Why would one need a video out in a digital P&S camera?

[ak1]

I am buying a digital camera as a gift for my kid sister, and since

all that I have ever used for picture taking is a Minolta X-700, I am

not sure about a lot of things.

 

I have zeroed down to two cameras: Fuji A303, and Olympus Camedia D550

zoom. That is the price I am looking for, less than $300, and

resolution good enough so that she can make 8x10s if she wants. The

fuji is otherwise preferrable, but does not have a video out, and the

olympus, which seems to be slightly more complicated to handle, does.

 

What is this feature for? Pardon my naivete...

thanks

akshay

[._kaa]

Video out allows you to plug your digital camera into an ordinary TV and show pictures on it.

[brian_torio]

Akshay - I am not familiar to the two specific cameras you mention, but I know many of the newer digital cameras also take digital videos. If that is the case with either (or both) of the cameras you mention, that would be another good reason to have a video out feature. I have a Kodak digital camera which is capable of taking digital videos, but to tell you the truth, I've never used that feature. You may find it useful, though.

 

And for what it's worth, I have an X-700, too -- it's a great camera and constantly produces great photos!

[douglas_green1]

One more reason - If you are on a trip, and have limited capacity on your flash memory cards, and no access to a PC, you can use a TV to screen your shots, and delete those which will not be keepers.

[bobatkins]

Video out means you can use a TV with a VIDEO INPUT as a display device. However if the TV only has an input for cable and antennas, then you can't use it without an external video modulator.