Like previous Mjus, the new 750 model is a stylish beast, featuring a tapered curve to the metallic silver (or black) body. Being narrower at one edge (24mm), the zoom barrel stands slightly proud even when not in use. Resolution maxes out at 7.1 million effective pixels, while an internally stacked 5x optical zoom (36- 180mm equivalent) is an improvement on the 3x usually found in this class of camera.

An all-weather casing and Bright Capture technology - where the camera boosts ISO sensitivity to cope with low light photography without flash, also enabling LCD screen brightness up to four times that of competing models - has been retained from previous generations, and is now accessible in Movie mode.

Confirming that this is a model aimed at the point and shoot brigade - and with the above features, it's destined to be hit at Christmas parties - the 750 features a built-in function guide providing brief explanations, handily implemented with a button press.

Of course, shooting at higher ISOs introduces the possibility of visible image noise, while the longer zoom range threatens camera shake at maximum telephoto. Making the most of that additional lens capacity, Olympus has introduced what it calls Dual Image Stabilisation; basically a combination of faster shutter speeds at higher ISOs and a built-in gyro sensor that detects external hand wobble and minutely shifts the CCD to compensate for movement.

A little light confusion

The Mju 750 powers up ready for the first shot in two seconds, with the zoom lens extending to maximum wide angle setting and the 2.5-inch screen bursting into life. In the absence of an optical viewfinder, this doubles up for shot composition and review.

Though it boasts the supposed clarity of a 215,000-pixel resolution, it displays ghosting indoors. However, this is not too off-putting. In Capture mode, nine-zone compositional grid and live histogram can be accessed with the display button.

There's little noticeable shutter delay and a full resolution image writes to the internal 17MB memory in roughly two seconds. A supplementary ad-Picture Card is a must for the party set, as only five full resolution images can be stored without one.

Controls to the 750's rear are minimal, and typically require fingertip operation. The familiar mode wheel contains just five settings, for video clips, the function guide, 23 scene modes optimised for common subjects, full auto capture and playback.