Digital Camera Expectations?

[dee]

I was intrigued by the expectations of those not into film cameras pre-digital, to the extent that I was nervous about buying my daughter a Fujifilm XF1 which sacrifices a massive zoom for an F1.8 max aperture at 24mm equiv.
She has a Panasonic G1 with a couple of lenses, so is aware of the quality of a larger sensor and max aperture, but most of her mates expect to zoom across all those focal lengths in one camera,with no consideration to tiny max aperture and sensors.
Indeed it seems impossible to compare cameras in this respect in the shop as little is stated.

Another aspect is that a new user considered Sony and Panasonic superior to Canon and Nikon because they were well known in other areas.
This despite manufacturers translating the crop factor into old style 35mm format and sensor sensitivity styled as ISO !!!

It all seems a bit odd.

dee

[philbirch]

Re: comparing cameras in the shop. You should ask. Do a physical check take pictures and compare. If the shop won't allow it take your custom elsewhere and make sure they know it. A flash of cash works wonders too.

[dee]

Thanks philburch.

I concur with making sure in the shop that the camera suits, but at the lower end of the market, there is general ignorance in most sellers as to the merits of any point and shoot, with no attempt to explain about fast/slow lenses, sensor size etc.
From the descriptions on the sales cards, very little is described.
Cameras seem to be sold on zoom length and how many megapixels=more is better.

[philbirch]

Its good that you use a shop. Many don't now and they are a rare thing.

I bought my first digital DSLR from a shop I've been using since the 70's - London Camera Exchange in Manchester. Its changed hands and names several times over the decades but the old staff is still there. When I bought my Nikon D40, Ben, the salesman, explained about megapixels and sensor size. I was interested in a Fuji S9500 (9mp), a Samsung bridge camera (12mp) or perhaps a D40 (6mp).

Ben took a photo on each camera and we pixel peeped. Zooming in, I was astounded to find the Nikon image was sharp right up to the pixels whereas the others, particularly the Fuji, the image had broken up into noise and blur long before the pixels became apparent. My first lesson on the importance of sensor size.

I know several people who had that particular Fuji and were not happy with it. Two bought online and one from Argos.

Shops are essential. I don't mind paying a bit extra for good service and advice. I'd never 'showroom' and consider those who do so beneath my contempt. Our UK consumer laws are among the best in the world but often that means diddley-squat when you buy online.

[mickeyobe]

With only occasional lapses I have been dealing with the same shop, Henry's, for almost 50 years. The same salesman for 20 years. The entire staff is knowledgeable and helpful. They will answer your questions with an eye to helping which may also include thumbs down when called for and unstinting time to explain and educate you.
When I started with them Henry's was a pawn shop that had a few cameras. Now they are a large chain dedicated to photography and photographers.

If you find a shop or a salesperson that you can trust stay with them. They are rare and precious. They deserve your custom.

Mickey

[dee]

it is also the different expectations of the later generations towards cameras and photography.
A zoom covering wide angle to plus 200 equiv is virtually demanded of a compact, whereas max aperture,sensor size,etc are just not considered,

The choice was just not there with 35mm compacts, so the game has changed considerably.

[nationalstore]

he most important thing is to choose a camera that meets your needs and preferences, rather than basing your decision on the opinions of others or brand recognition.