Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS25 12MP Digital Camera with 5x MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3 inch L



Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS25 12MP Digital Camera with 5x MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3 inch LCD (Black)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS25 12MP Digital Camera with 5x MEGA Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3 inch L
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Brand: Panasonic
Feature:
 ・12.1-megapixel resolution captures enough detail for poster-size prints
 ・5x MEGA optical image-stabilized zoom; 29mm wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar lens
 ・Intelligent Auto (iA) mode; Face Detection
 ・3.0-inch LCD screen
 ・Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
Sales Rank: 1616

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.5 / 5.0)
・Takes great pictures!
・Great little camera
・Love This Camera!
・I Love This Camera!
・Best digital camera in this price range

List Price:
$229.95

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display

Lowest Used Price:
$174.99


Editorial Review
12.1-megapixel effective recording * 5X optical zoom (4X digital/20X total zoom) * 3" LCD screen with automatic 9-step brightness adjustment * optical image stabilization * wide-angle lens for shooting landscapes and large groups * 35mm equivalent focal length: 29-145mm * top JPEG resolution: 4000 x 3000 * face detection adjusts focus and exposure settings for better portraits *





Customer Reviews
Takes great pictures!
5 / 5.0
I really like that it was small enough to not take up too much room in my purse. Most importantly, it takes really good pictures and easy to use! The battery lasts a good long time because it has a feature that automatically shuts it down to power save if you forget to turn it off.


Great little camera
5 / 5.0
I purchased this camera to take with me on bike trips and hikes. My digital SLR is just too large for that purpose. I did a lot of online research and came to the conclusion that this was the best reasonably priced point and shoot camera. It does just what I want it to do. It takes excellent pictures and is small enough to put in a pocket. The menus are not intuitive and require some adjustments. This is a great camera if you use it for its intended use. Don't expect digital SLR quality, but you will still get excellent pictures.


Love This Camera!
4 / 5.0
I love this camera! It's actually the second one I bought...had its predecessor for a couple years, then gave that one to my spouse and got this new one for myself. The viewer-LCD is huge and it takes great photos and video with sound. Only complaints: Not great getting video in darker conditions (even with increased exposure) and you can't zoom once you start a video. I'd recommend taking the time to go through the User's Guide to get a handle on all the features--many more than I'll ever use.



In spite of the couple video shortcomings, I love it and highly recommend it if you want a fairly easy-to-use camera that's small and fun.


I Love This Camera!
5 / 5.0
This is a great point and shoot camera. If you are looking for good quality pictures with the ease of pushing a button, this is for you! It does have some manual settings you can use for special pictures. I have tried some of those but not all of them. I like the AF tracking, especially since I have kids that can't always stand still. I have taken pictures of moving things and they are as clear as the still pictures. I have yet to see a blurred picture! Great camera and features for the money. I researched awhile before purchasing. I could not be happier.


Best digital camera in this price range
5 / 5.0
I've used this camera for about 3 months now, and it is everything as advertised and more. The joystick selector is kind of small, but easy to use once you get used to it. This camera makes me a better photographer than I am, and I have fewer blurry and throw away/delete pictures as a result. Highly recommended.


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Nikon Coolpix S630 12MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 2.7 inch LC



Nikon Coolpix S630 12MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 2.7 inch LCD (Midnight Blue)

Nikon Coolpix S630 12MP Digital Camera with 7x Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) Zoom and 2.7 inch LC
Manufacturer: Nikon
Brand: Nikon
Feature:
 ・12.0-megapixel resolution for photo-quality prints up to 16 x 20 inches
 ・7x optical Zoom-Nikkor (37-260mm) glass lens; 4-way VR image stabilization
 ・2.7-inch high-resolution LCD screen; Scene Auto Selector
 ・Nikon's Smart Portrait System; Red-eye Fix, Face Priority AE and more
 ・Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
Sales Rank: 2895

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 3.5 / 5.0)
・Great Looking Camera That Takes Horrible Photos
・Nice camera
・I love this camera
・Nikon Coolpix S630 Digital Camera
・Cool Camera - but poor picture quality

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display


Editorial Review
The Coolpix S630 is a high quality compact digital camera featuring 12-megapixel resolution and a 7x optical zoom lens. The Coolpix S630's unique design combines straight and curved surfaces with a unique "Sure Grip" that allows the camera to be held comfortably. Quick response and 4-way VR image stabilization system and sport continuous mode allows images to be captured at up to 11 frames per second.







Customer Reviews
Great Looking Camera That Takes Horrible Photos
1 / 5.0
It doesn't take much to make me a happy picture-taker. I want to point the camera, shoot the photo, and have a great-looking picture to add to my collection. This is not the camera for that. I have had it for about a month, and every time I've used it, I've just been frustrated. I have been a lifelong Kodak EasyShare Digital camera user, but I thought since Nikon had such a great reputation, I'd spend a little more to get a really nice point and shoot. Wrong. The camera LOOKS great. It has lots of cool features that are easy to use. But the long and the short of it is that, under even normal lighting and action circumstances, this camera cannot take a clear shot. This morning was the last straw. I took about 20 photos of my kids playing in my living room, and 8 - EIGHT- of them were keepers, and even a few of those weren't as sharp as they should've been. I just finished the return authorization process with Amazon, and I'm on my way to buy a Kodak. Save yourself some grief and skip buying this camera.


Nice camera
4 / 5.0
I bought this camera, primarily for the 7x optical zoom, but was pleasantly surprised at the ease of use and quality of the pictures. We previously had a 5 year old Olympus and were not looking for 12MG pixel camera. This fit our needs exactly. The screen is bright and the control menus are somewhat intuitive. The camera does have many features so there are several layers to the menus. The initial delay for the first shot is acceptable.



I would recommend this camera to anyone who wants a little more than a basic camera, with a good zoom and the option to make some adjustments through the menu system.


I love this camera
5 / 5.0
Clean interface, lots of features. Fits in your pocket. I like how the shutter closes automatically, it keeps the lens from getting dirty/scratched. I especially like the panorama and close up modes, as I was backpacking for 3 days and taking a lot of nature shots. The battery lasted until the end of the trip, and I took over 300 pictures.



The wheel interface is nice, it makes it really easy to change modes and navigate menus. You can click up on the wheel and adjust the flash setting (auto, on, off), or click left on the wheel to adjust timer settings. On my previous camera it was hard to find these settings so I just never used them.



The one problem is that the wide/zoom control is a little sensitive. It's easy to zoom in too close or out too far, and you sometimes have to iterate to get it exactly where you want.






Nikon Coolpix S630 Digital Camera
4 / 5.0
Still learning to use this camera, as I've had it only a month, but it appears to be easy to use. Love the macro setting. The "door" covering the cord attachment spot for uploading to the computer is a funny little creation. It sometimes takes awhile to get the door out of the way so I can attach the cord in its proper place on the camera. Other than that, everything seems well designed and user-friendly.


Cool Camera - but poor picture quality
2 / 5.0
I purchase this camera a few weeks back and I was very excited about it. I was looking forward to the quality of Nikon lens, the size and weight of the camera. Now that I have received it and took a couple of pictures with this camera, I am very disappointed with the performance on the picture quality of this camera. Maybe because this camera is so advance that I do not how to manipulate the settings in order to take a shot; but overall the quality does not even come close to my Canon SD970IS. I have taken in to the Nikon shop and all they did was to check it to specification. That means, it is design as it. As to the picture, you have to make sure you have plenty of lighting and not much variation with it as it does not give you much option to change the settings. This camera does have a lot of automatic features, like scene selections, auto focus, and image stabilization; however, there is no way that I know of how to manually set the F-stops. I try a close up picture with limited lighting but turning on the flash, you would think it would capture the image but maybe an over expose area where the flash had taken placed. Instead, I capture the picture with a lot of other spots to illustrate that I was underexposed, even when I had the flash.



Bottom line, if I could return this camera, I would and stay with Canon.




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Canon Digital Elph Accessory Kit for Canon SD990IS, SD970IS, SD880IS, SD800IS, SD890IS, SD950IS, SD9



Canon Digital Elph Accessory Kit for Canon SD990IS, SD970IS, SD880IS, SD800IS, SD890IS, SD950IS, SD900, SD870IS, SD850IS & SD790IS Digital Cameras

Canon Digital Elph Accessory Kit for Canon SD990IS, SD970IS, SD880IS, SD800IS, SD890IS, SD950IS, SD9
Manufacturer: Canon Cameras US
Brand: Canon
Feature:
 ・Designed for use with the Canon PowerShot SD990IS, SD970IS, SD880IS, SD800IS, SD890IS, SD950IS, SD900, SD870IS, SD850IS and SD790IS digital cameras
 ・Genuine leather carrying case
 ・Leather hand strap
 ・NB-5L Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
 ・Plastic-coated braided metal neck strap

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.0 / 5.0)
・Good combo
・Needed addittion for a great camera.
・Great option for any Digital Elph camera owner
・Great pricing deal to get a spare battery.
・Canon Elph Accessory Kit

List Price:
$72.00

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display


Editorial Review
Designed for use with Canon PowerShot SD700 IS, SD800IS, SD850IS, SD900, SD950IS & SD870IS digital cameras, this genuine leather carrying case, leather hand strap, Lithium-ion rechargeable battery, and plastic-coated braided metal neck strap make it easy to take take your camera on the road.

Customer Reviews
Good combo
5 / 5.0
I ordered this kit mainly for the extra battery. However, I unexpectedly found the camera case to be a great convenience. Attaching it to my belt while traveling provides a great way to have the camera easily accessible, while protecting it and saving room in my pockets for other items.


Needed addittion for a great camera.
5 / 5.0
I love my camera and needed protection for it when I travel. The case and strap look sharp, and it's always nice to have an extra memory card.


Great option for any Digital Elph camera owner
5 / 5.0
Having a backup battery for the Elph is great, and the case is of good quality. It would be nice if it had a belt clip as opposed to a belt loop, and don't use the neck strap (though could see how it would be useful if I did. Happy so far.


Great pricing deal to get a spare battery.
4 / 5.0
I got this kit specifically for the spare battery. At the time, from Amazon, a canon brand battery cost ~$35 and this kit cost $30. So, no brainer to buy the kit so I could have a spare battery for less. :)



The case seemed to fit on my SD800, although very tight. The strap is hard and somewhat inflexible due to the wire running in it. I didn't like it. Since I only wanted the battery, I gave the other stuff away. I didn't use any of it for any amount of time.



So, depending on the pricing, if you need a spare battery this kit is a great deal. I'd keep my eye on the fluctuating prices and grab it when it's a good price deal.


Canon Elph Accessory Kit
5 / 5.0
Excellent protective case for the camera. Always can use the extra battery. Have not found a use for the strap yet since the strap that came with the camera works fine for me.


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Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 Binoculars



Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 Binoculars

Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 Binoculars
Manufacturer: Olympus
Brand: Olympus
Feature:
 ・Slim body and foldable design
 ・High-index BaK-4 roof prisms
 ・UV protection
 ・Center focus knob
 ・Built-in dioptric correction adjusts to each user's eyesight
Sales Rank: 14933

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.0 / 5.0)
・Not bad for the size and price
・Didn't fit.
・Focusing instructions a bit cloudy
・Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 great binoculars
・Olympus Outback

List Price:
$99.00

Lowest New Price:
$48.57


Editorial Review
Travel light and see the sights with the Outback binoculars. The light and ultra-compact binoculars offer Roof Prism technology along with UV-protection, making it the ideal model for all-around outdoor use. These features and more are packed into a conveniently small but rugged all-weather shell to allow the binoculars to be easily carried anywhere you go.This binocular is ideal for water sports, traveling and entertainment events. The foldable design is compact enough to slip into any pocket. Multi-coated lenses provide improved image brightness for a crisp, clear view.

Customer Reviews
Not bad for the size and price
4 / 5.0
Overall I am happy with these binoculars for the price and I am glad I paid a little extra to get the 10x over the 8x. They are a good set of binoculars if you want something small, compact and light. If you don't mind something a little heavier and bulkier (and paying a little more) I would get something even more powerful in hindsight. So far I have used them for bird watching out the back window and also at an airshow. They were great for the airshow because they were easy to carry on my belt without being a nuisance. I definitely enjoyed my time at the airshow and better knew what was happening on the ground because of them.


Didn't fit.
4 / 5.0
I order this item because of it review in Comsumers Report. I received two of this item instead of one. I returned one within a couple of days. The other one was effective except in one very important area. The eye peices were so small they did not cover my eyes and made it difficult of focus and uncomfortable on the eyes. After using this item at several events, I have returned the binoculars to you. That I did a couple of days ago and you should have them by Feb. 25th. I wish the disadvantage to me was not the case, but it was. Thank you for taking care of my return.


Focusing instructions a bit cloudy
4 / 5.0
Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 Binoculars

Although these binoculars are very good, I could not adjust the focus using the written instructions. It boils down to a matter of trial and error.


Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 great binoculars
5 / 5.0
Olympus Outback 10x21 RC1 Binoculars Great binocs, small, light, easy to carry, and decent optics for a tiny price. Comes with a functional soft, artificial leather carry case with velcro flap, neck strap slot, belt loop slots on rear, and a nylon neck strap affixed to the binocs. Re: the occasional negative review, please research how binoculars work before you buy. The 10 in 10 x 21 is the maximum magnification (too much makes it hard to focus because the human hand shakes); the 21 is the diameter of the objective lens (bigger collects more light). The 10 x 21 is a great compromise between performance and portability - makes these binoculars good for concerts, casual use, sightseeing. Not for serious birdwatchers or salt water sailors, who want more performance and therefore will tolerate more weight and size. Also, before writing a review, please learn how to focus your binocs, including how to fine tune the focus with the adjustable eyepiece: (First, pick out a moderately distant object. Second, viewing with your left eye, adjust the master focus [center knob] with right eyepiece covered and blocked off. Third, viewing with your right eye, fine focus [twist the slim right eyepiece ring] the right eyepiece with the left eyepiece covered and blocked off. Now your binocs are 'set' for your particular eyes and you can easily change focus as you view different objects just by using the master focus knob. The next person, with different eyes, will likely need to readjust the binocs per above instructions.) Also the rubber eyecups can be adjusted in and out as well. This helps some people, especially those with glasses.


Olympus Outback
5 / 5.0
Great performance for the size and price. Compact design fits in your pocket as easily as they hang around your neck. Sharp images. Slightly limited field of view, but that is a limitation of the compact design. Great for sporting events--I just used mine at US Open tennis.


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Sony 25DPW47RS2 DVD+RW Re-Recordable DVD (25-Pack Spindle)



Sony 25DPW47RS2 DVD+RW Re-Recordable DVD (25-Pack Spindle)

Sony 25DPW47RS2 DVD+RW Re-Recordable DVD (25-Pack Spindle)
Manufacturer: Sony Electronics Inc. - Media
Brand: Sony
Feature:
 ・Brilliantly capture and archive oversized home movies and digital photos with ease
 ・The DVD+RW rewritable disc captures all digital data brilliantly, and is large enough to hold oversized digital movie files.
 ・This recordable DVD features AccuCORE technology which is 100x more scratch resistant than standard discs.
 ・Fights static, repels stains and fingerprints

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.0 / 5.0)
・great product, price, and service
・dvd + rw
・Sony DVD+RW
・Sony DVD+
・Great Purchase

List Price:
$32.99

Lowest New Price:
$18.49


Editorial Review
Create, capture, edit and archive home movies and digital photos, while storing and accessing data from one DVD+RW disc. A perfect companion to your DVD Handycam? camcorder.

Customer Reviews
great product, price, and service
5 / 5.0
The RWs give me good flexibility....I bought 75. You can use them in some dvds without finalizing and if you do finalize, you can unfinalize. I paid about 80 cents per RW and they have been flawless. Also you can copy to a regular Dvd+R if you decide to keep the recording and then can reuse the RW. Delivery was super fast.


dvd + rw
5 / 5.0
recordings look really good. I use this on my dvd/vcr recorder. I'm able to format it then view it on other dvd players. when you're done watching the recordings, just erase it and use it again. saves money on using a regular dvd which I wouldn't be able to reuse once I finished watching the t.v. shows I recorded.


Sony DVD+RW
5 / 5.0
Excellent product. Works on DVD players where other DVD's will not. It is the only brand I now will buy.


Sony DVD+
4 / 5.0
Just what I wanted. However, about the same price as what I can get locally.


Great Purchase
5 / 5.0
I received these DVD's quickly and in perfect condition.

They work without problems and I paid a great price.

No complaints.


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JVC MDV60ME10P Mini DV Tape (10 Pack)



JVC MDV60ME10P Mini DV Tape (10 Pack)

JVC MDV60ME10P Mini DV Tape (10 Pack)
Manufacturer: JVC
Brand: JVC
Feature:
 ・10-pack of DV tapes
 ・60 minutes recording time
 ・ME Tape Technology w/ ultra fine cobalt coating
 ・Delivers as much as 520 lines of horizontal resolution
 ・3.4 times better color, and better sound quality than Compact Discs

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.5 / 5.0)
・Flawless Performance
・Good Deal
・Good inexpensive tapes
・JVC Mini DV Tapes
・JVC Video Tapes

List Price:
$69.95

Lowest New Price:
$20.90


Editorial Review
Record professional-looking video onto these high-quality JVC MiniDV camcorder tapes. Each tape records up to 60 minutes in SP mode and 90 minutes in EP mode. With two to a package, you're ready to go.

Customer Reviews
Flawless Performance
5 / 5.0
I have had no trouble with these tapes in my JVC camcorder and I'll order more in the future.


Good Deal
5 / 5.0
This is the third time I've ordered a ten pack of JVC MiniDV tapes, and they've always worked great for me. The packaging is always a bit unique, as once I actually got a 10 pack, once 10 individually wrapped tapes, and this time I got three 3 packs and a single, but it still works! This is also a great deal versus buying them individually at retail.


Good inexpensive tapes
5 / 5.0
I use these tapes in my JVC HD110 with a DTE Focus enhancement drive recording 720p HDV. The tapes are a backup and are for archive. In the situations where it was too hot for the DTE drive these tapes where my only source that would record in 115'f+ days. I would find maybe 1 drop out every two tapes, audio and video seemed on par with the digital data I would get from the DTE drive. So for most purposes I'm sold on these tapes. If you were you shooting your own project or a higher paying gig I would move up to the ProHD JVC tapes for $9 a piece, but for general use and lowering paying gigs, these tapes are perfectly fine.



I also would NOT mix Sony and JVC tapes. It still seems to be true the lubricants in the tapes between brands do no like each and react with each other on your recording heads and you will get a "Dirty head, use clean tape" message in any camcorder if you mix brands a lot. With these tapes, I clean my heads perhaps every 100+ tapes. If I mix Sony and JVC, I have to clean after maybe 20 tapes or less. So stick with 1 brand if you can, and definatly ALWAYS have a newer tape cleaner tape in your bag for just in case situations.


JVC Mini DV Tapes
5 / 5.0
They are excellent recording media. The price at Amazon was about half of what I could get them for from anywhere else. I use them on the LP mode and still get great quality.


JVC Video Tapes
2 / 5.0
My product arrived a little less timely than expected for my upcoming shoot, however, it appeared to be in great condition and exactly what I ordered. You can't beat the price per tape, for those of us still using tapes. My only advice is order well in advance of need. IT takes approximatley two weeks or more to arrive.


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Polaroid t1031 10.0 MP Digital Still Camera with 3.0 LCD Display (Orange)



Polaroid t1031 10.0 MP Digital Still Camera with 3.0 LCD Display (Orange)

Polaroid t1031 10.0 MP Digital Still Camera with 3.0 LCD Display (Orange)
Manufacturer: Polaroid
Brand: Polaroid
Feature:
 ・10.0 megapixel resolution
 ・3-Inch bright color LCD for previewing
 ・3x optical zoom; 4x digital zoom
 ・32MB built-in storage
 ・takes video clips with audio
Sales Rank: 25216

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.0 / 5.0)
・Pretty good camera!

List Price:
$119.99

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display


Editorial Review
10.0 MP Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD Display









Customer Reviews
Pretty good camera!
4 / 5.0
I just bought this camera, and from what I can tell so far it's pretty good. Pros:

1.) Takes really clear pictures

2.) Nice BIG screen

3.) comes in a cool color

4.) Plays videos through windows media



Cons:

1.) So far the only thing which isn't so bad is the shutter-lag. My old Kodak use to take super quick pics, this one is still fast, but not as fast as my old camera.



In general, this is a good camera i would recommend.


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Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)



Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)

Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)
Manufacturer: Lowepro
Brand: Lowepro
Feature:
 ・CompuTrekker AW Capacity: 1-2 SLRs and 4-6 lenses (80-200mm f/2.8) or compact medium format system; up to 15" notebook computer; accessories
 ・Camera compartment is fully customizable for your SLR or Camcorder system, with adjustable and removable padded dividers.
 ・Hidden built-in tripod holder and plenty of laminated pockets to organize and protect all your cables, wires and accessories.
 ・Lowepro's patented All Weather cover to protect bag and contents from extreme weather, sand, dirt, etc.
 ・SlipLock attachment slots allow you to attach additional Lowepro accessories and pouches to the CompuTrekker AW.

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 4.0 / 5.0)
・A worthwhile purchase
・Close But Not Quite Ideal
・Very solid, great bag for traveling!
・Great product, a little big
・Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)

List Price:
$149.95

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display

Lowest Used Price:
$120.00


Editorial Review
A perfect combination for photo gear and notebook computer, the CompuTrekker AW was designed specifically for digital photographers. Photojournalists and location photographers will find it a great travel companion. The backpack’s reinforced construction, shock-absorbing closed-cell foam padding and tough, water-resistant outer fabric protects contents from moisture and sudden impacts. The patented All Weather Cover offers maximum protection from extreme weather conditions, dust and sand. A padded notebook compartment is secured with both zipper and quick-release buckle; while the main camera compartment is fully customizable with adjustable padded dividers. A quick-access hide-away Tripod Mount, SlipLock attachment loops and a number of laminated and zippered organizer pockets provide photographers with fast, easy access to equipment.

Customer Reviews
A worthwhile purchase
4 / 5.0
Bought this as a "refurbished" item - but looked brand new to me. Great functionality. It can fit in two DSLRs (D90+D5000) and all my lenses (Nikkor 18-200 VR, 70-300mm VR, 35mm, 50mm; Sigma 150mm macro; Tamron 90 macro), plus a 13" McBook without any problem (it might fit a 15" notebook, but I didn't try that). It can also accommodate a tripod, and it even has a cover to shield the bag against water. It has the perfect size to fit in an aircraft cabin.



The bag is very well build, and is a bit heavy even without any gear.



It is overall a very good bag.


Close But Not Quite Ideal
4 / 5.0
I'm a bird photographer, with all that implies. Binoculars, big lenses, tripod and flash extenders. And I do a lot of remote work, with all that implies. Backup camera bodies, backup lenses, multiple batteries and often a solar charger. And a laptop computer with assorted cables, because you can't really see what you've shot on a camera's screen. That's a lot of stuff. I want and need a seriously big bag, that will still meet size restrictions for airline carry-on (no way I will check camera gear) and carry comfortably on my back. Places I go, wheeled bags are worse than useless.



This bag comes very close. I can stuff in everything except a backup super telephoto and a tripod. The total comes to about 45 pounds. (Don't tell the airlines.) Even at that weight, the bag is very comfortable on my back, even over the course of a long day. The slip-pocket for the laptop is very well padded and pretty secure. Even though it's closest to my back, the laptop doesn't create pressure or chafe points. It's true that you can't get into the pack without taking it off, but that's not a problem for me.



There are a few problems. I had the zipper for the main compartment fail on a trip to the Amazon. Not good. I used duct tape the last three days. Lowepro was great about replacing the bag, and the new one's zipper has held up just fine. But I'd like the design to have a couple more snap straps to hold the upper flap closed. The tripod carrier isn't very helpful to me; I carry the tripod and active camera and lens on my shoulder.



On the plus side, the integrated rain cover is excellent, and holds up just fine in tropical rainstorms, wave spray in rough water and my buddy's spilled beer. The pockets on the inside and outside of the flap let me organize the smaller bits. The hip belt accepts carriers for water bottles and bear spray or bug dope. And I can't emphasize enough how comfortable this pack is on my back.



Bottom line: it's not perfect, but it you lug a lot of gear in the field and still want a carry-on eligible bag, this is the best product I've found.


Very solid, great bag for traveling!
5 / 5.0
This is a great bag. It has been well thought through for traveling. This bag basically has 4 sections for storing things:

1. Furthest back is a compartment for the laptop. This is a well padded section which easily fits my 13" macbook. I also like to carry my MB in a neoprene sleeve for extra protection once I get to wherever i'm going, and this all fits nicely and snugly in the section with about 3-1/2 inches underneath (or on top) to spare, for carrying the charging brick, power cords and other small items. A lot of people have bigger notebooks, so for an added point of reference, I was also able to fit a 15-1/2" Sony Vaio - also in its neoprene sleeve, 1-7/8 thick x 14-7/8 long x 11-1/2 wide. This fit perfectly as well, but if you have anything bigger you will have difficulty closing the zipper and I wouldn't recommend this bag for you.

2. The next compartment is the camera gear section. This is where the bulk of the storage space resides. Dual full zippers, pull the cover completely open. This is nice. I don't like to keep my Nikon D90 on the bottom like in the picture, so I rearranged the very stiff velcro dividers so my D90 faces down on the very top. This makes it easier to get the camera in-out of the bag for me without having to completely open the zippers. The longest lens you'll be able to store using the depth of the bag is about 5". For other longer items including my sb600 Speedlight you'll need to lay them flat. The inside is softly/smoothly lined and fully velcro'd except for about 7" across the top (under the handle). But with the nice two long pads, and the 9 short pads that came with (my bag at least) you'll have lots of flexibility to mixing/matching which arrangement works best for you. There are also three big zippered compartments in this section inside the cover;

The top one is actually two separate ones side by side and one big one underneath. Each have soft suede little flaps to cover the zipper pulls. Inside the sections each are lined with a rubbery waterproof material, so if you stored something inside that leaked, it won't drip into the camera section potentially ruining your expensive gear.

3. The next two compartments are on the outside-front of the bag. The top one has a dual zipper pull, which zips about half way down the front of the bag. This section however goes deeper inside, to the bottom and fully to the sides of the bag. Inside here are a couple of sections for your ipod, cell phone, pens, wallet, car keys etc., and the sides will expand ~3" for books, papers etc. ** NOTE here: I have flown on many different airlines, from the small commuters to the bigger Boeing or airbus jets. This bag has fit nicely under the seat in front of you on every one, or in the overhead bin in practically every one of them for me (except some really small 1x1 commuters). Dependent upon how thickly you load this section, you "may" have to remove the laptop to get your bag to fit. Personally I have an ipod, phone, a Kindle, a newspaper and perhaps a couple of magazines, a pen, car keys, and haven't had much trouble at all. Just a note, not a problem really, just a testament to how well the bag has been designed size-wise for air-travel.

4. The next compartment on the front of the bag has a big velcro flap with about a 7-1/2 x 8-1/2 section. Nice and handy/no fuss (non-padded) access for easily reaching for airplane tickets, passport, loose change, etc. in a hurry.

5. Three other noteworthy items; there is also a heavy duty flap on the front which unfolds extending about 8-1/2" with a pocket for hooking the bottom of your tripod (or other long item) into. Coupled with two bungee types of connectors - 1-half way up the front of the bag, 1-on the top of the bag, allows you to lash your tripod to the backpack. Nice idea if you need this, but obviously two things to note due to this geometry, 1- you cant stand the bag upright with the tripod attached, 2-you will need to unhook the top bungee to get into the camera portion of the bag (you can still access the laptop portion).

The next noteworthy item is the "AW" portion of the bag. AW means All-Weather. Underneath the bag is a velcro section which contains an attached elasticized waterproof poncho for your backpack. It completely covers the bag except for the back straps, so you can still wear it as a backpack.

Finally this is a backpack, so there is also a waist strap (for transferring carry weight from your shoulders to your hips), and a chest strap for keeping the padded shoulder straps and load weight balanced on your back and pulled in from the bony corners of your shoulders. Also there are three buckles to keep the bag cinched tight front-to-back (one on each side) and on the top keeping the camera and laptop sections cinched together as well. There is also a really nice rubberized and easy to grip handle on the top to carry the backpack bag style, and two loops (one on each side) for hooking things onto (like a water bottle holder, or handheld item, flipcam, gps, phone, etc...)



Last comments.. I like this bag for what it is. When you open the box, you will first notice the weight. It is a very well engineered and fully padded tech friendly backpack, with high-quality zippers, that will not fall apart anytime soon. It lets me consolidate my computer & camera bags for travel, so it does what it does very well. With airlines cracking down on carry-on items, this bag is perfectly maximized size-wise to fit on-board so I don't have to worry about hand checking one of two bags. This bag is bigger than it looks. It will hold a LOT of gear which is terrific. But it will get HEAVY. Be aware of this. I like to carry everything to where I'm going and unload the laptop and chargers etc. so the bag converts nicely to a day pack as well for out on the trail etc.. If I'm just out sightseeing etc. I usually just carry a camera and maybe one spare lens, so I also bring a less intrusive messenger type bag with me usually (carry-on, or in my checked luggage). There are a lot of competitors in this hybrid compu/camera bag space, this isn't a comparison to those bags because I'm certain they are equally great, so choose yours, but for me and for the price I have no desire or need to trade this bag for anything else, and would absolutely buy it again. Good luck, and happy picture taking!


Great product, a little big
5 / 5.0
This is a great bag. I use Rebel XTI with attached battery grip (growing to a 50D shortly). Has plenty of room for my 70-300MM IS attached to camera. I usually also pack 28-105MM and a 50MM. With all of the above still has plenty of room for another body or 2-3 lens. Padding is great, however this bag is very large. I wouldn't recommend buying if this were going to be on your back for a long time (2+ hours), however it fits in the over head compartments on air planes and can still hold an extra set of clothes and/or a light jacket, as well as all cables/charges extra batteries etc. The built in dust/rain/wind guard is a great plus, also adds extra padding to bottom when not in use.


Lowepro CompuTrekker AW Camera Backpack (Black)
5 / 5.0
It was great, I enjoy it very much - It was exactly what I needed, Thanks!


In association with Amazon with Product Advertising API.

Sony ECM-HGZ1 Shotgun Microphone for DCR-PC55, DCR-DVD305, DVD 405, DVD 505, HDR-HC1, HC5, HDR-UX1,



Sony ECM-HGZ1 Shotgun Microphone for DCR-PC55, DCR-DVD305, DVD 405, DVD 505, HDR-HC1, HC5, HDR-UX1, UX5, DCR-SR100 & SR200 Camcorders

Sony ECM-HGZ1 Shotgun Microphone for DCR-PC55, DCR-DVD305, DVD 405, DVD 505, HDR-HC1, HC5, HDR-UX1,
Manufacturer: Sony
Brand: Sony
Feature:
 ・Shotgun microphone for compatible Handycam camcorders
 ・Synchronizes the microphone's pickup pattern with the camcorder's zoom
 ・Captures a super cardioid pattern in telephoto and a cardioid pattern in wide-angle
 ・Includes three setting positions for use in a variety of video shooting situations
 ・Powered by camcorder; no need for a separate battery

Customer Review Summary (Average Rating : 2.5 / 5.0)
・Great Price, Fast Delivery, but disappointing sound quality
・Microphone Works Well
・not impressed
・Does What it's Designed for
・Performs as advertised

List Price:
$69.99

Lowest New Price:
Too low to display


Editorial Review
Bring the audio in your videos to life with the ECM-HGZ1 shotgun microphone from Sony. Used with a compatible Handycam(R) camcorder, the ECM-HGZ1 synchronizes the audio to the camcorder's zoom for audio that is distinct for both modes. In telephoto mode, the microphone focuses on the audio straight ahead of it, isolating the subject matter. In wide-angle mode, the microphone broadens its recording range, so no sound occurring in the frame is missed. The ECM-HGZ1 is designed to work with your camcorder's Active Interface Shoe, so it is easy to connect and simple to use. It is powered by the camcorder, so no need for a separate battery. Included Accessories - Storage Pouch Materials - ABS Plastic / Color - Graphite Silver

Customer Reviews
Great Price, Fast Delivery, but disappointing sound quality
2 / 5.0
I purchased this add on mic in hopes to get a clearer, stronger, and enhanced sound quality from spokesperson doing short range demonstration videos from 6' to 15' range. In the zoom setting the sound intensity and quality was barely equal to but no better than the intergrated unit.

In gun mode, the voice from the person speaking directly toward the mic sounded slightly muted and tinny like as though speaking through a tin can. It did though minimize peripheral sounds but at the cost of dynamic quality. In summary the built in speaker in my HDR-SR11 offered a clearer, more dynamic sound than the ECM-HGZ1 under the mentioned conditions. Also must mention that the ECM-HGZ1 feels omniously delicate and vunerable to heavy handed pressure. A NON recommendation for this product, But Amazon.com LLC rocks, fast, reliable order processing, and highly satisfactory delivery efficiency, especially to Honolulu, Hawaii. Aloha !!!


Microphone Works Well
4 / 5.0
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3KU3AZCVEZVHS I read all the reviews and then tested the microphone on my Sony HDR-HC3. I agree with others that the gun mode is best. And there might be uses for the zoom affect, like having the sound increase in strength as one moves into a scene. But in normal mode like filming wedding vows from a distance the gun mode would be best while zoomed or not zoomed.


not impressed
2 / 5.0
I have a Sony HDR-SR11 camcorder, which unfortunately, having an Active Interface Shoe is compatible only with a few Sony microphones, such as this one.

I made several recordings with and without the microphone and found no difference in the sound quality and amplitude.


Does What it's Designed for
4 / 5.0
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3NP8D1HPWRT0Q I've been using this microphone off and on with my issued Sony HD camcorder, and before that, with a Sony SD hard drive-based camcorder, for perhaps 2 years or so. Understand that the HGZ1 by no means is a $500-or-above Sennheiser shotgun microphone that picks up subtle whispers and bumble bee noises. Come now, we're talking about a $60 piece of equipment. But on a number of occasions, people have asked me whether the audio I've captured with this unit was actually captured on a lavalier microphone. If you understand how the HGZ1 works, you'll find ways of making work for you under more extreme conditions.



Remember, this unit is proprietary; until someone designs a better one, this is it, for mounting to the Sony (unless you buy a wired mic for those camcorders that have mic jacks). **Note: There IS an alternative, wireless bluetooth Sony makes, the Sony ECMHW1 Bluetooth Wireless Microphone... We plan to order one to try, but read those reviews here as well** First thing that I was told (and I've also learned the hard way) is to place the mic on "GUN" setting. Don't use either of the other two, unless you really understand the limitations of those settings. Using it on "zoom" setting will make the thing adjust to what your camera's lens is zoomed to. So, if you're trying to get good audio when your subject is close, and you're using the wide adapter, your audio will still capture everything around you; it won't focus on your subject until you zoom in on them.



I rarely use the wide setting, and even when I do, I wind up returning it back to "gun." Here's some pointers, especially with noisy locations. First, keep the noise behind you. If you use the shotgun mic, it will capture all that noise WITH your subject, drowning their voice out (even when you use one of those expensive gun mics). It would be really nice (but impractical) to make an extension cable so your mic can be hand-held, but Sony would be foolish to do that - they should make a hand-held gun mic that can be taken off-camera. But I digress. One thing I like doing, since I don't like more than 5-10 seconds of someone slapped in front of my camera yakking their mouth off, is I start capturing what I want to hear, to lead in what I'm recording, and then I actually move the camera beneath the subject with the mic aimed up to their face. That way, I can use B-roll and other supporting video to capture just what that person is talking about. It worked the best when I had to shoot a stand-up scene of a battalion chief at a fire scene. Behind him were fire apparatus, with diesel engines roaring, as the fire was still being worked on. Once I had that first part of the interview, I moved the camera below him, which removed the noise of the fire trucks and actually saved the interview. Editing video of the scene just after 5 seconds of footage of the chief made the package work well.



If my microphone breaks, would I replace this? Yes, I'd ask for another one. Until or unless someone makes one better, this will do for now. I can actually grab a Sennheiser or use a better shotgun, with an audio microphone adapter on my Sony, but quite often, I use this setup to shoot "run and gun" video, things that you can't take too much time to set up, or you'll miss something. The mic attaches in an instant, and you're ready to record. And the mic swivels about 270 degrees, so you can aim it towards your subject if they're standing off to the side, or even right beside you, while you're shooting something else. Watch where you place your subject. Aim the mic towards them, so that you can set your shot up so that it makes sense, and so that if possible, your subject isn't in line between your mic and any loud noise. And grab more supporting video so that you can add that as your main visual, so your package won't depend on watching your subject for a long time.



PS: If you're out in the field, try this: conduct the interview in a vehicle with the windows closed. You will be surprised to hear how great the sound quality can be! I had just shot an interview with a cabbie, sitting in his car. My mic pointed to him, but the street traffic rolled on the other side of the car. So I opened the LCD screen and placed the whole camera on his dashboard, framing it to see him behind the wheel. The sound was incredible. Ooh, I see there's a way to add video - I might just show that difference if I can post it.


Performs as advertised
4 / 5.0
Despite some of the negative reviews, I ordered this mic, based on one of the contrarian reviews that said people either didn't know how to use it, or were expecting miracles.



That review was accurate. I videotape my daughter's soccer games with a Sony DCR-HC96, and this mic is a nice complement. I use it exclusively in "Gun" mode and can make the following observations after recording 4 games:



* The sound *quality* is marginally improved. Don't expect huge improvements in fidelity .

* The *amplitude* is increased significantly. When recording from the sidelines, you can now hear the players talking to each other quite clearly, where with the built in mic, it was a strain.



So, consider the application for this mic. If you are trying to get closer to the subjects you are recording, this mic works fine. If you want to improve the fidelity of your recordings, there are probably better choices.



P.S.: This mic records in mono only.


In association with Amazon with Product Advertising API.

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