Olympus Camedia C-200ZOOM Basic Manual page 14

Shooting Technique Depends on Distance to the Subject
Deciding whether to use the viewfinder or the monitor display when
shooting depends on the distance between you and your subject.
Determine the approximate distance before taking the picture.
For normal and long-range photography
(from approx. 1.5m (59") to ∞ (infinity)):
We recommend using the viewfinder.
For close-ups (from 0.8m (31") to approx. 1.5m (59")):
Although you can use the viewfinder to take pictures, in some cases it
is better to use the monitor. See below for details.
For extreme close-ups (0.2m (8") ~ 0.8m (31")):
Use the macro mode and compose the shot with the monitor to take
pictures. Although it is possible to take such shots without using the
macro mode, proper exposure and focus may not be achieved.
Characteristics of the viewfinder and the monitor
You can use either the monitor or the viewfinder to determine the
proper shooting range. Consider the following when deciding
whether to use the viewfinder or the monitor for a particular shot:
Viewfinder
Advantage: You can maintain the proper subject composition with less
camera movement.
Disadvantage: Close-up photography causes inconsistencies between
the picture frame as seen in the viewfinder and the actual edge of
the picture.
Monitor
Advantage: You can check the subject composition more accurately.
Disadvantage: It is more difficult to hold the camera steady, and
battery life is decreased.
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