DSC: Samsung WB550 Digital Camera

Here are some information about Samsung WB55o digital camera.



$649 with an 8GB memory card, available in black or grey from authorised dealers
THE Samsung WB550 digital camera's claim to fame is that its zoom can open up to a wider angle than other ultra-zoom compact shooters. At the widest focal length, it reaches 24mm -1mm wider than its closest competitors. When zoomed out to its maximum, this camera's 10x lens hits 240mm.


This camera is versatile enough to tackle a variety of shots, from capturing the whole structure of, say, the Esplanade dome, to taking tight, close-up shots of performers at the open-air stage while you are sitting at the last row.


With its ability to take 720p high-definition movies (1,280 x 720pixels), you can record those performances too.


Compared to other ultra-slim shooters, the WB550 does feel a little chunky in my hands. However, the build is solid and at 219g, the camera feels weighty enough that you would not accidentally brush it off a table.


The WB550 can take images at up to ISO3,200, making it unnecessary to to use the flash in dark places.


However, image noise is obvious at this ISO setting even when you are previewing the shot on the camera's 3-inch LCD.


To deal with this, there is the dual image stabilisation (IS) mode that combines both optical and digital IS. This allows photos to be taken at slower shutter speeds without blurring - even at maximum zoom. I was able to grab a decently sharp shot even at 1/15 shutter speed.


When taking photos, there is slight barrel distortion - where edges of the image appear curved - at the widest zoom setting.


For some reason, however, this unwanted curvature is more noticeable when the camera is in video mode, especially with objects close to the camera.


Your kids may look cute at such proximity but do avoid filming the wife right up close. Instead, she would probably prefer photos made with the camera's Perfect Portrait system. It uses smile detection, blink detection and other beauty shot features, ensuring that smooth-complexioned and cheery faces are captured.


When recording video, the built-in stereo microphone captures audio very well. The moving vehicles I shot sounded realistic, with engine sounds panning from one end of the screen to another, before finally fading away as the vehicles exited the frame.


Final say


A versatile ultra-zoom shooter that records high-definition movies.