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DImageX 2 megapixel camera by the mind of minolta

This is a fun camera to have, especially if you're often inspired to "think visually" and grab an image of something. Whether it's a

VW beetle

construction site

or a humorous sign

chances are you won't see it again.

This camera, smaller and lighter than your wallet, even after you've paid for the camera — and this is especially true now that Minolta have come out with the 3-megapixel version — is something you can take anywhere you go. Opportunities abound for photos! When a co-worker of mine with a cold was rolling around on the office floor, a huge wad of kleenex hanging out one nostril, well, you get the picture. And so did I, although out of kindness I don't show the photo.

Aside from the cheezy microphone, two things on this camera could be better. Of course, it's a miracle that a 3X zoom lens is actually inside the camera. However, the lens opening is in the upper left, and is easily covered up by parts of your left hand or finger. Most cameras have the lens in the middle, and now I can see why.

An orientation sensor would have been nice. Did you know there's a type of sensor that can tell a camera you have turned it 90 degrees, and the camera will send the picture to the computer? Well, there is, but Minolta didn't put one in the DImage X.

Aside from its small size, here are some other things I do like about this camera: USB connection to the Mac (I use OS X and the camera works great with it), quick battery recharging, plenty of pictures on a 32-Meg memory card (a free upgrade if you buy from amazon), ability to shoot a short video piece, lcd panel on the back that you can turn off if you want to extend the battery.

what more do you need to know? snap up your own DImageX 2 megapixel camera by the mind of minolta

Reviewed Saturday April 27, 2002