Sony - Cyber-shot DSC-W70 digital camera Review

I bought this Sony - Cyber-shot DSC-W70 for my daughter at Christmas 2006 for $350+. It is now down to the $250s. It is amazingly simple to use, produces quality pictures, and she takes it everywhere. I have even stolen it for quick pics when my SLR refused to accept the conditions I had for picture-taking. Her little Cyber-shot stepped up to the plate and gave me a very satisfactory photo.

Herein lies one problem. If you don't take care of a camera, you will end up having to get it fixed. Even though she has a perfectly good camera case, which can be attached to her belt, she chose to carry the camera in her well-used purse. Easy access. I have seen her drop it 3 times, and she carries it in all weather conditions, as well as to dusty barnyards and sandy beaches. Finally the lens cover froze in a partially opened state, and the camera had to be sent to Sony for cleaning and repair. It cost her $178. Add another $20 and she could have thrown her camera away and gotten an upgrade. However, she paid for the repair, and her camera continues to perform beyond her experience in taking pictures. Thank goodness it is a digital camera, and she can download the photos on her desktop for review and printing, storage or deletion at no cost.

Can I recommend this camera? I not only recommend it, but I bought its younger sibling, the DSC-W80. Both are excellent cameras producing near-professional quality photos.

JMCA c.April2008