Compact Cameras

[Milan]

I currently use a Nikon D50 with an 18-70 Nikkor and a Sigma 75-300 with the occaisional outing for my 24mm Nikkor. This lot can be a little cumbersome to carry around when out with the family.

What I am looking for is a reasonably good compact with a fair optical zoom range that is easy to carry for those short and spontaneous trips where I do not want to be burdoned with the SLR.

I was looking at eithe the Panasonic DCM-TMZ3?? or the Canon Powershot G7 or G9. I am generally taing shots more for memory that art. I prefer to stay digital for the convenience it offers and would like to use a camera that takes SD cards as does the SLR.

Budget would be around $500 - $600 AUD (200 to 250 UKP)

What advice or suggestions from you guys that are for more knowledgable than me.

 

[SeanyP]

I've had a quick play with the G9 and it seems really good. A friend of mine has bought one as an alternative to carrying around a bag full of Nikon gear and he rates it very highly. Here's one of his first shots with it http://www.flickr.com/photos/snapperz/2142238372/

 

[Martin M]

I bought a compact camera as anything else is pretty much an irrelevance for my ability and tolerence for lugging unnecessary stuff around. Anyway, I've got a G7. This was bought as it felt the most solid, least toy-like of the cameras I could be bothered to look at and would fit in my coat pocket. Pictures seem fit for pupose and camera seems reliable.

 

[cliffpatte]

Lumix FX55? has the advantage of allowing you to shoot RAW. The LX2 (based on the Leica D-Lux) is a bit pricier an also supports 16:9 or 3:2 or 4:3 aspect.