Canon GP Experiences

[wanda]

I posted in the "Which Camera Should I Buy Forum", but haven't had any replies. I did look at a Canon G9 at our local photography shop yesterday and really liked how it functioned and felt. I'm seriously considering it, but have to make the decision this week.

After doing a little research last night, I see where *some* people are complaining about a lense error message, E18 I believe, and Canon denying that it's an issue and refusing to repair. Thoughts? Any other issues I should be aware of prior to purchase?

[nism]

i've been working in a camera repair place (not doing the repairs though) for close to a year now so i've seen enough E18 lens errors
i'd say 95% of cases are caused by user error. rarely do i see E18s just appear

[wanda]

Darn, I see where I made a typo in my title and can't change the "GP" to G9".

When you say it's usually user error, what do you think they've done...dropped it or something less dramatic?

[JTL]

After doing a little research last night, I see where *some* people are complaining about a lense error message, E18 I believe, and Canon denying that it's an issue and refusing to repair. Thoughts? Any other issues I should be aware of prior to purchase? If this is what your "research" has revealed and that's all you got out of it, then I suggest that you shouldn't even consider a G9 and try to pick up a used Polaroid PDC-5080 instead!!! :D:p:eek::D

[wanda]

If this is what your "research" has revealed and that's all you got out of it, then I suggest that you shouldn't even consider a G9 and try to pick up a used Polaroid PDC-5080 instead!!! :D:p:eek::D

I am asking because I hyave only briefly researched and have no idea if the complaint is valid, or only the case of a very few, loud, disgruntled people. This board appears to have members with knowledge and I was hoping to tap this experience. A quick search of "G9" didn't answer my question.

Now, are you saying that you prefer the Polaroid PDC-5080? I haven't looked at that particular camera. Why do you prefer it?

Editing to add that I just looked at your ...wonderful....recommendation and, unless you've transposed numbers or something, what a piece of junk. What's the deal with you? I posted asking for help.

[JTL]

...and have no idea if the complaint is valid.The complaint is not valid. Your research, if done propererly, should have revealed the the G9 is one of the best cameras available.

And, I was just having a little fun with you regarding the Polaroid...and testing your research skills! :D

[wanda]

I apologize for having misunderstood your response. Thank you for confirmng my impression of the G9, as I did feel that it was an excellent camera and wanted confirmation from someone more knowledgable than myself. I think I will go ahead and purchase, now just have to decide where - online or pay a few more bucks and buy from my local shop.

Thanks again.

[nism]

When you say it's usually user error, what do you think they've done...dropped it or something less dramatic?
yea people drop them, squash them, or get sand/grit in them
highly precise piece of a equipment that really need to be cared for properly

[wanda]

Thanks all - I'm going to buy it and am sure I'll be pleased!

Do you have specific suggestions for care so I can minimize the possible of dust in the lens mechanism? I will handle the camera properly, but won't baby it - ie. it will be going on a beach vacation next week.

[AndyfromVA]

A beach is a dangerous place for a camera. Be sure sand or water don't get into it or you could have serious problems.

Unless you have a waterproof and sandproof case, you may want to consider taking along a watertight bag (like a ziplock freezer bag) and keep your camera and case in there.

[wanda]

Unless you have a waterproof and sandproof case, you may want to consider taking along a watertight bag (like a ziplock freezer bag) and keep your camera and case in there.

Exactly what I do. It stays in a ziplock which is in a fabric bag, unless it's in use.