Fuji S5200 VS FZ30 VS FZ50

[d_techie]

hi guys, this is my first thread in this forum...I live in Indonesia...

right now i already have a Fuji s5200, but I'm tempted to buy a used Pana FZ 30 or Fz 50. I already read that Pana have noise issue...but despite the noise, is the result sharper than the Fuji?

So if I have to add $100 to trade my used s5200 to used FZ30, would it be worthed? Please help...thanx

[P_Schneider]

Judging by the output of the Panys I would say not worth it to upgrade. While they have a lot going for them the noise in the final product just isn't worth it. Just my opinion of course.

[AlexMonro]

The main difference of the Panasonic cameras is that they have Optical Image Stabilisation. However, this is only really useful when taking handheld shots of static subjects at longer zoom lengths.

If you're interested in these types of pictures, e.g. birds sitting on nests, architectural details etc., then the FZ30 / FZ50 may be a worthwhile upgrade for you.

The other significant difference is the higher pixel count, which could permit larger prints - say 11 x 14 instead of 8 x 10, in good light.

Unless you have a use for the OIS, you might do better upgrading to a used Fuji S9000 series - you'd get more pixels, high ISO, and be able to use your current xD cards and AA batteries / charger.

[d_techie]

I dont have any specific use for this camera...so I prefer something that has better all round performace...I very rarely print my photo result...
so, is the fuji's performance in low light condition is much better from the pana?
I never use IS, so I dont know whether I need it or not...I already have a Manfrotto tripod though

[AlexMonro]

If it's low light ability that you're interested in, then the Fuji S6000 might be the thing for you, especially if you're not interested in big prints - ISO to 3200, 28-300mm equiv zoom. True, that's a little shorter at the long end than the S5200 - if you find you often need full zoom, then the S9x00 gives you room to crop.

The 28mm equiv wide end of any of these might give you more options for composition in general photography.