Yes, Virginia, You Really Can Get Bokeh from a Small Sensor Compact...

[ellisson]

Just picked up one of these XZ-1 cameras and I'm finding it loads of fun in a pocketable package. Its easy to use (I like how they organized the menus and buttons), fast to operate, and the lens is sweet. On those days when I can't or don't want to carry around more expensive, finer stuff and camera bags, this Oly fills the niche quite well.

I'm guessing the minimum aperture of f8 is about all I'll need, but wonder if this limit is just a function of small lens design when the maximum aperture is f1.8. When I look in the lens from the front, I don't even see the aperture change, yet the field of focus definitely changes as expected.

 

[rbelyell]

i echo all the positive comments on this oly. i also had the xz2 which produced similarly. for me personally, the absence of a vf, and thus my having to use an external one, ruined the user experience for me. obviously that is very subjective, but for many it is a real issue.

i still wanted a small big producing compact, and solved the vf problem with the fuji x10. it has the same fl range coupled w a slightly higher aperture range of 2-2.8. ive found i can shoot it in low light to 1600. sharpness, color, b&w nuance and 'bokeh' are very pleasing. i tried the x20 but really didnt like the results from the xtrans sensor 'upgrade', so i reaquired an x10 for a tad over $100! anyway, not my intention to in any way hijack the thread. the oly is a great camera, but for those who want a vf, take a look at the x10.
tony

 

[NickTrop]

i echo all the positive comments on this oly. i also had the xz2 which produced similarly. for me personally, the absence of a vf, and thus my having to use an external one, ruined the user experience for me. obviously that is very subjective, but for many it is a real issue.

i still wanted a small big producing compact, and solved the vf problem with the fuji x10. it has the same fl range coupled w a slightly higher aperture range of 2-2.8. ive found i can shoot it in low light to 1600. sharpness, color, b&w nuance and 'bokeh' are very pleasing. i tried the x20 but really didnt like the results from the xtrans sensor 'upgrade', so i reaquired an x10 for a tad over $100! anyway, not my intention to in any way hijack the thread. the oly is a great camera, but for those who want a vf, take a look at the x10.
tony

Not hijacking the thread at all... Appreciate the input. Yes, the external vf is a concession. I'd prefer one. However, it's a concession I'm willing to make for size and cost. I've contemplated getting one, but ultimately decided against it.

The Fuji you cite is excellent, but I don't consider it in the same class of camera as the Oly. I posted this thread to point out an overlooked budget camera that, for the money on the used market, (for me less than $100 US) is pretty hard to beat.

 

[rbelyell]

yes nick i agree. as an fyi i did pay about $100 as well for my used x10. but take nothing from the oly, it is a great performer, is wholly overlooked, and can be had very cheaply.

 

[Trius]

I just read through this thread ... dammit!