macct
11-01-2005, 06:15 AM
I am looking to compliment my Panasonic FX9. Its a cool little camera for everyday convenience, but I would really like to also have a camera better suited for indoor family shots, kid sports and detailed macro work (jewelry). I would like to have better control of settings and ultimately higher quality shots. Most pictures will be 4x6, but I would probably also go up to 8x10 on a fairly regular basis. Would a 4x3 lense setup be less ideal given most shots would be 4x6?
I think the FZ30 may be a real good choice for me. I like the lense range and the all-in-one packaging. I also like the idea of having manual zoom like a SLR. I realize the noise level is hotly debated, but it still may be an excellent choice for me.
If noise becomes an issue, how easy is Noise Reduction software to use? Do you use it in addition to the Lumix software? Can it be integrated? Do you have to edit every single photo or can do a whole series at a time? Does it automatically adjust or calibrate? Does it save the original so you can compare? Will using software be primarily for high ISO and low light shots? ( I have used the search function, but couldn't find something detailing the ease of use.)
Other than the FZ30, I am looking at the Nikon D50 and Minolta 5d. I am leaning towards the Nikon, but really wonder if its more camera than I need or want. I know I won't outgrow it, but its a lot more expensive and less convenient than the FZ30 (lense changes, sensor cleaning, etc) . In terms of the DSLR, I know its the better choice if my interest continues to develop, but I just don'y know. I would also prefer having an everyday, zoom lens, but the advice is so contradictory (18-200, 18-125?) versus smaller ranges. I have ruled out the Canon Rebel XT (just not comfirtable in my hand) and the Olympus E500 (several ittle things).
I think the FZ30 may be a real good choice for me. I like the lense range and the all-in-one packaging. I also like the idea of having manual zoom like a SLR. I realize the noise level is hotly debated, but it still may be an excellent choice for me.
If noise becomes an issue, how easy is Noise Reduction software to use? Do you use it in addition to the Lumix software? Can it be integrated? Do you have to edit every single photo or can do a whole series at a time? Does it automatically adjust or calibrate? Does it save the original so you can compare? Will using software be primarily for high ISO and low light shots? ( I have used the search function, but couldn't find something detailing the ease of use.)
Other than the FZ30, I am looking at the Nikon D50 and Minolta 5d. I am leaning towards the Nikon, but really wonder if its more camera than I need or want. I know I won't outgrow it, but its a lot more expensive and less convenient than the FZ30 (lense changes, sensor cleaning, etc) . In terms of the DSLR, I know its the better choice if my interest continues to develop, but I just don'y know. I would also prefer having an everyday, zoom lens, but the advice is so contradictory (18-200, 18-125?) versus smaller ranges. I have ruled out the Canon Rebel XT (just not comfirtable in my hand) and the Olympus E500 (several ittle things).