I have had the fz30 pretty much since it came out (previously had the fz15). I've been very happy with the camera, and agree with the above posts (except I've got to say it's really quite a trick to get the exposure good enough to avoid lots of noise). I certainly agree with the gripe about the focus though. I'd kill for the ability to lock on to infinity focus, since the EVF is just not up to the task in low light. But that's just my pet peeve. Overall it is really a superb "prosumer" camera.
For a travel camera it is pretty much the perfect all-in-one.
Looking at the fz50 though, I wonder if it's worth the extra $. YMMV but the way I see it 10MP is just not a big leap over 8 (on the small sensor I would strongly argue that it is worse, because it makes your photos less sharp - unfortunately you can't argue with the laws of physics and win). The only other major difference I see is that the screen has a lower resolution than the fz30 (?!?).
I'd suggest going for the fz30 if you can find it. You'll probably save a bit of cash and it's still a hell of a camera!
|