If you've ended up here on NODSLR's you are obviously a camera junkie. Chances are that you have also read The Online Photographers Camera of the year 2009. If not, click here and read it.
I am a bit surprised that only one larger DSLR cameras were on the list. Amazing. I'd say proof that the camera world is anxious to embrace non DSLR cameras. As I read the story, I can say I related to all of the stories and reasons given.
In my last post, I shared some of the cameras that I thought stood out and made an impact in 2009. Today, I share my thoughts on a feature that I think could change small and serious cameras. I am talking about the programable lens ring on the Canon S90is.
When I first read about this feature back at the release of the Canon G11 and S90is, I thought it was a little hokey. In fact, I remember thinking it was a gimmick. However, after just a little bit of use, I think it is a stand out feature. In fact, I think it could be the stand out "feature" of any camera released in 2009.
I recently sold my beloved Panasonic LX3. I sold it for various reasons but shortly after selling it, I found myself still wishing to have a true small camera. I considered buying another LX3 as I've frequently stated that I took more "good" pictures with the LX3 than any camera I have ever owned. It is that good. But....Because I am a gear guy, I decided to pick up a Canon S90IS.
Why did I pick an S90IS over purchasing another LX3?
- Price - The S90IS is significantly (to me) cheaper than the Panasonic LX3. Although prices have been dropping quickly on the LX3.
- No hotshoe - I don't need it and those features on the top of the LX3 make it just a tad cumbersome to remove from my pocket or pack while doing other activities.
- Try something new - I fiddled with it a bit at the store and quickly found that the S90IS is really well thought out and functional.
So....After a few hundred shots, here is my initial preview of the Canon S90IS
- Lens ring - I love the lens ring. Canon nailed it with this feature. I shoot in A mode and use the lens ring for exposure compensation. I love this because it's winter here in MN right now and I can quickly adjust the exposure even with large and warm gloves on. Even with gloves it's easy to turn, control and set for my desired exposure.
- Simply an awesome little camera. I'm still getting used the menu and controls as I was really dialed with the LX3's toggle button and menu system.
- Size is incredible and I truly take it with me everywhere with zero penalty.
- Image quality - I've only shot at ISO 80 and 100 but have found with the bright lens, I like it. I've only shot JPEG because if I want a specific image or need a really high quality image, I carry my other camera.
- I miss the dynamic black and white setting of the Panasonic LX3. Sure I can pretty much duplicate that look and feel, but Panasonic has the setting dialed. I find I don't shoot black and white with the small Canon.
- I wish it had just a bit more grip. I'm going to try a custom Franiec grip and anticipate that will solve my problem. I just want a bit more grip as I often grab my camera from my bag while riding or hiking and want just a little extra firmness and contact for the "grab".
- I'm still adjusting to the top zoom control.
- Dynamic Range doesn't feel quite as good as the Panasonic. I'm not getting much out of playing with saturation, clarity or other adjustments in Lightroom. It's pretty good though right out of the camera and I don't need to adjust much.
So...There is the initial preview. After a 1000 shots or so I will do a bit more of a review. Here is one of my favorite shots I've taken with the S90is. Had I not had this camera I would have missed this shot altogether. I got this shot because I threw it in my pocket.
Stay tuned this week. I will be outlining some changes later this week to the NoDSLR's site.
Canon S90is,