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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 <<Design :(Previous) | (Next): Optics>> Page 4:Viewfinder Review First Posted: 3/10/2001

Viewfinder

The 215 features both an optical viewfinder and an LCD monitor for composing images. Located in the top left corner of the camera's back panel is the real image optical viewfinder. While the eyepiece doesn't offer a diopter adjustment dial, it does have a relatively high eyepoint for eyeglass wearers. We were able to see the full image view at a pretty good distance from the eyepiece, which should work for most lens thicknesses. Two camera status LEDs next to the eyepiece report when focus and exposure are set (a solid green LED). A flashing LED indicates a problem with the camera or that the autofocus system is having trouble focusing on the subject.

Also on the camera's back panel is the 1.8-inch color LCD monitor, with a total of 61,600 pixels. A sliding switch on the right, bottom corner of the back panel controls the LCD display, turning it on or off. No information is displayed on the LCD monitor, providing an unobstructed view of the image composition. Instead, camera settings are reported in the small status display panel just above the LCD monitor. Though reasonably bright, the LCD display has a relatively slow refresh rate, which may slow down composition a bit.

In Playback mode, the LCD monitor offers an index display mode, which shows nine thumbnail images on the screen at a time. You can also enlarge captured images up to 2x for closer examination of details. In Playback mode, the LCD displays the date that the image was taken, the quality setting, and the image number for about two seconds with each new image display.