The third "QV-R" series model we have seen from Casio (as of 3/2005), the QV-R62 includes all of the features found on its predecessors (the QV-R40 and the QV-R51), but offers some new improvements like a higher resolution 6-megapixel imager and some new creative scene modes. This easy to use point-n-shoot allows beginners to capture high-quality images without any fuss, while still offering plenty of adjustability to satisfy the creative urges of the intermediate user.

The QV-R62 is equipped with 23 unique and effective BestShot shooting modes. For example, the Coupling Shot mode combines 2 subjects into 1 image. Imagine you're with your spouse or friend and want to take a shot of the two of you and there's nobody else around to help you. One of you poses, the other takes the shot. Then you switch places and stand where you would if you had been next to your partner and she takes a second shot; the two pictures are then "merged" in the camera to form one image. This of course works best if the camera is sitting on a tripod or some other type of sturdy support. Other "cool" modes are the Business card and White board Best Shot scene modes. We first saw these new modes on the EX-Z55, and the EX-S100. They allow you to capture images at an angle, then correct them later in-camera to make the perspective as if you had shot the picture dead on to the subject. This may not be used much for making prints, but it is useful when you want to take a snap shot of someone's business card or the black board at school, then later correct the image so you can retrieve the information on it.

I feel beginners will mostly benefit from these 23 BestShot scene modes; they range from the unique Coupling, Business card, and White board modes just described above, to the more ordinary portrait, landscape, pet, macro, etc. Each BestShot mode is well-described on the LCD as you select it, helping you choose the right one for the conditions or subjects you're shooting. The QV-R62 also provides you with the ability to define your own BestShot modes using the Register Favorites function. This allows you to quickly recall camera settings unique to your shooting style or subjects.

The QV-R62's shooting performance is impressive. From power up until the first image was captured took only 1.6 seconds, a slight improvement over the QV-R51. While Casio claims a fast startup of approximately 1 second, our testing includes power-on, the delay of the photographer releasing the shutter, and image capture; this is a measurement that you will be able to reproduce in the real world. Shutter lag, the elapsed time between the photographer releasing the shutter and the camera capturing the image, measured an impressive sub 1/10 of a second when pre-focused, and an equally impressive 3/10 of a second including autofocus. The QV-R62's responsiveness will allow you capture unposed special moments and your children's sports action while many of its competitors would leave you frustrated with their delays. Like the QV-R51, the QV-R62 has no continuous capture shooting mode. However its shot-to-shot time was quite responsive at about 2 seconds between frames (without using the flash.) When using the flash, this time does increase significantly to approx. 5 - 6 seconds between frames. All timings were obtained using a Delkin 1GB SD card, Large/Fine quality, preview off, flash off, and all other settings at default (unless otherwise noted.) Times may vary depending on lighting conditions, camera settings, media, etc.

The unbranded 3X optical zoom lens produced sharp results in the telephoto range, but we noticed a drop off in sharpness at the edges at the wide- angle end of the zoom range. We also observed quite noticeable barrel distortion at extreme wide angle. The operation of the optical zoom is smooth and quiet, but not continuous; it moves through its 39-117mm range in 7 distinct steps, adequate for composing most shots but you might need to zoom a bit with your feet for precise image composition.

I was pleased with our outdoor results when using its Large/Fine mode. Its lens and 5-point autofocus system combined to produce reasonably sharp images, while the exposure system delivered shots that were well-exposed; you can also "dial in" that certain look with adjustments for sharpness, saturation, contrast, etc. I saw very little noise in our samples, however there was an average amount of CA (chromatic aberrations, also known as purple fringing around extreme highlights.) Its 6-megapixel imager provides enough resolution for large prints, and will enable you to produce pleasing 11x14 prints even when the image is heavily cropped. Its large 2.0-inch LCD viewfinder was a pleasure to use in most circumstances, but because it has no anti-glare coating or brightness control, you'll prefer to use the optical viewfinder on very bright days.

While it has no focus-assist lamp, the QV-R62's autofocus was surprisingly effective in conditions of low ambient light. The flash is well matched to the 39mm wide angle field of view, with no noticeable drop-off in lighting at the edges of the image. Because of the limited range of the flash (approx. 8.5 feet in wide angle, 6.9 feet in telephoto) and its 39mm wide angle field of view, you'll get your best indoor results shooting individual or small group portraits; you can also adjust Flash intensity via the menu system, which is very useful to get the optimum flash exposure. The majority of our flash portraits showed slight amounts of red-eye, although switching to its Red-eye reduction flash mode took care of this problem. However, we found a minor annoyance when using this flash mode; the LCD viewfinder becomes blank when the pre-flash fires, leaving a one second delay with no live image on the LCD before the image is captured. Its ability to squelch the flash at close range and its macro focusing capability make the QV-R62 a good choice for photographing small objects for online auction listings.

Although it uses only 2 AA's for power, we were able to shoot our samples photos (about 100 shots) and conclude our other test on a pair of 2500mah NiMH batteries, even while making extensive use of the LCD viewfinder. Casio provides a pair of Alkaline batteries, however we highly recommend you purchase a set of NiMH batteries and keep them charged and ready for the unexpected photo opportunity. Also, with the average file size of a Large/Fine image being around 3MB, you'll want to look into getting at least a 256 - 512MB SD card.

Another feature unique to Casio digicams is the ability to build HTML-based slide shows and albums right in the camera. You just copy the entire ALBUM folder to your hard drive and then load the INDEX.HTML page with you favorite browser to view your photos. This folder and images can also be placed on your website and accessed by your friends; it's a very useful feature that can take the place of 3rd-party software.

Bottom line - With an MSRP of only $299, the Casio QV-R62 offers an awesome value. Normally cameras in this price range fall into the class of entry-level consumer digicams, but its speed, size, features and photo quality are comparable to higher-end cameras costing much more. This is a camera that can be used by the entire family, while still offering usefulness for the more advanced user with its wide variety of image adjustments.