The Olympus FE-130, also known as the Olympus X720, is a digital camera that was released by Olympus Corporation in 2006. It belongs to the compact camera category, designed for users who seek a portable and easy-to-use camera that still delivers high-quality images.
**Features and Specifications**
The Olympus FE-130 offers a range of features that make it a versatile and capable camera. It is equipped with a 5.1-megapixel CCD sensor, which allows for detailed and vibrant images. The camera also has a 3x optical zoom lens, which provides flexibility in capturing both close-up and distant subjects.
In terms of functionality, the FE-130 includes various shooting modes, such as portrait, landscape, night scene, and sports, to cater to different photographic situations. It also offers a macro mode for capturing detailed close-up shots. Additionally, the camera has a built-in flash and supports red-eye reduction, ensuring well-lit photographs even in low-light conditions.
The FE-130 features a 2.5-inch LCD screen, which acts as a viewfinder and allows users to preview and review their images. It also provides easy access to the camera’s menu system, making it user-friendly and straightforward to navigate settings and options.
As for storage, the camera utilizes xD-Picture Cards, a popular digital memory card format at the time. It is worth noting that this camera does not support the use of SD cards or other contemporary formats.
**Release Date and Pricing**
The Olympus FE-130, also known as the X720, was released in 2006. During that time, it was priced around $150 to $200, which positioned it as an affordable and entry-level compact camera. The competitive pricing, combined with its features and performance, made it an attractive option for casual photographers and beginners.
**Personal Experience**
As an owner of the Olympus FE-130, I can attest to its reliability and ease of use. The camera’s compact size and lightweight design made it convenient to carry around, ensuring I never missed a moment worth capturing. The image quality, especially in well-lit environments, surpassed my expectations, producing sharp and vibrant photos.
I particularly appreciated the user-friendly interface and intuitive menu system. Navigating through the camera’s settings and options was a breeze, allowing me to quickly adjust parameters based on my shooting needs. The inclusion of various shooting modes, including a macro mode, broadened the creative possibilities and enhanced my photography experience.
While the FE-130 did have some limitations, such as its reliance on xD-Picture Cards, which were gradually being phased out in favor of SD cards, overall, it was a reliable and capable digital camera that delivered excellent value for its price.
**Conclusion**
The Olympus FE-130, also known as the Olympus X720, is a compact digital camera that offers a range of features and functionality suitable for entry-level photographers. Its affordability, coupled with its ease of use and decent image quality, made it a popular choice during its release in 2006. While it may not be the most advanced camera by today’s standards, the FE-130 remains a reliable option for those seeking a portable and user-friendly photography companion.
