Often, the differences between "recommended" and "highly recommended" are so small that it would take bench equipment to detect the differences, and I agree, the comments of the pro evaluators can be less than useful.Steve1960 wrote:Having made two horrible badly researched purchases of cheap digital cameras in the last 12 months I am going for third time lucky.
Any enthusiasts out there who would offer a recommendation?
I am not looking for a DSLR, more a higher end compact zoom camera. Wish list GPS, WiFi, decent optical zoom and decent size image sensor.
Considering the Sony HX20V.
I'd take the following approach, were it I. First, I'd pick a camera with the largest sensor I could comfortably afford/carry. Bigger sensors mean better low light performance and higher "film speeds" possible.
Next, the best sensor and digitizing algorithms aint worth squat if the lens compromises performance. Two things I'd look for are resolving capability and lens speed. My experience with Panasonic Leica lenses has been very good. Fast lens speed, aka, a big aperture, is a must for any kind of high speed, action photography.
Then, I'd start the horsetrading against other features. You'll probably eliminate 90 percent of the target possibilities with your two requirements. What you have left is it.