Abstract: A method and apparatus for preparing an image for downloading over a link. The method includes receiving a user selection for an image to prepare, retrieving current user settings reflective of desired settings for compressing the image and automatically presenting a plurality of variations of the image to the user where each variation is derived using compression settings that are scaled from the current user settings.

Abstract: A video viewfinder system according to the preferred teachings of the present invention is shown for use with a camera of a standard design. The video viewfinder system includes video monitors for displaying derived images from a video camera of a primary image formed by the lens of the camera to allow the photographer to view the primary image formed by the camera lens at locations remote from the camera. Specifically, the video viewfinder system of the preferred form includes a viewfinder hood secured to the camera having a ground glass located at its first end for forming the primary image by the camera lens and with the video camera located at its second end and aimed at the primary image.