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HP PhotoSmart 215 HP's entry-level model offers ease of use for beginning shooters. Select a topic Reference: Datasheet PS215 Sample Images --------------------------------- 1. Intro and Highlights 2. Executive Overview 3. Design 4. Viewfinder 5. Optics 6. Exposure & Flash 7. Shutter Lag & Cycle Time Tests 8. Operation & User Interface 9. Camera Modes & Menus 10. Image Storage & Interface 11. Video, Power, Software 12. Test Results & Conclusion --------------------------------- Print-Friendly Review Version Additional Resources and Other Links Reader Comments on PS215 Review --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index <<Viewfinder :(Previous) | (Next): Exposure & Flash>> Page 5:Optics Review First Posted: 3/10/2001

Optics

The PhotoSmart 215's 6.68mm lens is equivalent to a 43.4mm lens on a 35mm camera. Apertures are automatically controlled, and range from f/2.8 to f/8. Focus is also controlled automatically and ranges from two feet (60cm) to infinity in normal mode. In macro mode, focus ranges from four inches to three feet (10cm to one meter). As we mentioned earlier, an LED next to the optical viewfinder eyepiece lights a solid green when focus is set. If it's flashing, the camera's autofocus system may be having trouble focusing on the subject, due to backlighting or the distance between the subject and the camera. You can manually lock focus for a specific part of the subject by framing the target focus area in the center of the viewfinder, depressing the shutter button halfway, and then recomposing the shot while keeping the shutter button halfway depressed. Focus will remain locked until you let go of the shutter button, or fully depress it to make the exposure.

While the 215 does not offer an optical zoom, it does feature a 2x digital zoom, controlled through the camera's settings menu. Keep in mind that since the digital zoom is merely cropping and enlarging the center portion of the CCD, digitally enlarged images often result in higher image noise and/or softer resolution.

The 215's lens does not feature filter threads, but an accessory lens adapter is available from Tiffen Company (an accessory catalog accompanies the camera). The lens adapter clips onto the side of the camera body and aligns with the lens opening, accommodating a series of macro, wide-angle, and telephoto lens kits. A set of Tiffen creative filters is also available to add to your shooting options.