The Sony DSC W55 is a straightforward pocket sized digital camera. Although it has all the normal features I have come to expect from this type of camera the DSC W55 is relatively inexpensive when compared to other pocket sized models.
When I tested out the camera I found it handled most types of photograph well and is well worth a closer look if the idea of a small, compact camera appeals and you don't want to break the bank to buy one.
I would say the main attractions are likely to be picture quality, simple design and style and also ease of use. I have always found Sony digital cameras easy to use and the DSC W55 is no exception. All the key controls such as shooting mode, zoom, flash, reviewing images and setting the self timer are controlled through buttons, dials and rings on the top and back of the camera. This helps to place key controls within easy reach. When you do need to dip into the menu system you should find it easy enough to get to grips with.
Although nothing out of the ordinary the camera has a pleasant, simple design. It has a brushed aluminium front and is certainly small and compact with dimensions of 88.9 x 57.1 x 22.9mm. The camera weighs in at 116g. On the back of the camera Sony have found room to squeeze in both a 2.5" LCD screen and also an optical viewfinder. This is one of an increasingly small number of digital cameras to include a viewfinder. A viewfinder is still a useful addition in my opinion. It can get you out of a spot on a sunny day when bright sun light falls on the LCD screen. Perhaps more importantly it is easier to hold a camera steady when it is held up to your eye rather than when it is held out in front of you. This can help to ensure that your photos are sharply focused and that camera shake does not blur your photos.
With seven megapixels the camera has plenty of pixels to make large prints. You also have the option to trim photos if necessary and still be able to produce a print. The extra megapixels also give you the option to use a feature called safety zoom. This becomes available when shooting at lower resolutions and increases the capacity of the three times optical zoom lens.
This is also one of the few pocket sized digital cameras to accept conversion lenses. A conversion lens is bought separately. It is attached through a lens adapter to the existing lens. Conversion lenses are available to increase the amount of zoom available or to increase the wide angle capabilities of the DSC W55.
If you like the look of this camera, but would prefer something a little cheaper then take a look at the Sony DSC W35. This camera is almost identical to the DSC W55 apart from the fact it has a smaller LCD screen.
