Oldies; but goodies

The 20D was my first DSLR.  Later, I moved to the similar 30D - still a favorite; but long gone.  Nice used ones are well under $200 now, and I keep having thoughts of getting another 30D.  Probably with an 18-135 IS lens (29-216, equivalent).

Dear Jerry,

I couldn't agree with you more.

While it is clear that there have been advances made with cameras and sensors that make the more modern cameras better in many applications, a good picture is still a good picture.

If you see a shot posted on the board that captures your eye I doubt your next step is to check the EXIF data?

My only digital cameras that I ever purchased new where bought just prior, and shortly after they were discontinued.  I still enjoy using a Canon SX10IS and I just bought a Canon S90 and a Powershot A720IS.

I think I'll get the $ 45.00 I spent for the pair of them back in spades.

Regards,

Tim Murphy

Harrisburg, PA

My wife uses the A720IS.  It's ideal for her as it's fairly simple to use, and the AA's mean no charger and no charge level maintenance, as we use Energizer Lithiums in it.  A pair lasts practically forever, at least 550 shots, and since they don't discharge in the camera, it's always ready to use.  We also have an A710IS tucked away as a backup.

I have used an S90 or S95 for years.  My S90 is fitted with the machined aluminum Franiec grip; but they are no longer available, so the S95 is fitted with a Flip-bac G3 grip, as are several other smaller cameras.  Not as sexy as the Franiec grip; but a lot cheaper at $10.  I use the Lensmate "rear wheel solution" ring on the rear to keep the heel of my thumb from making adjustments for me.  Those are still available, and cost $5.  They also fit a lot of other cameras from Canon and Panasonic.

The default settings on the S90 are soft, so I use the internal settings in My Colors to bump up sharpening by 1 or 2 steps, and saturation by 1 step.  Program also gives better looking images than Auto on the S90.  I have looked at the later S series (S100, S110, S120) and none are any better than the S90/S95.  I think of the S90 as my "dinner cam" as it's ideal for dinners and parties.  I use the S90 and have the S95 in storage, as I prefer the earlier model.  The LCD screens are not the same, and the S90's has an anti-reflection coating.  The S95's LCD doesn't.  I also prefer the color and contrast on the S90 - it's very close; but enough to see.

Dear PhotoRaw and Jerry,

Thanks for the example pictures for the A720IS and recommendations for accessories for the S90.  I do think I'll look into the Flip-bac grip for the S90 because it looks like it is a fairly small camera and I can probably use some help holding on to it.

Once I receive the cameras I'm sure I'll post some sample pictures.

Thanks again,

Tim Murphy

Harrisburg, PA