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Gear / Technical Help => Photo / Video Recording => Topic started by: pdastoor on October 23, 2010, 01:12:23 AM

Title: recommend a camera
Post by: pdastoor on October 23, 2010, 01:12:23 AM
I am looking for a good point & shoot camera that takes amazing high quality photos with the least amount of grain.

I currently have a sx210.When I take a picture and zoom in just 125%, it looses all details and becomes grainy, lots of noise. I tried everything, lowest ISO etc... i have never been able to take one 'great' photo with this camera. The outcome is either blurry, shaky or full of grain when zoomed in just 2x.

With my older model I could still get lots of details even at 200%. My older model is a DSCW200, took great amazing photos, never had a grain issue and still could see lot of details even when zoomed in to 200%.

I want something small, pocket-size, digital point and shoot. It should not have a detachable lens. I need it specifically for photographs, I could care less if it does video. I would also prefer if it had a good zoom, but that's just a plus.

I am really thinking of getting a DSCHX5VB, any idea if I should get that? Anyone here used DSCHX5VB, it looks promising and has CMOS and also the fact that my older model was a sony and I never had problems with it and gave me great photos.

DSCHX5VB or something else?
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: fmaderjr on October 23, 2010, 06:18:38 AM
I am looking for a good point & shoot camera that takes amazing high quality photos with the least amount of grain.

I currently have a sx210.When I take a picture and zoom in just 125%, it looses all details and becomes grainy, lots of noise. I tried everything, lowest ISO etc... i have never been able to take one 'great' photo with this camera. The outcome is either blurry, shaky or full of grain when zoomed in just 2x.

With my older model I could still get lots of details even at 200%. My older model is a DSCW200, took great amazing photos, never had a grain issue and still could see lot of details even when zoomed in to 200%.

I want something small, pocket-size, digital point and shoot. It should not have a detachable lens. I need it specifically for photographs, I could care less if it does video. I would also prefer if it had a good zoom, but that's just a plus.

I am really thinking of getting a DSCHX5VB, any idea if I should get that? Anyone here used DSCHX5VB, it looks promising and has CMOS and also the fact that my older model was a sony and I never had problems with it and gave me great photos.

DSCHX5VB or something else?

Canon S90 is a great choice. Not a megazoom though (I think its about 3.8x) but has a larger sensor than most point & shoots and is known for great low light performance. Will shoot in raw format and has way more manual setting options than most point and shoots.  Many reviews will turn up if you Google it.

I just E-Bayed a used one and it is waiting for me at my post office to pick up today....
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on October 23, 2010, 06:25:34 AM
S95 is the updated S90.

Adds Image Stabilization and also does 720p.

Also the Panasonic DMC-LX5. Really good at low light, but I think it's a little larger and more expensive than the S95.

I'm looking for a small concert camera and am between these two.

EDIT: some links for each camera.

S95: http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20014079-1.html
LX5: http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20011112-1.html

Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: jlykos on October 23, 2010, 06:50:21 AM
I just bought a Leica D-Lux 5 and am waiting for it to be delivered.  It is a rebadged Panasonic Lumix LX5, but includes a full version of Adobe Lightroom and a three-year international warranty.  I did a ton of research and it was between the D-Lux 5 / LX5 and the Canon S95.  I really don't think that you can go wrong with either one.  What pushed me over the edge in favor of the Leica was the three-year international warranty, an invaluable asset in my line of work.

If you want low-light photography, the D-Lux 5 has a really fast lens that I expect to do very well in low light situations.  Although it can conceivably take pictures at ISO 12800, they look like crap.  Grain doesn't start creeping in until ISO 400 from the photos that I have seen, which is pretty much par for the course for small point and shoots.

Here is a link to a page that compares the grain of the LX5 and the S95.

http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Panasonic_Lumix_DMC_LX5/high_ISO_noise.shtml
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: aosone on October 23, 2010, 08:22:02 AM

I've got an HX5 and an S90. Both are excellent, but I'd take the Sony over the Canon. That said, my Canon T2i arrived this week and after I dumped the crappy 18-55mm kit lens and replaced it with the 15-85mm lens, I'm extremely happy.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Shadow_7 on October 29, 2010, 05:18:22 AM
How many MP are you looking for on your result?  Hasselblad has a 60MP camera.  If you don't mind being homeless.

My FH1 does okay 8MP images.  It's low light abilities helps it to have a fast-ish shutter so a lot less blur than any pocket size P&S I've ever had.  But I've never had anything that costs $400 or more before.  And it's still primarily a video camcorder.  Otherwise it sounds like you could use a monopod or tripod to help the blur on your current cam.  A lot of cameras interpolate a larger image from a low resolution sensor.  So consider the sensor specs your maximum (potential) quality photo size on ANY camera IMO.

If quality matters, you probably can't get away from a detachable lens.  And probably not the stock one that cam with the camera.  T2i is a good value.  And other options in that type.  But far from "pocket" sized.  Depending on your waist line and pant type of course.  My sweats could pack away a foot long sub.  My dress slacks, not so much.  Some pants with cargo pockets could pack away a 2 liter of your favorite beverage.  Not that'd you want to do that if you wanted to remain mobile.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: bluntforcetrauma on October 30, 2010, 02:28:46 AM
I just got the Panasonic Lumix DMC ZS7.  Real nice video and pic IQ.  but I really question the battery life. I bought 4 extra batteries. 
I am wondering how NOT to drain the batteries. I turned off the GPS (  i usually think i know where I am), I am really disappointed about battery life right now.

In fact i got 2, didnt even open the other package.  I was trying to get two cam 2 audio show pull next.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: beatkilla on October 30, 2010, 01:05:11 PM
How long in video mode does the battery last?And also what exact memory cards are you guys using succesfully(what GB size)and what are run times in video mode highest quality?
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: BlackLab on October 30, 2010, 02:22:36 PM
I have no problems w/my ZS3. It does have a big lcd tho
zooming a lot does drain battery more of course
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: rastasean on October 30, 2010, 02:50:47 PM
i would recommend minimal zooming, turn sound f/x like beeping off, diming the screen slightly, no flash, auto power off enabled, auto sleep enabled after a very short period of time, maybe not reviewing every photo and yeah, the gps off.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: beatkilla on October 31, 2010, 08:07:33 PM
I just bought the Sony dsc hx5v and i took some very good pictures with it.Im loving the Sweep Panorama mode.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Shadow_7 on November 01, 2010, 12:25:11 AM
If you're not big into the megapixel thing, canon has a new S95 camera.  1/1.7" CCD 10MP sensor.  Which is a huge sensor and low MP count so good for low light and quality.  Not much on the video side.  But if you don't need much, about as good as it gets on the low end.  For a semi-cheap (~$400 MSRP) pocket P&S camera.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: beatkilla on November 05, 2010, 06:45:50 PM
@ aosone-what lenses can be used with the T2i?Is there a f1.4? Have you shot any video with it and if so what did you think of it?
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on November 06, 2010, 03:56:52 AM
@ aosone-what lenses can be used with the T2i?Is there a f1.4? Have you shot any video with it and if so what did you think of it?

Any Canon digital compatible lens will work with the T2i. I'm certain there are several options in the f1.4 range. What focal length are you looking for?

From the reviews I've read the video on the T2i is pretty good.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: aosone on November 06, 2010, 08:41:10 AM
@ aosone-what lenses can be used with the T2i?Is there a f1.4? Have you shot any video with it and if so what did you think of it?

All Canon EF and EF-S lenses can be used with the T2i. Sigma and Tamron have less-pricey options, although they tend to be less sharp.

http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup

I haven't used the T2i for video yet, but that's in the plans for next year. Most of it will be motorcycle travel related and it's getting cold this year in New England and Atlantic Canada. I've been using a GoPro Hero HD helmet-mounted camera for video this spring and summer.

Here's a clip of the T2i you should see: http://vimeo.com/9736776

And I hope you've seen the Reverie video from the 5D Mkii. If not, you need to. http://vincentlaforet.smugmug.com/gallery/6042742_wZKiA#377930419_dgxvY-A-LB
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: beatkilla on November 08, 2010, 11:22:28 AM
I am seriously looking at the Canon T2i but am thinking the Canon 60D with the rotating LCD will work better for my purpose.Is this the only model with movable LCD?Anything else im overlooking between the 2?
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: aosone on November 08, 2010, 06:43:58 PM
I am seriously looking at the Canon T2i but am thinking the Canon 60D with the rotating LCD will work better for my purpose.Is this the only model with movable LCD?Anything else im overlooking between the 2?

Nope that's the only DSLR from anybody with movable LCD.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: printguy on November 08, 2010, 07:35:09 PM
To the OP, are your photos grainy or pixelated? This is an important difference. If they are pixelated at 125% check the resolution that you're using when you take the photos. Maybe that's your issue.

And it's not the camera but the photographer that takes amazing photos. The camera is just a tool. Check out Ansel Adams for reference.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: rastasean on November 08, 2010, 10:14:24 PM
quit pixel peeping!
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on November 12, 2010, 03:44:44 AM
FYI: 15% off point and shoot cameras at NewEgg today (up to $50).

That makes the LX5 $409 shipped and the S95 $352 shipped.

Good deals. Too bad they only have the LX5 in white.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: heikki on November 12, 2010, 11:04:34 AM
the price on the LX5 came down pretty quickly.  very nice.

i just ordered one yesterday for my wife, looking forward to making some comparisons to my s90.

i went with the s90 since, for me, a pocket camera needs to be literally that.  she carries her p&S camera (currently SD880) in her purse, so the slightly larger form factor of the LX5 isn't an issue.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: ashevillain on November 12, 2010, 01:52:37 PM
FYI: 15% off point and shoot cameras at NewEgg today (up to $50).

That makes the LX5 $409 shipped and the S95 $352 shipped.

Good deals. Too bad they only have the LX5 in white.

Those are absolutely killer deals!
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: fguidry on November 13, 2010, 12:16:36 AM
I am seriously looking at the Canon T2i but am thinking the Canon 60D with the rotating LCD will work better for my purpose.Is this the only model with movable LCD?Anything else im overlooking between the 2?

Be aware of limitations of shot length with Canon DSLRs used for video. Might not be what you need for concert shooting.

Fran
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Brian Skalinder on November 13, 2010, 02:58:53 PM
FWIW, S95 is $366 and LX5 is $420 shipped at Amazon.  Not quite as good as the NewEgg deals, but not bad.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on November 26, 2010, 01:10:44 AM
Black Friday sale at New Egg on the S95:

$300 with code: EMCZZNT23

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16830120455&nm_mc=EMC-IGNEFL112610&cm_mmc=EMC-IGNEFL112610-_-EMC-112610-Index-_-PointShoot-_-30120455-L0C

Very tempting...
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: heikki on December 01, 2010, 02:21:26 PM

 >:D

(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_jujjHjPS5HU/TPaeMqhCWJI/AAAAAAAAA60/_207I6dC4mo/s800/kuva.JPG)
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B) on December 05, 2010, 07:19:29 AM

 >:D

(http://lh3.ggpht.com/_jujjHjPS5HU/TPaeMqhCWJI/AAAAAAAAA60/_207I6dC4mo/s800/kuva.JPG)

Thanks for the size comparison. I only have 1 decent camera shop near me, and everyone that works there is like a used car salesperson so I avoid it at all cost.

Looks to me that the S95 is the way to go for me.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: raymonda on December 08, 2010, 11:24:23 AM
Nikon P100.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: Ekonwilson on February 08, 2011, 04:40:47 AM
I just bought the Sony dsc hx5v and i took some very good pictures with it.Im loving the Sweep Panorama mode.


I took this camera last week.. I like it very much, Nice screen size..Great Quality and zooms in quite well for size. The camera is very portable.
Title: Re: recommend a camera
Post by: notsofast on February 08, 2011, 12:48:37 PM
I had a Cannon G9 and wanted to replace it due to the lack of true low light capabilities and it's small processor. I looked to replace it with a DSLR but found the size to be to large to carry with all my audio gear. I wanted the better chip in a small package, I found and looked at many of the 4/3 rds cameras (Olympus PL2/PL1, Panasonic, Sony).

I ended up purchasing the Sony NEX-5, amazing low light capabilities, can use different lenses, 1080i video, a point and shoot or manual overrides, small package. I am very happy with my choice, it delvers the quality I sought, compares well with my friends T2i, great depth of field and details. The downside I have encountered is size, an inch deeper than my G9 with the 18-55 lens, LCD is a finger print magnet, not many lenses available now but I can use my older Minolta lenses.

Tim