Broken FZ20

[Darth Vadar]

My FZ20 suffered impact damage and now the shutter release is no longer working.

Reviews of newer Pannies seem to indicate that the newer cameras suffer from poorer picture quality, especially at lower light levels.

I need a bridge camera with shutter release (for use on tripod), a decent zoom and a decent shutter speed at low light capability (without flash).

I was fairly happy with my FZ20. Should I get my FZ20 repaired, get an FZ100 or maybe switch brands to a Fuji HS20? Or maybe get an older camera, but these are tricky to get in the UK from reputable dealers.

 

[tojkr]

FZ20 lasting for 6 years is really good.. mine did more than 300,000 shots.. it stopped twice and was in coma for a week after drenching in niagara falls.. but somehow started working again...

The mistake you and I did was, surprised by FZ20 sharpness and color and kept it forever. We should have upgraded to FZ30 or FZ50. They have far better details and build.

Panny is now in 'reaping mode' of the hard work they did. They dont care about bridge cameras just like canon or Nikon. But Fuji does not have SLR market so it does some which are the only options we have.

But the overall photo quality is slightly less in Fuji. But atleast bridge camera is there.

 

[MusicDoctorDJ]

You are looking at around $260 for a repair.

My FZ10 still works flawlessly, although I rarely ever touch it anymore.

I got my FZ50 out today and did a few macro shots with it.

I don't use it as much as I used to . . .

I've been thinking about putting together a camera bag with both of my FZ's in it and parking the DSLR's for awhile!

--
J. D.
Colorado

• "If your insurance company tells you that you don't need a lawyer . . . hire a lawyer!"

 

[windmillgolfer]

If the physical damage is to the actual shutter button, it may be worthwhile tracking down a spare part or another non-working FZ20 to cannibalise - eBay. Else, get an FZ30 or FZ50 off eBay. Otherwise an FZ28 or FZ38.

 

[Paul Pasco]

If you wouldn't mind buying from the states, KEH.com has six used FZ20 right now for a lot cheaper than repair is likely to be. They are a very good reseller.
--
Regards, Paul

Lili's Dad

 

[Darth Vadar]

It's the remote shutter lead socket (for a jack plug) that has become loose and has lost it's electrical connection. The case is slightly cracked but it is still sound.

What I'm really after is an upgrade. By "upgrade" I mean improvements in existing FZ20 features. Priorities are remote shutter release, better zoom, picture quality and low light. Not interested in video, angled lcd displays.

Max price is around the Fuji HS20 and Pana FZ100 range. The HS10, FZ28, FZ38, FZ45, Sony Cybershot, Canons and quite a few others don't have remote shutter release, so they're off my list. The timer alternative is no use to me.

So it sounds like the HS20 or the FZ100, repair or hunt for a new FZ50 (unlikely).

Also, I'm in the UK so USA trading may be quite expensive. I'm not happy dealing with used equipment by mail.

Thanks for all your help.