Panasonic D-Snap SV-AV50 Camera Review - Design
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If you have a camcorder, and it is one of the later models (the ones that use Hi-8 or a mini-DV size tapes) then you have a general idea what a camcorder might look like. Well, all things you expect the camcorder's design to be go right out the window with this one. The Panasonic D-Snap is anything but ordinary in shape. It is, in fact, so tiny that it's smaller than some cell phones out there.
As small as the camcorder seems, it still sports a full-color TFT active-matrix 2.0 inch display that flips on one side.
It also has a sturdy metal case, which is a big plus in comparison to most other video cameras that have plastic casings and are very prone to getting damaged when dropped. The LCD screen rotates a full 180° so that you can take a picture of yourself, or close it back inside while still being able to see it (primarily for MP3 playback, since the actual lens is located on the same pivot as the LCD).
The screen does feel fragile, though, when twisted. I can see that being a problem if this is to be used on an everyday basis. Flash is located directly in the front of the camera, although a little disappointing that it cannot be used as a movie light, but sufficient for shooting night-time stills. The buttons are located directly on an opposite side providing fairly easy access to all the features while the camera is in use.
The battery and the SD card go on the bottom and are protected in case it falls as well. A word about the menu "jog" button located right in the middle of the camera's controls: It is actually a free-spinning ball, similar in design to a ball that is on the bottom of a computer mouse. It detects whether you roll it up, down or sideways, selecting the appropriate command in the on-screen menu. By the time we were done testing it out and taking various shots, the Jog dial started to get really annoying. The problem is that you don't feel the solidity of the contact when you move it around and it feels like you're just spinning it free and has a very loose feeling to it.
The overall design of the SV-AV50 is a little awkward in shape at first, but very easy to get used to, since it is so lightweight, and that is a major improvement over a conventional camcorder.
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