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Ultra Zoom Digital Cameras
Popular Ultra Zoom Cameras:
If you like taking pictures at sporting events or shooting in macro mode, then an ultra zoom digital camera could be for you. While most digitals only give you about 3-4x optical zoom, ultra zoom cameras give you around 10-12x. This is different from digital zoom. While total zoom can get you up close to something on your LCD screen, it doesn't actually maintain the same resolution as when you use an optical zoom. This is important to know because digital zoom won't do anything for making enlargements.
If you want a camera that is small, lightweight and portable, then ultra zooms are not suited for your needs. They tend to be slightly bulkier than a regular compact digital and the zoom makes them heavier as well (some up to 1.5 lbs). Another thing to note is that most ultra zoom are not ultra in the resolution department. Expect around 4-6 megapixels max for now. One major drawback on ultra zoom cameras is a slow start up. A sluggish shutter-lag is common on most digitals that aren't SLRs, but it is even more common on ultra zooms.
One essential thing to look for if you are planning to go for an ultra zoom is a built-in image-stabilization processor for reducing camera shake. It is far too easy to blur what would have been a perfectly clear shot. Even if it costs a little more, which usually it won't since the technology is being integrated into most newer models anyway -- it is really worth it. As an extra precaution you may want to invest in is a mini tripod or monopod to help stabilize the camera while shooting at optimum zoom.
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