Olympus Stylus 1030 sw

Keri · #1 02-03-2009, 08:06 AM

Hi

I am considering picking this up as a little point and shoot and I like that it can be submerged in the tank as well. I have a Nikon D40 that's great but I want something that fits better in a purse, can anyone tell me what their experience with this camera (inside and outside of the aquarium) is? I have seen some cool macros by OCD I think.
Photo examples would be appreciated!!
Do you think it's worth the pricetag? I used to have a samsung slim 'n wave (I think I paid 3-something, on sale from $400) that took INCREDIBLE macro shots until it crapped out on me a little over the warranty date, but it wasn't submersible.
Thanks!!!

edit: oh poop! Would a mod mind correcting the spelling of "stylus" in my thread title? Thanks!!!

Keri · #2 02-03-2009, 08:32 AM

Hmmm... reading this review is making me reconsider...

http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/d...sp?newsID=3444

str255 · #3 02-03-2009, 09:07 AM

If you are considering the 1030SW, you may also want to consider/wait-for the "new" model, the "STYLUS TOUGH-8000", which s/b available soon (Feb. in the US, anyways) ... more info at http://www.steves-digicams.com/pr/ol..._tough_pr.html.

I picked up a 1030sw in december specifically for its toughness and underwater abilities (for skiing, skating, waterpark events ... and of course some future in-tank shots) ... didn't want to worry about handling the camera with kiddie gloves in the elements.

I am happy with it's performance with respect to how I had planned to use it. Considering only picture quality and ergonomics, I've had a couple of compact Canons and I find them clearly better.

A couple of quick pro's/con's:
Cons
- easy to get your fingers in the picture
- weird video rec modes ... I think ... in one mode you cannot zoom but get sound; in another mode you get sound but cannot zoom; I don't think you can get sound and zoom together
Pros
- its toughness and underwater capability
- a macro mode using a built-in led light ... helps prevent over-exposure (e.g., if the flash was used instead)
- can use microSDHC cards

Keri · #4 02-03-2009, 10:12 AM

Thank you for all of the info!! I may wait for the newer model, if it produces a better picture as well.

I'm not going to be too rough (hopefully!) with the camera, but it's nice to have some security, I know my heart stops for a second if I fumble with the DSLR lol

BlueAbyss · #5 02-03-2009, 10:24 PM

This thread has some shots from this camera... http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/sho...threadid=48911 I'm considering looking for someone to buy my Panasonic Lumix LZ8 so I can get one of these.

mark · #6 02-04-2009, 01:58 AM

Have a 770SW so a little bias but I think the camera is excellent for what it's made for. Sure there's better cameras but can they go from the beach, to the surf, then under it. They're fairly cheap, rugged and compact, don't need to worry about it in the rain and can left your kid go wild.

Check this post by Diana for some underwater shots with a 720SW.

mossman604 · #7 05-01-2009, 03:16 AM

i own it and i dont like it, it shoots to slow and not the best quality on the other hand it does some cool stuff, i took it white water rafting

if you get any underwater camera purchase the extended warrenty.

msobon · #8 05-01-2009, 05:49 AM

Some macro shots taken by the SW1030 Model :

I would say if you're looking for a underwate camera or a camera to take for that trip that involves water and dirt then this one is for you.
If you're looking for a day to day use this camera may not be the best in it's price range. Shots are ok from a point and shoot, need to tinker a little to get good shots i.e. don't leave it on auto but actually choose the right setting for what you want to do.