Originally posted by beet1e
OK, I know the cameras with big lenses can theoretically take much better pictures than the "little cameras", and while I'm no expert, I took this pic of a radiator valve key. The T section is about an inch (~25mm) across. The level of detail looks fine to me, and this was taken using "normal" mode, ie not "fine" mode. Am I missing something?
Most digitals have a macro mode for close work. Even my wife's $200 Kodak has this, and it produces remarkably clear and sharp images. Below is an example.
We have three digitals. In addition to my wife's pocket-sized Kodak, I have a Fuji S5100 and recently added a Fuji S9500. This last camera demonstrates that the latest technology has elevated this category of camera to easily compete with entry-level digital SLRs in terms of image quality, while retaining the single 28-300mm zoom lens. At 9 megapixels and an ISO range from 80 to 1800, you rely less on image stabilization to get crisp shots. You can shoot in very low light without a flash and there's virtually none of the graininess you see see in most digitals. This is thanks to the new New Fuji Super CCD sensor. It's a remarkable camera. Shutter lag is a lightning fast 0.01 seconds and start-up time in just 0.8 seconds as the lens does not retract upon shut down.
I almost bought the Fuji S5200 as well. It's the perfect "take it anywhere" camera, with many of the features of the S9500. My S5100 is excellent, but lacks the ultra low light features of the newer S5200 and has a longer start-up and more shutter lag. Nonetheless, it does take very good photos. Here's an example of what I've taken with the S5100.
My regards,
Widewing
