Camera suggestions

[loc]

hey guys
in the market for a new camera. Not a massive photo head but want something to doccument my travels (snow and normal), good times and other bits and pieces.

Planning on using phone for basic compact - so want something a little better then a basic point and shoot, but i think a full fledged dSLR is way out of my league

wouldn't mind taking it with me when i slide as well - not sure if that impacts the type to go for

[Mr_Clean]

Last year I bought a Panasonic Lumix FT-1 for my trip to NZ.
Very good camera, great image quality, and is water and shock proof. It took a few hits as I took it to the slopes every day, didn't miss a beat. If you want to take it to the snow, look out for the freeze rating. I think mine is rated to -10, but it is hard to find the actual specs for it. You will probably end up choosing between this one and an Olympus tough model.
I think there is a new model out now, but it's very similar
http://panasonic.com.au/products/category.cfm?objectID=4955
Pricey but worth it

[loc]

is there anything with a better zoom? i was hoping to get something with other a 5x zoom

do other cameras work in the snow? or is it just it is risky in case u fall on them etc?

[Mizu Kuma]

loc,
Since gettin my first Nikkon Coolpix (only on my second one now due to the want of an upgrade) over 10 years ago, I have been nothing but happy with Nikons reliability and picture quality.
I was first told to look at the brand/quality of the Lens when making a selection, as this gives you the best possible picture quality, and then followed by the highest Optical Zoom (as opposed to digital) that you can squeeze out of ya budget.

We even have a picture on our lounge room wall measuring approx 5' x 2'6", that was taken with my daughters Nikon Coolpix 7 mp 3x optical!

www.nikon.com.au/products.php?categoryid=10

Best of luck camera shoppin, cause there is so many to choose from that it has the potential to do ya head in!

(oh yeah check out my album pics, they were taken with my old Nikkon 3.2 mp 3x optical)

www.snowatch.com.au/forum/album.php?albumid=39

[pow pig]

Budget???

A dSLR is the way to go if you want quality pics, long focal lengths and versatility. But they are fragile, so you will want to have a good camera backpack at the snow. Another downside is the expense of lenses. You may be better to buy a second hand camera that has been looked after and had little use.

Nikon makes very good cameras, both P&S and dSLR. I do have an Olympus P&S for snow use which does take good pics, but nothing like my Nikon dSLR.

[Jahoota]

my g/f has one of these (12X optical):
http://www.canon.com.au/en-au/For-You/Digital-Cameras/PowerShot-Digital-Cameras/SX200IS-Camera

and I have one of these (10X optical):
http://sanyo.com/xacti/english/products/vpc_hd2000a/index.html


Both pretty good. Her's takes a very good quality image and OK vid while mine shoots outstanding 60fps HD video and ok pics. Both have a fair bit of setting adjustment so I'm sure if I fiddled with the settings rather than point and shoot using the default setting I'd get a better result!


and, as it isnt snow realted, hopefully its kosher to put up a link to one of the cheapest camera/camcorder sellers in HK. So, work out what you want, get some prices and include these guys in your price quest... http://www.citiwideonline.com/au/index.php

[Mr_Clean]

is there anything with a better zoom? i was hoping to get something with other a 5x zoom

do other cameras work in the snow? or is it just it is risky in case u fall on them etc?

You should be ok with most normal compacts in Aus. They have a freeze rating which relates to the temperature at which the camera will actually sieze up and not work, but I'm not sure how accurate it is.
That said, if you are on the snow there is alot of moisture around, and even if the camera is in your pocket it will still get wet. A tough camera will give you a little more piece of mind, instead of worrying about breaking it.
The new Olympus has a 5x optical zoom
http://www.olympus.com.au/component/option,com_product/id,427/task,detail/Itemid,69/

[SA]

I'll offer a contrary view re: waterproofness etc. Unless you're drowning your camera by using it pouring rain, things like freeze ratings, waterproof and toughness are more marketing differentiators than necessary features, IMO. They are far tougher than people expect.

First and foremost - work out what physical size camera you want; what size pockets you'll most often have or however else you plan to carry it. If it's too big to be convenient, you'll end up either not taking it, or keeping it somewhere that doesn't permit you to get it, to get the shot when you want - kind of defeats one of the main advantages of a P&S.

Then look at sensor size/lens quality/optical zoom range/image stabilisation/video modes (if you're into that). Megapixels comes a very long way down the list.

If you're looking at the compact superzoom class (10x+ optical) it has certainly grown a lot in the last 2-3 years. Panasonic remain the leaders in this segment, I think - not because they are inherently better than any other brand; more because they have spent longer focusing in this segment than most other manufacturers.

One of the things you'll find however is all of them involve compromises given their small sensor size = more noise/grain at higher ISOs to offset low-ish light levels. They all implement some form of in-camera noise reduction. Some are more heavy handed than others - work out which suits your personal taste.

[booter]

I have a draw in my desk with 4 trashed P&S cameras, all ruined from moisture or small falls. It sucks buying a 3-500 dollar camera and have it break while your on holiday, trust me. Most P&S cameras are not built to last, and they dont take much damage.

I bought one of those panasonic FT-1 waterproof ones, (and won a 32" TV for my troubles:) ) It just keeps going, its been snorkeling, surfing, and to the snow, its small enough to fit in my pocket and it takes great HD videos as well. photo quality is very good considering price.

I sold my video camera as i dont need it anymore, and all my friends bought the same, (and same colour dammit!)

if your going to do anything adventurous, id strongly recommend this camera or similar from other brands, its worth it. I chose this one over the other brands as it has the best image and video quality of all the waterproof cameras.

enjoy

[loc]

If you're looking at the compact superzoom class (10x+ optical) it has certainly grown a lot in the last 2-3 years. Panasonic remain the leaders in this segment, I think - not because they are inherently better than any other brand; more because they have spent longer focusing in this segment than most other manufacturers.


that's the one i was looking at -= their new super zoom has had awesoem reviews

what about the micro four thirds or nex system?
i think a dSLR is over kill for me - are these a good in between maybe?

[Mizu Kuma]

cnet has always got some good reviews/comparisons on stuff like this

http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/?tag=hdr;snav

[SA]

Drat - typed a long reply and lost it.

Basically - the 4/3rds and Sony NEX systems will be big step up in image quality from a P&S, possibly on par with an entry level dSLR. The main issue is the size of the box - they'll be substantially larger than your average super-zoom. Be aware also that you'd be buying into an interchangeable lens system (like a dSLR), so to get the equivalent zoom range as a super zoom, you'd have to spend a fair bit more on the relevant lenses.

It still comes down to what you want to do with it, IMO. If you're not fussed about keeping it mainly in a pocket/handbag/similar then sure, the mirrorless designs will be better photographically. If you rate having it 'handy' higher, stick to a super-zoom. The image quality is pretty good these days, especially in good light. Any good camera shop worth its salt should let you play with it, take photos, and download to a computer so you have a good idea of the image quality. Alternatively, take your own flash card or USB stick so you can look at them at home.

To me, if you're usually using your phone camera then I think you'd be happy with a P&S.

[blutek]

Let me state that I'm no camera expert, but having used a Fuji mid sized 10x for about 4 years, now use the Lumix TZ as the yardstick. Our Fuji is way too slow.
Go into your local discount store and try and read a sign on the back wall. I find the Lumix TZ is best, followed by the Canon. Price is a bit of a problem with the Lumix.

[Dr D]

have a look here http://www.dpreview.com/

it should keep you busy for a while. ;)

[Podlettte]

I 2nd what SA suggests with regard to size, with a digital camera you want to take snaps and decent photos with it does matter what size it is.

I have the first gen panasonic lumix TZ1 which is now up to 6 or 7 I think? I've recently borrowed my dad's Canon G10 and I certainly won't be going back, I'm looking around for a great price on the new version the G11. GREAT walk around camera, a lot of pro's use it as their walk around apparently, and it can be fully auto or fully manual with the convenience of p+s size.

For me it will fit into my ski jacket pocket, but I have a large pocket. My TZ1 will fit in a normal chest pocket and I've fallen on it so many times i've lost count, it's fogged up, stopped working, started working again etc etc it really is almost bullet proof.

I've delayed the desire for a DSLR by using the G10 and I can certainly highly recommend it (and it's replacement the G11)

*sits back and waits for canon comments*

[Mizu Kuma]

Actually Pods, the site I posted a link to (cnet), both Editor and Readers top picks are Canons! I've got an el cheapo Canon Video Camera and it has worked fine (took it to Japan in the snow and didn't miss a beat)

[carva]

I'm a big fan of the Canon G series right back to the G1 (a whopping $2400 back in 2000). Currently though have a Lumix TZ15 .... superb little camera, small enough to fit in a pocket great zoom and picture quality. The ability to do 720p HD video really sold me on it. Like this camera so much that when it fell out of my pocket at my daughters 21st and broke, I bought another one.

[Podlettte]

Mizu - you don't understand, I'm a Nikon girl through and through ;) It's hard for me to say I like a canon, but it's an awesome camera! Nikon shelved plans to bring their version out which would have been released at the same time Canon launched the G series, Pity I would have bought it instead :D

[John Deere]

Couple of things from me:

Pods, you've seen the light, don't fight it ;)

IME a DSLR is not fragile or less robust than a p&s. Having said that, my gear is not entry level (or pro, just in the lower middle). The big thing against a dslr is size and weight. You have to be committed to take them out...decent pack ( BD of course), prepared to be uncomfy on lifts etc.

I have carried one many times and never regretted the result, but I have a screw loose!

[Podlettte]

wow, is that all? I'm disappointed! :p

[John Deere]

iPhone's shorten posts!!!

[SA]

Mizu - you don't understand, I'm a Nikon girl through and through ;)

Meaning she's had Nikons and is through with them. The camera doesn't lie.

http://warmtinny.com/gallery2/d/115696-2/Pods+loves+the+Canon.jpg

[Podlettte]

:big_laugh: I was checking out the inferiority ;)

and awww at the same time, I've since lost that ring :( Got it in Japan from a silversmith in Otaru, loved it!

[SA]

Liked it so much you're marrying into the family :outtahere:

[Mizu Kuma]

Mizu - you don't understand, I'm a Nikon girl through and through ;) It's hard for me to say I like a canon, but it's an awesome camera! Nikon shelved plans to bring their version out which would have been released at the same time Canon launched the G series, Pity I would have bought it instead :D

I'm actually a Nikon Preacher myself Pods, I'm just passin on the word from the majority (hey, but what would they know anyway :D)

[John Deere]

Exactly!

[Pollo]

We have the Lumix TZ11 as our p&s with 10 optical zoom, awesome camera. replaced our old Canon IXUS which we thought was sensational yet the Pansonic wins hands down. Overall quality and speed of p&s is great. The various auto features are also good including snow option to auto adjust whiteness.

As for DSLR we also have the Canon 500D, great camera yet not going to ski around with it due to size.

Plan for photos with the Lumix is always p&s with wider angle and crop as required especially for landscape piccies.

Happy shooting aswhatever camera you choose, the best bit is capturing those memories.

[blutek]

yet another central coaster, ESS has a lot to answer for (me too).
back to the topic, gotta like that 10x zoom.

[Pollo]

Yeah it came down to price so we chose the 10X Optical (LEICA lens) on the TZ11 with the lesser (8M) picture qual.

[SA]

Yeah it came down to price so we chose the 10X Optical (LEICA lens) on the TZ11 with the lesser (8M) picture qual.

You got the better picture quality.

[Pollo]

Absolutely

[Podlettte]

:woohoo: I took the plunge and got the Canon G11. Sooooo happy with it :)

[SA]

A timely review.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q210grouptravelzoom/

[blutek]

bump for EOFYS.

We need another camera, maybe a Canon G12, or a superzoom like Fujifilm HS20. (Around $500+). Image is the most important factor, with some usable zoom for snow shots.

Better choices? (not DSLR as more expensive & not 'travel friendly').

[Podlettte]

I've got the G11 and love it. Just spent some toy budget money on a D90, though can see i'll still pull the G11 out regularly :)

Fits into my ski jacket pocket, though of course is more bulky than other cameras, but the quality of the shots you can acheive with it makes it worth it IMO. LOVE the macro feature on it, and the manual features you can utilise make it a very nice step up from standard P+S but not a DSLR.

a lot of pro photographers use it as their walk around P+S from what I've read.

You'll enjoy the improved sensor on the G12

[blutek]

Trying to avoid DSLR but the small bodied Pentax Kx with 200mm lens at around $600 (best price) is hard to avoid. At that price undestandably the lens would be cheaper quality.
The G12 is probably the most practical choice.
I'll be interested to see if prices drop towards June 30.

[Podlettte]

check the canon rumours forum, the g13 may be out soon. the g12 was released a few weeks after I bought my g11 this time last year. That'll be the best indicator of potential price drop as canon will want to get rid of the old model before the new model ;)

[Taxman]

Just going through the process or buying a new camera, pretty sure it will be the Olympus E-PL2 with optional electronic viewfinder. Smaller than a DLSR, but not really pocketable. Camera without viewfinder in snow = WTF am I taking a picture of????

[blutek]

Those hybrids are a bit out of our budget, but seem pretty nice for travel.
My Lumix TZ doesn't have a viewfinder & you can't see the LCD screen in the snow from glare - an absolute pain at times.

[Podlettte]

I've had a lumiz tz1 and the canon g12 out in. The snow regularly and can see the screens on both always, much better on the canon.

One thing to remember is the viewfinder on these cameras is offset so you need to adjust your framing via the viewfinder to match what the lens is actually seeing.

Hence i don't use the viewfinder on the canon at all after trialling it once or twice.

[blutek]

I have a cheap screen protector on the TZ, it may be the cause of the glare problem.

[blutek]

Ended up getting a Pentax K-r DSLR from JB - advertised at $614 which is not too different to cost of a HK grey import + freight. Packaged it with a good SD card for a bit of extra discount.
Probably cheaper than MP's Nikon tele lens.

[Taxman]

.....One thing to remember is the viewfinder on these cameras is offset so you need to adjust your framing via the viewfinder to match what the lens is actually seeing.......



The electronic viewfinder on the micro 4/3rds cameras are TTL via the sensor, hence no parallax error.