Like Olympus digital cameras, the camera is turned on via a sliding lens protector at the front that forces the camera into life. Two AA batteries and the CompactFlash compartment are housed behind a sturdy door that will easy take a beating over the lifespan of the camera without snapping or falling apart. The other side the camera offers a DC and USB port, but unfortunately no video-out to watch your pictures on the TV.

On the rear of the camera, the user is offered a 1.5" TFT screen that is sharp and responsive to changing lights and focuses, as well as, a host of buttons - most of which are self explanatory and you can easily access flash modes, picture review and other options like this without having to plough through plenty of menus.

The camera offers a 33mm f3.6 fixed focal length lens with a 5.1 digital zoom option that offers the equivalent of a 33mm - 168mm lens in a 35mm camera. This combined with shutter speed range of 1-1/2000 sec and ISO ratings of 50 - 400 and a range of pre-programmed settings to cope with landscapes and portrait shooting makes for a nice little camera for beginners. For the more adventurous there is a macro mode up to 5cm, as well as, the option to record up to 3 minutes of movie clips with sound.

For an auto focus fixed lens camera with a digital zoom the quality is quite good. Detail is captured well and greens are differential when it comes to photographing landscapes. The digital zoom is useful for getting into the action, but should not be replied upon for crisp images. Overall as a starter's camera this is an okay place to start. If you are starting out and need a camera that will get you going, this is as good a place as any to start, just don't expect the world. --Jason Denwood, Amazon.co.uk