Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 Review
Compared to... Canon EOS Rebel XT (350D)
Perhaps the biggest competition for high end 'super zoom' cameras is the budget DSLR. Obviously we're talking about a lot more money (for the body and lenses to cover the 35-420 range), but not a ridiculous amount of money. So here, as an interesting comparison, are studio shots taken using the FZ30 and the Canon EOS Rebel XT (350D) at each camera's lowest and highest setting (ISO 80 and 400 for the FZ30, ISO 100 and 1600 for the XT).
Studio scene comparison (FZ30 @ ISO 80, Rebel XT @ ISO 100)
- Panasonic DMC-FZ30: Aperture Priority mode, ISO 80, Default
Image Parameters,
Manual white balance, +0.66EV
- Canon EOS 350D (Digital Rebel XT): Canon EF 50 mm F1.4, Aperture Priority (F9),
ISO 100, JPEG Large/Fine, Manual WB, Default Parameters (Parameter 1)
- Lighting: Daylight simulation, >98% CRI
Panasonic DMC-FZ30 |
Canon EOS Rebel XT |
ISO 80, 1/40 sec, F5.6 |
ISO 100, 1/40 sec, F9 |
  |
3,241 KB JPEG |
2,882 KB JPEG |
  |
Noise, std dev: 2.9 |
Noise, std dev: 1.9 |
OK, so the FZ30 image is noisier (though in prints it's not enough to cause concern), and has marginally less detail and a narrower dynamic range, but perhaps the most surprising thing here is how well the FZ30's image stacks up against a camera with a huge sensor and a razor-sharp 50mm F1.4 lens. If you compare the FZ30 against a 350D with a cheaper zoom lens the sharpness difference is far less stark.
Gear in this story
Gear in this story
Recommended
|
|
|
|
Sep 16, 2005
|
Jul 20, 2005
|
Sep 10, 2008
|
Sep 2, 2008
|
The Sony a7CR is a high-resolution addition to the company's compact full-frame a7C series. So what did we make of it and where does it leave the a7 IV that it sits just above?
Lomography's LomoChrome '92 is designed to mimic the look of classic drugstore film that used to fill family photo albums. As we discovered, to shoot with it is to embrace the unexpected, from strange color shifts to odd textures and oversized grain.
The LowePro PhotoSport Outdoor is a camera pack for photographers who also need a well-designed daypack for hiking and other outdoor use. If that sounds like you, the PhotoSport Outdoor may be a great choice, but as with any hybrid product, there are a few tradeoffs.
The Sony a7C II refreshes the compact full-frame with a 33MP sensor, the addition of a front control dial, a dedicated 'AI' processor, 10-bit 4K/60p video and more. It's a definite improvement, but it helps if you value its compact form.
Why is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack so widely used? A snazzy design? Exceptional utility? A combination of both? After testing one, it's clear why this bag deserves every accolade it's received.
If you want a compact camera that produces great quality photos without the hassle of changing lenses, there are plenty of choices available for every budget. Read on to find out which portable enthusiast compacts are our favorites.
What's the best camera for travel? Good travel cameras should be small, versatile, and offer good image quality. In this buying guide we've rounded-up several great cameras for travel and recommended the best.
'What's the best mirrorless camera?' We're glad you asked.
What’s the best camera for around $2000? This price point gives you access to some of the most all-round capable cameras available. Excellent image quality, powerful autofocus and great looking video are the least you can expect. We've picked the models that really stand out.
Above $2500 cameras tend to become increasingly specialized, making it difficult to select a 'best' option. We case our eye over the options costing more than $2500 but less than $4000, to find the best all-rounder.
Comments