FD_Paul
Member
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
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
Registered User
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 (;->
B2 (;->
squirrel$$$bandit
Veteran
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
Member
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.
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
Shaken, so blurred
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
Well-known
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
Registered User
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 (;->
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
Moderator
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
Veteran
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
... likes film again.
As Al said . Pick up a nice Canon7 or P + a 35/2.0 and you are set. 
FD_Paul
Member
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
Member
Mike - I'd be interested in how you find the 35 f/2's quality on the 5D.
Prosaic™
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Prosaic™
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FD_Paul
Member
Thanks for all of the great ideas guys. My decision is now harder - but much better informed.
Paul
Paul
Ken Ford
Refuses to suffer fools
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...
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
Well-known
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.
(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
Refuses to suffer fools
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
Member
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
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