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Olympus Camedia C-740

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At a Glance
Larger-than-average optical zoom range

Performance
Overall rating	80
Image quality: To gauge picture quality, we take a series of shots, with and without flash, at 640 by 480 resolution and at the camera's highest resolution. We photograph a complex still life and a mannequin to see how well each camera captures details and subtle colorings such as skin tones. A panel of judges reviews the on-screen and printed photos and assigns image-quality scores; we then average those scores.	Very good
Ease of use	Good
Features	Outstanding
Maximum effective pixels/resolution	3.2 megapixels at 2048 by 1536
Bundled media	16MB XD-Picture Card
Focal range (35mm equivalent)	38mm to 380mm
Aperture range	f2.8 to f8
Shutter speed range (seconds)	16 seconds to 1/1000 second
Viewfinders	Electronic viewfinder, 1.5-inch LCD
Video/audio recording	Yes/No
Semi-automatic/manual modes	Six scene modes; aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual modes; manual focus
Optional lenses	None
Software	Olympus Camedia Master 4.1
Battery score	Outstanding
Battery life	1219 shots, 426 minutes
Battery type	Two 3V disposable lithium ion or four AA
Dimensions and weight	4.2 by 2.6 by 2.7 inches; 14.3 ounces
Support policy score	Good
Support policies	One-year parts and labor warranty, toll-free support for 13 hours on weekdays

What You Should Know about the Camedia C-740

Larger-Than-Average Optical Zoom Range

The optical zoom range on this camera is sufficiently broad to give you considerable creative control. Your options extend from individual portraits to group shots to wide-angle landscapes. Most point-and-shoots offer a focal length range that’s roughly equivalent to 35mm to 105mm on a 35mm film camera. At the wide end (the 35mm, in this case), they shoot a bit wider than what you see with your eye. At the telephoto end (the 105mm, in this case), they can zoom in a good deal closer than you’d be able to with the naked eye.

Reviewed by: sueatwood7

Duration of ownership:

Strengths: 10 Optical Zoom

Weaknesses: Slow flash

Overall Evaluation: The camera takes great, sharp pictures. The 10 optical zoom is fantastic. Flash pictures are not as good as hoped.I probably need to try more settings and experiment more with flash situations. It does not do well in low light situations such as Christmas pictures with Christmas tree lights.
Reviewed by: nlgerber

Duration of ownership:

Strengths: the icons on the mode dial are easy to read and understand. I had never used a digital camera before, so I started by reading the manual, again well-written and understandable.

Weaknesses: It's a bit heavy.

Overall Evaluation: This is my first digital camera, and I find it easy to use. The icons on the camera are almost self-explanatory, and the automatic focusing is perfect. The detail in the macro mode is astonishing, even when blown up to 8 X 10. I have not hooked up to my computer yet....I have to get more memory....but took it to school and used it there. Everything is good!