Shoots full resolution then downsampling [was: Available light - higher ISO ...]
Roger, ...
Shooting at lower resolution does nothing for you except save card space. The camera shoots at full resolution and then downsamples. You're far better off applying noise reduction at full resolution then downsampling.
Thanks for that logic. That makes sense to me. It didn't occur to me that the way that the sensors capture light is fixed. Thus, in my 5MP cameras, I really should be shooting at full 5MP. To get a usable image while the subject is moving (i.e. turning his/her head, not running!), I'll need to boost the ISO setting to maximum (or consider applying the underexposure approach).
I had bought an in-store demo Canon S30 for my son, because it was cheap. I would now consider swapping my S60 (widest 28mm f/2.8, max ISO 400) for his S30 (widest 35mm f/2.8, max ISO 800), except that I find the 28mm invaluable in tight spaces.
Maybe I should keep trolling for a low light, wide angle camera to supplement the long zoom of the FZ-5 .... Some people have pointed out the Fuji F10 which seems to shoot down to ISO 1600. (Looking at Fujis previously, their low light capabilities were appalling). Alas, its short end is only 36mm ....
I'll just have to keep my eye out for new cameras for these special circumstances .... Somehow, it's still better for me to have multiple (cheap) cameras than a DSLR with interchangeable lenses. (Good or bad, the automatic mirror cleaning procedure on the Olympus E-300 reminded me that dust becomes an annoying factor on cameras that aren't sealed).