lowkick Loc: Connecticut

I posted the following in this section about a week ago and came up pretty much empty...

"I have a Canon G1X MII but have issues with it. I have high quality DSLR's that I use most of the time, but bought the G1X MII as a small, light weight grab and go camera. It takes good pictures, but there are a few issues I have with it. My main complaints are the shutter lag, the limited telephoto range of the lens and the fact that it isn't weather resistant. The weather resistance is really a problem for me because I had about 2 drops of light rain hit the G1X MII camera and it created a problem that cost me a lot to get fixed, so I am reticent to take it out if there is even a threat of light rain. The telephoto range is the equivalent of 24-120mm. And the shutter lag, presumably caused by the amount of time it takes the camera to achieve auto focus (yes, I can shoot in manual focus and the shutter lag disappears), drives me crazy. Way too long!"

The responses I got were discouraging. Other than cameras in the $1,200 dollar range and up, there was nothing that fits my needs. I already own a Canon 5D Mark IV and 7D Mark II in addition to the G1X Mark II, so I have good equipment to use, but I just want a relatively inexpensive grab and go camera with fast focus, a superzoom lens, weather sealed and with good IQ. The Lumix FZ300 fits the bill quite nicely, with the exception of the small (1/2.3" 12 MP) sensor. Does anyone have any experience with this camera? How good are the images? Any recommendations on other cameras with similar features in the $400-$600 range?

Thanks, in advance, for your help.

gtilford Loc: Woodstock, Ontario, Canada

I used the camera up until I upgraded to the Panasonic g85 which is almost the identicle camera except you can change lenses. All the menus etc were the same and its the biggest reason I went with the g85. The FZ300 is a great camera as long as you have good light. As soon as you have to increase the ISO to much the pictures degrade quite quickly. This photo was taken in January of this year on a bright day.

Here is the Exif

Make:
Model: DMC-FZ300
Software: Topaz Studio
Date/Time: 2019-01-20 14:36:36
Exposure Time: 1/2000 sec
Exposure Program: Shutter priority
Exposure Bias: 0.33 EV
F Number: F 2.8
Max Aperture: F 2.8
ISO Speed ratings: ISO 200
Flash: Flash did not fire [off]
Focal Length: 108 mm
35mm Equivalent: 600 mm
Metering Mode: Center weighted average
GPS:

Original

(Download)

Cropped

(Download)

lowkick Loc: Connecticut

Thanks for your reply. When I downloaded your photos and blew them up a little, I didn't like what I saw as far as sharpness. I don't know if it was the lens, the sensor or there was some lens shake, but at this point, I have put the purchase on hold until I get more information.

IndyHarold Loc: Indianapolis, Indiana

Retired and 76 and a photo novice at best. I use a Nikon D7000 with a 18-300 zoom and love it. It IS heavy but does a great job. When I go walking about woods or whatever I take my FZ300 and have a great time with it, not only photos but dont forget it shoots 4k video also. $400 bucks I dont think you can go wrong. If you do buy it and get some shooting done let me know please your opinion and have a great day.

Harold in Indy