Which Digital Compact Camera?

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Big bump on this thread from 2016.

I am looking for a camera. It is doing my head in literally. I think & it's a dodgy think that I want a compact. Reason only for the put in pocket while on holiday type of reason.

I have my trusty Galaxy S8 phone which takes great pictures & video. I also have a gopro hero5 session for my motorcycle helmet. The gopro is great & only a wee cube. But it's on or off, no zoom or controls apart from I can start & stop it from my phone..

I know the best pictures & video will come from a full size with the 35mm sensor, something in the likes of the Canon M50 . It's just cannot see me lugging it around on holidays etc. Although it would be ok on a tripod for filming. (Stop it already, not what you think.).

A compact seemed the obvious go to. So then I have looked at these until blue in the face. Of course I started thinking maybe £200 would get me a nice one. A week down the line & now looking at Sony & Canon ones. The Sony RX100 VII'is somewhere in the £1000+ bracket & the Canon not far off.

So I wondered what anyone savvy on camera's thinks. I do like the look of the medium sized Sony alpha A6600.

I thinks this is going to cost me dearly.

Some must have's. It must have a fold out screen ,which can be forward facing. Must do 4K video for more than a few mins without overheating. Min 1" sensor. Ideally a mic input. Good low light ability. I am sure there is more that I need but at least that lot for a minimum.

Any idea's out there.

Steve.

[old martParticipant @oldmart]

Anything with a viewfinder, then you can see what you are doing in bright sunlight.

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Posted by old mart on 20/05/2020 21:04:15:

Anything with a viewfinder, then you can see what you are doing in bright sunlight.

A huge thank you goes to the 1st reply. Back soon just going to look on ebay for a camera with a viewfinder. . P.S you have not taken your meds today, have you. Or is this the wrong forum for these type of questions. 

Steve.

Edited By Steviegtr on 20/05/2020 21:09:17

[Cornish JackParticipant @cornishjack]

Steve – I could be wrong but I read Old Mart's reply as being sincerely helpful – as would anyone who has tried to use a compact camera in broad daylight. There exists an aphorism about mouths and feet which might be appropriate!

rgds

Bill

Edited By Cornish Jack on 20/05/2020 21:25:54

[old martParticipant @oldmart]

Thanks CJ, I was indeed trying to be helpful. I usually use slr's but also have a Samsung without a viewfinder, and it can be almost impossible to see the screen if the sun is shining on it. That's why I prefer my old Nokia phone to my smartphone.

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Ok. But i was expecting some proper help as in. On 2nd thoughts maybe this is not the right forum. Sorry guys will look elsewhere.

Steve.

[Harry WilkesParticipant @harrywilkes58467]

I have a Panasonic Lumix DMC-*** sorry don't have model number to hand, I love mine maimly used to take pic's for the website I maintain Link

Mines been dragged round many rally field dropped in mud and it still work's fine, but at the end of the day it all depends on your needs if you want point n shot go for the Lumix

H

[clivelParticipant @clivel]

Posted by Harry Wilkes on 20/05/2020 21:57:05:

I have a Panasonic Lumix DMC-*** sorry don't have model number to hand, I love mine maimly used to take pic's for the website I maintain Link

The Micro Four Thirds Compact System Cameras from Panasonic, Olympus etc are considerably smaller and lighter than full-frame SLR style cameras yet offer many of the same benefits – albeit with a smaller sensor.

I bought a second hand Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 a year or so back, now sadly discontinued. For me, it offers the best of all worlds. Excellent image quality, the all-important viewfinder, which as already mentioned by Old Mart is absolutely essential in bright sunlight. interchangeable lenses, a pop-up flash which although I don't use it often is useful for fill-in purposes, all in a compact package that isn't too much of a burden to schlep around when travelling or visiting the track.

The camera came with a 12-32mm zoom lens (equivalent to 24-64mm on 35mm) which serves most of my needs, I supplemented it with a cheap Olympus 40-150 zoom (80-300mm equivalent) for the occasional shot of the jays in the back yard.

I was actually intending to buy a Sony RX100 IV when I went into the shop, while waiting to be served, browsing the trade-ins, I noticed the DMC-GX7. After comparing the two cameras, I was sold on the Panasonic, all of the features of the RX100 IV, plus the ability to accept interchangeable lenses although in a slightly larger and heavier package, which I actually preferred, the Sony RX100 camera although a marvel of modern technology is far too small to hold securely or comfortably, and of course even when new, the DMC-GX7 was considerably cheaper.

Although the DMC-GX7 has been discontinued, you may find old stock or take a look at the Lumix DMC-GX80 which is I believe the replacement.

Clive

[Paul LousickParticipant @paullousick59116]

I have a Lumix DMC-TZ110 and is the 3rd Panasonic that I have owned and very happy with it.

Features include a 25-250 Optical zoom and a 1" optical sensor. and takes 4K video. A single frame of the video can be captured and make an A3 sze print. Heaps of auto or manual modes including apteture priority, speed priority. Burst mode takes a series of shots and chose the one you want later is great to capture action photos. Or post focus and chose the focus length after you have taken the photo.

The price is at the top end for a compact camera but has most of the features of a big camera in a smaller size.

Paul.

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

Posted by Paul Lousick on 21/05/2020 06:41:42:

I have a Lumix DMC-TZ110 and is the 3rd Panasonic that I have owned and very happy with it.

[…]

.

That looks a great balance of features, Paul

MichaelG.

.

.

May I just mention, for the benefit of those reading the ‘macro’ thread, the curious way in which sensor sizes are specified:

Your 1” sensor has dimensions of 12.8 x 9.6 mm

... which should exercise the engineering mind a little.

The explanation is historical, and relates to vidicon tubes !!

Edited By Michael Gilligan on 21/05/2020 07:34:23

[Nick Clarke 3Participant @nickclarke3]

+1 for micro 4/3 – I use an Olympus and the viewfinder was an expensive extra and worth it. It is my holiday camera.

Don't get too hung up on number of pixels – while not denying that full frame is the ultimate for quality I have built up to a Nikon D5 (full frame) through D40x and D200 and I have a D5200 I use for video here as well – all DX format, but for many images the difference is small.

In my personal opinion the tiny sensors in many compacts coupled with insanely high pixel count and over processing in the camera leads to poorer images than those from a camera with a similar sized sensor and fewer pixels.

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

Posted by Nick Clarke 3 on 21/05/2020 09:49:06:

+1 for micro 4/3

.

… and another

I was an ‘early adopter’ and have the Lumix G1

The great attraction, for me, was the very short flange-to-sensor distance; which makes it easy to adapt many classic lenses [retaining infinity focus], and also to use with microscopes, telescopes, etc.

MichaelG.

[Martin ConnellyParticipant @martinconnelly55370]

I have two Panasonics, the latest being a DMC-FZ1000, and could not do without the viewfinder as well as the rear screen. It is however a big lump to cart around. There are a number of reasons a viewfinder is good and bright sunlight is right at the top. Another is stability is easier holding a camera to your eye rather than at arms length. One issue that may not affect you is that I can set the viewfinder to work with my poor old eyes that need reading glasses now. I can pick up the camera and use it without having to go looking for reading glasses if I don't have them with me.

The viewfinder issue (bright sunshine) was important for when my wife needed a replacement for her camera and so she got a Canon PC1586 compact. The viewfinder in this is optical as opposed to a digital screen but still works with the camera zoom to give the correct field of view. I don't know if it is still available. We picked the Canon by going to Jessops, when they still had shops you could walk into, and asked what they had with viewfinders, that is how important it was to us.

Martin C

[robjon44Participant @robjon44]

May I just mention that having owned a LUMIX with both rear screen & viewfinder that for those who wish to use the screen in bright sunlight that there are pop up shades that fold flat when not in use but I found very effective when deployed, spectacle wearer here real PIA if switching between screen & viewer for whatever reason, pop up shade magic.

Bob H

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

Given the choice between an entry level DSLR and this I'd buy one of these:

**LINK**

I tried out the now discontinued P900 and its superb, but still available for about £40.

I use a Nikon bridge and when it dies I will swap to the current or next from current Nikon bridge to get the extra zoom and RAW shooting.

The image stabilisation is excellent.

Neil

[Andrew EvansParticipant @andrewevans67134]

A word of caution, I had an excellent Canon G7X and we got caught in severe weather in the Lake Distrct last year, water got in and it was wrecked.

[Michael GilliganParticipant @michaelgilligan61133]

Posted by Neil Wyatt on 21/05/2020 14:27:41:

Given the choice between an entry level DSLR and this I'd buy one of these:

**LINK**

I tried out the now discontinued P900 and its superb, but still available for about £40.

I use a Nikon bridge and when it dies I will swap to the current or next from current Nikon bridge to get the extra zoom and RAW shooting.

The image stabilisation is excellent.

Neil

.

Are you serious about that price [for a camera listed at £799], Neil

… if so : Please tell me where !!

MichaelG.

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Certainly some food for thought. Mainly the ones mentioned are probably on the large side for something I really wanted as a pocket camera sort of thing. I have checked out all the ones mentioned & must say they are all fantastic camera's. Just a little on the large side. I had looked at the Canon G7X which did fit the bill. But as said by a member it is not very hardy.

I do see what was said originally about a viewfinder & realise it is a must in bright light. (I thought it was a joke). Sorry for the comment I put back.

I think it must be a compact fixed lens camera I need. The bridge camera is smaller than a full size , but still too big.

It is one of those times I think yes it would be great to have a super all singing large camera & a small pocket one too, but that is not possible .

Steve.

[Ed DuffnerParticipant @edduffner79357]

Hi Steve, I don't know what you're looking to spend but how about the Fuji X100V? or something very small, the Nikon A1000?

Ed.

[clivelParticipant @clivel]

Posted by Steviegtr on 21/05/2020 15:42:40:

It is one of those times I think yes it would be great to have a super all singing large camera & a small pocket one too, but that is not possible .

Steve.

Then give serious consideration to the Sony RX100 III, IV or V. For most users there is not an enormous difference to choose between them so base your consideration on price.

The RX100 VI and VII with their 24-200mm (equivalent) zooms are insanely expensive, only for those where money is no object or someone who absolutely needs such a large zoom range in such a minute package.

The Sony RX100 line all share the same pocketable form factor and I doubt that you will find a more capable camera for the size. They are lovely cameras, excellent performers, and as mentioned earlier in this thread, I was all set to purchase one until I came across the Panasonic GX7.

If you do take a look at one, take your time handling it in the shop, for me, I found it actually too small making it difficult to hold, but you might find different.

Clive

[Brian Baker 2Participant @brianbaker2]

Greetings, for a long time, and thousands of pictures, including 3 Model Engineer covers, I used a Panasonic Lumix DMC Fs 16, which I purchased from the Tesco "Chuck out bin" for £50. It was quick & easy to use, and fitted easily into my shirt top pocket. I use it for all ME articles that I have written over the years.

For sailing, I purchased the waterproof version I purchased a Lumix DMC-FT30, and that is just as good.

Finally for "posh" pictures, about 2 years ago, I purchased DMC FS18, which is good, fits in my top pocket, and takes super photos as they happen, "point & click".

I know nothing about Photography, but enjoy taking photographs as they happen.

You pays your money, and takes your choice.

regards

Brian

Edited By Brian Baker 1 on 21/05/2020 18:13:12

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Posted by clivel on 21/05/2020 17:25:15:

Posted by Steviegtr on 21/05/2020 15:42:40:

It is one of those times I think yes it would be great to have a super all singing large camera & a small pocket one too, but that is not possible .

Steve.

Then give serious consideration to the Sony RX100 III, IV or V. For most users there is not an enormous difference to choose between them so base your consideration on price.

The RX100 VI and VII with their 24-200mm (equivalent) zooms are insanely expensive, only for those where money is no object or someone who absolutely needs such a large zoom range in such a minute package.

The Sony RX100 line all share the same pocketable form factor and I doubt that you will find a more capable camera for the size. They are lovely cameras, excellent performers, and as mentioned earlier in this thread, I was all set to purchase one until I came across the Panasonic GX7.

If you do take a look at one, take your time handling it in the shop, for me, I found it actually too small making it difficult to hold, but you might find different.

Clive

Clive I did look at the rx100 series. I have a friend who offered the mark V to me. A lovely camera. The only drawback is, you can only do around 5 mins video in 4k before it overheats. The new version is much better & does not suffer the same. Big but is the price as you say.

Steve.

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

Posted by Ed Duffner on 21/05/2020 16:36:00:

Hi Steve, I don't know what you're looking to spend but how about the Fuji X100V? or something very small, the Nikon A1000?

Ed.

Will look them up. The problem at the moment is you cannot go in the shop & get a feel for them as they are all closed. So mail order only.

Steve.

[SteviegtrParticipant @steviegtr]

As a member remarked to go & see the camera's & decide in the shop. But all the camera shops are closed down. It is mail order only. I have watched revues on youtube , but as some say you get a biased opinion. You watch so many & most of them have a favourite , which is always a different camera. You end up bewildered. One reason I asked on here was because the nature of model engineering would say most would have a camera for the hobby. Will look at some of the models mentioned previously. Not in a great hurry. No holidays anytime soon.

Thanks everyone.

Steve.

[Ex contributorParticipant @mgnbuk]

Mrs B has used a Lumix LX3 for several years, to the point of having worn out some of the controls. Its performance was almost indistinguishable form my Pentax K20D + Sigma 17-70 lense, and in certain conditions (museums, for eaxmple) it produced better pictures with sone of the modes.

We had a look for a replacement & the current version of the LX3 – the LX15 – didn't seem as robust, with a fold-out rear screen. So she went for an LX100 instead. This is not as "automated" as the LX3, with fewer modes, but has a lwider range lense, an EVF & a much bigger sensor. While a bit bigger than the LX3, it is still compact enough for motorcycle use, carried in a Lowepro case on a belt for easy access.

If I can't be bothered to lug the DSLR about I have a Lumix DMC-XS1 – not a patch on the LX100 quality-wise, but compact and light enough to drop into a shirt pocket. And as the old adage has it, the best camera is the one you have with you to be able to take the shot & the XS1 works admirably in that regard.

Nigel B.

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