AboutScott Valentine Expertise Most anything about digital post processing (Photoshop, etc), effects, and image restoration, some technical information about digital imaging systems, light and electron microscopy, optical physics and image analysis. I can help with shooting basics, lighting setups, and getting the most out of your digital camera. I am also an 'expert' here for Photoshop (Computers/Technology > Software > Graphics Software > Photoshop).
Experience I've been an image analyst and advanced amateur photographer for over 6 years. I run an Adobe user group, focusing on digital media, and have lectured on digital image capture systems. Currently, I am an administrator for a rather large instructional Photoshop forum
Organizations Adobe User Groups, National Association of Photoshop Professionals, Advanced Imaging Specialists
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Physics, University of California, San Diego
Awards and Honors Winner: Best in Show and several category first place awards - Imaging Professionals of the Southwest Print Competition (multiple years)
Expert: Scott Valentine Date: 10/7/2007 Subject: Viewing photos without a computer
Question If I want to show my digital photos to someone who has no computer, would it be better to use a "Digital Photo Frame", or a portable DVD player? And why?
Answer Hi Les,
Thanks for your interesting question! I would recommend a DVD player or other portable media player with a video output jack. The reason is that many portable DVD players will also play photo CDs, and they have outputs so you can show your pictures on a TV or through a projector.
The portable DVD player has the added advantage of being able to navigate through the images, play back special content (music or slideshows, for example), and typically has more options per dollar than a photo frame. One nice feature on my portable is that it includes video input, so I can connect my dSLR directly to it for small presentations or review. Pretty handy!
Plus, if you burn a DVD or CD, you can make multiple copies quite easily. This is great for sending them to friends and family, or leaving with a publisher or potential client. Photo frames are typically limited to either internal memory, direct cable connections, or some kind of solid-state memory device like a compact flash card. This makes it much more difficult to share your images.
Check around for models that have features you'll need: video output (possibly input, also), Photo CD / JPG / slideshow compatible, good battery life, and easy controls. You can even get 10" swivel-screen units from many bargain outlets for under $200. The advantage to a swivel screen is that you can operate the controls from one side of a table, while the viewer sits on the other side without distraction.
As for media players, the big advantage would be playing back images directly from your camera card. However, most have tiny screens, so you'd have to plug into a TV, anyway.
I hope this helps - if you need any more details, or if there are other questions I can answer, please feel free to ask!
-Scott
**PS**
A follow-up question was asked; do I recommend any particular brand?
The quick answer is no, I don't recommend any specific brand. I do, however, recommend balancing cost with need. I have used Sony and Panasonic DVD players for this, but they can be expensive. Many volume discount retailers have specials on generic brands which, in many cases, are the same 'guts' as the brand-name, but without the marketing. The best bet is simply to shop around a bit, make a purchase from a reputable dealer (make sure there is a good return/exchange policy), and give it a shot.
