Alashisan Loc: Arizona

It is a marvelous tool. Having the hybrid finder is really nice, and indispensable for macros—the old parallax demon (unless you use live view which I rarely ever use). Well, I will use live view for most macros if the sun’s not too bright. But when my face goes to the viewfinder, the back turns off, and I’m in my comfort zone again.

It's light, and quick to focus, and my shots are rarely blurred. It’s quicker than the previous X100 (which I also have), just better all around. As for weight, I have no problems with blur when I do a proper hold on it, and the results are sharper than my Sony or even my 7D. Since I started out with a single focal length lens many years ago, the single FL doesn't bother me, and I've shot two weddings exclusively with it. It just works! Its fun to use, and it always gets questions from people (older especially--like me), because it looks like an vintage rangefinder. People have wondered why I'm still using film, till they see the LCD screen. I like it a lot.

In low light, I've had no issues. In fact, it's pretty clean. I have DSLR Nikons and Oly models too; I'm an equal opportunity camera user and will use whatever works or suits my mood. Somedays I feel like a Fuji, other days I feel like the 7D or my very fun SL1. For portraits, I often grab my 1Ds2, but it sits on a tripod, so I don’t mind it. I don’t carry that around anymore, and never will. They all provide good results, but the X100s is the easiest to carry about and it’s a joy to use. It does however take awhile to get used to the menu system.

Mark L

Sold! Very helpful information, thanks much. I don't using mind a single FL either, I often do it on purpose when doing personal shooting to force myself to zoom with my feet. I just hope the camera doesn't have all those P,S,A,M settings - too confusing ;)

Alashisan Loc: Arizona

Well...they do have PSAM and TB! Yet, on this camera, not confusing at all. :mrgreen: But, the dials are very clean indeed. However, hidden in the menus are those very straightforward shooting modes—and nuthin’ else. No funky scene modes, etc. I guess they figure you're smart enough to set up your operations properly. Of course, they have panorama too, and that did wonders in the church for me. They have more options than you can shake a stick at though, and all of them useful--nothing frivolous. The quick menu mode is very useful, and I use that the most. You've probably downloaded the X100s PDF file; if not, you owe it to yourself to be amazed.

Mark L

I've just downloaded the PDF and will have fun going through it all. Thanks.

Alashisan Loc: Arizona

It'll make you drool, but remember, it's only a camera...or is it?


:lol: :lol: :lol:

shepferg

It sounds like sharpness and resolution will be your main concerns -- unlike a sports or event photographer who's most concerned about stopping action and shooting spontaneously and fast. First, get a couple of really great lenses, the first should be a 50mm macro. Two, buy a great tripod and learn how to use it (they're cumbersome) because it will give you rock steady photos. Three, buy a full frame camera because you will need to be closer to rather than farther from your subject. You may be able to find a Nikon D3 used at a good price. The D800 will stand you in good stead for the next ten or fifteen years.

Mark L

...and.... cue the werewolf howl

:lol:

CrowMagnumMan Loc: NE Pennsylvania

Really? You can be a professional photographer with a disposable camera?

donrich Loc: Abilene, Tx

First, I'd find out which camera system she likes best and has lenses for. If she shoots Nikon a 1DX is going to either disapoint her or cost her money buying new lenses and vice/versa.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

But keep in mind how exciting it would be to get rid of all her old lenses and getting(or having dear old DAD), a whole wheelbarrow full of shiney new Canon lenses!! :lol:
SS

Don L G

The old, old, saying is it is 20% equipment and 80% master Pro.