Hexar AF vs Fuji GA645

[msbarnes]

OK, so maybe this is an awful comparison but I'm looking for a 35mm focal length point and shoot. I'm torn between the two.

-I like small(ish) and quit(ish) cameras because I don't like to walk around looking like a photographer.
-I take mostly candid pictures of people that I know, so stealth isn't a priority but smaller/quieter cameras are more welcoming, in my opinion.
-I like good image quality and nice bokeh/tonality; maximum resolution isn't so important to me.

The main pro of the Fuji to me is the larger negative while the main pro of the Hexar is that the lens is faster and body smaller size (I assume that this is so, as I have never handled either).

I have 35mm FL rangefinders and 120 folders, but all of them are at the standard focal length; I want something wider and easier to use (auto-exposure/focus).

Between the two:
-How is the durability?
-How loud/quite are these cameras?
-How does their size compare? I couldn't find a direct comparison. It seems that Fuji's lens doesn't stick out as far since it is collapsible.
-How is the auto-focus and auto-exposure accuracy? They both seem adequate.
-How is the ergonomics? It seems that the Fuji works or doesn't work on people but not many complaints with the Hexar asides from its size.

It seems to me that the Hexar Af is a camera that everyone must try. lol. The fuji seems great, but it isn't that popular. I'm leaning towards the Hexar because it seems like a better candid snapper but the negative size of the fuji is so tempting.

 

[ChrisN]

I have a GA645, but have not used the Hexar AF.

-How is the durability? - Mine's been good, but I use all cameras with care.

-How loud/quite are these cameras? Shutter is quiet but the AF does make a little noise. You can pre-focus in manual focus mode.

-How does their size compare? I'd say the GA645 is considerably bigger.

-How is the auto-focus and auto-exposure accuracy? Both excellent on the GA 645.

-How is the ergonomics? ... Biggest issue for many is that the GA645, held normally, is shooting in portrait format. I don't find that a problem at all. Carry is similar in the hand, and either will fit easily into a shoulder bag or similar (I like a Newsear small press belt pouch for the GA645).

Image quality and Tonality - medium format beats 35mm hands-down. The GA645 is a big camera, but the results are always pleasing, especially if you develop and scan, or darkroom print the negs yourself. You have to try one at some stage to see if the quality of the results justifies the small disadvantages in the camera compared to a 35mm camera.