Physical Tour

Front**

The view of the front reveals features that are characteristic of a digital SLR camera. There is a large right-hand grip that protrudes on the left side (when viewing from the front) and a large lens on the right side. The dark gray lens barrel extends in two segments from the body. The main panels of the camera are a lighter brushed silver tone. The front of the camera has three colors: light brushed silver, dark gray on the lens, and a black rubber surface that covers the right-hand grip. The rubber wraps around the entire right side and bleeds onto the front of the camera all the way to the lens. At the top tip of the grip is the shutter release button, placed for easy access to the index finger. Just below it is a black jog dial with a notched surface for easy turning and precise selections. Above and to the left of the lens is the AF assist illuminator. Centered directly above the lens is the pop-up flash, which has "Sony" visibly lettered across the front when closed.

Back

The left side of the back is dominated by the large, flat 2.5-inch LCD screen. Above the screen and a bit to the left is the electronic viewfinder, which is surrounded by a black rubber eyepiece. Directly to its right is a small circular button labeled "Finder/ LCD" that switches the display from the LCD screen to the smaller viewfinder. Further right is a small LED with a flash icon next to it; this indicates when the flash is on and ready to fire. To the right of the LED is a button that engages the image stabilization system.

On the right side of the back, the zoom controls sit at the top where the thumb naturally rests. The camera body has some slight curves in this area to enhance comfort while shooting. Below the zoom control is a cluster of buttons, with the Menu button at the top left of them. The main cluster consists of the four-way navigational dial, which is made of five buttons — four separate directional buttons and one in the center for selections. Like most digital cameras, each directional button doubles as a quick button to access specific features. The top button selects flash settings, the right button quickly puts the camera into macro mode, the bottom enables the 10-second self-timer, and the left button is the "back" button. The four-way dial is circular in shape, even with the separate buttons. The separate buttons are a nice feature; it is more difficult to accidentally hit a feature with this setup. Below these buttons are two more circular raised controls: the one on the left is for holding the previous image on the LCD screen, while the one on the right is for deleting pictures.

Left Side

The left side shows the slightly bulky profile of the Sony H1, but attempts to mask its awkward shape and make it somewhat attractive by applying the Cyber-shot logo to the black panel. The top of the left side has a wide loop for a neck strap, which will be necessary with this 16.2-ounce digital camera. Towards the rear of the left side is a plastic port door to the A/V out and USB jacks. The door feels quite sturdy and even has a raised portion for the thumb to pry it open.

Right Side

The right side is quite wide because of the right-hand grip. Half of it is covered in a rubbery surface that extends to the front of the camera. The other half is the light brushed silver color. At the top of the right side is a loop for the neck strap. This loop looks different from the one on the left side, resembling the nose ring of a bull, though the bottom of the ring is flattened.

Top

From the top, the pop-up flash takes up the entire left side of the H1. Behind the flash is the extended electronic viewfinder with its black rubber eyepiece. To the right of these features are several controls; the Power button is directly to the right of the flash. It is labeled and flush with the camera body, so it won’t be accidentally turned on while in a camera bag. Above the power button and slightly to the right is the built-in microphone, which appears as three lines. To the direct right of the power button is the main mode dial, with a small LED to identify the mode that is currently selected. The following modes are available on the dial: Automatic, Playback, Movie, Portrait, Landscape, Sports, Beach, Candle, Twilight Portrait, Twilight, Manual, Aperture-priority, Shutter-priority, and Programmed AE. All of the modes are represented by simple and intuitive graphics except for the M, A, S, and P modes. The large, circular mode dial contains notches all around, so it can be twisted easily and will lock into place.

Above the mode dial are two small circular buttons. The one on the left is labeled "Focus" and is used to choose between the Macro, Automatic, and Manual focus settings. The button on the right is used for selecting shooting modes, such as the burst mode. Above these buttons on the tip of the right-hand grip is the large polished shutter release button.

Components

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Viewfinder**

Most digital SLR-shaped cameras have an electronic viewfinder; this remains true with the Sony Cyber-shot H1. The smaller viewfinder may be more comfortable to shoot with considering the 16.2-ounce heft of the camera and the necessary neck strap. The viewfinder has an accurate view through the lens, so cropped pictures in the viewfinder and LCD screen will mirror the recorded frame.

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LCD Screen** 

The LCD screen is 2.5 inches of anti-glare technology and 115,000 pixels. This size of screen is definitely larger than most digital cameras in this category; Sony should be applauded for finally including a big screen for playback and composition on a larger camera body. The problem is that the screen is only composed of 115,000 pixels. By contrast, the Cyber-shot T1 (not the T3 or T33) includes a similarly sized 2.5" LCD, formed of 211,000 pixels — nearly twice the resolution of the H1’s LCD! While many users of the H1 can choose to utilize the viewfinder (which is not an option on the T1), a larger screen doesn’t help much when the image is distorted.

Flash

The built-in flash on the H1 pops up when it is needed and a flash setting is selected on the four-way navigational dial. Before the flash is used, the AF assist illuminator lights up for accurate flash metering. The following flash settings are available: Auto, On, Off, Slow Sync, and Red-eye Reduction. While these modes are sufficient, the reach of the flash is disappointing. The flash is effective up to 12.4 feet, which is common for compact digital cameras. However, serious enthusiasts will expect a little more from cameras like the H1.

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Zoom Lens**

The most dominant element of the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1 is its 12x optical zoom lens. Equivalent to 36-432mm in 35mm format, the camera also has a 2x digital zoom that seems useless after such expansive optical capabilities. The Sony lens has a Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization system that can be activated by the button near the pop-up flash. This feature will be especially handy when shooting at the 432mm telephoto setting of the 12x optical zoom lens when hand-shake is especially apparent. Options such as image stabilization and 12x optical zoom are highly coveted in digital cameras. Although surprisingly, the applied lens is made by Sony, not Carl Zeiss; a sudden alteration in form from the typical Zeiss touch that adorns most Cyber-shot models. I’d have to assume this was purely an economic decision, in an attempt to keep the total cost of the camera below $500 (USD).

The Sony H1 is compatible with several optional telephoto and wide conversion lenses. The Sony VCL-DH0758 wide angle lens provides a wider view with minimal color aberration or distortion. The Sony VCL-DH1758 telephoto lens is also available. Both cost about $150 each and will be on the market in mid-June.

Design / Layout

**Model Design / Appearance
**This Cyber-shot model is definitely reminiscent of a digital SLR. With a strong resemblance to the widely popular "ultra zoom" styling currently employed by Kodak for their DX and now Z lines as well as Panasonic’s DMC-FZ models, the H1 does not offer any strong stylistic diversions in form. The camera has a long lens and bulky right-hand grip, characteristic of a digital SLR or compact, high zoom model. The H1 is built for serious enthusiasts, so the look has to appeal to the crowd. It does just that, not only with its shape, but with its light brushed silver body, rubber grips and darkened silver lens. The frame is a bit sleeker than frames from Kodak’s DX and Z lines and applies a stylistic edge that would be expected of Sony. As far as appearance goes, Sony played it safe, crafting the H1 body to fit in with the rest of the competition, although the 2.5" LCD dominating the back of the camera will certainly speak to style seekers.

Size / Portability

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 has a slightly bulky 16.2-ounce body, but that is to be expected with the SLR-shape. This digital camera targets the more engaged enthusiast who is primarily interested in zoom range and performance, with portability being more of a secondary concern. The body measures 3.2 x 4.2 x 3.2 inches (43.01 inches³), which does play into that boxy form. By way of comparison, the new, similarly designed Kodak EasyShare Z7590 measures 3.9 x 3.2 x 3.2 (39.94 inches³) inches and has the same SLR shape, although it is not quite as sleek as the H1. Adding a touch of style, Sony has applied a 2.5" LCD to the "ultra zoom" body and created a composite of all the "hot" features currently sought by consumers. Although it is a bit like the NY Yankees approach to camera construction, it will likely work: find out what people are currently interested in and cram as much of it on as possible — its gotta be a success, right?

Handling Ability

While the style of the Cyber-shot H1 seems to be a straight replication of previous form, it does appear that Sony put some thought into the feel of the design. With a comfortable and appropriate right-hand grip, the sleek ultra zoom frame feels balanced in the user’s hands. The bulky camera does not feel like a burden to the shooter — an important constructive element on larger camera bodies. While the H1, like other "ultra zoom" models does not contain a manual focus ring, the long lens and ample surface area grant the user more than enough real estate for attaining a stable grip. Although Sony may have been slow to enter the "ultra zoom" segment of the market, it looks like they’ve taken some notes along the way. The H1 assumes the strengths of existing ultra zoom designs and applies a more ergonomic form that is efficient, comfortable, and practical to most consumers.

 

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Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size**

The general button layout and control assemblage of the H1 does not stray too far from convention. While the ultra zoom look is still a relatively new form, the amount of exposure and acclaim those cameras have received has brought their design into the digital camera mainstream. The Cyber-shot H1 contains a logical configuration of buttons that places zoom toggle controls near the right hand thumb and the mode dial on the top right of the camera, so it is accessible by the right thumb and index finger; Sony designers have also put navigational buttons on the back of the camera, just to the right of the LCD screen. The directional pad is broken into four disjointed components, leaving solid boundaries between individual controls and effectively reducing the chance of accidental engagement. The menu button is just above the navigational controls and makes accessing the menu and cycling through it extremely efficient and intuitive. For the manual control enthusiasts, a circular jog dial protrudes out from the front of the right-hand grip to create a trigger-like interface for exposure controls. All the buttons contain common symbols and icons but lack written definitions; they are clearly recognizable and accessible with minimal movement of form.

Ease of Use

While the Sony DSC-H1 is a fairly simplified camera, it is not designed to appeal to the ease-of-use type of consumer. Although the actual differences between the Cyber-shot H1 and the Kodak EasyShare Z7590 are marginal, the marketing approaches are quite disparate. The EasyShare Z7590 targets point-and-shoot users in search of an ultra zoom alternative, while the Cyber-shot H1 targets the photography "enthusiast." The truth is, the H1 is virtually a point-and-shoot camera with amplified marketing glitz. When it comes down to it, the H1 is no more difficult to use than the P200 or any other Cyber-shot model and should not intimidate any point-and-shoot user looking for added telephoto capabilities.

Modes

Auto Mode

The automatic mode is quite easy to find on the mode dial. Its green camera icon distinguishes it from the other black graphics and letters. Once selected, the Sony H1 fully automates all settings. Although the camera is loosely marketed to enthusiasts, the camera should be far more attractive to engaged point-and-shooters. This puts more emphasis on the camera’s automatic settings and controls as many of the H1’s users will likely opt for Auto mode. Without extensive testing, it is tough to discern exactly how well the H1 will function in automatic mode, though previous Cyber-shot models we have tested proved to be some of the more competent automatic imagers on the market. Preliminarily, shooting speeds and automatic focus were registered fairly quickly upon initial usage. While some of the H1’s manual features are a bit disappointing, I anticipate the camera’s automatic performance to be quite reliable. Although this may contradict the camera’s intended purpose, it should still contain some appealing attributes to specific users.

Movie Mode

The movie mode performs at its best with the Memory Stick Media Pro, as the card enables the camera to record 30 frames per second in VGA Fine mode. Without the Pro card, the H1 can record at the same 640 x 480, but at a rate of 16 frames per second in the VGA Standard mode — genius marketing or an insult to the potential buyer? (Coincidentally, the H1 contains internal memory and doesn’t ship with a memory stick). Regardless, the H1 also offers a video mail feature that records 160 x 112 pixels at 8 frames a second. These MPEG files also simultaneously record audio with the H1’s built-in microphone and can be heard upon playback through the in-camera speaker. The H1 also retains its zooming capabilities when recording video; a significant advantage over other models, particularly considering that the "ultra zoom" H1 contains a 36-432mm equivalent zoom range with image stabilization.

Drive / Burst Mode

According to Sony, the Cyber-shot H1 will shoot 0.7 frames per second in the burst mode for up to nine images. This seems a bit outdated, as most cameras (point-and-shoot, compact, and SLRs) will shoot bursts of 2 to 3 frames per second. While some lower-end cameras can only sustain the burst for 4 consecutive images or so, many will continue for 7-14. There is also a multi-burst mode on the Cyber-shot H1 that captures sixteen images at 320 x 240 resolution as part of a single 1280 x 960 pixel image. This setting can shoot at speeds of 1/7.5, 1/15, and 1/30^th of a second. While this is far faster than the burst mode, its limited resolution and single frame output makes this option a weak substitute.

Custom Image Presets

While preset scene modes are typically included for point-and-shoot users and not the most utilized feature for enthusiasts, they are nice to have at the user’s disposal. The Sony H1 has seven scene modes: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Portrait, Landscape, Candle, Beach, and Sports. In these modes, the camera automatically chooses the settings that would best suit these situations, to instantly acclimate the camera to the presumed conditions. All of the scene modes are conveniently located on the main mode dial, so users won’t have to dig through menus to find the desired mode. The scene modes are depicted by intuitive graphics; for example, the Twilight Portrait mode is represented by an icon of a person with a moon next to it. The objective is met with the H1’s presets — the icons are clearly distinguishable and easily accessible, enabling simple selection for point-and-shoot users.**
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Control Options

Manual Control Options

The Manual mode in the H1 allows users to change aperture settings from f/2.8-f/8.0 and shutter speeds in 46 steps from 30-1/1000^th of a second. With full manual and priority modes, users will have complete control of the frame when desired. A "manual" focus feature is also said to be included but I think that is a gross misrepresentation of the feature. The options are manually alterable, like ISO settings, but there is no opportunity to "customize" focus to a precise point. While this may be a matter of semantics, I feel true manual focus is used to reach focal points unattainable with preset parameters.

Focus
Auto
The Sony H1 uses a five-area multi-point auto focus system that can shoot in normal or macro settings. In the macro mode, the camera can focus as close as 2 cm, which is quite impressive for the large 12x optical zoom lens. In darker lighting, the H1 has an AF assist illuminator to help the camera use the correct metering settings. While the five-area system should encompass most of the frame, it will not be quite as accurate as a 7 or 9-area system. The limited number of focus areas obviously means more space will have to be covered by each point. This runs the risk of having specific objects becoming framed between areas and not getting registered with as much accuracy.

Manual

According to the specifications, the H1 does have manual focus. However, it’s a watered down version of a manual focus. Instead of turning a focus ring around the lens, users must select one of five preset focus settings. Because the settings are spaced from 36-432mm, there is little chance the subject will be positioned on the actual focal plane and appear exactly in focus.

Exposure

This digital camera provides a wide range of exposure modes, including manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic modes. This range aids users in developing their photographic skills without outgrowing the camera too quickly. The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1 has the standard exposure compensation range of +/- 2 EV in 1/3-stop steps.

White Balance

Once again, Sony overlooked a critical feature to enthusiasts. While Sony has achieved some success and acclaim within the point-and-shoot ranks, they have not yet proved themselves with advanced users. When most advanced photographers select a camera, they are not looking for assistance from it, but rather deference from it: they need a camera that will not get in their way. The prosumer photographer certainly looks for image quality and shooting control first and foremost. Although the H1 offers a hefty list of white balance presets, no manual or customizable option is included. Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, and Incandescent options are available to appease point-and-shooters instead, with no Manual setting on the list. Along with the limited ISO range, the lack of attainable color precision will surely alienate serious photographers and restrict the H1 to those "second generation" point-and-shooters seeking added zoom and a more professional-looking camera body.

ISO

Here is where more problems arise for the Cyber-shot H1. Although the camera has a manually selectable ISO range of 64, 100, 200, and 400, the camera targets more than the casual point-and-shooter. For true photography "enthusiasts" and advanced photographers, a 64-400 sensitivity range just will not do. As a vacation counterpart, the H1 would be a truly elegant disposable camera with a nice 12x optical zoom, however, as a "serious" camera for "serious" photographers, there is no flexibility available. Users will have to marry their flash or gravitate to bright, profuse lighting if they wish to capture clean exposures. With the Cyber-shot H1, Sony is targeting consumers who want more control and shooting flexibility, but they definitely missed the boat on this one. Most SLR-shaped digital cameras in this price range have at least an ISO 800 setting. The camera does also offer an automatic ISO setting, but its range does not extend beyond that of the manual.

Shutter Speed

The shutter speeds are sufficient for a range of users; the H1 offers an automatic range of 1/8-1/2000^th of a second. In the Programmed AE mode, the shutter can take as long as 2 seconds, though it goes no faster than the fastest setting in auto mode. While these shutter speeds are not slow enough for some night photography, the manual mode makes up for that. It can leave the shutter open for as long as 30 seconds and can shoot as fast as 1/1000^th of a second, which is slower than the fastest automatic setting, but still quick enough to stop motion. For intermediate users who have moved beyond the scene settings and are not quite comfortable with the manual mode, the shutter priority mode enables users to select the desired shutter speed and leave the rest of the exposure up to the camera’s automated settings. It is important to note the added low light opportunity that stems from the H1’s included image stabilization. With the image stabilization feature, users can shoot at slower shutter speeds without as much concern for visible camera shake or apparent motion blur. This enables users to leave the shutter open for longer durations and let in the necessary amount of light to achieve a proper exposure.

Aperture

There is an aperture priority mode that works on a similar concept as the shutter priority. Apertures can be set from f/2.8-f/8.0 in this and in the manual mode. In the lens’ widest setting, the apertures range from f/2.8-f/3.7; stopped down, the aperture reaches a rating of f/8.

Image Parameters

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Picture Quality / Size Options

Allowing users to optimize photographs for 4 x 6-inch prints, the H1 can shoot in a 3:2 ratio, as well as the standard 4:3 ratio. With 5 effective megapixels, the DSC-H1 has five resolution options: 2592 x 1944, 2592 x 1728, 2048 x 1536, 1280 x 960, and 640 x 480. Each of these settings can be shot in the Standard or Fine JPEG compression mode.

Picture Effects Mode

Photographs can be changed to either Black & White or Sepia tone in Playback mode with the Sony H1’s color settings. These are standard inclusions on point-and-shoot digital cameras and would likely be of no use to prosumer users. Most engaged digital photographers opt to apply tonal alterations and image effects in editing software rather than in-camera. The quality of in-camera effects will never parallel results from postproduction software.

Connectivity / Extras

Connectivity
Software — The H1 comes with the Cyber-shot Life tutorial, as well as software for Windows or Macintosh. For Windows, users receive the Sony Picture Package CD-ROM. For a Mac, users get the Pixela ImageMixer VCD2 software.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs — NiMH rechargeable batteries are included with the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-H1; the batteries load into the bottom of the camera. On the side of the camera is a door to the A/V-out and USB jacks. The A/V-out jack is NTSC or PAL selectable; the other jack accepts USB 2.0 cables.

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*Direct Print Options — *The Sony H1 is PictBridge compatible. The in-camera print menu lets users choose the quantity of prints, as well select an index or dated print.

Memory

Sony’s new crop of digital cameras include internal memory; the H1 comes with 32 MB of built-in storage. There is also a slot for Memory Stick or Memory Stick Pro cards up to 2 GB. The inclusion of internal memory adds to the inclination to group the H1 in with the popular SLR-shaped EasyShare models, but if it works for Kodak…

Other Features
*Live Histograms — *The H1 can display real-time histograms, which aid users in capturing optimal light.

*Self-Timer — *There is an included 10-second self-timer on the Sony H1.

Overall Impressions

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Value

For just under $500 (USD), the Cyber-shot H1 seems to be priced appropriately, although don’t be misled: the H1 is a point-and-shoot camera with some manual controls and ultra zoom capabilities — not a prosumer model! For the point-and-shoot user looking to upgrade to a second generation digital camera, the H1 should suffice, packing manual exposure control, a 12x optical zoom lens with super image stabilization and a 2.5" LCD monitor. Within the compact consumer market, the H1 offers equitable options to the similarly priced EasyShare Z7590, Fuji FinePix S5100 and Panasonic Lumix FZ20K (which sells for about $100 more — though it is equipped with a Leica lens). Depending on personal shooting style and feature preference, some models may offer more of an appeal. The strengths of the H1 are its fashionable frame (it's like an attractive SUV — if such a thing is possible), as well as its large viewing screen and video recording zoom capabilities. While these features do mean something of substance, the H1’s appeal is more in its features than image quality. While we have not yet tested the camera, the inclusion of a Sony lens over the typical Cyber-shot Carl Zeiss, along with a limited ISO range, lack of manual white balance setting and restrictive flash options, indicates the H1 is crafted for the less engaged, more marketing-effected crowd. I’d say for under $500, it looks like the H1 is a decent purchase so long as it’s zoom range and style the user is after and not image quality and control.

Conclusion

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Conclusion

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H1 does have some incredibly attractive features, notably its 12x optical zoom lens with super image stabilization and large 2.5-inch LCD screen. The 36-432mm (equivalent) variable focal range lens is also compatible with conversion lenses and filters, providing aficionados with some room for creativity. Sony has included some features to help foster that creativity with manual, priority, and automatic modes, including 7 scene settings. The 32 MB of internal memory and accurate electronic viewfinder are also nice touches on this SLR-shaped digital camera.

While Sony does pack some great point-and-shoot features, other performance-oriented necessities are completely brushed over. The H1 is apparently designed for enthusiasts, though its ISO range is capped at 400. The burst mode shoots more slowly than most recent point-and-shoot introductions and manual white balance is nonexistent. For their prosumer representation, Sony opted to include a Sony lens on the H1 - rather then the reliable Carl Zeiss constructs users are accustomed to seeing head Cyber-shot models. The camera’s flash range is restrictive, confining users to an illumination range of less the 13 ft. from center. Although these features are priorities for photography enthusiasts and their absence may alienate much of the camera’s marketed demographic, for advancing point-and-shooters, it’s hard to look past a camera with 12x optical zoom, image stabilization, and a price tag of $499.95.

Specs

Specs Table
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