Olympus SP-570UZ
Cursed with an ambiguous, alpha-numeric moniker, the SP-570UZ (That's one hell of a sexy name there, Olympus) is suffering an identity crisis. It lies in the nether region between point-and-click and DSLR all while suffering from a model number that screams "prosumer". Middle child though it is, the 570UZ takes the hand it has been dealt and makes the most of itself, turning out to be a fine and useful 10-megapixel digicam.
The 570UZ makes a good shooter for the photo enthusiast who lacks experience yet has enough loot to drop on an entry level DSLR. You can start out relying on the auto settings (they won't steer you wrong), and then explore the advanced functions as you build up your skill using the thorough, 97-page (!) manual. Even the most hopeless of n00bs can use this thing. Be warned though: deep menus can mean getting lost and not finding a way out.
The more experienced user can squeeze a lot from the camera in various shooting situations; nearly all functions can be performed manually for more control. You can speed the shutter up to catch all of the actions and every droplet when filming, uh, water sports or slow it down to blur and capture the most restful waterfalls you've ever seen for that DIY inspirational poster series.
The camera's lens barrel extends to a lewd length, but it packs a 20x zoom (not enough to spy on your neighbors from three clicks out, but plenty for preserving the memory of your kids' first little league strikeout). The anti-shake controls help in the long shots, but you'll lose some detail unless you're mounted on a tripod. The zoom controls on the barrel force you to use it with two hands, which is a pain. We know, high-end cameras have zoom controls on the lens, but this is not a high-end camera, but thumb controls would be much easier for one-handed zooming.
The camera boasts a litany of functions such as face detection, burst mode, 22 scene presets, movie recording, and epic zooming ability, but where it really excels is up close. Those who like to sweat the small stuff will love the super macro mode that captures excellent detail in flowers, bugs, and other assorted tiny objects.
As with most Olympus cameras, the 570UZ is restricted to xD—not extra costly, just not compatible with the rest of the world's SD media. But we can forgive that in this camera that shines in so many other ways. —Roger Hibbert
WIRED Stunning macro function makes big shots out of the smallest subjects. Versatile controls soothe the enthusiasts while auto presets comfort the noobs. Excellent manual. Top mounted hotshoe makes swapping external flash options easy.
TIRED Pretend-professional zoom requires two hands. Zoom shots without a tripod can come out blurry. Stubborn clinging to proprietary xD media is irritating—resistance is futile, Olympus.
$499, Olympus
(Photos By James Merithew for Wired.com)
