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HP PhotoSmart 315 HP's "entry-level+" model offers 2.1 megapixels and ease of use at a bargain price. Select a topic Reference: Datasheet PhotoSmart 315 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 PhotoSmart 315 Review --------------------------------- Digital Camera Comparometer (TM) --------------------------------- <-- Digital Cameras (Home) <-- Digital Camera Reviews Index <<Viewfinder :(Previous) | (Next): Exposure & Flash>> Page 5:Optics Review First Posted: 03/14/2001

Optics
The 315's built-in 5.8mm lens (equivalent to a 38mm lens on a 35mm camera) features six elements and through-the-lens (TTL) focusing from 11.8 inches (30cm) to infinity. The lens aperture openings, ranging from f/2.8 to f/9.8, are also automatically selected. The lens itself is protected by a sliding cover that also serves as the power switch. When the cover is open, the camera is powered on and placed into Record mode. Likewise, closing the cover shuts the camera off.

Though the 315 does not feature an automatic focus lock function, you can lock it manually. Simply frame the desired portion of the subject in the center of the viewfinder, depress the shutter button halfway, then recompose the shot while depressing the shutter button halfway, and depress it fully to record the image. (This same method can be used to lock the exposure reading.)

The 315 features up to 2.5x digital telephoto, controlled by the Up and Down arrows of the OK/Arrow rocker pad on the back panel. Pressing the Up arrow digitally enlarges the image to 1.5x, 2x, or 2.5x. Pressing the Down arrow "zooms" back out to a normal view. When the digital zoom is enabled, a red border frames the image on the LCD display and the amount of enlargement is reported on the display. (Users should be aware that digital zoom is not the same as optical zoom, since the digital zoom is merely cropping and enlarging the center portion of the CCD. As a result, digitally enlarged images often result in higher image noise and/or softer resolution.)

The 315's lens barrel 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 creative shooting options.