The whole idea of doing this is to provide the means so that people
can see the photos for themselves and decide which they prefer.
I won't want to even dare to attempt talking about photo quality
and the more technical aspects of digital photography as I simply
can't. I'm hoping the more advanced photographers will pens some
lines to help out in this department.
Howerver, I can provide personal first impressions and experiences
after using both cameras straight out of the box.
There's definately pros and cons in both cameras in differing
categories.
Without repeating the obvious, these are some of the 'not so
obvious' ones after having used both cameras:
Color accuracy - Some readers have expressed that they prefer the
more 'natural' colors of the FZ5 and find the Sony having a 'red'
tone. At times, I have to agree that the FZ5's color is more
'accurate' for example the water in the pool was really turquoise
and not as blue as shown in H1 photos. Then there's the question of
so, forget the color, which looks better to you anyway? We'll just
take that one, thanks.
Focusing - One thing I've learned about their focusing abilities is
that in some situations, the FZ5 focuses noticably faster than the
H1. In others, they are the same. Yet again, depending on the
subject distance and zoom range, the FZ5's funky focusing
'requirements' can make focusing impossible.
M-Mode - Manual controls in the FZ5 is a pain compared to the H1.
Panasonic needs to improve in this department.
Zoom rocker - On the position of the zoom rocker, personally I much
prefer where the zoom toggle rocker is positioned on the FZ5 as you
have 3 other fingers and a thumb to grip. I can effectively shoot
with one hand or require little assistance from my left. Sony's
thumb zoom rocker will require you too hold the heavier H1 with the
left hand as the thumb has to be 'released' somewhere to perform
the rocking movement. Do remember that this is a personal
peference. I've been using Sony cameras so I found it very
refreshing to have the index finger do the toggling. I'm hooked and
I don't want to have to go back now.
Flash card compartment - Some other things may seem trivial until
you're faced with a situation, then you'll really appreciate the
extra consideration put into design. Example: H1's seperate flash
card lid is God sent when you have a tripod mounting plate attached
to the bottom of the camera.
But H1's battery poping up isn't nice. I prefer having a battery
catch so when the battery compartment door is open (accidental or
otherwise like a fiddling finger friend or Aunty Anna ) the camera
won't die suddenly.
Build, weight and feel quality first impressions are better with
the H1. Until you try holding it for a while for that bug to turn
around so that you won't shoot only his butt. That's when you
startwishing it went on a diet. But having said that, Panasonic
needs to improve its 'cheap plasticky don't fit properly' lens caps
and other parts. Why do they even bother providing those cheapo
camera straps that 'cut' into the back of your neck?
H1's over night battery charging time is ridiculous!
On flash, it isn't obviously reported in many places but you'll
have to manually pop up the flash with the FZ5. H1's pop up is
automatic; to disable it you'll have to press the 'flash cancel'
control button.
Manual pop up can be viewed a boon because there'll never be an
'accidental' fire. I personally like it.
It is not an issue for me that the H1 is only 2x vs the FZ5's 4x.
I"m going to test the Mega OIS/Super Steady Shot tomorrow and some
macro.
--
http://boomzfoto.fotopic.net - my collection of FZ5 pics
http://boomzfoto2.fotopic.net - comparative full size photos of the
Pany's FZ5 to Sony's H1
http://onokinegrindz.com - Food review site; some photos were taken
with the FZ5.
Nothing beats a simple word of appreciation. Thank you!