Digital Cameras / Panasonic Lumix DMC or Fuji FinePix S ranges?

Question

I have been reviewing the specs on the Fuji Finepix S5000, S6500 and S9500 along with the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ5, FZ20 and FZ30 - Ignoring the price differneces in these cameras can anyone advise which is best, even personal opinion, I would like to know what users think rather than the companies who make them ! ! - One the most important factors is image stability as I can shake sometimes ! !

Answer 1

well-
Unless you're thinking about the larger FZ30 or FZ50, you're looking at an electronic zoom, rather than a manual one. A manual zoom, IMHO is much preferable- and the Fuji's have it.

Also the zoom range difference is a big one for me. I take a lot more shots at 28mm than anything over 200mm. If you are a bird watcher- then perhaps that 432mm zoom of the Panasonics will come in handy, but for everyday shooting- the 28-300mm Fuji range seems a lot more useful than the 36-432 of the Panny. (35-420 for the FZ30/50.)

As for Image Stabilization-IS is a great feature...but: The 2-3 stops that it buys you, are the same 2-3 stops better high ISO noise performance that you'll get from the Fuji. So- you'll be able to freeze action, and not just hand shake with the fuji. Might make a difference if you're trying to capture sports action- especially indoors.

For me- the Fuji. Hands down.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/fujifilms6000fd/page14.asp

Panny FZ8
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicfz8/page17.asp

Answer 2

I have just bought a fuji s9600. I had a s5000 before and loved it so much. I only got a new one because of the better macro lens on it. I've taken the s5000 all around the world with me. The only downside to it and I think 99% of digital cameras is taking pics of fast moving things like wildlife. Theres always a pause as it downloads the pic and when actually taking the pic. I have pics of lots of half animals! Lol! Read lots of reviews and write down the pros and cons of each. Also go into shops and pick them up and see how they feel. Hope this helps

Answer 3

FZ30 is the better of the group, i know is a hard task looking for a new camera, i'm on the same quest myself, caught between the TZ1 and the FZ7, but the thing with cameras is that there is not perfect camera, so you have to look at what you want form the camera, i need a good zoom, so i'm looking at 10x optical zoom camera, but they are bulky and have noise at high zoom. Best advice, look at the reviews and then ask yourself what you need form a camera.
Also the Panasonic's can reduce the shaking problem.

Answer 4

I'm going to weigh in on the Side of the fuji's here. My two friends withthe Panasonics complain about the noise in their photos. I have the Fuji 9100(and i'm ready to trade it in for the new model!) the 5200, and an older 2800 which still serves well for lower resolution pics i can stitch together(when i use a tripod). If your on a tight Purse string, find someone selling the 5200/5600, or wait for the 5700(about 4 weeks off). If the $$ doesn't matter, get a 6000 series or 9000 series!

Answer 5

Hi there,

I just bought a FZ7. Zoom mechanism is the same of FZ30 and FZ50, only those have brighter optics (bigger lens diameter...)

Image stabilization is perfect, even at 432mm (maximum real zoom). Only problems:

1 - there is visible image noise at high ASA values (i.e. in low light)

2 - Macro photos can only be taken starting at around 30cm - not really for small things or details.

Apart from that, a great camera!

You can make some online comparisons at sites like pixmania.com or dpreview.com... in this last one, you can see sample images of most current cameras.

Have fun!

Answer 6

Panasonic's Lumix Cameras have high rated Mega OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) technology that moves lens to opposite way to reduce bluring and also HIGH ISO is the best way to take a picture in dark area without using flash. Also VENUS ENGINE 1,2,3 and LEICA LENS are the things that makes Panasonics cameras best.

Answer 7

In most professional review sites, the Panasonic Image Stabilization is highly rated. It is a gyroscope based system that physically moves the sensor to compensate for camera shake.

Fugi does not use a physical IS system. They use a better, lower noise, high ISO system with faster shutter speeds to fight camera shake. (Panasonic's have more digital noise in the pics.)

Given your comments about shaking, the Panasonic FZ30 might be the best for you.

Good Luck

Answer 8

I'm a panasonic fan, it started with the fz10 then fz20 and
now Ive got the fz30. the thing i like the best is the leica
lens with its 12x optical capability.