!!
Summary: 5 Stars

I received this camera on Friday. I had read ALL the review posted here and was a bit nervous about some of the concerns that have been mentioned. The balance of positive reviews convinced me to give it a try and I am VERY happy I did. This is my 3rd digital camera so far, canon powershot, nikon coolpix and now the sony. The Sony is my favorite already!

I took the camera to Las Vegas for a party weekend to try it out. My real concern with the camera was blurry images. The camera is VERY small and I worried that I would not be able to hold it still while shooting and get a lot of motion blur in pics. I didn't get a SINGLE blurry image all weekend. It shot crystal clear shots consistently and under all conditions. I shot while dancing, running... all ways and never had an issue! You just have to find a comfortable way to hold the camera.
The lens is easy to drop your finger in front of... but if you pay attention to what you are doing, this doesn't need to be a problem.
The GIANT LCD display is probably my ABSOLUTELY FAVORITE thing about this camera!! It is SO clear and BIG!! You can see GREAT detail in every photo with it! Serious PROPS on the designer of that element!
I read complaints about the flash on it. First, the color of the flash is GREAT! I know of several digitals that when you shoot semi-close, they turn everything yellow. This one is perfect. There are settings for the strength of the flash as well that you can adjust. It isn't ANY weaker than any other digital camera on the market! You cannot expect to shoot super far away with the tiny flash that you get on a point and shoot digital. It is sufficient in strength for what the camera is intended for. And, if you read the manual you will learn that there are wasy to change the metering of the camera for shooting far away in lower light situtations. Like any other electronic item you should spend a little time familiarizing yourself with all the settings before complaining about something you simply have not taken the time to understand.

Red eye setting on camera works great as well!! Not sure why others are having trouble with that. Maybe they have just not figured out how to turn the setting to ON.
The interactive menu is really easy to figure out and work. The pre-programmed settings are vast and very cool. They have a setting for almost any codition and the AUTO program worked perfectly for all different lighting conditions.
It has a very sturdy casing which is perfect for me... Feels like it will stand the test of time. I had a problem with my Nikon Coolpix because the casing was such lightweight plastic and after a week had to tape battery door closed. Very cheap and flimsy materials used on it.. but The sony FEELS very sturdy!
The drop down lens cover is perfect. It drops and BAM, ready to shoot. Looking at the product photo's on Amazon of this camera you can't really tell how it works. I almost thought that it didn't have a lens cover and was very relieved when it arrived and found it does.

I recommed the largest memory card you can afford for this baby! 5mp will fill a card in NO time. Of course you don't have to shoot that big and get more on the card but it is great to have the option! Why buy a 5mp unless you are going to shoot em! ;)
All in all I am REALLY pleased with this camera. No challenge to speak of for me! Great price on Amazon for it as well!

Customer Review: This Camera is an Engineering Marvel
Summary: 5 Stars

The best digital camera I have ever seen for it size. It really is an engineering marvel, it's size, workmenship, ease of use, great pictures, fastest from off to ready of any digital camera and the BEST Screen on any camera. A word to people looking for real reviews on this camera, I have read all the reviews here and I will say that the good things they say about this camera are true, but the bad things they say are mostly untrue. You are buying this carmera for size and the large screen and for it's size it is the BEST camera out there PERIOD. Seems like people either do not know how to operate a camera or are just trying to find any flaw they can on this product. Lets see them build something better then this camera. Now for all you cry babies out there complaining about this or that, you buy a camera this size for convience so you can put it in you pants or shirt pocket . I have many great film and digital cameras that might take better pictures but who cares if you never take them with you because they are too heavy and large and you have to carry them at all times? The T-1 is the one I have with me all the time so I never miss a shot. Who cares if you have a camera that takes the most perfect picture in the world if you never take it with you because it is not convient to do so. Honestly, how many of you have the best intentions of taking your camera to a theme park but at the last minute leave it in the car because you don't want to be stuck carring it it all day, not with this camera, you will have it on your person at all times. The pictures that this camera takes for it's size are Astonishing. RED EYE, who has a camera that you don't get red eye? Though there are ways to help prevent it, learn how to use the camera. POWER CORDS/DOCK STATION, you do not need the docking station to charge the camera, just the power cords, again learn how to use the camera. SLIDING LID PROBLEM, I never had this problem sliding the camera into my pocket, must be the person that has the problem. COLOR BALANCE, I just don't see what this person is talking about but you can adjust it, learn how to use the camera. NO VIEW FINDER, I didn't think anyone used them anymore, I would glady not have one in order to have the 2 1/2 inch display which you can see under any lighting conditions. FLASH PICTURE TOO DARK, I don't see this problem at all, there is a flash setting (normal, high, low) again learn how to use the camera. NO TRIPOD MOUNT, how did you expect to have one on a camera so compact and dense with electronics, well since you should have a case to protect this camera anyway and Sony has the perfect case for sale (Active Case AJK-THA) with a built in tripod mount get one. The camera never has to come out of the case for taking pictures, you can screw a tripod in the bottom of the case, works great. BATTERY DRAIN, No more so then any other camera, try switching off the camera when not in use, with the super fast startup when switched on you could have this camera off more often then other cameras. I can't say enough about how much I like this camera. Is it for everyone, no, it's a small camera, some people may find the small size a bit awkward, the controls are simple to use but again because of the small size they are on the camera so you might hit one inadvertently. It takes some getting use to holding this camera but after a few times using it becomes second nature and you will be taking great pictures with it.

Customer Review: Amazing camera Indoor n Outdoor
Summary: 5 Stars

First, i would say Sony has made terrific product. They have displyed how to make real ultra-compact and Mega-pixel cameras.
I would say this is "Terminator" of Digital cameras..:).
Ok now whoever says that
1] the lens cover is too huge or clumsy to use...well if you have to protect the lens from damage, u've gotto have sturdy lens cover. The big size gives added protection and also the good grip.
2] Night Pics are no good ---- Guys u NEED to read the manual and play with settings. I have taken pics in PITCH DARK room with flash (ofcourse) and subject being 10feet from camera...with VERY GOOD results. You have to keep one thing in mind, that hands should be very stable. Well even the best SLR's require that.
3] Memory Stick Duo ===== I dont understand why ppl make fuss about this. well i agree that they are little expensive, but considering the size for the memory..you have to agree there is no other format as small as the memory stick and SD.
how often do u really swap memory cards with other devices.
4] Daytime Pictures are Simply Beautiful. No doubt about those.
Again ...check your settings, whoever gets dark or grainy pics.
Here's a clue...try playing with EV setting. U'll see MAGIC.
5] Tripod Not required === Folks cmon...this is ultracompact camera...Its supposed to be used as Point and shoot. Its not for Photo Studios or for doing your Model portfolio. The purpose is to Point and Shoot and Be on ur way...and not being on the scene for 30mins fixing ur Tripod.
6] Sony should have provided a simple case. === yes i agree with this. Due to the delicate and precision electronics, they should have given minimal protection equipment with it. Anyways, i have heard that Apple IPOD case fits this easily.
7] Large Screen Display === This is THE MOST ATTRACTIVE feature of the camera. I think other companies should follow this standard. We DONT need a few finder now. Also those who said that the screen isnt bright in sunlight. I'll say check ur Eyes or check the Settings ....cuz mine just works fantastic.
8] Cradle issues === I personally didnt like the Cradle too. I would prefer a set of cables instead. but whoever said that cradle is too bulky....folks u need a workout...the cradle is as light as ur mouse and even smaller is size. If i'm tavelling, i wudnt mind carrying it along, cuz anyway i'll be using it when i get back to my hotel room. not when i'm outside.
well thats all i can think of right now.
Again i'll say play with ur settings especiall EV, Focus, ISO.
then u'll realise how COOL this camera is.

Customer Review: Perfectly-Sized Digital Produces Amazingly Clear Pics
Summary: 5 Stars

I am among the last of my friends to have bought a digital camera as I held stubbornly onto my 35-mm Canon Rebel no matter how unwieldy my camera bag got. My wait turned out to be inadvertently wise, as I think the SONY DSC-T1 is really the digital camera made specifically for me. Granted the price seems steep, but the quality of the photos have truly been a relative shock to my traditionalist senses. On a recent trip to New York, it was sheer bliss to have such a high quality camera that I could carry in my shirt pocket all day, every day. The slim size and barely-there weight are ideal for ultimate portability. And there are a variety of settings that make for some great point-and-shoot pictures, whether it's using the 5M pixel camera at 3M pixel resolution, the amazing Smart Zoom feature, or the 5 MP mode, all produce excellent results. I also like the Photoshop-like extras such as the in-camera cropping of images, and in-camera image resizing for e-mail purposes. Although I barely use it, the movie mode is top-notch, easily comparable to the high quality digital-video tape camcorders I have tried in the past, 30 frames per second at 640x480 pixel size image.

Whether using the static or movie settings, the quality of the imagery is easily comparable to the results I get with my traditional Canon Rebel. I am amazed at the color quality, saturation and preciseness in image detail, having now produced a number of 8x10" photos suitable for framing. Reading the 100-page instruction book is essential to maximize the features of the camera, and allow time to practice before using it for special occasion shots. And you should buy a few high cost high speed 256MB or 512MB memory cards to avoid frustrating capacity issues. I will still use my hefty Canon Rebel 35-mm camera with the even 300-mm zoom lens attachment, as I am used to the shoulder camera bag when I travel to far-away places, but the SONY DSC-T1 will serve me in a pinch whether it's taking a picture of an unexpected sunset or being backstage at the Metropolitan Opera waiting for my favorite singer or even documenting a fender bender for insurance purposes. After all, the camera one can take everywhere is truly the best camera to have.
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