This sleek model from Samsung boasts of 24-240mm zoom (10X), high quality video capabilities, dual image stabilization and a range of useful auto modes...

The WB550 has a body made of durable plastic, with stylish chrome buttons. This model is in line with Samsung’s video capability cameras, starting from the NV2HD. The WB prefix to the model number stands for ‘wide and big’, and by that Samsung refers to the extensive zoom range that the WB550 offers. The model is able to record video at 1280 x 720

pixels, and is close to the true High Definition dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This camera allows you to pause during recording rather than stop and start, allowing you to quickly edit out undesired parts of the same clip. Another plus point is the availability of the entire zoom range even in video mode, something that is sadly lacking in many cameras.

The large lens takes up a major area on the front plate of the camera, and results in a semi-professional look. The flash unit is positions at the left corner, with the AF assist lamp and self timer indicator right below it. The camera grips well in your hand, and this is essential when you have 10X zoom. The more the tele capabilities, the steadier the camera needs to be positioned...

The WB550 offers the latest smart auto mode. When the camera is set to this mode, it is able to define the category of the subject and re-adjust itself to shoot it best, be it a landscape, portrait or sports event that you are shooting. This makes the camera easy to use even for someone with absolutely minimal knowledge on photography and electronics. The beauty shot mode lets you shoot portraits where skin blemishes like acne are automatically removed from the subjects’ faces. The WB550 being projected as a camera suitable for anyone in the family to use, Samsung has ensured you can do away with most post processing. A high ISO range of 80 to 800 lets you shoot under most lighting conditions.

The camera’s start up time is impressive, and so is its file-writing efficiency. At highest quality settings, the WB550 is able to write the file to its memory in under 2 seconds (during which the screen momentarily blacks out, and this is far better time than many of the other compacts around. The three inch LCD is a large screen for the pocket size category, and lets you quickly view and select images that you wish to keep, and those you may want to delete. Near the LCD you find the usual four-direction buttons with the ‘OK’ button in the middle – common to most digital cameras ever made of course. Under the camera you find the expected tripod thread, and this is definitely handy when shooting at 10X.

The rechargeable battery of the Samsung WB550 gives you around 280 frames from one charge, which is a decent battery life. We liked the fact that the battery can be charged while it remains inside the camera, and this is an unusual design aspect of this model.