rogerl Loc: UK (Harrogate, North Yorkshire)

We have Nikon D200 + 80-400 VR (for wildlife) & Nikon D90 + 18-200 (my wife's for general photography but I borrow it occasionally). However, neck problems preclude carrying these for general use so I have a P & S. I started with Panasonic DMC-ZX1 (12.1MP + 8 x optical zoom) with which I was very happy (now keep it in the car). I won a Nikon Coolpix S9300 (16Mp + 18 x zoom) in a photo competition. I fell in love with both the enhanced MP and, particularly, the zoom (which I thought might act as backup for wildlife). However, the Coolpix is driving me mad! Its selection dial has a habit of slipping off Auto onto Effects - & the only 'effect' is 'Soft', i.e. out of focus. The problem is - inevitably - that I don't notice the slippage when I whip it out to capture something.; I'm also not sure about its general colour ("proper" spelling!) rendering.

My wife said - "why not get one you're happy with?" I'm tempted and would value your views. Price isn't critical. I'm tempted back to Panasonic because of the Leica lens & would like 'good' MP (I've just given five A1 canvas prints to my local Bridge Club) + a good zoom. Adding a viewfinder (wife won't use P & S 'cos she can't cope without a viewfinder) would be nice but would probably add too much to the cost for little extra utility.

Many thanks in advance for your advice.

gwong1 Loc: Tampa, FL

Rogerl, Sorry to hear of your neck problems. My wife has the same camera and at times the dial does change. You can use the menu to select high key as the default. Suggestion, have you tried to carry your DSLR on a monopod? Tae camera is mounted and should be easy to carry. Good Luck, Gary

jazz7 Loc: Toronto

There are many quality compacts out there now and I've tried a few. But my favorite and one that goes everywhere with me is the Sony RX100 - the IQ is outstanding, the build of the camera is solid and although I was worried that it had no EVF I find the screen bright and clear, even on a sunny day. I recommend it unreservedly, it isn't cheap, but I think it's worth it. Good Luck!

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

A photographer friend recently showed me his new P&S, and he apologized for raving about it so much. It was a Leica with a powerful zoom, and it took great pictures. OK, I found it. See below.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/578316-USA/Leica_18352_D_LUX_4_Digital_Camera.html

I believe this is actually a Panasonic with the Leica name. Anyway, it's something to consider.

By the way, it's going to be tough finding a P&S with a viewfinder.

rogerl Loc: UK (Harrogate, North Yorkshire)

Thank you both for suggestions - Sony RX100 (3.6 x zoom) & Leica D LUX 4 (2.5x zoom). I've now looked at both &, unless I'm misreading the specs, they each have only a modest optical zoom. I've grown very fond of the large zoom. However, the lenses on each look stunning.

D0r1neK Loc: Connecticut

I love my Panasonic Lumix DMC ZS20. For a point and shoot takes awesome pics. Use when I can't use my d7000. On vacation on the dunes there was too much sand blowing around and used the Lumix and pics looked great .

farnsworth52 Loc: W. Pa.

I have a Canon SX 260 HS and carry it everywhere. Its 20x and has more bells and whistles than I think anyone could use all the time. It takes great pics and it has a lens cover built in so I don't scratch it. I tossed this around about a year ago and haven't been dissappointed with my choise ever

sirlensalot Loc: Arizona

Panasonic makes some great P&S cameras. Maybe you would like to step up to a bridge camera? The older FZ150 got great reviews. Don't know how the newer 200 model is doing. They are both I believe classified as super-zooms. There are many in the FH series that do a good job and are smaller.
Canon has their Powershot series, Nikon their Coolpix. If Panasonic makes you happy, would stick with that brand. It is usually easier to transition into a newer model of the same brand. Good luck.

anotherview Loc: California

Consider the Canon S100 or its upgrade, the S110.

GDRoth Loc: Southeast Michigan USA

If you want a viewfinder, look at the Fuji X10.........great little camera

grumpeegit Loc: Bridgend, Wales, U.K.

I use a Nikon Coolpix S8200 as my point and shoot, i really can't fault it. It certainly gives my Sony DSLR a run for its money.

Wabbit Loc: Arizona Desert

Hey Doc ..... you know of course it's easier to pick a automobile than a camera ..... because you're talking zooms I suggest you look at the Panasonic DMC-FZ200

hdp26 Loc: Upstate NY

I use my Nikon D5000 with all the toys as my choice for most of what I like to take pictures of but there are times that I pick up my older Olympus SP-550U "bridge" camera when I want a smaller, lighter camera that can do what my D5000 can except for the sensor size and interchangable lenses. The problem for me is that I also kayak and sail and ski and snorkel and be just outdoors alot in questionable weather......but stil like to be able to take pictures. So, I have just ordered a new camera to add to the stable. I have an Olympus TG-1 with the optional telephto lens coming in a few days. Now I will have a camera that can go where I go and still have that chance to get that picture. Bottom line is if the camera meets your needs, than that is the camera for you.

seeingwhatis

I also like the Fuji x-10.. Not 100% coverage on the viewfinder, but with use you easily figure the limitations. Fast sharp lens. F2.0- 2.8 all the way through wide- tele. Smallish and well built.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

It seems to be uncommon for the viewfinder to have 100% coverage. I wonder why that is. :?: