The A200 is quite a small package yet big on functionality. I was surprised at the size of the camera as it sits easily in one hand. Even though it looks like a 35mm SLR, it is around 25% smaller.

The A200 appears to be an upgrade on the A2 with a lower price tag. It has a new hard plastic outer is more streamlined, has a curvaceous finish and has retained the GT lens of its predecessors of 4 years ago.

The much publicised new 'Image Stabilizer' is a real winner, allowing the photographer to shoot at slower shutter speeds than other cameras in its class, giving the GT APO 7x (28-200mm in the 35mm equivalent) lens greater flexibility.

The 'Image Stabilizer' works effectively in low light situations but takes a little longer to focus. However, in bright light conditions focussing is fast and results are very good - especially with the 2/3-inch CCD 8 mega-pixel resolution capture.

The Image Stabilizer is surprisingly quick and works effectively when responding to camera movement, thus reducing blur and increasing sharpness of the photographer's subject - even on bumpy boat rides!

The 1.8 inch LCD screen is fantastic as it's hinged on one side and can twist allowing the photographer to take a self portrait headshot and see what the camera sees at the same time! The LCD's flexibility is also great for shooting low to the ground or very high up, as a simple twist of the LCD gives the photographer a view from almost any perspective. This is a real handy option for photographing children and animals - and will be especially appreciated by those with back troubles. It's also worth noting that the LCD is very bright and clear even in bright sunlight, which is where many of the A200's competitors fall down.

Like the DiMAGE 7D this model has very easy menu navigation. The makers have also included the option to enter five custom settings which you can have ready for any photographic situation that arises.

Another nice touch is the hot shoe adaptor which allows studio flash equipment to be hooked up to the camera for those looking to push the camera further in a studio environment.

The ISO settings on the camera range from 50 - 800. At 50 ISO the grain was very smooth and remains good up to 400 - although the grain at 800 was more noticeable and would be used only if you were struggling for light or going for a grainy effect.

Overall, the natural colour produced and general ease of use in just 'program' mode will satisfy buyers upgrading from a snap shot compact camera. The large handgrip for control is also a nice touch and for those looking to macro focus the camera at telephoto lengths or shoot in RAW mode, it's also got those options too.

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