On the verge of a nervous break-down...

[frownsarefun]

I just sold my camera today - a Canon G10 - to a rather nice Swedish guy who is gonna use it as his backup to a Canon 5D Mark II.

In my not-so-far-away dreams, I want a DSLR - either a Canon 5D Mark II or a Nikon D700.

For the time being, I do not have the cash to outlay on either of those bodies (and accompanying lens and gear to go with them).

I need a new camera and for cash reason, I am starting backward, of sorts - looking for a rock solid, take everywhere digital point and shoot. I don`t have any brand loyalty, though it`s easy to get wrapped up in it.

I am looking for solid suggestions based on what`s out there now.

- Canon G12: essentially same thing as I had with the G10 - solid, can be noisy, bulky, good overall performer.

- Olympus XZ-1: solid reviews with minimal complaints, fast lens as I like night photography, but i shoot just as much day stuff, keep seeing that it process jpegs for crap (though i always shoot raw).

On a side note, I know there are the Ricoh GR Digital III, but it is fixed focal length, which I don`t want.

There is also the Ricoh GXR interchangeable system, but again, it`s been a mixed bag with reviews, and I don`t really want to get to fixated on a small camera system that requires the purchase of lenses.

Lastly, there is the Sony Nex 5n, which because of it`s full size sensor, seems like it would take greatly detailed photos and the reviews have been nice. I think the only resin I would consider it is because of the sensor size, and would most likely just stick with the 18-55 lens and not add anything else to it.

Now that i am without ANY camera, I don`t want to become too desperate and make a bad decision. But am curious, do I stick with the G series and get the G12, do I maybe give up something with the IQ or image processor and get the faster lens Olympus, or do I go with the Sony and hope for the best. I guess a company that makes a long list of electronic products including cameras scares me, though Canon makes many, too - though they are all imaging products.

I need some really, solid advice to ponder or own experiences. I have looked online and found good and bad review os all these cameras. I have looked at photos shot by them and have heard good and bad comments. I am losing valuable time and my mind in the process. Please help.

[RichardTaylor]

Will you be shooting hand held in low light (no flash)?

Other wise it doesn't really matter, except for possibly how the camera handles in your hands.

You may also want to revisit this thread.

Canon G12 vs. Olympus XZ-1 vs. Other Contenders?

I shoot with a G11 (as well as a 40D & 5D) and it is fine in low light and low ISO.

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