|
September 2007
September 5, 2007
L77 Digital Camera from Samsung The L77 Digital Camera from Samsung is a 7.1 mega-pixal Camera with a 7X optical zoom and a 5X Digital zoom. It looks good with its thin black case, a 2.5 inch TTF LCD (No Viewfinder), and a hefty feel. It includes Samsung’s EPS (Electronic Picture Stabilizer.) The overall look is reminiscent of the Samsung NV10 I reviewed recently. However there are important differences. The L77’s optical parts, including the zoom, are completely inside the camera under a built-in lens cover. When the Lens/Zoom is activated it does not move out of the camera body. The L77 returns to fewer buttons and five-way rocker/button operation mode as compared to the NV10’s use of a grid button system.
This brought something home to me about testing almost anything. I hated the NV10 button only layout when I first tested it. By the time I was done I loved it. Now, with the L77, I had to move to the buttons and the five way rocker/button mode and am finding I have to retrain my thinking to get acclimated to this method again. It is often an easy mental transfer but, at times, it really takes a while. You can expand on the 20 MB internal memory by adding a memory card up to 4 Gig in size. For this test I added a 512 MB memory card. I suggest you purchase several spare batteries and memory cards as the battery will handle about 150 photos per charge and we all know how fast we can fill up memory.
In the Box l77 Camera Camera Strap Software CD User Manual Rechargeable Battery Charger AC Cord USB Cable AV Cable Software CD
Features - 7.1 Mega-pixel - 2.5” TFT LCD - 7x optical zoom in a slim camera design - EPS (Electronic Picture Stabilizer) - ISO 1600 - MPEG-4 Movie recording, VGA(640X480), 30fps - 5 Way Button System (Easy to use interface)
Top of the L77 On/off power button and the Shutter button.
Back of the L77 The Zoom control is a rocker switch at the top right. Below that are the (M) Menu Button and the (E) Effect Button. (Fn) button to change shot settings such as Size in Megabytes and Quality like Super fine, Fine, or Normal. Also the 5 way button/rocker control for so many functions I cannot list them here.
Side of the L77

Bottom of the L77

As with many Digital cameras the L77 will require time, use, and patience to learn all the various ways to use buttons to make all the possible changes available. It is best to start with Auto mode and, after learning the most basic functions, expanding your reach over time to include the manual options. It is a very capable camera even when left in auto mode. The Samsung L77’s auto sensitivity feature automatically adjusts sensitivity according to the ambient exposure conditions up to ISO 1600. This high sensitivity enables you to take clearer indoor pictures in poor light without camera shake or image blur.
I enjoyed the VGA quality (640X480 at 30fps). It made for a great video experience within a digital still camera. The zoom worked very well until I went into the digital range where I found it hard to hold the shot steady. I recommend staying in the optical range or using a tripod or bracing the camera. Sound recording stops during Zoom while shooting a video but will resume after zooming is stopped. The L77 has built-in movie editing software but I did not test it. The Manual states you can select and cut desired scenes from a recorded movie and save them as unique files. Here are some sample L77 and NV10 Video Recordings.
It is also possible to add many side effects to picture viewing when using the L77. Listen to music provided by the camera or add special effects to the image when it is displayed on the LCD.
Eleven scene modes help you get the perfect shot under different conditions. By adjusting the camera's setting according to the situation instead of needing to know the exact manual settings needed, you can chose Night, Portrait, Children, Landscape, Close up, Sunset, Dawn, Backlight, Fireworks, Beach and Snow, and Text options that will make your photo fit the situation. You may also use the “E” button to add more special effects.
Since most users will use the Auto Mode when using the L77 I have tested it with that in mind. Below are some sample photos taken in several locations with natural lighting or auto flash when the camera sensed it was required. I leave to you to judge the L77 photo quality for yourself. There are many more L77 samples on my Flickr site.
Overall this is a solid entry in the lightweight digital pocket camera field. I have to say my heart is still with the NV10 but, at $299.99, the L77 is an affordable and capable product from Samsung.
For more on this and other Samsung products CLICK HERE
|