If you ideal camera is a superzoom
High-power zoom lenses in an easy-to-use compact body
Fujifilm FinePix
HS30EXR - $450/16MP
The HS30EXR from Fujifilm is a superzoom camera that has
everything the average photographer could want. It comes with a 30x optical
zoom lens, giving an equivalent focal length of 24-720mm, a three-inch tilting
LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder. Along with these features, the HD30
also has Fujifilm’s EXR sensor, giving it fantastic performance when shooting
in low-light.
The top three features to look out for in a superzoom
- Large zoom range: a long zoom range allows you to take
wide-angle shots as well as photos of distant subjects.
- Optical zoom: you’re looking for your camera to have a
large optical range rather than digital, as this maintains image quality.
- Image stabilisation: with such a large lens, look out for
a superzoom with image stabilisation. This will help to reduce blur caused
by camera shake.
Superzoom cameras are commonly called bridge cameras. This
is because they act as a sophisticated automatic camera, bridging the knowledge
and user gap between compact and more advanced cameras.
The common feature of these cameras is the long zoom lens.
Superzooms have some of the longest lenses available, and they are getting
longer with each new development. Many of the lenses now equal the focal length
of several DSLR lenses, making them the perfect choice for photographers who
want to shoot any subject.
The design and handling of most superzoom cameras is not
unlike a traditional DSLR. This makes for a more user-friendly design, allowing
them to utilise the long zoom lens without having to struggle with a small body
and tiny controls.
Many superzoom cameras retain all of the automatic settings
commonly found in compact cameras, but also take on some of the manual options
from more advanced cameras. This makes them ideal for the beginner photographer
who wants a good all-round camera that is capable of photographing every type
of subject. However, it also makes them an excellent choice for slightly more
advanced photographers looking for a second camera that offers a compact
solution for longer zoom lengths.
Pros
The huge zoom length makes them ideal for shooting any
subject
The design of the body makes changing settings very easy
Superzoom are fairly cheap considering the array of
functions
Cons
Image quality can sometimes take a hit at longer focal
lengths
Some superzooms still rely on auto settings, which can limit
control
Superzoom lenses are long, often making them difficult to
balance
If you ideal camera is an advanced compact
Small and portable cameras with more advanced features
and handling
Fujifilm x100 -
$1,200/12.3MP
The Fujifilm X100 comes with a sensor that you’d expect to
find more at home in a DSLR, as well as all of the advanced manual setting
available. The X100 doesn’t, however, have an automatic shooting mode, which
makes it more suited to experienced photographers. It also has a fixed focal
length lens, meaning that it cannot zoom at all, which many users could find
limiting.
The top three features to look for in an advanced compact
- Large sensors: advanced compact cameras commonly have
larger sensors when compared to other compact cameras, giving excellent
image quality.
- Manual features: advanced manual control allows users to
select the best settings for each individual shot.
- RAW shooting: look out for a RAW shooting option on your
compact, so you have greater flexibility in the editing process.
Advanced compact cameras try to bridge the gap from simple
automatic compacts and more advanced models like CSCs and DSLRs. They are
designed to have a large amount of advanced features, offering a more
comprehensive package for photographers looking to develop their knowledge, in
a small and portable package.
Many advanced compacts now come with full manual control,
giving photographer the chance to change every setting and tailor the camera to
each shot that they take.
However, along with the advanced controls, they still retain
their place in the compact market. It is common to find all of the usual auto
settings that let users take a quick photo.
Ultimately, advanced compacts let you get creative with your
shots. You’ll be getting better image quality and functionality without having
to carry a much larger and more expensive camera.
Pros
The more advanced settings allow users to take full control
The small size is good for photographers on the go
Advanced compacts usually have superior optics and sensors
Cons
Although they are very small, they are often too large to
fit in a pocket
They can be relatively expensive compared to normal compacts
The fixed lens cannot be changed to suit different
situations
