Panasonic FZ3/ Canon S1 IS/ Olympus 765

[creativeramblings]

I've narrowed my choices to the Pana FZ3, Canon S1 IS and Olymus 765 that are in a similar price range for the long zoom. Which of those 3 would be best for quality of photo in long zoom, perhaps without tripod, perhaps low light conditions? The wildlife I like to shoot usually reveal themselves after hikes (small and light is good) in either the distance or evening (low light). Even after reading the specs, I'm not clear on which would have the sharpest image for smaller prints (8x10 or less) under those conditions. These are obviously not 'professional' wildlife photographs, but I would like the best possible sharpness for a small and light camera.

[Thon]

I've narrowed my choices to the Pana FZ3, Canon S1 IS and Olymus 765 that are in a similar price range for the long zoom. Which of those 3 would be best for quality of photo in long zoom, perhaps without tripod, perhaps low light conditions? The wildlife I like to shoot usually reveal themselves after hikes (small and light is good) in either the distance or evening (low light). Even after reading the specs, I'm not clear on which would have the sharpest image for smaller prints (8x10 or less) under those conditions. These are obviously not 'professional' wildlife photographs, but I would like the best possible sharpness for a small and light camera.


For this type of photography, only the Panasonic FZs have any real chance. Even though I love my C770UZ (similar to C765UZ), I must admit that low light photography by hand is not its strongest point.

However, I cannot tell you for sure that the FZ3 can actually be able to perform in the really low light situations. IS can only help so much. In the really low light situations, even IS can't do much to correct camera shake.

The best way is to get a tripod or monopod or learn how the best techniques for stable shooting.

I'll only recommend the C770/765UZ twins only if size is an issue and you want a camera that takes good pics. The FZ3 sacrifices some of the controls and features its bigger siblings have to get its smaller size. Maybe the bigger FZ10/15/20 will be better for you rather than the FZ3 or the others listed.

[propwash]

I think that of the three you mentioned, the FZ3 should be the best for low light situations. It will maintain its f2.8 aperture all the way out to 12x zoom. The optical stabilization will also be of benefit. It is really pertty close in zize to the Olympus.