Conpact trip camera: size a major factor.

[Warthog]

I have toyed with a few ideas regarding cameras over the last year.

I have a D-SLR, 2 SLRs, and a compact digital:a Canon Powershot 710 IS . Realistically, I would take both digitals on our next trip.

As a replacement for the compact, I recently thought about one of the new cameras with HD video capability, but I'd also value any input on simply physically small cameras: the "fit in the top pocket without making me look like like I have one D cup breast" type...

So: smaller the better, but musts include decent image quality, decent battery life, decent robustness. on top of that the wider the angle on the lens, the faster the lens, and the better the zoom, the better...
If it happens to have HD, fantastic!!

So suggestions?

[Bobduro]

Hi Warthog,

We've been considering the same thing. I've already got a Nikon D40 SLR which is a great combination of size and performance, but we needed something that could fit in a top pocket, shoot high quality stills and even video (720p HD).

We settled on the Canon IXUS 120 IS. It's 12.1MP and according the marketing spiel is the most compact wide-angled (28mm) camera on the market. It has 4x optical zoom.

It takes great pictures, is really small, feels sturdy (it doesn't have the touch screen of others which on our trip would be just one more thing to go wrong) and importantly for us uses HDSC cards meaning it's interchangeable with the SLR.

Highly recommended.

[motoreiter]

I would check out the Panasonic LX3 and GF1, both great little cameras.

[Warthog]

Originally Posted by motoreiter

I would check out the Panasonic LX3 and GF1, both great little cameras.

Can't find the LX3 in dpreview and the GF1 looks like it costs more than my bike!!

[Toyark]

I have a Nikon Coolpix S6 FS at silly price if you are interested!

[photographicsafaris]

Hey Warthog:

The LX3 whilst awesome is a little short on the long end, being 24-60mm in 35mm equivalent focal length.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Review: 1. Introduction: Digital Photography Review

I still am thoroughly under the impression that the GF1 is the solution.
on your person with the 20mm lens and the other lenses close by, a one camera setup.

G

[jeanied1]

Hi guys,

Has anyone tried the Panasonic Lumix?

I too am looking for a reasonably-priced digital camera that fits snugly in a riding jacket pocket and takes high-quality pictures. There are adverts all over the TV here in Oz at the moment for the Lumix - it looks good...and unbreakable!! Has anyone tried and tested one??

Jeanie

[Bjorn]

Originally Posted by motoreiter

I would check out the Panasonic LX3 and GF1, both great little cameras.

+1

Much better than the Canon Pwershot G9/G10... I had a G9, and found it VERY annoying that the "lens cap shutter thingy" actually scratched the front element of my lens when it was a bt cramped inside the tankpag. It's too close to the actual front lens. Very happy with the LX3 now, and would also consider a GF1.

[Sirakor]

I am also very happy with the LX3. Having said that, the LX5 is just around the corner, and it has even a tad more zoom. If the lens is as good as on the LX3, it could become a truely amazing camera.

If you're in the market for a more all-round type of camera (and slightly more budget too), I think this is a good read (and the reason why I posted in this thread just now):

'Compact Super Zoom' Camera Group Test (Q2 2010) Review: 1. Introduction: Digital Photography Review