Sony DSCP31 Cyber-shot 2MP Digital Still Camera

Optics and Resolution
The DSC-P31's 2-megapixel sensor captures enough detail for sharp prints at sizes up to 8 by 10 inches. For the typical family photographer, 2 megapixels is a great balance between price and performance. If you want a camera with even more resolution, you'll need to step up to a 3- or 4-megapixel model like the DSC-P71 or DSC-P9.

The autofocus lens does not have a true optical zoom, but a 2x digital zoom (6x total) works in much the same way. Remember, however, that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's not as useful as a true zoom lens. In low-light situations (a particular weakness for many digital cameras), a focus-assist lamp sends out a small patterned beam to help the camera accurately determine distance, and special circuitry automatically reduces the "static" that typically plagues nighttime digital shots.

To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.6-inch LCD display (which is also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to using a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll capture, use the LCD display.

More Features
Though the P31 is designed for point-and-shoot simplicity, there are several options for more adventurous photographers, including manual focus with macro, adjustable ISO and white balance settings, exposure compensation, and the ability to shoot black-and-white, sepia, solarized, and negative images.

Power
The P31 uses two AA batteries--a pair of high-capacity nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeables and charger are included. The benefit to using standard AA batteries instead of a custom proprietary battery is that AA batteries are widely available, so missing a once-in-a-lifetime shot due to dead batteries won't be an issue. The downside is that a digital camera will kill a set of alkaline batteries extremely quickly, especially if you're using the camera's LCD display. To ensure you'll always be ready for action, we recommend getting a second pair of batteries so you can always have one set in the camera and the other set in the charger.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures silent video clips. Most digital cameras' movie modes are limited to 15- or 30-second clips, but in EX mode, the P31 can keep shooting until you've filled the memory card. The limited resolution of your movies guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Memory Sticks, Sony's proprietary memory-card format. The included 8 MB stick holds approximately 12 images at the camera's default settings. Memory Sticks are reusable, but if you tend to take more than 12 images per outing you'll want a bigger card. A 128 MB stick is a great size for this camera, storing around 200 images. To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera. Your computer should automatically recognize your camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive. If you own a Sony desktop or laptop, your computer may already have a built-in Memory Stick reader.

Size
At 4.2 by 2.3 by 1.6 inches and 8.5 ounces fully loaded, the P31 is an extremely compact and portable digital camera.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the DSC-P31 camera, two rechargeable NH-AA-D1 rechargeable batteries, BC-CS1 charger, video and USB cables, wrist strap, 8 MB Memory Stick, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend these accessories to make the most of your camera: a carrying case, a spare set of NiMH rechargeable size AA batteries, and a higher-capacity memory stick. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett

Pros:

• 2-megapixel resolution is perfect for most users
• Compact dimensions make it easy to bring this camera along on outings
• Point-and-shoot operation makes it easy for even beginners to get great results

Cons:

• No optical zoom lens
• Movie mode lacks sound
• Proprietary Memory Stick memory card format less common and more expensive than other formats

Think twice before buying it.....


Great Camera, but the zoom is terrible.   July 6, 2003
David L. Smith (San Diego, CA)
2 out of 3 found this review helpful

If you are looking for a simple, point and click camera for good quality, no frills pictures, this is your camera. The pictures, for the most part, are great. However, if you want to zoom in, to get certain angles, upgrade to the sony with a zoom lens, the p-51, I think.


Great Camera for the price.   June 25, 2003
looking around (Centennial, Colorado)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

I own a rather large camera (2 Mega pixel) with a large lens which I love to carry around when I want to do zoom photography.

I wanted to get something a bit smaller to take with me to parties and other events, something that I could have at hand for snapshots and the like.

This camera is pretty good and versatile for the price.

I also use Sony's new format Memory Stick Duo adapter (which I can also use in my Sony Ericsson phone), and is also the "Magic Gate" in which you can save several "licensed" formats.

I recommend it.