FZ200 VS Nikon D5100

Buzz Lightyear wrote:

I've had my FZ200 for 3 months now. It's taken me a while to learn the best settings for consistent image quality, but I am often amazed at what great photos this camera takes -- in spite of what some people criticize as its "pin-head" sensor. While it may outperform other cameras in its class (see DPReview's just posted review on the FZ200!), I also understand its limitations, especially with regard to high ISO, low-light situations when matched against something like a larger APS-C sensor type camera. Wanting to enlarge my photographic options, I decided to buy a DSLR as a second "tool". I recently picked up a used Nikon D5100 (with the 18-55mm kit lens) and have been using it this past week. Now the D5100 is, according to reviews, supposed to be a very capable "consumer/enthusiast" DSLR camera. It incorporates the same sensor as the Nikon pro-level D7000 -- which is somewhere in the neighborhood of 10-15 times larger than my FZ200 -- so I have been anxiously testing its capabilities to see how it compares to some of my best FZ200 photos. I have not had the opportunity to use the Nikon in low-light/high ISO situations yet, so my comparisons so far just involve shots taken in good, outdoor light -- where the FZ200 performs best anyway. That being a given -- I am still amazed how well the FZ200 images hold up against the mighty Nikon! I am admittedly still learning how to use the Nikon, but I am posting below two representative shots of what I consider the best samples of both cameras:

FZ200

D5100

Now what is interesting, is that the FZ200 photo was actually a long exposure, taken in a low light condition - while the D5100 shot was taken obviously in full sunlight. To me, the detail and fine resolution between the two images is equivalent. Based on what I was expecting from a mid-size DSLR, I have already been surprised (perhaps even a bit disappointed) that the Nikon IQ isn't necesssarily better just because of its larger sensor. I'm sure there are many more challenges I have yet to put the Nikon through to really test its full capabilities, but this past week has shown me what a wonderful camera I have in the FZ200. While the FZ200 lacks some of the extended range of aperture and shutter features that come with the D5100, it is a much easier camera to set up and shoot. The menus are much simpler to call up and navigate. The D5100's video output is, however, a disappointment compared the the FZ200 -- and I'm not even referring to the FZ200's high speed feature. I've not met a DSLR yet that can match the video capabilities of even a Sony or Panasonic bridge camera.

I am not saying that I am disappointed with my D5100. I've already seen what a great camera it really is and I am looking forward to using more of its capabilities. What this past week has shown me, however, is that I am fortunate to also own a Panasonic FZ200. Now I really understand why DPReview has given it a "Gold" award! I am a happy camper. (But also a bit poorer...this photography bug can get expensive!).