Coming from a background in computing, HP’s digital cameras have more closely resembled boxy PC peripherals than stylish gadgets in their own right.

Looking to change that is the R837, which apes Sony’s attractive Cybershot T10 with its sliding faceplate that protects the lens and flash when not in use.

The HP Photosmart R837 activated or deactivated by flipping this barrier open or shut, while the internal 3x optical zoom at no point protrudes from the body. This means that the camera sits comfortably in both palm and pocket for spur-of-the moment snaps. Build quality is impressive given the sub £200 price, a mix of metal and plastic that feels solid yet lightweight.

The point of difference here is what’s inside the R837; namely HP’s Design Gallery function. Think of it as an in-built photo lab, via which you can perform image corrections such as red eye and skin blemish removal, even slimming down tubby friends with editing tools. Funky effects can also be added, in-camera.

Fun if inessential, it earmarks the R837 as a user-friendly alternative for those who don’t want to faff around in image-editing software after shooting.

Performance is pretty good. The camera powers up in around two seconds – respectable if average – there’s no noticeable shutter delay, and even full seven-megapixel resolution images are committed to memory – 32MB internal or optional SD card – in a speedy second.

We liked the colourful pictures the R837 delivered enough to overlook the fact that light sensitivity is capped at a lowly ISO400, so this isn’t the right tool for low light photography without flash.

Image noise – think a fuzzy TV signal – is also noticeable in shadow detail at this top setting, while 'pixel fringing' (a purple glow around objects) is evident between areas of high contrast: a dark building and a bright sky for example.

These problems are common to most budget digital cameras, so it seems churlish to be too critical of the R837. It’s easy to use – the menu screens are bright and clear, and there’s even an on-board help menu to guide you through the settings and controls.

While the on-board photo editing tools are enjoyable, if inessential, the result is that HP’s R837 makes digital photography fun.

Vista compatible: N/A