Still looking for a long zoom camera
Jul 16, 2015 06:39:57 #
I have read many test reports on the so-called long zoom cameras and I am still in the middle of it. Recognizing the limitations of the 2/3" sensors versus a full frame DSLR, I am leaning towards the Sony HX300 simply because I believe the Leitz lenses are optically superior; at this point, Wi-Fi is not a requirement but RAW image capture is, which is a strike against the Sony. That leaves the Canon SX60 HS which now features both Wi-Fi and RAW but with reportedly lower picture quality.
I would like to have some input as to any experience with these two cameras as it relates to the quality of their images at the long zoom range.
Your comments will be appreciated.
I would like to have some input as to any experience with these two cameras as it relates to the quality of their images at the long zoom range.
Your comments will be appreciated.
Jul 16, 2015 06:51:45 #
I have both the sony hx100v 30x, and the hx300 50x. I like the 100v better. if raw is a must then canon's the one. which ever one you choose, there will be quirks to deal with. there will be no perfection in operation.
Jul 16, 2015 06:52:45 #
lukan
Loc: Chicago, IL
Julian wrote:
I have read many test reports on the so-called lon... (show quote)
On these "super-zoom" cameras, it's the sensor more than the lens that will affect the image quality. Shooting in RAW definitely helps image adjustability in post processing, but it isn't the live-all, end-all. I personally value speed of operation very high on the list: If it takes 5 seconds to get the camera started and zoomed out, my shot is most likely already gone, so the long zoom is useless. Lumix, Canon, Sony, Nikon (P900) and Olympus all have excellent models. It really depends on which one you like to handle and the exact features that you're looking for in a long zoom. :-D
Jul 16, 2015 06:54:02 #
fhuhman
Loc: Jefferson City, MO
I have the HX300 and get very good pics out to about 200 mm. At 300 images are OK, but not sharp you really need to use a tripod at full zoom.
Jul 16, 2015 07:17:32 #
I bought the SX60 and really did not like it so onsold it. It felt too light and flimsy and at the 60 times zoom range it needed a tripod . Image quality was good but it didnt feel like a real camera. I sold it to an American man who was on our bus tour in European his SX50 was packing in and he loves it.
Jul 16, 2015 07:27:26 #
Donkas1946
Loc: Southern NH
I still say that dollar for dollar a canon sx50 refurb beats them all!
lukan wrote:
On these "super-zoom" cameras, it's the ... (show quote)
Jul 16, 2015 07:35:49 #
Jul 16, 2015 07:37:18 #
Adicus wrote:
I bought the SX60 and really did not like it so onsold . It felt too light and flimsy and at the 60 times zoom range it needed a tripod
I tend to agree with you. I went to Best Buy and held one in my hands: certainly flimsy.
Jul 16, 2015 07:38:46 #
Donkas1946 wrote:
I still say that dollar for dollar a canon sx50 refurb beats them all!
I seems to be the general opinion; even better than the newer SX60 in image quality.
Jul 16, 2015 10:53:57 #
Julian wrote:
I have read many test reports on the so-called lon... (show quote)
Sony uses Zeiss lenses. Panasonic uses Leica lenses. Have you considered the Panasonic FZ200. With the FZ300 coming soon the price of the FZ200 has come down.
Jul 16, 2015 11:56:03 #
Julian wrote:
I got a Pentax Q7 after I struggled with this dilemma. It's 1/1.7 sensor is larger than on the SX-50, but using the standard zoom from my DSLR with an adapter gives me the equivalent of a 1400 mm lens (yes, I use a walking-stick / monopod for provide stability at those lengths). I do have to manually focus the lens, but I often found myself doing that with distant subjects when using the lens on BIT (Bird In Tree) with my DSLR.I have read many test reports on the so-called lon... (show quote)
Jul 16, 2015 17:24:57 #
Julian wrote:
I have read many test reports on the so-called lon... (show quote)
Picture worth a thousand words.
Pic. taken through a window from 25 feet away and cropped twice with the SX60.
Purple Finch/Canon SX 60
Jul 16, 2015 17:49:22 #
The Sony HX300's image of a Male House Finch taken at 20 feet (with no cropping). Not having Raw is not a problem for the Sensor or the Exmor image processor on this camera. The HX400 has an even more powerful image processor. It's the same that is used on their full frame camera's. Oh...Sony uses German designed Zeiss lenses, not Leitz. Good Luck Julian...it's a tough decision, but these searches can be fun and enlightening too.
Jul 16, 2015 18:01:56 #
rehess wrote:
I took the following pictures when I was learning to use this system. I used PP to straighten the pictures, and then had to crop 15%-25% of each picture to square it off again. I also used PP to increase contrast and saturation. I eventually decided that my 1980's lens wasn't up to the task, and bought a new Sigma 70-300mm lens, but by then Spring was here, and the birds were no longer responding to the "bribe" provided by the feeder.I got a Pentax Q7 after I struggled with this dilemma. It's 1/1.7 sensor is larger than on the SX-50, but using the standard zoom from my DSLR with an adapter gives me the equivalent of a 1400 mm lens (yes, I use a walking-stick / monopod for provide stability at those lengths). I do have to manually focus the lens, but I often found myself doing that with distant subjects when using the lens on BIT (Bird In Tree) with my DSLR.
Jul 17, 2015 06:09:53 #
billnikon
Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont
I own a Sony DSC- HX400V. Has a Carl Zeiss 24-1200 lens. The attached photo was taken hand held at 1200 into a strong wind. This shot is as good as my Nikon 300mm 2.8 could deliver. But then again, I could not get that close to this American Kestrel with a 300. And, of course, it was shot in jepg. So I guess it is not as sharp as RAW, you think!
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.