Review on 📷 Olympus SP-820UZ iHS Digital Camera (Black) - Top-Quality, Old Model by Desiree Jones

I had a previous OLYMPUS camera (model 570UZ) for a few years and was very happy with the features and photos I got from this camera, so I was so excited at the prospect of owning this "updated" OLYMPUS 820UZ that I actually saved up for months to raise enough money to buy it. When I received the package my first reaction was very disappointing as the camera felt so light and cheap even compared to my older model. The battery/data card door didn't feel tangible (plastic) and was VERY loose - so much so that I had to be very careful opening/closing for fear it would snap the hinge (not great for such a moving/used part the camera). The flap "tightened" when the batteries were installed, but the "play" found in the flap even after the batteries were installed raised concerns that such an essential, usable part of the camera could break. Overall, I was hoping that the camera's improved features (video with sound, larger screen, MAGIC creative mode, increased zoom/megapixels) would make up for its losses: dedicated viewfinder, variable focus ring, external flash option, etc. In my opinion, that didn't happen . I found that I really missed the viewfinder's capabilities during photo framing and during photo review (when screen glare was a problem). On this upgraded 820UZ, I was surprised to find that the pop-up flash is powered up manually (rather than by the push of a button like on my 570UZ). I was also surprised that my photos were often too bright, leading to an awkward "overexposure" result. Unfortunately, this 820UZ doesn't offer the SLOW FLASH feature, my favorite way to add some light to photos without the excessive flare and shadows of subjects that come with full flash. this OLYMPUS 820UZ somehow put out good movies with sound (although the activation button is in a zone that could accidentally turn on). The photos taken with this camera were good, except for the flash photos which, as mentioned, came out too light; bright in the foreground; dark background. The download speed to my PC was excellent in combination with the TRANSCEND 45MB/s 300X 32MB data card. Like my old 570 UZ, this model uses AA batteries, which is my personal preference. I sent this camera back because it didn't meet my expectations (plastic parts, loose battery door, upgrades couldn't make up for the old model's loss of functionality). ).