P&S Camera Search

[ejud]

Hi!

I am looking to get a new P&S camera.

I currently have, and have had for years, an Olympus C-740 Ultra Zoom and I LOVE this camera but there are three matters that are driving me to replace it.

First requirement is the super zoom- 10X or better- as anyone who has had this will know, once you have it, you cannot live without it!

Next among my concerns is SHARPNESS of image. Without going to a full DSLR (and lenses), I still want that razor sharp imagery that is the hallmark of such cameras. I have learned that in digital cameras that is not completely a matter of the lens, but also of the sensor and at least one of the new P&S's is using the larger CMOS sensor normally reserved for the DSLR.

Third concern is shutter lag: I don't want it! So minimal shutter lag is a major factor.

Fourth is video capability. Since most are now very strong in the field, I do require HD, though will settle for 780 versus 1080, and ability to run as long as I want, as opposed to the ten second clips that my C-740 has. Sound is secondary as I usually overlay a separate soundtrack anyway and am also planning on getting a separate sound recorder for those times when I do want a 'real' soundtrack. http://www.ionaudio.com/palmtrack

Behind these matters is size, feel, and a strong preference for power via rechargeable Double A's, 2 or 4. One of the ones I am looking at runs Double A's, but will not function (reportedly) on rechargeables!

The five I am looking at at the moment are, in no particular order:

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35
Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
Nikon Coolpix P90
Olympus SP-590 Ultra Zoom
Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR

I would like feedback on any of these by people who have actually used them- and copies of any shots that show incredible sharpness if applicable!

Super Zoom
Sharpness
Lack of Shutter Lag
Video capability
Power source
Overall feel, ease of operation, controls.

Thanks for any feedback!



Jud

 

[Frantasmic]

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35
Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
Nikon Coolpix P90
Olympus SP-590 Ultra Zoom
Fujifilm FinePix S200EXR


Here's how I would rank your list, based solely on reviews I've personally seen:

Lumix
Canon
Fujifilm
Olympus
Nikon


I'd add the Sony HV5X to the mix. It is new and has received good reviews.

I think with any P and S, your biggest challenge, of the qualities you are desiring, will be sharpness of image and shutter lag. With the ultra-zooms, their low-light auto focus can be constrained.

I'd review online reviews (like CNET and Popular Photography) and narrow your choice down to 3 and then handle each and see if you can take pictures at the store. All will probably do a decent job in good light. The low light is where the image quality may suffer and the shutter lag will be apparent.

I took my Canon S5 to a scout campfire last weekend and it took forever to take pictures because it could focus very well much past dusk.