DSLR user looking for a change ...

[FD_Paul]

I'm a Canon 5D user with L lenses looking for a smaller camera for holidays etc.

I've narrowed it down to the likes of the LX3, and G11, but I'm also intrigued with micro 4/3 as I have some legacy glass that I'd like to use again.

My dilemma is that I keep stumbling across new options, such as the Olympus 4/3 units right down to the new Powershot S90. Even some of the Superzooms look interesting (although I generally prefer wide shooting).

I like the idea of video - one less camera to carry on holiday - but I'm more interested in IQ and performance (having been spoiled by DSLRs).

I have fond memories of simpler times with Canon 35mm and rangefinder bodies, so I'm a sucker for manual dials and viewfinders - but I'm open minded enough to know that some change may be required on my part (despite my failing eyes).

I think I've covered most of the obvious options (I can't afford the M8) but would value any additional thoughts.

Thanks,

Paul

 

[BillBingham2]

If you are looking for a great camera to put in your pocket (shirt or pants) I'd recommend a Ricoh GRD any version (I, II, or III). They are small, easy handling, fast and produce great results. They have a prime lens (about a 28mm on an 35mm camera) that rocks, the III has a faster lens (f1.9).

B2 (;->

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

The LX3 is my compact, and I really like it. But I'd wait a few days/weeks and see how the G11 images look--perhaps their new sensor is a winner.

 

[FD_Paul]

Thanks for the ideas. The Ricoh looks interesting - right up there with my current thoughts.

I have a couple of months before I absolutely have to make a decision (up and coming holiday), and anticipate one or two more new models to consider before then.

 

[mfunnell]

I'm a Canon 5D user with L lenses looking for a smaller camera for holidays etc.

I guess that depends on how small "small" is. I find a Canon 5D and 2 prime lenses (50mm/f1.2L and 35mm/f2) pack away quite nicely in a small (but, I'll admit it, man-bag-looking) pouch, which is easy enough to carry everywhere. A small(ish) film camera rounds things out (my current and inexpensive favourite is my Olympus mjuII/Stylus Epic).

...Mike

 

[Matus]

You may want to have a look at the Canon S90 that has the same sensor as the G11 in much smaller package with faster lens (F/2 at 28mm). It is coming out together with the G11.

 

[BillBingham2]

Sigma might be another option but I think at a higher price. Not sure about the handling.

All the review of the M4/3 lenses I've seen have not been of the level I would want to change, though I am open to it. The Ricoh primes have all been mighty fine for several years. I had the analog (film based) R1 years back and it's lens was great. All of the GR analog series of camera has one great lens after another.

B2 (;->

 

[f16sunshine]

The LX3 is a champ for a wide option at 24mm f2 equivelent. Use it with a External vf and manual focus preset. This setup makes a great street or snapshot cam. Warning about any of the wide compacts. Flash use is finicky if not difficult. The flash is just too close to the lens in a comact. The LX3 especially.

 

[Al Kaplan]

Maybe it's time to consider returning to your first love and pick up a Canon lens and rangefinder body. You can still buy film.

 

[maddoc]

As Al said . Pick up a nice Canon7 or P + a 35/2.0 and you are set. 🙂

 

[FD_Paul]

As Al said . Pick up a nice Canon7 or P + a 35/2.0 and you are set. 🙂

Don't get me wrong on this - I do miss the cameras, but not the expense and hassle of film. I'm afraid there's no going back for me now ... (I feel like Darth Vader).

 

[FD_Paul]

I guess that depends on how small "small" is. I find a Canon 5D and 2 prime lenses (50mm/f1.2L and 35mm/f2) pack away quite nicely in a small (but, I'll admit it, man-bag-looking) pouch, which is easy enough to carry everywhere. A small(ish) film camera rounds things out (my current and inexpensive favourite is my Olympus mjuII/Stylus Epic).

...Mike

Mike - I'd be interested in how you find the 35 f/2's quality on the 5D.

 

[Prosaic™]

I'm a Canon 5D user with L lenses looking for a smaller camera for holidays etc.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canoneos1000d/

 

[Prosaic™]

I'm a Canon 5D user with L lenses looking for a smaller camera for holidays etc.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canoneos1000d/

 

[FD_Paul]

Thanks for all of the great ideas guys. My decision is now harder - but much better informed.

Paul

 

[Ken Ford]

Paul, I've been looking for a digital supplement to my DSLRs, too - I think I'm going to go with the G11 if the low light performance is as stated. Of course, as soon as I do that Nikon will release a Micro 4/3 system that will clean the G11's clock - but sometimes you have to say "good enough".

I know I'm missing shooting opportunities now because I don't carry my Leica gear unless I plan to shoot and the DSLR bag is too much to hump around on a daily basis. Although I have considered a D40 with a small prime...

 

[newspaperguy]

I took the cautious step with a minimum investment in a used Canon G-5.

(Same battery, same charger, software, etc.)

With some small mods, it's a very freeing experience...

Yes, I do use it like a rangefinder.

 

[Ken Ford]

Rick, that's my goal, too - a OVF (or even EVF) point and shoot that can be used like a RF. The G11 is getting really close, add a VF to a GRDIII or the rumored Lumix GF1 and it'd likely be perfect.

 

[FD_Paul]

and the winner is ...

and the winner is ...

An almost innocuous response from Bill (above) lead me down a path I had not thought to tread, and I've ended up taking the plunge on the new Ricoh GR Digital III.

Thanks to all.

Paul