‘J IN ZI GIFT IDEASK The Time Is Right To Step Up To A Digital SLR Camera (NAPSA)—Summer is filled — with important family activities like graduation, vacation, family barbecues and days at the beach. That meansthereare plenty of picture-taking opportunities for Mom and Dad, so don’t settle for “not quite right” pictures or completely missed ones due to your camera’s sluggish performance. Today’s digital SLR (DSLR) cameras are user-friendly, and prices are at an all-time low, so isn’t it time to move to a faster, more versatile camera? Here are some important features to look for when stepping-up from a pointand-shoot to a DSLR camera: 1. Since you’re used to using the LCD screen on your pointand-shoot camera, make the tran- sition easier with a DSLR such as the Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 camera that offers Live View. It gives you the option of composing with the LCD instead of the optical viewfinder without sacrificing auto focusing speed. The DSLRA850 camera lets you move away from the viewfinder and into the moment. 2. Go for a camera with incamera image stabilization and you'll never have to worry about buying special lenses to compensate for shaky hands when you're shooting in low light (or when you’ve had too muchcoffee). aRa Digital SLR cameras areideal for taking pictures of fast-moving kids. 3. A tiltable LCD screen is a good investment because it means you won't haveto be a contortionist when taking photos over your head at a graduation ceremonyor at a low angle to capture the kids building a sand castle at the beach. 4. Look for DSLRs with antidust technology, which helps avoid getting dust on the camera sensor when you change lenses. If a tiny dust bunny manages to sneakin, this technology will also shakeitoff. 5. Ease-of-use is critical when youre moving up to a DSLR, so look for a camerathat offers some of the features you’re used to using, such as scene selection modes. Also, make sure the cam- era’s control layout and menu sys- tem are easy to navigate. Visit yourlocal camera store to get some hands-on timebefore you buy.
