If you're a beginning photographer, looking for a basic, small digital camera, you can skip this review: Sony has not aimed the Cybershot DSC-R1 at you. However, intermediate and advanced photographers will appreciate the DSC-R1's high-end features and resolution.

The DSC-R1 offers 10.3 megapixels of resolution, which yield film-quality prints as large as 20x25 inches. Although most digital camera users probably won't need prints that large, the high resolution is good for those who want to crop a photo while retaining a large final print size. The DSC-R1 offers three different color modes when shooting, depending on whether you want more color depth or need increased color range for desktop publishing. Image quality with this digital camera is excellent.

Response times for the DSC-R1 are very good. You can shoot your first photo with this digital camera less than 2 seconds after pressing the power button. Shutter lag is not noticeable. Shot-to-shot delays range from 1 to 5 seconds, with longer delays occurring when using the flash and when shooting over longer distances. Several continuous-shot modes are available with this digital camera, with the most basic one capturing an amazing 11 photos in a little more than 1 second.

The DSC-R1's 2-inch LCD is one of the more interesting designs available on a digital camera. The LCD is mounted on top of the camera. To use the LCD, you flip it up like a lid. You then can rotate and tilt the LCD in many directions, making it easy to shoot odd-angle photos.

Not surprisingly, the DSC-R1 is not a small digital camera. It weighs more than 2 pounds, and it will not fit in most pockets (that we've seen, anyway). The DSC-R1's body does include a handgrip, which makes it easy to hold and use. It has the look and feel of a professional 35mm film camera, and it includes many manual settings for the experienced photographer.

Unfortunately, the DSC-R1 may be more expensive than your digital camera budget can handle. It's a $999 digital camera that requires an add-on cost for a memory card. (One advantage: The DSC-R1 can accept many different brands of memory cards.) You also may choose to purchase optional accessories, such as a second proprietary battery or external flashes or lenses, all of which will greatly add to the overall cost.


Pros: Outstanding image quality, good response times, can use several different brands of memory cards
Cons: Large and heavy camera body, add-on components are pricey, very few features for beginners

Warranty
1 year