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Computers & Hardware => Other Technologies & Hardware => Topic started by: sevenlayermuddle on October 19, 2016, 09:14:44 PM

Title: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 19, 2016, 09:14:44 PM
I feel the need for a new camera and, moreover, I have a birthday approaching. :)

The one thing I would like to see, but have never seen on a compact, is full manual focus control.   I want to be able to set the distance in feet, rather than trust it to the camera's sensors.  I also want to set the aperture (iris) to achieve a particular depth of field, for selected focus distance.   

This is not new technology, relatively inexpensive cameras had these features all through the last century, by simple virtue of markings around the lens.  I'm aware that bulky and expensive SLRs might do it, but I don't want bulky and I don't want expensive (say, £200 budget).

Any suggestions for a decent compact that might fulfill my wishes?
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 19, 2016, 10:58:54 PM
One thing you didn't mention is the viewfinder. If you want to be serious about photography you have to have an eye level viewfinder (in my opinion of course). Using the LCD screen on the back as a viewfinder just doesn't do it, for all sorts of reasons.

I have a Panasonic Lumix TZ60 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Panasonic-DMC-TZ60EB-K-Compact-Digital-Sensitivity/dp/B00HO37V4O), which covers just about all my needs and does so very well. It fits in my pocket, so I can take it everywhere. Recommended.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 19, 2016, 11:19:47 PM
Actually Eric, with respect,  I don't entirely agree about viewfinder.

On an SLR the viewfinder is very useful, it shows exactly what will be captured, including focus and depth of field.  On an (old technology) rangefinder, the viewfinder is also useful... There will be some parallax error but at least it shows, with absolute accuracy, the distance to focus.

But on a modern digital compact, I just don't get it.   The LCD shows exactly what will be captured, there is no parallax error but (on all I have seen) depth of field is pot luck, what can a separate viewfinder add to the LCD?   Happy of course, to be educated. :)

Anyways old fashioned SLRs and rangefinders aside, to emphasise... What I hanker after, non negotiable,  is manual focus and manual aperture control with old fashioned depth of field indicators.   That's about it really, don't really know why it is so unreasonable or hard to find?   ???
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 20, 2016, 07:54:23 AM
There are two serious problems with using the LCD as a viewfinder:

1. Holding the camera in front of you greatly increases the likelihood of camera shake, particularly at high zoom levels and in poor light. All modern cameras have shake reduction systems, but these only go so far (equivalent to a few stops' increase in shutter speed).

2. In bright light the LCD is useless.

Concerning manual focus, that's one of the options on the TZ60. It has a large ring round the lens, which can be configured to control manual focus, amongst other things. You won't have depth of field markings on it of course, but these are only of limited use because in reality depth of field depends on other factors, such as eventual printing size (magnification).
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 20, 2016, 08:38:46 AM
Thanks, I'll look at the TZ60.

What I'm really after of course with the aperture control is the ability to choose whether or not the background should be in focus as well as the object I am photographing.  Most compacts seem to just assume that I want everything in the frame to be in best possible focus, whereas of course I don't necessarily want that.

But if the TZ 60 has manual focus, and I am able to also influence exposure conditions so as to influence the aperture opening vs shutter speed, I can probably achieve the effects that I want.

I guess it may just be my eyesight, or maybe my nose is in the wrong place as it seems to get in the way, but I really do prefer the LCD under all conditions, never had a major problem from bright sun.  Being short-sighted, it is very comfortable to use my eyes with glasses removed.

Re camera-shake, you probably know this but I'll mention it anyway... try using the 'delay' function when on long zoom or poor light.    That way you can concentrate on just holding the camera still, as opposed to holding it still and press a button at the same time.  I also tend to try and pin my elbows or shoulders against a wall or similar if possible where shake is a risk, for which the LCD is of course much more convenient.

Thanks again though, the TZ60 certainly sounds like a candidate.   :)
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 20, 2016, 10:26:04 AM
Most of the time I have my camera set to aperture priority with a fairly wide aperture. That suits the type of photography I tend to favour, with a foreground object(s) in sharp focus and a background in receding focus. It's a simple matter of turning a wheel on the top to switch to different modes when I need them.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 20, 2016, 12:55:19 PM
Yes, aperture priority would be a big step towards what I want, none of my previous compacts supported such a setting.  You are definitely selling me on the TZ 60,  I will see if the user manual is downloadable and if so, have a read through it.   :)

The other thing that tempts me, whilst I simply don't want an SLR, would be one of the so called 'bridge' cameras.  The bigger lens and sensor can only be beneficial, especially as I want to be creative with focus depth.  I'll be investigating them too but initial thoughts are they're still quite chunky and the convenience of a compact, that just slips into my pocket, is something I'd really miss.

BTW I just noticed that for some bizarre reason I posted this thread in 'Android and other...'.  I meant to post it in 'Other Technologies & Hardware'.   Unless you think it better to leave it, perhaps you could move it for me?

Thanks for all input.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 20, 2016, 01:16:19 PM
I've got a large expensive DSLR with assorted lenses, but I rarely use it these days because it's so heavy to lug around. Like you, I looked at bridge cameras and had the same feeling about them as you. Once I'd mentally adjusted to the fact that it is possible to get good quality in a compact, I've come to be happy using it for everything.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 20, 2016, 04:28:26 PM
I have now acquired the user manual.   First thing I notice is, if I understand it right, the manual focus seems to be expressed as a coloured segment superimposed on an arc, calibrated from infinity to minimum.  The width of the coloured segment seems to indicate what Panasonic call the "focus range". So I assume the width of that segment varies depending on distance, aperture & zoom, in which case it pretty much equates to the depth of field indicators on lenses from days of old?

It is certainly something I can try for myself if I can find one on display, or probably any similar Panasonic model, that I can have a play with.  :)

But I'm still wavering between bridge & compact.   My old compact (one of the early Panasonic 'zoom' range, a TZ5), whilst lacking much in the way of manual overrides, still works as well as it every did.  So one school of thought is, if I go for a bridge I'll end up with best of both worlds.   So far, early days but sticking with Panasonic, the FZ200 has caught my eye.     Decisions, decisions.   :-\

And thanks for moving the thread.   :)
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 20, 2016, 04:33:46 PM
I think you're right about the manual focus. To be honest, I've never used it. I prefer to use single spot focusing, and focus on a point which I want to be in the centre of focus, before releasing the shutter.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 20, 2016, 05:05:55 PM
A particular incident triggered this obsession with manual focus.   I was trying to take a 'trick' funny shot, with a person some way off holding up their arms, as if supporting an impossibly heavy object in the foreground.  But of course the autofocus would just focus on either the person or the object, leaving the other in soft focus, spoiling the effect.  What I wanted was to focus on the fresh air in the middle, so both person and object were in similar, if imperfect,  focus.

It also annoyed me on my recent trip to the Hebrides, aboard the ferry.  Weather was foul so we were tucked up inside the observation lounge but there were actually some pretty good views through the windows, streaming rain and all.  Unfortunately the camera insisted on focusing on the raindrops on the window glass rather than the turbulent seas and distant scenery that I wanted.  Maybe modern cameras are better.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: 4candles on October 22, 2016, 05:12:15 AM
What I wanted was to focus on the fresh air in the middle, so both person and object were in similar, if imperfect,  focus.

I've been having similar thoughts, particularly getting foreground and background in focus in landscapes, since recently acquiring a Canon EOS 100D.

Two things have been incredibly useful in this respect. One is reading about hyperfocal distance (http://www.amateurphotographer.co.uk/technique/camera_skills/mastering-hyperfocal-distance-56978), and the other is an Android app - Focus Assistant Pro (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mbognar.focus_assistant_pro&hl=en_GB).

Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 22, 2016, 08:42:03 AM
That's useful input, and a good read.   I can think of other times in the past I could have used that App.  Not just for trick shots either, as you point out.

It certainly inclines me towards making sure I get a camera that can use it, or similar. I guess that means WiFi which excludes the Panasonic FZ200  - it's an older model with no WiFi but then that's why it's cheaper.

May I ask, are you happy with the Canon?  Must admit the more I read on the subject, the farther up the price range I am heading.   I'm now looking at SLRs, even though I always said I didn't want one, simply because I'm beginning to understand the benefits of larger sensors when it comes to depth of field control.  But then I lose out on the pocket-sized super zoom lenses of compact or bridge, and probably lose out on cost too.

The last time I put so much effort into camera research, I managed to find one at an affordable price with full manual controls, that was capable of near-professional results.  I was 14 years and it cost just a few weeks pocket money....

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zorki_4

 :)


Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: parkdale on October 22, 2016, 10:34:10 AM
Looking at your desired spec you could consider a range finder like this one

http://www.techradar.com/reviews/cameras-and-camcorders/cameras/digital-slrs-hybrids/panasonic-gx80-gx85-1318254/review
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: aesmith on October 22, 2016, 11:01:12 AM
I'm in a similar boat, looking for a half decent camera which will fit in a coat pocket but have manual controls for both exposure and focus.  I keep looking and then giving up as everything seems to only have fancy automation, and it's quite difficult to even find what manual controls are available.  My benchmark is my existing Canon A710is, now too unreliable which is the reason for replacement.   That Panasonic actually looks like it might do the trick - it's slightly longer but thinner and narrower, and all the technical parameters seem to be better than the Canon.   I don't need or want 20 megapixels, nor do I need such a long zoom, and it costs more than I was hoping to pay.   

By the way, what's the relevance of WIFI on the camera?  I thought that was just for file transfer, but does it also link into apps like that focus assistant?
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: 4candles on October 22, 2016, 04:53:39 PM
@7LM


Yes, I'm very happy with the 100D. For a semi-serious amateur on a limited budget, it seems a good compromise, taking into account quality, facilities, affordability and portability. I'm very pleased witht the results so far with the 18-55mm (28·8 - 88 in 35mm film terms) kit lens, and I'm enjoying the creative opportunities using a polarising filter and 10 stop ND filter. It's claimed to be the smallest dSLR on the market.


It may be quite a while before I decide which, if any, additional lens(es) to add, but it's good to know the option is there. I think I'd be frustrated with a bridge, just knowing that it wasn't possible.


Just to clarify: the 100D has no Wifi or bluetooth, but can apparently take Eye-fi (http://www.expertreviews.co.uk/digital-cameras/53282/eye-fi-mobi-review) SD cards. I use the Focus Assistant app, which doesn't need net access, separately on an Android phone.


Ah, the Zorki - I remember the name well. For many years I used its stablemate, the Zenit E, and my first graduation from a Brownie 127 was the Cosmic 35. Those Ruskie cameras were amazing value - am I right in thinking they were so cheap because they were heavily state subsidised?
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: parkdale on October 22, 2016, 05:05:50 PM
My mates got the Fuji xt-1 ... the wifi can upload your daily photo shoot when you get home :)
So you don't need to connect the camera to the computer directly!
The main reason he got the Fuji was no mirror to flip up therefore less front to back, less weight than SLR of similar spec.
Pics are razor sharp, attached is pic from same week that he bought it, but to low res to see but it's ok original was 3.2Mb.


Edit better pic
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: licquorice on October 22, 2016, 05:51:39 PM
Definitely a second recommendation for the TZ60. Been more than happy with mine.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 22, 2016, 06:35:39 PM
Thanks for all suggestions and comments.  I've been away on a long day out, just got back, car returned to garage, sat back, switched off and poured myself a beer.   :)

I'll be properly following all recommendations and suggestions tomorrow as well as making sure I understand whether or not I need WiFi on my wish list, sounds like it was a rushed assumption I made there.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: aesmith on October 23, 2016, 11:08:42 AM
Just been checking out the Panasonic and it seems there's a new model TZ70, which gains by having a better viewfinder, and also gains (in my opinion) from 12 megapixel instead of 18.  Loses the GPS but still has wireless.  Other aspects seem similar if not identical.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 23, 2016, 05:09:44 PM
Sorry for this long essay, largely thinking aloud, I am trying to ensure I respond to all the various comments and suggestions people have helpfully made....

I think I am beginning too get better understanding, and nearing a decision.  If there's anything anybody thinks I have got anything wrong please speak out! :D

First, I don't think there is going to be any way with a compact camera to achieve the focus (&defocus) depth of field control that I remember from that old Zorki 4 of my youth, reason being the small sensors.   So far as I can ascertain, in relation to Depth of field, an f2.8 lens on a compact is akin to f16 on a 35mm, whereas my old Zorki went all the way out to f2.   :(

DSLR cameras tend to have much bigger sensors, similar in size to 35mm negative.  Thus they are capable of similar DoF effects to a 35mm camera.  But I really want the long zoom lenses that come with compacts which are not that practical with full size sensors  as they would be massive, and would probably cost more than my entire pension pot.

While the suggestion of rangefinder-style Panasonic GX 80 did catch my attention, I think the same logic applies - sensor too big to work with (cheap) long zoom lenses.

So I am reluctantly prioritising (cheap) zooms over sensor size.  Nevertheless, whilst accepting that depth of field effects effects will be very limited with a small sensor, they'll be even more limited with a small sensor and a small aperture.  For that reason, I'm now gravitating strongly towards Bridges, as they tend to have larger lenses.  Strongly considering either the four year old Panasonic FZ200 or maybe FZ330 which is a bit more recent.  Both benefit from an f2.8 lens that stays at f2.8 all the way to full zoom.   

I am further reasoning that, even apart from my obsession with Depth of Field, the benefit of f2.8 at long zooms should be that more light gets in, which should allow a faster shutter speed, hence more forgiving of camera shake?

For a tempting 20% or so on top of price over the FZ330, I can get to the FZ1000.  FZ1000 has a mere 16x zoom vs 24x, but I could live with that.   More impressive, in relation to my DoF obsession, it has a 1 inch sensor, more than twice the size, which ought to be a big improvement. But it still falls short of a full size sensor, still no match for that old 1970s Zorki, and is getting on for 3 times my original budget. So I think I may show some restraint, and stick with the 330 as best compromise.

Regarding  the extra bulk of bridge (or even SLR) vs compact, I'm reasoning that (1) I still have my old compact, eight year old Panasonic TZ5 and (2) mobile phone cameras have reached the point of being almost adequate sometimes and continue to improve.  So even though there'll times when I can't be bothered to take the bigger camera with me,  I'd still have a compact alternative.

Regarding viewfinders, despite my scepticism, all cameras on my shortlist have decent (I think) viewfinders, just in case I change my mind on that score.   :)

Regarding WiFi and Focus-Assistant App...   Panasonic cameras that have WiFi can be remotely controlled by a smartphone App, which may or may not be useful, I have yet to assess.  I jumped to the conclusion that Focus Assistant App used the same technology but of course that is not the case, I think it is a stand-alone App.  It looks good but does not seem to be available for iOS, which is disappointing for me, as all my existing phones & tablets are Apple.  :(

Thanks again for all inspirational input.   :)
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 23, 2016, 06:41:32 PM
I'm struggling to understand the image stabilisation status of the FZ200/330. The spec appears to say that it's for video only, although I find that hard to believe.

Other than that, those two cameras look very enticing. Regarding zoom range, my own choice will always be for the largest range I can get, because my biggest interest is wildlife photography, and wildlife tends to be distant.

PS You've made my credit card start to twitch. :oldman:
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 23, 2016, 07:20:14 PM
I'm struggling to understand the image stabilisation status of the FZ200/330. The spec appears to say that it's for video only, although I find that hard to believe.

I'd not noticed that, but I have poured over several good reviews by respectable magazines, and don't remember any of them mentioning it as a criticism.   I'm assuming it does have stabilisation, but will report back if I see anything to the contrary.

One diffference with the 330 Btw is it is meant to be more weather resistant.  If I'd no seen that in the specs I'd not have worried about it as I've always found a way (with common sense) to use non weather resistant cameras even in rain.   I think I'm going to disregard it as irrelevant. ???

Trouble with credit cards is, it's not mine, this was meant to be a birthday gift.   That's why going way over-budget becomes all the more embarrassing, butt I'm still sorely tempted by the FZ1000.   Even though it has a shorter zoom, the bigger sensor might be tolerant of the (ssshhh, unmentionable) digital zoom in addition to optical?
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 26, 2016, 06:56:39 PM
Had a play with an fz1000 in John Lewis today and pretty much sold on it.    It's a bit of a monster in size, and seemed to be completely covered in mysterious buttons and dials, but I'll enjoy figuring them all out that and at least it's the opposite extreme from the dumbed down entry-level compacts, that I moaned about when I started this thread.

Roseway may be pleased to hear I really liked the viewfinder.   Looking at the user manual I see it has diopter adjustment too, I missed that in the shop, but may like it even more when I go back for another play  ;)

Only trouble is, nobody, not a single retailer, has any in stock, and it's been that way for months.   Deliveries are promised to resume in November, with priority for back orders,  I think I'm going to do so, cross my fingers, and wait.  :(
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: Dray on October 26, 2016, 07:46:42 PM
Currys have limited stock
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 26, 2016, 08:05:48 PM
Currys have limited stock

I noticed at least one of the online shopping search sites said that, but their own website simply says "out of stock".

Rumour has it a Japanese earthquake earlier this year hit production of the sensors used in these cameras.  That crisis has long passed but, for whatever reason, it appears Panasonic have not yet resumed shipments.   

I spoke to panasoinic myself and they confirmed there had been problems, but they confirmed that they planned to resume shipments next month, prioritising retailers who had placed back orders.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: tbailey2 on October 26, 2016, 11:35:18 PM
Personally I now used a SONY NEX-7, much, much smaller than the Panasonic, higher resolution (6000 x 4000px max), has interchangeable lenses and is about the same price if not cheaper. I have several lenses, with the 16-50mm Power Zoom lens it drops in a pocket easily. Electronic viewfinder with diopter adjust and viewfinder is on the far left so use right eye and your nose doesn't hit the LCD screen which tilts out 90deg if you want.

I had a Panasonic like the  FZ1000 but way too bulky to carry around. Certainly the SONY is one hell of a lot smaller and lighter than the Canon 5D Mk III I used to use!

This photo (https://www.mydslwebstats.co.uk/images/Supercharger Day Liphook Aug 6 2016.jpg) is straight out of the camera at a car event I was at  in August (mine is nearest the camera).
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: roseway on October 27, 2016, 08:16:25 AM
All this talk about cameras has persuaded me to dig out my Nikon D7000 which I haven't used for a while because of its weight. And I find that it's packed up. :(  So now I have to decide whether to get it repaired (quite expensive), buy a new body (more expensive) or accept that I'm not likely to use it much any way, and stick with a high-end compact. Decisions, decisions...
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: broadstairs on October 27, 2016, 08:37:55 AM
Having just returned from a short holiday I have read this with interest. I have a Pentax DSLR and currently use that with a Sigma 18-200 zoom which does most of what I need most of the time, I also have a Sigma 150-500 (somewhat LARGE=HEAVY lens) for some wildlife and aircraft photography and a smaller Pentax 50-300 for closer work. Bear in mind that this DSLR has an APS-C sized sensor which means those zone ranges are more like 1.4 times when compared to 35mm. I'd love a new Pentax full frame DSLR  ;)  :no:

Now my wife has a really small compact, a Panasonic DMC-LF1 which is tiny compared to my DSLR, has Wi-Fi and a viewfinder with dioptre adjustment and a whole range of features which she never goes near! However it takes beautiful photos and she has a great eye as well which is probably why she often gets better shots than me  :-[  :'(  >:( If you are after small and light then take a look at the LF1. Cant say it will fit all the requirements  for 7lm but might be worth a look.

Stuart
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 27, 2016, 09:07:58 AM
@Tony & Stuart, thanks for these latest suggestions.   Both fascinating cameras that look very tempting, and that I'd not included in my 'research'. :)

But so far, my heart's still set on the TZ1000.   I've narrowed down my priority list to

1) Decent aperture and good zoom from a single, sensible sized, lens (Panasonic has 25-400 equiv.).
2) Larger than basic sensor (Panasonic has 1").

One other contender would be Sony RX10.   I played briefly with one yesterday and have to admit it felt better built, with broadly similar spec, but I'm still not swayed.

@Roseway, I dug out my old Zorki 4 earlier this week.  Whilst I don't intend to actually put a film in it, it appears to be working perfectly.  :P
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: tbailey2 on October 27, 2016, 09:28:55 AM
The SONY has an APS-C sensor (23.4mm) which is slightly larger than the Panasonic's I believe and also manual focus if you need it...
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 27, 2016, 09:52:43 AM
The SONY an APS-C sensor (23.4mm) which is slightly larger than the Panasonic's I believe and also manual focus if you need it...

Yes I noticed the sensor, that's what makes it so tempting to me.   But I think it's more like twice the size, which means lenses with equivalent zooms will also be larger.  A 1" sensor seems to strike the compromise I am after, vs the 1/2.3 that's so common in compacts.

Btw, my decision time (placing an order) is almost upon me.   If anybody subsequently manages, in the intervening weeks leading to delivery, to persuade me I've made the wrong choice, don't expect me to be too grateful... :D

One more thing I'll confess.   I've got around to whittling down the photos from our recent Hebridean tour, the best of the bunch straightened and corrcted and on the server.   All taken on our 8 year old, very basic, pretty cheap compact, TZ5.   Viewed on the big 55" telly, even close up, it's hard to imagine they could be any better with any other camera. :-[
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: tbailey2 on October 27, 2016, 10:43:15 AM
The SONY APS-C sensor is 23.4 mm which is about an inch (which is 25.4 mm), not twice the size of the Panasonic which also has a one inch sensor - but with ~20% less pixels!
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 27, 2016, 11:16:36 AM
The SONY APS-C sensor is 23.4 mm which is about an inch (which is 25.4 mm), not twice the size of the Panasonic which also has a one inch sensor - but with ~20% less pixels!

You could be forgiven for thinking that a 1" sensor might be about an inch, in one of its dimensions. But in the past week of self-teaching I've learned that's not the case, the Panasonic 1" sensor is 13.2 x 8.8 mm.   Apparently the sizes quoted go back to the size of the vacuum tubes that contained the sensors, when people first started thinking about this kind of technology in relation to early TV cameras.   You can see why I miss my old Zorki 4 (mechanical film camera) technology.   :D
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: tbailey2 on October 27, 2016, 12:32:49 PM
I imagine you could query that under the Trade Descriptions Act. I'd be back to the shop with it pronto for a refund if I'd bought it as having a 1" sensor. Even Panasonic's own web site spec describes it very badly as having a LARGE 1" sensor.... DPReview has the much smaller figure you quote but doesn't query it despite also saying it's 1".

I have a 1" sensor but it is about four times the area of the one you are looking at (well if you could see it that is)! Just imagine if the ISPs started describing broadband speeds with that sort of disparity/error/inaccuracy. Oh I forgot, they already do.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 27, 2016, 01:16:49 PM
In fairness I think it is correctly written as "1 inch type sensor", which does give a clue.   But as I simply want a sensor that's in between pocket compact (usually defined as 1/2.3") and APS-C, I think that Panasonic suits me, no matter what they call it.
Title: Re: Compact Camera recomendations
Post by: sevenlayermuddle on October 28, 2016, 04:56:51 PM
Fz1000 now on order. 

The only last minute concern was I discovered the minimum aperture for still photos is limited to f/8.  This seems to be a purely software limitation.  Discussions on various forums point out that it corresponds to the 'diffraction limit' for the sensor size.

'Diffraction limit' is not a term I had previously heard of but apparently, if I understand right, it is an inescapable physical limit that varies with sensor size, and applies to all lenses, beyond which image quality will deteriorate at small apertures.   Even if that is the case I'd rather have had the choice to use smaller apertures in situations where top-notch quality wasn't critical, but I wanted extra depth of field, or I wanted an extra-slow shutter speed.   Disappointing and annoying but, I decided, not a show-stopper.   :)