Best Point & Shoot Cameras Available and Updates...

[KrishnenduKes]

Let us have this space to discuss the various P&S cameras available in various price brackets, the pros and cons of these machines and the updates thereon with evolution.

I have come up with a basic format thus...

1. Price: Less than 12K INR

Brand and Model
Mp
Size of Sensor
Zoom factor
Wow Factor.

2. Price: Between 12K and 20K INR

Brand and Model
Mp
Size of Sensor
Zoom factor
Other factors
Wow Factor

3. Price: Above 20K

Brand and Model
Mp
Size of Sensor
Zoom factor
Other factors
Wow Factor

If there are other things to be noted in a particular camera, do not hesitate to state as much.

I am sure this exercise will help quite a few people looking forward to investing in a P&S. Example: yours truly! :)

[synn]

Great initiative!

I'm not sure about the prices in India, but I'll round up my favorites in different classes and post them, right after I do some research on them.

[shutterbug]

Thank you Ken da for starting this thread. It will be of great use to a lot of people, incl guys with Dslrs looking for a p&s for convenience.
My fave choice has been the canon 570/590/1100is etc but I am not really tuned into the present models.

[Cyclops]

Wonderful initiative, Kenda! :) N, thanks for asking my opinion on this subject.

So, let me just come to the precise point here:

Consider this: "Before buying a P&S - list your key areas that your camera should possess. Next is budget including cost of add-ons (if available). Next is size - thin & sleek or extra long zoom lens ones that are bulky? Fast or slow response time? Using same type of memory card or batteries that you already have?

Most important - check for size and handling by yourself before purchase and get a feel of it. If it suits your holding position, rugged use and other factors, then go for that one."

1) Price: Less than 12K INR

Brand and Model ~ Canon PowerShot A1100Is/Kodak EasyShare C190

Mp ~ 12.1/12.7

Zoom factor ~ 4x Op/4x Di & 5x Op/5x Di (Op = Optical, Di = Digital/Useless)

Wow Factor ~ Both produce Sharp, well-exposed pictures with better flash coverage.

EasyShare C190 - best WB performance in P&S with fast and accurate focusing, good sharpness across the zoom range but has purple fringing in high contrast areas. Average shot-to-shot cycle, but outdoor metering is kudos.

Canon A1100IS - fast shutter response, good sharpness in zoom range, ok metering system in outdoor situations. Kodak is INR 7-8K while Canon is 9-10K.

2) Price: Between 12K and 20K INR

Brand and Model ~ Samsung WB550/Canon IXUS 95IS/Fujifilm FinePix F70EXR/Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD

Mp ~ 12.2/10/10/6

Zoom factor ~ 10x/3x/10x/15x (All Optical Zoom only)

Wow Factor ~

WB550_INR 17k - Manual, Smart Auto & 11 Scene Modes, HD movie with H.264 compression to record 5x more video than usual.

Ixus 95IS_INR 11K - Optical IS, Smart Auto, Anti-Blur modes, excellent image quality, lightweight, pocketable with ease.

F70EXR_INR 20k - Super CCD, sharp images with low noise + wide dynamic range, Modes like Pro FOcus & Pro Low-light, Super Intelligent flash. Best for low-light photographers

S2000HD_INR 16k - Superzoom with HD video in true widescreen, EVF, DUal IS system, for budget conscious people with best features

3) Price: Above 20K

Brand and Model ~ Kodak EasyShare Z980/Canon PowerShot S90/Canon PowerShot D10/Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35/Sony CyberShot DSC-HX1/Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3/Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR/Canon PowerShot G11

Mp ~ 12.3/10/12.1/12.1/9.1/10.1/12/10

Zoom factor ~ 24x/3.8x/3x/18x/20x/2.5x/14.3x/5x (All Optical zoom only)

Wow Factor ~

Z980_INR 23k - High optical zoom, superb battery life,HD video recording, Modes like Smart Capture & Panorama, has Aperture/Shutter Priority + full manual mode with RAW files

S90_INR 27k - Looks like a compact camera, capture RAW (RAW + JPEG), f/2.0 aperture fast zoom, DIGIC 4 processor for noise control, reproduce true colors, Manual and other creative modes, best for low-light photography

D10_INR 25K - Looks like a toy, waterproof upto 10m/33ft, freezeproof from -10 upto +40 deg Celsius, drop resistant from height of 1.22mts, 30fps VGA movie mode, Scene mode like Portrait, Foliage, Aquarium, Underwater, Long shutter, perfect companion for heavy-duty outdoor activities like snorkelling, climbing, trekking etc.

DMC-FZ35_INR 28k - Versatile with HD video, superclose macro mode, unique video recording mode to adjust aperture and shutter speed while recording video, wind cut function for better sound quality, stereo sound record option, compression settings, other features like a DSLR

DSC-HX1_INR 30k - fast onfield performance, CMOS sensor, 10fps shooting speed, Sweep Panorama, Anti-Motion Blur, Handhel twilight, face detection, HD recording modes

DMC-LX3_INR 33k - excellent handling, fast lens, wide focal length, superb onfield performance, IS feature, 3:2 sensor, sharp throughout zoom + aperture range

S200EXR_INR 33k - advanced camera with look, feel and performance of a DSLR, Super CCD EXR sensor, RAW mode, unique modes like Pro Focus, Pro lowlight, High ISO, Low noise EXR, excellent in tricky lightings

G11_INR 32k - Sturdy, metal body compact camera with pro-quality image taking capability, looks like vintage rangefinder, RAW mode, tilt-n-swivel LCD screen, High Sensititivity system, high speed ISO

P.S.: All prices are subject to market fluctuation and area of purchase. I shall not be held responsible for a change/drop in price tag or availability of camera. :p

NOTE: Feel free to add or edit this information as this is not a final verdict. Others may not share my opinion. So, subjected to market risks. :p

[robin234]

will love to know how those super water proof or camera that can take abuse ,fares against these .

[KrishnenduKes]

@Cyclops: Wow man. What a comprehensive list. Some of those 20K+ cameras look really good. Waterproof till 10Mts under!!! Amazing. Shooting while snorkelling! I liked that. I can even take underwater shots of swimmers. And you have put it at 25K. Availability in India?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

Tell me ken..what are YOU looking at??

Anvancy

[Bibudesh]

@Cyclops: Wow man. What a comprehensive list. Some of those 20K+ cameras look really good. Waterproof till 10Mts under!!! Amazing. Shooting while snorkelling! I liked that. I can even take underwater shots of swimmers. And you have put it at 25K. Availability in India?

There are n number of waterproofing cases available. One of them is Canon WP-DC1 Waterproof Case for PowerShot S80. Think it may work for S90 as well.

[Cyclops]

Last check "Canon PowerShot D10" was available at a shop in A'bad albeit grey market. Since being bed-ridden for the last 2 months, I haven't checkout the newbies in market or tried them.

Btw, Canon PowerShot D10 doesn't not need any waterproofing jacket, its completely water and shock proof (to an extent). If you are in foreign, you can get waterproof jackets for most brands (per my knowledge). Canon makes some that will suit their series, as mentioned by Bibudesh.

Fujifilm or Panasonic Lumix are the best bet all-rounders, in case you don't wish to carry your full DSLR kit to some places. Canon G11 is almost a compact DSLR like performer. You can take a compact that shoots RAW to get the best out of your images while post processing.

Lots of options that can cater to different genre of shooters and experience levels.

P.S.: Thanks for liking my list, Kenda and others. *bow*

[debangshu]

@Cyclops: Thats an extensive observation. Thanks.

Well! Its getting quite difficult now a days to select a camera between the ranges 12K-20K. Most good models have vanished off the market. One of my friend bought a Nikon L110 for Rs.14700/- and guess what it has no Program or Manual modes. These cameras are getting "so called" more intelligent now a days that it won't allow you to play around :(

Nikon COOLPIX L110
Effective Pixels: 12.1 million
Lens: 15x Zoom f=5.0-75.0mm / F3.5-5.4
Vibration Reduction: Combination Image Sensor shift & ElectronicVR
Shooting Modes: Auto mode, Scene modes, Scene auto selector, Smart portrait mode, Sport continuous mode, Movie mode
Scene Modes: Portrait, Landscape,Night portrait, Party/indoor, Beach/snow, Sunset, Dusk/dawn, Night landscape, Close-up, Food, Museum
Copy, Backlight, Panorama assist
Capture Modes: Single, Continuous (approx. 1 fps up to 4 shots), BSS (Best Shot Selector), Multi-shot 16 (16 frames with a single burst)
Exposure Metering System: 256-segment matrix metering, Center-weighted metering, Spot metering
Price: Rs.15499/- with free 4GB SD Card (5yrs lifetime warranty) + 4 Rechargeable Batteries & charger & 1+1 yr extended warranty. Bargain for some discount.

Gray Market Price: Rs.12000 without the perks.

I still find the Sony H5, H7 and then H50 as the best ones but these are not there anymore. The best offered by Sony is:

DSC-HX1
9.1 Mega Pixel H Series 20x Optical Zoom Cyber-shot
• "Exmor" CMOS Sensor
• Sweep Panorama Mode
• 10fps high speed continuous shooting
• G lens and 20x Optical Zoom - It used to be Carl Zeiss till earlier models
• Bionz Imaging Processor
• 1080p HD Movie Recording
Photo Mode : Intelligent Auto, Easy Shooting, Program Auto, Shutter Speed Priority, Aperture Priority, Manual Exposure, Sweep Panorama, Handheld Twilight, Anti Motion Blur, Scene Selection
Scene Selection: Advanced Sports Shooting / Twilight / Twilight Portrait / Portrait / Landscape / Snow / Beach / Fireworks / High Sensitivity / Gourmet
Aperture: Auto (F2.8 - F8.0) / Program Auto (F2.8 - F8.0) / Manual (F2.8 - F8.0)
Shutter Speed: Auto (2 - 1/4,000) / Program Auto (1 - 1/4,000) / Shutter Prioirty (30 - 1/4000) / Aperture Priority (8 - 1/4000) / Manual (30 - 1/4,000)
Auto Focus Range: W: Approx. 1cm to Infinity, T: Approx. 150cm to Infinity
Macro Auto Focus Range: W: Approx. 1cm to Infinity, T: Approx. 150cm to Infinity
Internal Memory: Approx. 11MB - Hey day by day they just keep on decreasing it!!! It was 32MB in H7, 15MB in H50.

MRP Rs. 24,990 /-*

Sony's W series has mostly small handy cameras with 5x Optical zoom and all Auto or intelligent modes.
DSC-W380/S: MRP Rs. 14,990 /-*
DSC-W350/P: MRP Rs. 12,990 /-*

Gray Market prices for these cameras are not much of an attraction. Just a few bucks less not worth the risk.

[robin234]

How is Olympus u 8010?

[debangshu]

How is Olympus u 8010?

Well I never had a chance to try Olympus cameras. So not much idea about its performance, searched the net to get the following features of Olympus Tough Mju 8010 14 Megapixel Digital Camera

Water resistant to 10m, shockproof to falls of up to 2 m and below freezeproof low -10 ° C, the Olympus Tough Mju 8010 offers a variety of new features to help you capture the emotion
• Wide Optical Zoom 5x
• 14 megapixel
• HD movie recording and HDMI interface
• 2 GB of internal memory and SD card slot
• Surf Photos
• [ib] software
• Increased Press Control
• USB charging
Very strong through anodized aluminum plating and double seal, which? 8010 Olympus Tough camera is made for adventure inside and outside. They show the HC III of three layers that protect the reflection, even in direct sunlight, scratches and moisture to relax while shooting a metal barrier provides a more powerful lens damage the lens out of state. A double locking mechanism on the battery cover, memory card slot and port provide additional security. The shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof Tough Mju 8010 will be available in various colors from March 2010.

http://www.gadgetlegend.com/olympus-tough-mju-8010-14-megapixel-digital-camera.html

[robin234]

Well I never had a chance to try Olympus cameras. So not much idea about its performance, searched the net to get the following features of Olympus Tough Mju 8010 14 Megapixel Digital Camera

Water resistant to 10m, shockproof to falls of up to 2 m and below freezeproof low -10 ° C, the Olympus Tough Mju 8010 offers a variety of new features to help you capture the emotion
• Wide Optical Zoom 5x
• 14 megapixel
• HD movie recording and HDMI interface
• 2 GB of internal memory and SD card slot
• Surf Photos
• [ib] software
• Increased Press Control
• USB charging
Very strong through anodized aluminum plating and double seal, which? 8010 Olympus Tough camera is made for adventure inside and outside. They show the HC III of three layers that protect the reflection, even in direct sunlight, scratches and moisture to relax while shooting a metal barrier provides a more powerful lens damage the lens out of state. A double locking mechanism on the battery cover, memory card slot and port provide additional security. The shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof Tough Mju 8010 will be available in various colors from March 2010.

http://www.gadgetlegend.com/olympus-tough-mju-8010-14-megapixel-digital-camera.html
I know that debangshu :)

reason why I wanted it :D:)I want to know if somebody here has seen this camera here in India and how is the image quality against other pns ( normal pns from canon ).

[KrishnenduKes]

Tell me ken..what are YOU looking at??

Anvancy

I am looking at:

1. Relatively decent sized piece of silicon. (I do not even know the crop factor on these cameras!)

2. Av and Tv modes with ease of use with usability of 1 stop variations at least.

3. F-stop from f2 till f11 with 1 stop variations.

4. Relatively noise free performance till 400 ASA

5. Bracketing if possible.

6. Decent optics with 8X+ Optical Zoom.

Can one get all of that in and around 20K?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

I am looking at:

1. Relatively decent sized piece of silicon. (I do not even know the crop factor on these cameras!)

2. Av and Tv modes with ease of use with usability of 1 stop variations at least.

3. F-stop from f2 till f11 with 1 stop variations.

4. Relatively noise free performance till 400 ASA

5. Bracketing if possible.

6. Decent optics with 8X+ Optical Zoom.

Can one get all of that in and around 20K?


Look for the Fuji HS-10 and the S200EXR.it has all you want.

I will go for the HS-10,particularly for those high fps video recording modes.for a video shooter like me,thats a decent tool.kinda fun too.

If you want tethered shooting,then you can look up to the canon S5IS.But noise performance is not where this exists.

For a prosumer,once you hold particularly the S200EXR,every other cam feels small.not the hs-10 though.

Anvancy

[KrishnenduKes]

Look for the Fuji HS-10 and the S200EXR.it has all you want.

Anvancy

Thanks. Just going through this http://www.dpreview.com/news/1002/10020206fujifinepixhs10series.asp

Some other reviews talk of softer images though!

Any idea about the pricing in India?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

Thanks. Just going through this http://www.dpreview.com/news/1002/10020206fujifinepixhs10series.asp

Some other reviews talk of softer images though!

Any idea about the pricing in India?

The pricing is around 23k.

Where I tried the HS-10 I did not feel the images soft.I personally prefer less sharpening in SOOC.That way I have that edge to control the final sharpening output.The Fuji lens is actually way sharp considering prosumers.

Regarding noise,example you can see this thread.
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1012&message=35143590

He shot JPEG.But fairly 800ISO also looks good.If you turn RAW on then more the merrier.

You can also check S200EXR.14x manual barrel zoom with an EXR sensor.EXR technology is very helpful if you come to know how to use it properly.

Anvancy

[Cyclops]

Thanks. Just going through this http://www.dpreview.com/news/1002/10020206fujifinepixhs10series.asp

Some other reviews talk of softer images though!

Any idea about the pricing in India?

I tried the HS10 & the images came out quite sharp for a P&S with a extra super zoom.. Since it has RAW it will be better for post processing.. Quite slow to start & lag between shoot is a downside.. IMHO for my liking... Price is 21-23K depending on market.

[KrishnenduKes]

The pricing is around 23k.

Where I tried the HS-10 I did not feel the images soft.I personally prefer less sharpening in SOOC.That way I have that edge to control the final sharpening output.The Fuji lens is actually way sharp considering prosumers.
Anvancy

I tried the HS10 & the images came out quite sharp for a P&S with a extra super zoom.. Since it has RAW it will be better for post processing.. Quite slow to start & lag between shoot is a downside.. IMHO for my liking... Price is 21-23K depending on market.

General questions...

What about the SX1 IS and the G11 and the coolpix P100? They also come in similar price brackets...

And what about Fuji aftersales in India?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

General questions...

What about the SX1 IS and the G11 and the coolpix P100? They also come in similar price brackets...

And what about Fuji aftersales in India?

For the 20x ill not be on a rocker zoom.Ill prefer manual.Gives you more intricate zoom levels.

The G11 here sits frankly way on the costly side.Thats my personal view.Also No HD video.HD video to me now seems essential.

Never saw the P100.

The biggest advantage in manual zoom prosumers is instant start up and shut down timings.Since the lens doesnt move,battery consumption is low and tight.

Fuji After sales depends upon how your local Esys company people are.here(at my place) they are pretty nice and quick to work upon.When you go with your problem,they immediately phone the head office for clarifications,troubles,cost for repairing etc.A little bit of push is required.But ill say thats typical indian.

Anvancy

[powerslave]

S90. .

[KrishnenduKes]

S90. .

:D :D Too pocketable it seems! :)

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

From my side,The initial sits more on the S200EXR from my side.I still love the colors from a CCD.

The viewfinder is actually small compared to the overall camera.Seems pathetic at first but thats normal for anybody who uses pentamirror/prism for ages and jumps down to use an electric.

Ill put my money anytime for the first the S100FS if I get it.Then the S200EXR,then the HS-10.

Anvancy

[synn]

A vote for the P100 here. Startup/ shutter lag is as good as it can get without getting into DSLR territory, very good burst rate, ED elements in the optics just like big boy Nikkor glass, optical vibration reduction, very good ergonomics, full HD video and most importantly, excellent image quality.

[Nakul]

A friend of mine uses the P100. The image quality that comes out at the max zoom is pretty good; cant compare it to the likes of Surya obviously. But i just have one small issue with this model; at 24k i wont say its cheap, but its got a plastic feel to it. When you pop the flash you don't get the feel of reliable camera.

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

Used the P100 for 10 days continuous.
Since I have been a manual zoomer,the rocker just doesn't suit me anymore.
The image quality is bearable till around 200 but from 400 itself it starts to go bonkers.It has the option of incremental ISO increase.

In the video segment,if you want to zoom,the camera shakes violently as if its a mixie doing a milk shake for me.Thumbs down for that point.Stereo mic is a good thing.But its unable to catch the sounds properly at times.

If I am putting 20s in the prosumer segment ill definitely look for the manual zoom.it really gives that edge in doing stuff.

The HX1 from sony is another bet.Sony does give nice images.And it sits in the same price range of 24k.

In the end for prosumers,its going there,fiddling with the cameras unless the one who is purchasing it is satisfied himself.

Anvancy

[ashishtamhane]

This is a great thread. Very usefull.


I have two questions here:

1) Is it true that Fujiflim PnS cameras have more features than its competitors, especially the S series and still has a low price?

2) How is their battery life?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

This is a great thread. Very usefull.


I have two questions here:

1) Is it true that Fujiflim PnS cameras have more features than its competitors, especially the S series and still has a low price?

2) How is their battery life?

The lower S series from fuji such as S1500 S2500 are basic cameras.Indirectly,whatever you choose from these lower fuji models vs other company models,for that price range they all perform the same.

When you step up your budget thats where fuji starts to give you more bang for the buck.In 2006 when the Fuji F31FD was launched it conquered the entire compact camera market in terms of performance(noise included.)
The throne of the F31 was taken over by the Panasonic LX-3 in 2008.Now these three cameras have a new partner which is the Sony TX-7.This is all about compact camera segment.

At this juncture you will get more bang on buck on a S200EXR or the HS-10 rather than putting on say a canon/nikon.If you are putting 20+ on a prosumer and you know that now for virtually that same price you are getting a DSLR starter 1000D you better put on something that gives you your VFM.

None of the Canon and Nikon are giving you manual barrel zoom lenses.Panasonic and Fuji does.Once you actually test it and use it you will come to know what I am saying.

Both the S200EXR and the HS-10 have lithium batteries.

The S200EXR does not offer HD video.The HS-10 does.The HS-10 also offers those high fps video recording options for those fun moments.Though remember that as the fps increases the resolution decreases.

Anvancy

[KrishnenduKes]

None of the Canon and Nikon are giving you manual barrel zoom lenses.Panasonic and Fuji does.Once you actually test it and use it you will come to know what I am saying.

Both the S200EXR and the HS-10 have lithium batteries.


Anvancy

Agreed.

But the HS10 does not run run on Lithium batteries! They run on Alkaline or Ni-Mh batteries!

[ashishtamhane]

Any ideas about their battery life?

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

Agreed.

But the HS10 does not run run on Lithium batteries! They run on Alkaline or Ni-Mh batteries!

Oops..my bad.

AA batteries has one of those cheesy advantages.

example you go on a trek somewhere,and your batteries suddenly die.the chai wala sitting up usually has some nippos/ever-ready around.So your camera can run on emergency power.:p

Lithium is more versatile per se.Gives you a better power range VS AA.But then you need minimum two lithium batteries for proper work.So its all personal.

Sanyo Eneloops are the most preferred batteries in the field of AAs Ashish.So generally the HS-10 uses 4 AA batteries.4 Eneloops are for 700 official price.If you find somebody giving bulk do purchase it.And also the sanyo charger along with it.The whole kit will give you nice performing power in the field of AA.

Example I use Eneloops and Uniross Hybrios for my camera.the Eneloops are 2000mah vs 1900mah of the uniross hybrio.both provide me ample battery power.whole 2gb worth.Thats around 681 shots with 50% flash usage.for macro photography when I use 100% flash 90% of the time,there it comes down to around 300 shots.

Hope it helps.

Anvancy

[ashishtamhane]

Thanks for the information.

[KrishnenduKes]

Wow! Thanks for the detailed info Anvancy!

[powerslave]

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q110superzoomgroup/

[KrishnenduKes]

Stuck this Thread!

[KrishnenduKes]

Anything new happening here these days...

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

DSLRs are coming in the affordable category now.

Anvancy

[debangshu]

Yes, Anvancy rightly said. If anyone is seriously looking for pursuing photography then DSLRs are really affordable as the P&S are now for everyone else who can really just point & shoot (Why the hell you carry a camera when you have 5MP camera in you mobile phone only?). There used to be a Auto mode but now you have an Easy mode as well I am still not sure what the difference is but in both the camera does all that it can (select a scene mode, set shutter, aperture, WB, Flash etc.) while you just click. Be happy if you get a Program (P) Mode forget about the Aperture (A), Shutter (S) or ISO priority modes you won't find it. Everything is programmed & set so no need to use any brains.

The P&S with features like Manual mode and 10x or more zoom range are mostly priced beyond INR 20K. Be it Canon, Nikon or Sony every one is as if trying hard to fit the best features in a matchbox sized camera. The latest highlights are surely the inclusion of IS for Canon and VR for Nikon P&S camera. There are some with 30x or higher zooms as well. I saw a Canon 5x zoom P&S with IS. Yes, the ISO handling and movie modes are getting better. Just 2 days back one of my friend bought a Canon SX130IS the the images at ISO800 were neat and sharp.

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

I now recommend mainly FUJI in the P&S category. I personally find them good bang for the buck.

The progress is now mirrorless. So point and shoot is going to take a hit to an extent.

Anvancy

[KrishnenduKes]

DSLRs are coming in the affordable category now.

Anvancy

I would still like to carry a P&S camera in my bag along with my DSLR. I regret not having one. I used to like my Sony DSC till it konked off!

[ashishtamhane]

I would still like to carry a P&S camera in my bag along with my DSLR. I regret not having one. I used to like my Sony DSC till it konked off!


The Nikon P series (P100, P300, P500 and P7000) each have their own little advantages such as (among others):

a) The P100 has a 26x optical zoom lens that covers a focal distance of 26mm to 678mm.

b) The P300 has a fast f/1.8 VR (Vibration Reduction) lens.

c) The P500 has a 36x optical zoom lens that covers a focal distance of 22.5mm though super telephoto 810mm.

d) The P7000 has a built in ND Filter that helps capture landscape with rich color.


All of these compact cameras support HD quality video as well and some of them have support for RAW files too.

[KrishnenduKes]

The Nikon P series (P100, P300, P500 and P7000) each have their own little advantages such as (among others):

a) The P100 has a 26x optical zoom lens that covers a focal distance of 26mm to 678mm.

b) The P300 has a fast f/1.8 VR (Vibration Reduction) lens.

c) The P500 has a 36x optical zoom lens that covers a focal distance of 22.5mm though super telephoto 810mm.

d) The P7000 has a built in ND Filter that helps capture landscape with rich color.


All of these compact cameras support HD quality video as well and some of them have support for RAW files too.

Could you please list them the way it has been formatted on the first page of this thread?

[debangshu]

All the Above Nikon Performance Series (P100, P300...) are priced way above 20K. Its kinda hard to accept. A Canon Alternative is as follows again priced quite high.

# Canon Powershot SX30 IS
Approx. 14.1 Million pixels
35x Optical Zoom with USM and Optical Image Stabilizer (4.5 stops IS)
4.3 (W) - 150.5 (T)mm
(35mm film equivalent: 24 (W) - 840 (T)mm)
Electronic viewfinder
HD Movies (1280 x 720) with Stereo Sound
Quick-bright LCD Variangle type
Shooting Modes: C2, C1, M, Av, Tv, P, Auto, Portrait, Scenery, Sports, SCN, Movie
Hot Shoe
MRP: INR 28,995/-

The last P&S I tried was Canon Powershot SX130 IS as I have already mentioned earlier. Below are further details.

# Canon PowerShot SX130 IS
12.1 Million pixels
12x Zoom
5.0 (W) - 60.0 (T)mm
(35mm film equivalent: 28 (W) - 336 (T)mm)
f Number: f/3.4 - f/8.0 (W), f/5.6 - f/8.0 (T)
Shooting Modes: M, Av, Tv, P, Auto, Easy, Portrait, Landscape, Kids & Pets, SCN, Movie
Includes: 4GB SD Card, 2 Rechargeable Batteries, Camera Bag (Its impressive)
MRP: Rs.12995/- (Can be easily bargained for Rs.12500/- or less)

Its handy with an acceptable build and weight but the Flash does not pop up automatically, it prompts "Raise the Flash". The ISO & IS performance are good. I guess a good value for money given at this price range.

@Anvancy: Regarding, the Fuji Finepix, the last two cameras of 2 of my friends that I tested I found that firstly these are not WYSIWYG kind of handling like the Sony H7/H50, or the SX130 IS, you set the shutter or aperture but the live view does not show the change. The live view shows a normal properly lit image all the time but the output is not the same when you click. Secondly the controls are a bit complex and not easily understood like the others. Focusing it Manually is the most tricky part I saw.

[KrishnenduKes]

29K for a P&S is outrageous!

I guess this is what anvancy meant when he said that DSLR cams have become affordable! It is better with a bigger sized chip!

[ashishtamhane]

Could you please list them the way it has been formatted on the first page of this thread?

I have listed what I think are the main features of the individual Nikon P series compact cameras. For detailed and current specifications visit the Nikon India site.

Nikon P series cameras:
http://www.nikon.co.in/products.php?categoryid=1003

[debangshu]

29K for a P&S is outrageous!

I guess this is what anvancy meant when he said that DSLR cams have become affordable! It is better with a bigger sized chip!

Yes! its very hard to accept. But surely if you are looking for P&S without the Manual, Aperture & Shutter priority modes then there are plenty of options just state your budget.
For serious photography enthusiasts who would like to learn, experiment and improve in photography, the DSLRs are the best option now. With mirrorless DSLRs like the Sony NEX-3 & 5 anyone can have the DSLR power in the dimensions of a P&S. What do you say?

[hitanshu]

NEX may have smaller body dimensions but the lenses aren't THAT smaller, and overall, it makes the body flimsier to hold. Somehow - doesn't compute. for me.

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

If you see the latest canons P&S and Sony,they are all big fat mammas in MPs to me.too many MPs cramped.

I find the Fuji HS20 to be a better option since it has now the EXR. Dont know why but I still prefer FUJI.always better bang for the buck.

And not to forget the Panasonic FZ35.

Anvancy

[KrishnenduKes]

the DSLRs are the best option now.

I guess you and Anvancy are right in that respect. However, read on...

Actually you see there are two kinds of P&S cameras I feel...

One that performs pretty well and holds like a DSLR and has all the controls and goes for around 20K with warranty.

The other one is the slim kinds, that fits into the pocket, (both size and the budget) and which also shoots pretty good shots with max 5x optical zooms.

[debangshu]

I guess you and Anvancy are right in that respect. However, read on...

Actually you see there are two kinds of P&S cameras I feel...

One that performs pretty well and holds like a DSLR and has all the controls and goes for around 20K with warranty.

The other one is the slim kinds, that fits into the pocket, (both size and the budget) and which also shoots pretty good shots with max 5x optical zooms.

Yes, Ken da agreed on that point as the P&S have been segregated we can say convenience & performance sectors. The lower price range convenience cameras are for anyone and everyone who has just one motive that is to click photos - not photography. With camera doing all the work there is hardly anything left to experiment or learn. Cameras pricing upto 20K are all the same just a few more Scene identifying modes than others & zoom factors and yes its not restricted to 5x only. Annoying part being a notable shutter lags.

Many good features have been trimmed off the P&S of all ranges like,
1) No Remotes
2) No lens hoods
3) Only shoots in JPEG (even most P&S above 20K)
4) Fewer Shooting Modes (as I had mentioned earlier)
5) No View finder (I am not fond of the optical one but digital is good on my Sony H7)

Good Points - Yes there are quite a few
1) ISO : Noise performance & low light performance remarkable
2) Full HD Movie recording
3) Sweep Panorama / Easy Panorama / Panorama Assist
4) In built Filter effects
5) Zooms upto 36x (may be even more)
6) Nice swivel displays some have touch screens as well
7) Reduced camera size and high Mega Pixels

In Performance Cameras specifically
1) There are cameras with 5x zooms also
2) Priced over 20K
3) Supports RAW - a few of them they do
4) A few have Hot shoe as well

Hope you'd like to see what these 2 high range cameras have to offer:
1) Canon Powershot G12: http://www.canon.co.in/p/EN/112-Digital-Cameras/190-PowerShot/1739-PowerShot-G12/
2) Nikon Coolpic P7000: http://www.nikon.co.in/productitem.php?pid=1389-890e71e745&display=relatedproducts

[KrishnenduKes]

Nice analytical post there.

What someone ought to be interested in here is the size of the sensor. And essentially does not much change.

[debangshu]

Nice analytical post there.

What someone ought to be interested in here is the size of the sensor. And essentially does not much change.

Thanks Kenda, yes what you say is pretty right :)

[KrishnenduKes]

Thanks Kenda, yes what you say is pretty right :)

But if I am not mistaken, the HS20 has a bigger sensor than other bridge cameras.

[debangshu]

But if I am not mistaken, the HS20 has a bigger sensor than other bridge cameras.

Seems so but the last 2 Fuji Finepix cameras I handled were tough on the part of operations and understanding. I may be wrong as my trials were limited but the following was noted in that short span
1) In Manual mode the live view is not kind of WYSIWYG like it was on my H7
2) Operations/buttons/controls were a bit complicated
3) Manual Focusing was the most difficult part
4) Colours came out much vibrant than my H7

May be I needed more time to walk along but certainly compared to the ease and experience of the H7 the time required to understand a Finepix would take longer.

[KrishnenduKes]

Which were your last 2 Fuji cameras?

[hensil]

We should not get confused or mix P&S cameras with small size cameras. I have been looking for small size camera to carry along all the time which have most of SLR features like manual controls, fast lens and good image in low light up to ISO 800.
My first such camera was LX3. It was small but not quite pocket-able in my shirt due to its protruding lens. The best part was, it shot in raw and picture quality was acceptable to me only up to ISO 400.
Then I bought GF1. These types of cameras are called EVIL (electronic viewfinder interchangeable lens). This has a larger micro 4/3 sensor due to which the ISO 800 picture is acceptable to me. It shoots raw and I can also use all my Nikon SLR lenses with an adapter. I also use my Nikon flash directly mounting in the shoe. It shoots raw and the HD (720p) video is very good. I was quite satisfied until I saw and handled Fuji X100. This is an camera completely out of league. It has too many features to explain here. You need to read the review. The construction and picture quality is fantastic. The viewfinder is revolutionary (it has dual features, optical and electronic). You need to handle this camera to understand my feelings. This is as good as Leica.
WARNING: It is expensive-1500$.
Henry

[KrishnenduKes]

Wow! A P&S camera for $1500!!! That is some price, phew!

[debangshu]

Which were your last 2 Fuji cameras?
The Fuji Finepix I tried were of 2 of my friends who bought them a few months after I bought my Sony H7. These were both from the S series the second one was S1800 but the first one was an earlier model I don't remember the model no. now.

[hensil]

Wow! A P&S camera for $1500!!! That is some price, phew!

Hi Ken,
I guess you didn't get my point. Fuji X100 is not a P&S. It is more than DSLR and very small in size compared to DSLR. You need to see it. Only one thing held me back in buying X100, the lens is fix and not interchangeable. Maybe their next model will have interchangeable lens.
Henry

[KrishnenduKes]

Hi Ken,
I guess you didn't get my point. Fuji X100 is not a P&S. It is more than DSLR and very small in size compared to DSLR. You need to see it. Only one thing held me back in buying X100, the lens is fix and not interchangeable. Maybe their next model will have interchangeable lens.
Henry

I did get your point. But I "phewed" nonetheless... came naturally to me!

[Devaiah PA]

I did get your point. But I "phewed" nonetheless... came naturally to me!

I remember that we have a thread for this camera..
http://www.thephotographer.in/darkroom/showthread.php?t=1027

[KrishnenduKes]

I remember that we have a thread for this camera..
http://www.thephotographer.in/darkroom/showthread.php?t=1027

Thanks for bringing this up.

Now I know what we are talking about. :) Good memory.

[debangshu]

How about Canon Powershot G12 ? Almost priced less than half of Fuji X100 but none the less interesting features!
Cost: INR 31,995.00
Camera Effective Pixels : Approx. 10 Million pixels
Lens Focal Length (35mm film equivalent) 5x zoom: 6.1 (W) – 30.5 (T)mm
(35mm film equivalent: 28 (W) – 140 (T)mm)
Focusing Range 1cm (0.4in.) – infinity (W), 30cm (12in.) – infinity (T)
Macro: 1 – 50cm (0.4in. – 1.6ft.) (W), 30 – 50cm (12in. – 1.6ft.) (T)
Image Stabilizer (IS) System : Lens-shift type
Imaging Processor : DIGIC 4
Viewfinder : Real-image optical zoom viewfinder (with dioptric adjustment dial)
LCD Monitor : 2.8-inch type, TFT colour LCD with wide viewing angle
(Effective dots: Approx. 416,000 dots)
Aspect Ratio : 4:3
Features : Brightness adjustment (5 levels, Quick-bright LCD)
Vari-Angle type (movement: approx. 177 degrees horizontal, approx. 270 degrees rotational)
Focus Control System Autofocus: Single (continuous in Auto mode), Continous, Servo AF (Servo AE), Manual Focus
AF Frame : Face AiAF, Centre, FlexiZone, Tracking AF
Metering System : Evaluative, Center-weighted average, Spot
Exposure Compensation (Still images) / Exposure Shift (Movies) : +/- 2 stops in 1/3 stop increments
ISO Speed : (Standard Output Sensitivity, Recommended Exposure Index)
Auto, ISO 80 / 100 / 125 / 160 / 200 / 250 / 320 / 400 / 500 / 640 / 800 / 1000 / 1250 / 1600 / 2000 / 2500 / 3200
White Balance : Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Fluorescent H, Flash, Underwater, Custom 1, Custom 2
Shutter Speed : 1 – 1/4000sec. 15 – 1/4000sec. (Total shutter speed range)
Aperture Type : Iris type
f/number : f/2.8 / f/8.0 (W), f/4.5 / f/8.0 (T)
Flash Modes : Auto, On, Slow Synchro, Off
Hot Shoe : Available
Range : 50cm – 7.0m (1.6 – 23ft.) (W), 50cm – 4.0m (1.6 – 13ft.) (T)
Shooting Modes : Auto, P, Tv, Av, M, C1, C2, Low Light, Quick Shot, SCN*1, Movie*2

Digital Zoom : Still images / Movies: Approx. 4.0x (up to approx.20x in combination with the optical zoom), Safety Zoom, Digital Tele-converter
Continuous shooting Mode: Normal, AF, LV
Speed (Normal): Approx. 2.0 shots/sec. (in P mode) , Approx. 4.2 shots/sec. (in Low Light mode)
Number of Images Shot (CIPA) : Approx. 370 images
Recording Media : SD memory card, SDHC memory card, SDXC memory card, MultiMediaCard, MMCplus card, HC MMCplus card
File Format : Design rule for camera file system, DPOF (Version 1.1) compliant
Data Type Still Images: Exif 2.3 (JPEG), RAW CR2 (Canon original)
Movies: MOV (Image data: H.264, Audio data: Linear PCM (monaural))

[ashishtamhane]

How about Canon Powershot G12 ?
Cost: INR 31,995.00


This camera is indeed very nice but I feel that now the competition has overtaken it. The Nikon D3100 is available for a fraction more.

Canon either needs to incorporate a larger sensor or reduce the price significantly.

[KrishnenduKes]

How about Canon Powershot G12 ? Almost priced less than half of Fuji X100 but none the less interesting features!


Have to check the sensor size between the G12 and the X100.

[ashishtamhane]

Have to check the sensor size between the G12 and the X100.

Both the G12 and X100 have the SAME rating on DpReview.com!

The G12 has a sensor size of 1/1.7" (7.49 x 5.52 mm) while the X100 has an APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor. The G12 is CCD while the X100 is CMOS.

[KrishnenduKes]

Both the G12 and X100 have the SAME rating on DpReview.com!

The G12 has a sensor size of 1/1.7" (7.49 x 5.52 mm) while the X100 has an APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor. The G12 is CCD while the X100 is CMOS.

Oh yes! Now I remember that the X100 has a APS-C sensor.

[anvancy-(macro analyst)]

The X100 is mainly targetted as a rangefinder by Fuji.

So the G12 and X100 sit on different platforms.

Anvancy

[hensil]

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q311TravelZoomGroupTest/