Olympus Camedia C-3040Zoom

Following the award-winning Camedia C-3030Zoom (see Labs, issue 75, p92) isn't easy, but Olympus has nailed its colours to the mast of the C-3040Zoom, its new flagship 3.34 megapixel camera. With a fast f1.8-2.6 maximum aperture incorporated into its 3x optical zoom and increased user controls, the C-3040Zoom is a strong contender to regain the A List crown, taken by the Nikon CoolPix 990 (see Labs, issue 75, p92).

Optical performance is a key part of any camera, but is often overlooked along with image-processing software for its importance in getting the best out of a CCD. The lens, which is faster than on any other camera in its class, looks good on paper but begs the question, what are the practical advantages?

Unlike a SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera, where you view the light exiting from the lens inside the viewfinder, the image seen through the C-3040Zoom is already bright due to the separate and direct viewfinder. So there's no benefit from the increased light-gathering lens here. However, there's potential for faster shutter speeds and greater metering sensitivity. It seems strange therefore, that the top speed is only 1/800th second, extending down to 16 seconds (in manual exposure mode). The top speed is a touch slow for freezing fast action.

On the plus side, the lens speed increases the range of the integral flash, which in the C-3040Zoom's case is up to 5.6m using 100 ISO sensitivity. At higher ratings it really does look very capable. Incidentally, noise wasn't a problem even at the maximum 400 ISO rating when not using the flash.

The 7.1-23.3mm focal length equates to 35-105mm on a 35mm film camera. A digital zoom is a feature you either love or hate, and this camera gives a 2.5x capability at all except the VGA mode, where you can go to a 5x magnification. Focus is effective from 20cm (Macro mode) to infinity, controlled either by the AF system or manually.

The lens records plenty of detail, has little practical distortion and a decent flatness of field. Unfortunately, the C-3040Zoom, like any camera without a dedicated lens hood, suffers from flare against the light. At best, flare will simply reduce the contrast and hence apparent sharpness, but at worst the effects will need extensive correction work in a photo-editing application.

The C-3040Zoom is effectively a 3.24 megapixel camera, delivering a top resolution of 2,048 x 1,536. This means that large pictures are possible, and we obtained some fine A3 inkjet prints to prove it. Also, thanks to the use of a 32Mb memory buffer, a firing rate of 3.1fps (frames per second) is possible at the maximum resolution, which should cater for most needs.

In general, operating this camera is a pleasurable experience, but those with very large hands will find it a touch too small for real comfort and stability. A two-handed grip is a must for shake-free results, and I was pleased to find that it was almost impossible to obscure the flash with your hands. Build quality was also impressive, and the C-3040Zoom felt solid enough to handle the rigours of regular use.

All the controls were easy to reach and operate, and the viewfinder can be used with the left or right eye depending on your preference. The inputs for AV out, serial and USB are neatly hidden away behind a panel on the left. The 1.8in TFT display is also excellent, with a wide viewing angle and good detail.

Unfortunately, the C-3040Zoom doesn't come supplied with rechargeable batteries, and the optional recharger adds another £60 to the price. This is an oversight, as many cameras now offer integrated recharging capabilities, which is a far more flexible solution. A socket for studio flash lighting also sits on the outer body. This sounds great, but the lens has a minimum shooting aperture of f10. When you consider that most studio-lit images are shot at f11 or smaller, the C-3040Zoom only just gets close to the minimum requirement. That said, it should be fine for more low-end work, such as product shots for a Web site.