CP800 vs. CP950- comments???

Dennis13551 · Dec 24, 1999

I've pretty much decided on one of these. I was considering the Cannon S-10, but leary of the "blurry" pics issue (inside/flash/ 1/4sec. shutter speed). Could someone answer/comment on these three questions: (1) I read in some reviews(megapixel, I think) that the CP800 produces "slightly" better pics than the CP950. Is this true and to what extent(outside/inside/flash/ect)? (2) Does the "red eye" problem of the CP950(inside/flash) also exist with the CP800? I'd rather not have to buy an external flash(CP950). Just curious of this in the CP800. And (3) Would I have to deal with firmware updates(3-I believe with the CP-950) with the CP800? Both cameras get great reviews overall. I'm just a beginner looking for a decent camera that is somewhat simple- yet one that I can learn more about later. I believe either would be a good choice, but I'm not quite sure that I need all the functions/settings/controls of the CP950. But with the prediction of falling prices(soon)- then,the CP950 could fit in my budget. The CP800's price could also drop- making it very affordable. Any feedback from owners/users/reviewers? Thanks and Happy Holidays to all.....

Terry Alexander · Dec 27, 1999

Dennis,

I have had my 800 for about a month now. I love it. I do still find myself wishing for more manual setings like it's big brother but for my first foray into digital I feel I made a good choice that will keep me busy for a while. I will however buy my next camera with full manual functions. One thing I will note that frustrates the devil out of me is the redeye problem you mention. I have yet to take a photo indoors without redeye. I'm getting tired of manipulating the images. I was not aware that the 950 had this issue. I think I will look at some earlier postings on this forum to see how 950 owners have overcome it. I am not aware of any way to hook up an external flash with an 800.

Good luck
TA

Dennis said:
I've pretty much decided on one of these. I was considering the Cannon
S-10, but leary of the "blurry" pics issue (inside/flash/ 1/4sec. shutter
speed). Could someone answer/comment on these three questions: (1) I read
in some reviews(megapixel, I think) that the CP800 produces "slightly"
better pics than the CP950. Is this true and to what
extent(outside/inside/flash/ect)? (2) Does the "red eye" problem of the
CP950(inside/flash) also exist with the CP800? I'd rather not have to buy
an external flash(CP950). Just curious of this in the CP800. And (3)
Would I have to deal with firmware updates(3-I believe with the CP-950)
with the CP800? Both cameras get great reviews overall. I'm just a
beginner looking for a decent camera that is somewhat simple- yet one
that I can learn more about later. I believe either would be a good
choice, but I'm not quite sure that I need all the
functions/settings/controls of the CP950. But with the prediction of
falling prices(soon)- then,the CP950 could fit in my budget. The CP800's
price could also drop- making it very affordable. Any feedback from
owners/users/reviewers? Thanks and Happy Holidays to all.....

misha · Dec 27, 1999

Dennis said:
Would I have to deal with firmware updates(3-I believe with the CP-950)
with the CP800?

I don't see the firmware updates as a problem but rather as an advantage, allowing you to improve your camera's functionality just by downloading a new version. This process has not been entirely problem free with the 950, but they were quick to respond to issues with the 1.2 by offering 1.3 very soon. And you don't have to do the upgrades if you don't want to.

Misha

Dennis13551 · Dec 27, 1999

Terry Alexander said:
Dennis,
I have had my 800 for about a month now. I love it. I do still find
myself wishing for more manual setings like it's big brother but for my
first foray into digital I feel I made a good choice that will keep me
busy for a while. I will however buy my next camera with full manual
functions. One thing I will note that frustrates the devil out of me is
the redeye problem you mention. I have yet to take a photo indoors
without redeye. I'm getting tired of manipulating the images. I was not
aware that the 950 had this issue. I think I will look at some earlier
postings on this forum to see how 950 owners have overcome it. I am not
aware of any way to hook up an external flash with an 800.

Good luck
TA

I guess I'll shop around a little more-was really hoping the CP800 didn't have the "red eye" problem of the CP950. I don't want to spend my time fixing this for every inside/flash shot. And an external flash, bracket, and cable would inflate the cost of the CP950. Terry, as you read the posts regarding this problem you will note the best fix for it is external flash(yes, not available for the CP800)- away from the lens. Also,I saw a post where someone made a flash deflector(bounces flash up-off the ceiling, I think) out of thin metal. This "home made" deflector was made for the CP950. I wonder if this remedy could be applied to the CP800? Misha (and Terry and any others with advice)- do you think a beginner like myself with very little photo experience(most from reading here and other forums- and only using a "point and shoot" 35 mm Kodak film cam) could use the CP950, whereas I know I would have to buy the flash?? Thanks, maybe I should have kept my HP C200? Or maybe look at other lower end DC's?? But, I really want something nice and for the near future. Happy 2000 to all.

Terry Alexander · Dec 27, 1999

I saw the homemade fix right after replying. It's worth a try. I have a new daughter and take plenty of indoor shots than anything else. As far as your question about learning to use the 950. OF COURSE YOU CAN! I started with print film and quickly picked up the finer points of my camera because I loved the end result when it was done right. Now that I'm using digital, I'm slowly learning my 800. Just read and remember your mistakes. Whatever camera you decide on just don't be afraid to ask questions. I can't even begin to say how much I have learned just by this forum alone and the wealth of knowledge shared by the users- pro and amature. Go for it!
TA

Dennis said:
Terry Alexander said:

Dennis,
I have had my 800 for about a month now. I love it. I do still find
myself wishing for more manual setings like it's big brother but for my
first foray into digital I feel I made a good choice that will keep me
busy for a while. I will however buy my next camera with full manual
functions. One thing I will note that frustrates the devil out of me is
the redeye problem you mention. I have yet to take a photo indoors
without redeye. I'm getting tired of manipulating the images. I was not
aware that the 950 had this issue. I think I will look at some earlier
postings on this forum to see how 950 owners have overcome it. I am not
aware of any way to hook up an external flash with an 800.

Good luck
TA

I guess I'll shop around a little more-was really hoping the CP800 didn't have the "red eye" problem of the CP950. I don't want to spend my time fixing this for every inside/flash shot. And an external flash, bracket, and cable would inflate the cost of the CP950. Terry, as you read the posts regarding this problem you will note the best fix for it is external flash(yes, not available for the CP800)- away from the lens. Also,I saw a post where someone made a flash deflector(bounces flash up-off the ceiling, I think) out of thin metal. This "home made" deflector was made for the CP950. I wonder if this remedy could be applied to the CP800? Misha (and Terry and any others with advice)- do you think a beginner like myself with very little photo experience(most from reading here and other forums- and only using a "point and shoot" 35 mm Kodak film cam) could use the CP950, whereas I know I would have to buy the flash?? Thanks, maybe I should have kept my HP C200? Or maybe look at other lower end DC's?? But, I really want something nice and for the near future. Happy 2000 to all.

Click to expand...

Tyler Monson · Dec 27, 1999

Dennis,

Given that there is no "real" cure for the redeye on the Nikons because the flash is too close to the lens (and the homemade reflector may work but only if you have a nearby white wall) and you think that many of the pictures you will take will be flash pictures of people, perhaps you should consider options other than the Nikons and the Canon S-10, such as the Kodak.

By the way, redeye doesn't occur in every flash picture of everyone; it seems to depend on the person as much as anything.

I tried a demo of a program called QImage (for Windows) that is supposed to "get rid" of redeye. The application interface was horrible and the results were not entirely natural...oh well.

While I am contented with my 950 (compared to what is currently available) despite its flaws, I still wish I could try out the others. At first I though the Canon S-10 might be "it" but, after the reports of the very weak flash and its compensating by using slow shutter speeds, my opinion of that camera has soured.

Cheers,

Tyler Monson
Seattle, Washington

wes14615 · Dec 27, 1999

Tyler Monson said:
Dennis,
Given that there is no "real" cure for the redeye on the Nikons because
the flash is too close to the lens (and the homemade reflector may work
but only if you have a nearby white wall) and you think that many of the
pictures you will take will be flash pictures of people, perhaps you
should consider options other than the Nikons and the Canon S-10, such as
the Kodak.
By the way, redeye doesn't occur in every flash picture of everyone; it
seems to depend on the person as much as anything.
I tried a demo of a program called QImage (for Windows) that is supposed
to "get rid" of redeye. The application interface was horrible and the
results were not entirely natural...oh well.
While I am contented with my 950 (compared to what is currently
available) despite its flaws, I still wish I could try out the others. At
first I though the Canon S-10 might be "it" but, after the reports of the
very weak flash and its compensating by using slow shutter speeds, my
opinion of that camera has soured.

Cheers,

Tyler Monson
Seattle, Washington

Yes, I wanted to concur with the comment about there not being red eye
in every flash pic. Because of the other thread started by Linda, I did
a lot of flashing this weekend. I would even go so far as to say that
with my CP800, the majority of photos of people did not have red eye.
Even in very low lighting. So, I would say don't overblow this as a
problem, particularly with the 800. I wasn't even using red eye mode. Just
the auto flash.

wes

Dennis13551 · Dec 27, 1999

Tyler Monson said:
Dennis,
Given that there is no "real" cure for the redeye on the Nikons because
the flash is too close to the lens (and the homemade reflector may work
but only if you have a nearby white wall) and you think that many of the
pictures you will take will be flash pictures of people, perhaps you
should consider options other than the Nikons and the Canon S-10, such as
the Kodak.
By the way, redeye doesn't occur in every flash picture of everyone; it
seems to depend on the person as much as anything.
I tried a demo of a program called QImage (for Windows) that is supposed
to "get rid" of redeye. The application interface was horrible and the
results were not entirely natural...oh well.
While I am contented with my 950 (compared to what is currently
available) despite its flaws, I still wish I could try out the others. At
first I though the Canon S-10 might be "it" but, after the reports of the
very weak flash and its compensating by using slow shutter speeds, my
opinion of that camera has soured.

Cheers,

Tyler Monson
Seattle, Washington

Tyler, thanks for your advice. I thought the CP800 was "it" until I found out about the "red eye" problem. And, as you, I was initially impressed with the S-10. But it's problems are too much for me(also). Maybe(maybe not) the price of the CP950 will drop soon- enough for the additional costs of an external flash package. Even then I'm not quite sure that I have the necessary skills/aptitude to use it. It(CP950) seems complicated but maybe I'm just being "paranoid". You post a lot here, therefore your opinions/advice is appreciated. Is the CP950 that complicated(for a beginner)? I will shop around and visit this site for a while longer. I'm hoping to see the prices of the current DC's decline within 3-4 weeks. Then I will have to decide( I wanted one "yesterday", but am willing to wait for the "right one", and at a good price). Thanks again.

Dennis13551 · Dec 27, 1999

wes14615 said:
Yes, I wanted to concur with the comment about there not being red eye
in every flash pic. Because of the other thread started by Linda, I did
a lot of flashing this weekend. I would even go so far as to say that
with my CP800, the majority of photos of people did not have red eye.
Even in very low lighting. So, I would say don't overblow this as a
problem, particularly with the 800. I wasn't even using red eye mode. Just
the auto flash.

wes

Wes, thanks. Between your and Tyler's replies, maybe I will continue to consider the CP800. I really like the reviews and comments from owners/users. And I see no major problems posted concerning it(other than "red eye"). I could deal with the CP800 per your comments in your above reply. But, were your shots inside using flash? What percentage of your pics came out with "red eye"? I have kids and would be taking pics both inside and outside. As far as "red eye"-does it matter if children or adults? Or is it a random thing? And are close-ups nice, or white-washed(as was my HP C200- that I sent back)? Thank you for your help- it is appreciated. Dennis

Larry14621 · Dec 27, 1999

Dennis,

I have had my 800 for about two weeks and I truly love it. It is my 4th digital camera in just over years and it is the one that finally lives up to my expectations concerning image quality. With my epson 640 printer and glossy photo paper I can get virtually film quality prints, even at larger sizes. I am sure it would be even better with one of the 6 color printers but I'm not ready for that expense yet. I decided on the 800 over the 950 for several reasons: (1) COST. I couldn't see myself really using the extra functions of the 950. Especially when the image quality (as far as I am concerned the final qualifying factor in a digital camera) is equal. If you are a professional you would no doubt use the extra manual functions. The only one I really miss is the closer macro function but it isn't THAT much closer. (2) The 800 is easier on batteries. I have two sets of 1300 mh NiMH batteries and it takes quite a long time to suck them dry. (3) The physical size of the 800 is somewhat smaller and it is a little lighter also. Basically, for me anyway, it came down to the fact that I didn't think I would use the extra features enough to justify the $200+ dollar price difference. For the difference in price I could get a larger memory card, extra batteries, PC card adapter, and a USB card reader!

Over the years I have always opted for cameras with lots of manual features and always found I didn't use that many of them. If what you want is good quality images with a minimum of fuss, I don't think you can go wrong with the 800.

Oh, if you are interested I have a few snap shots from Christmas that you might find interesting. Just to see what real world 'point & shoot by a dummy' images look like. Email me if you would like to see a couple. Good luck

Larry Vevig

Dennis said:
I've pretty much decided on one of these. I was considering the Cannon
S-10, but leary of the "blurry" pics issue (inside/flash/ 1/4sec. shutter
speed). Could someone answer/comment on these three questions: (1) I read
in some reviews(megapixel, I think) that the CP800 produces "slightly"
better pics than the CP950. Is this true and to what
extent(outside/inside/flash/ect)? (2) Does the "red eye" problem of the
CP950(inside/flash) also exist with the CP800? I'd rather not have to buy
an external flash(CP950). Just curious of this in the CP800. And (3)
Would I have to deal with firmware updates(3-I believe with the CP-950)
with the CP800? Both cameras get great reviews overall. I'm just a
beginner looking for a decent camera that is somewhat simple- yet one
that I can learn more about later. I believe either would be a good
choice, but I'm not quite sure that I need all the
functions/settings/controls of the CP950. But with the prediction of
falling prices(soon)- then,the CP950 could fit in my budget. The CP800's
price could also drop- making it very affordable. Any feedback from
owners/users/reviewers? Thanks and Happy Holidays to all.....

Mike13442 · Dec 27, 1999

I can't really give you much useful advice about choosing the 800 vs. the 950, but I can tell you that personally, EVERY SINGLE FLASH PHOTO OF A HUMAN OR AMINAL HAS EXIBITED EXTREME REDEYE with my 950. I ended up buying an external flash setup which is a compromise because now I have to lug around all this extra equipment, and my nice compact camera is no longer compact. If I had to do it all over again I would have bought an Olympus C2000 and saved almost $100 in the process. I only purchased the 950 because I had already spent $180 on a 64 Mb CF card, and the C2000 uses Smart Media. I'm somewhat seriously considering the Olympus C2500, too (~$1300!).

Good luck on your search! I hope I didn't confuse you even more!

Dennis said:
Dennis13551 said:

Yes, I wanted to concur with the comment about there not being red eye
in every flash pic. Because of the other thread started by Linda, I did
a lot of flashing this weekend. I would even go so far as to say that
with my CP800, the majority of photos of people did not have red eye.
Even in very low lighting. So, I would say don't overblow this as a
problem, particularly with the 800. I wasn't even using red eye mode. Just
the auto flash.

wes

Click to expand...

Wes, thanks. Between your and Tyler's replies, maybe I will continue to
consider the CP800. I really like the reviews and comments from
owners/users. And I see no major problems posted concerning it(other than
"red eye"). I could deal with the CP800 per your comments in your above
reply. But, were your shots inside using flash? What percentage of your
pics came out with "red eye"? I have kids and would be taking pics both
inside and outside. As far as "red eye"-does it matter if children or
adults? Or is it a random thing? And are close-ups nice, or
white-washed(as was my HP C200- that I sent back)? Thank you for your
help- it is appreciated. Dennis

jdc #13332 · Dec 27, 1999

Mike,

Look long and hard at the Oly 2500...After having tried it for a few days, it went straight back to the store.....The pics were really not good....color was off...blurry/out of focus shots.....maybe it was defective?

For me it's between the F505 and the 950. I don't like the idea of having to buy and lug around an external flash for the 950. At least the F505, when set to low flash, helps the red eye problem. I also found that people blinked when the double flash went off on the Oly 2500 so I ended up with closed eyes instead of red eyes....sometimes!?

John DC

Mike said:
Good luck on your search! I hope I didn't confuse you even more!

Dennis said:

Mike13442 said:

Yes, I wanted to concur with the comment about there not being red eye
in every flash pic. Because of the other thread started by Linda, I did
a lot of flashing this weekend. I would even go so far as to say that
with my CP800, the majority of photos of people did not have red eye.
Even in very low lighting. So, I would say don't overblow this as a
problem, particularly with the 800. I wasn't even using red eye mode. Just
the auto flash.

wes

Click to expand...

Wes, thanks. Between your and Tyler's replies, maybe I will continue to
consider the CP800. I really like the reviews and comments from
owners/users. And I see no major problems posted concerning it(other than
"red eye"). I could deal with the CP800 per your comments in your above
reply. But, were your shots inside using flash? What percentage of your
pics came out with "red eye"? I have kids and would be taking pics both
inside and outside. As far as "red eye"-does it matter if children or
adults? Or is it a random thing? And are close-ups nice, or
white-washed(as was my HP C200- that I sent back)? Thank you for your
help- it is appreciated. Dennis

Click to expand...

Don Karner · Jan 3, 2000

So...what is the homemade fix? Thanx in advance.

Terry Alexander said:
Dennis said:

Terry Alexander said:

Dennis,
I have had my 800 for about a month now. I love it. I do still find
myself wishing for more manual setings like it's big brother but for my
first foray into digital I feel I made a good choice that will keep me
busy for a while. I will however buy my next camera with full manual
functions. One thing I will note that frustrates the devil out of me is
the redeye problem you mention. I have yet to take a photo indoors
without redeye. I'm getting tired of manipulating the images. I was not
aware that the 950 had this issue. I think I will look at some earlier
postings on this forum to see how 950 owners have overcome it. I am not
aware of any way to hook up an external flash with an 800.

Good luck
TA

I guess I'll shop around a little more-was really hoping the CP800 didn't have the "red eye" problem of the CP950. I don't want to spend my time fixing this for every inside/flash shot. And an external flash, bracket, and cable would inflate the cost of the CP950. Terry, as you read the posts regarding this problem you will note the best fix for it is external flash(yes, not available for the CP800)- away from the lens. Also,I saw a post where someone made a flash deflector(bounces flash up-off the ceiling, I think) out of thin metal. This "home made" deflector was made for the CP950. I wonder if this remedy could be applied to the CP800? Misha (and Terry and any others with advice)- do you think a beginner like myself with very little photo experience(most from reading here and other forums- and only using a "point and shoot" 35 mm Kodak film cam) could use the CP950, whereas I know I would have to buy the flash?? Thanks, maybe I should have kept my HP C200? Or maybe look at other lower end DC's?? But, I really want something nice and for the near future. Happy 2000 to all.

Click to expand...

Click to expand...

Dennis13551 · Jan 3, 2000

Here's the url for a lot of tips-go to cp950 for tips on home made flash deflector. I wonder if it works on CP800, haven't had time to read all the tips there. Hope this helps you. http://www.globaldialog.com/~biggers/index.html

Don Karner said:
Terry Alexander said:

I saw the homemade fix right after replying. It's worth a try. I have a
new daughter and take plenty of indoor shots than anything else. As far
as your question about learning to use the 950. OF COURSE YOU CAN! I
started with print film and quickly picked up the finer points of my
camera because I loved the end result when it was done right. Now that
I'm using digital, I'm slowly learning my 800. Just read and remember
your mistakes. Whatever camera you decide on just don't be afraid to ask
questions. I can't even begin to say how much I have learned just by this
forum alone and the wealth of knowledge shared by the users- pro and
amature. Go for it!
TA

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