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the GF wants a camera saying that my Nikon digi thing isn't up to the job. and i quite like the idea of carry a decent camera with me when up in the hill.
are these Cannon G series really the best camera you can buy before you start having to lug around SLRs?
are there any bargins to had online?
cheers
Seeing the state of your last camera I would suggest a toughened model!
Between 'normal' compacts and SLRs there are 'bridge' cameras (like the canon but many other makes are available) and then the compact system cameras that are like really small SLRs.
Depends what you want really, doesn't it? Better pictures, but better in what way? For bridge cameras I fancy the Olympus XZ-1, purely on the basis of the review 🙂
Micro four-thirds cameras (or similar) are the best camera you can buy before moving up to SLR size.
Olympus PEN or Panasonic G series.
G series are good, but also have a look at the S100; its basically the same camera but without the hotshoe or optical viewfinder so considerably more pocketable.
Otherwise the LX5 is considered very good as well.
are these Cannon G series really the best camera you can buy before you start having to lug around SLRs?
no. the olympus and panasonic micro 4/3 are better imho.
The downside of the micro 4/3 type is that whilst significantly better than a bridge camera in terms of quality, the lenses are less versatile. To cover the same range of zoom and wide angle (and macro too) that you get in bridge cameras you'd need at least two if not three micro 4/3 lenses.
Plus micro 4/3 are small and light but still an awkward shape which means that you need a bigger bag to put them in. Unless you get a prime lens, but then you won't be able to zoom in and out at all.
If you are considering the Canon G series, take a look at the Nikon P7100. Seriously nice camera, bit newer than the G12 with some better features (longer lens for example) and some not so good features (not as versatile swivel screen).
If you aren't fussed about swapping lenses then I would look at the new Canon G1X for what seems like it will be very good bang for buck.
Sensor size is, for all intents and purposes, the same size as a APS-C DSLR which will do wonders for image quality compared to a compact. Handling will also be very good. Not a huge zoom range, but enough for most 'normal' photography.
Add the Fujifilm X10 to that as well. Another large sensor compact (although not as big as the G1X) which will take great photos.
I would look at the new Canon G1X
me too...looks really good.
Hmmm, yeah that Canon looks pretty nice.
Expensive though...
I have a G series, and find it easier to lug my SLR around when on foot, as it has a shoulder strap. I take the G when out on the bike, but it has to go in my backpack as it is too heavy & big to put in a quick access pocket. This is why I've just bought a little p&s for those quick take a photo moments.
As above, take a look at the Canon S100, and find out what your GF wants (SLR, 4/3, Lenses, Viewfinder, etc). Take her to a camera shop so she can find one that's most comfortable.
I have to say though, the quality of the images taken by my G is extremely good. It is also built very well and has a dent in the metal casing (no idea how), and has been in a few bike crashes too.
Get one of those Fujifilms that can shoot 1,000fps video and take high speed videos of stuff.. anything, everything 🙂