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We are becoming digital every day. Photography is not excluded from this progress. For the serious photographer, DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera is their choice. DSLR is actually SLR that has been digitised to update with technology. For those who have not purchased yet, there is a ‘new kid on the block’ that is fast being accepted. Olympus and Kodak are pioneers in MFT (Micro Four Thirds) compact system cameras while Panasonic makes components for Olympus in this field. Due to their vast experience, pioneers are usually the best. Being designed entirely digital from ground-up, they are smaller, lighter and more compatible with other digital equipments. Panasonic LUMIX GF2 is the smallest and lightest interchangeable-lens camera. Do go to your nearest authorised dealers for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Panasonic LUMIX GF2 to find out more.

Olympus PEN E-PL2

Professional photographers' approved photo of a late Shih Tzu taken using Olympus PEN E-PL2. Photo quality far richer than rivals, correct? Now she will live on cyberspace 4ever! ;-)

Panasonic LUMIX GF2 (From Top to bottom: Front, Front with Flash popped-up, and Rear)

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX70 (From top to bottom: Front and Rear)

Professional photographers' approved photo of Petaling Jaya City, Selangor D.E., MALAYSIA taken using Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX70. Would you expect this from a compact camera?

For those with a faint of heart, Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX70 compact camera is more suitable. Set it at ‘Intelligent Auto’. Just point and shoot! You can also use a whole array of special effects in ‘Scene’ mode. Its OIS (Optical Image Stabiliser) is one of the best. It is even more effective with the flash activated. Apart from being Japanese made, it has a lens retraction safety feature. This prevents the lens from accidentally extending in the presence of obstruction. Please check these features with your authorised dealer.

From my own research and practise, listed below are a few care tips:

1) Pop-up flash gently – DO NOT allow the flash to pop-up (if available) on its own. Put your finger slightly above the flash. Then press the flash pop-up button. Once the flash has popped up a little, gently allow the flash to pop-up with your finger. This principle can be applied to all latches that ‘ticks’ upon opening or closing.

2) Memory card reader – Always USE a memory card reader to transfer data to your computer. Operating system interactions between your digital camera and computer will leave the former prone to virus infections.

3) Clean – Always wipe your camera clean with a soft dry cloth for storage. This will minimise dust, moisture and perspiration from staining.

4) Storage – Remove the batteries and memory cards from your camera. This will prevent corrosion of the metal contact points. The battery (lithium ion) should also be stored at a maximum of 60% charge level. This will prolong battery life. Store your camera with oxygen absorbers in an air tight box. This will prevent fungus. Keep the box in a well ventilated area.

Bibliography

Reference Cited

DMC-FX70 [Online] Panasonic UK Ltd. Available from:

http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Products/LUMIX+Digital+Cameras/Stylish+Compact/DMC-FX70/Overview/4913859/index.html

[Accessed: 22 FEB 2011]

DMC-GF2 [Online] Panasonic UK Ltd. Available from:

http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Products/LUMIX+Digital+Cameras/G+Micro+System/DMC-GF2/Overview/6491444/index.html?view=&colourVar=DMC-GF2CEB-R&useLayout=productImage

[Accessed: 5 MAR 2011]

E-PL2 [Online] Olympus. Available from:

http://www.olympus.co.uk/consumer/21693_pen-camera_e-pl2_23944.htm#

[Accessed: 5 MAR 2011]

MICRO FOUR THIRDS SYSTEM [Online] Wikipedia. Available from: