It really depends on each person and can vary from each individual’s specific needs and preferences. There is no right or wrong. For me, as a hobbyist photographer, buying a compact camera in 2023 is a good choice, and that’s what I want.
Why don’t I use a smartphone? Everybody knows that smartphones have become increasingly capable in terms of photography. Anyway, I think compact cameras still offer distinct advantages that can make them a valuable tool for many photographers. Here are some of my reasons buying a compact camera in 2023 might make sense:
- Image Quality: Compact cameras typically have larger sensors than smartphones, which often results in better image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. They can capture more detail, have a better dynamic range, and perform well in low light. My ideal compact camera is it must have at least 1-inch sensor type. I know there are some smartphones now have 1-inch sensor, but please read on, there are other factors to consider.
- Optical Zoom: Many compact cameras come with optical zoom lenses, allowing you to get closer to your subjects without sacrificing image quality. This makes them suitable for a wide range of photography, from portrait, landscapes, street to wildlife.
- Manual Controls: Many compact cameras often offer more manual control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, giving us greater creative control over our photography.
- Dedicated Photography Experience: Using a dedicated camera can provide a different, often more satisfying, photography experience compared to a smartphone. Physical buttons, viewfinders, and the overall especially ergonomics can make the process more enjoyable.
However, before purchasing a compact camera, it’s essential for me to consider my requirements carefully, budget, and how I plan to use the camera. Compact cameras vary widely in terms of features, performance, and price, so it’s crucial to do a research and select a model that suits my needs best.
There are 2 compact cameras that seem to fulfill my requirements. I have to choose between Canon G5X II and Sony RX100 VII. I don’t want Canon G7X III which has specialist vlogging features. From my initial testing at the camera shop, I know Sony has some advantages over Canon, especially the autofocus system with phase-detection, the zoom range, the microphone input, etc. I must admit that the price of Sony is a deal-breaker for me. I don’t want to spend so much money on a point-and-shoot camera.
I’m happy with the image quality of a 20MP 1”-type stacked CMOS sensor of the G5X Mark II, which is larger than the sensors typically found in smartphones. Because of its low-light performance, which is better than that of Sony RX100 VII and a 20MP image size that can produce sharp and detailed images. For the zoom range, this camera which covers a focal length range of 24-120mm (35mm equivalent) F1.8-2.8 lens. I’m satisfied with the zoom range. I’m also happy with the USB-C connector for charging and data transfer, and the auto ND filter. The G5X II is a lightweight camera, making it easy to carry around. Its portability makes it ideal for travel, street photography, and everyday use. It also has a built-in grip that helps me take photos with one hand, excellent ergonomic form factor. I like its tilt-screen and viewfinder. This camera features a tilting touchscreen LCD, which is convenient for shooting at various angles. I’m a person who doesn’t like the fully articulating screen. It also has a pop-up flash and electronic viewfinder for composing shots in bright light conditions. The G5X II offers me manual control options, including manual exposure, aperture priority, and shutter priority modes. These features allow me to have greater creative control over the shots. The only disappointment is no external microphone jack.
The Canon G5X II is not a perfect camera and I don’t think there is a perfect camera. Overall, it’s a versatile and capable compact camera that appeals to a person like me who looking for a high-quality camera in a small form factor. I found out that the Canon G5XII fulfills my needs for everyday shooting photos and videos. I don’t need to carry around my bigger and heavier Olympus OM-1 camera all the time.
The sample below images are jpeg files straight out of the camera with minimal adjustment in post processing. When resizing the image from the resolution of a 5472X3648 to 1200X800, I used a little unsharp mask in Affinity Photo. All pictures were shot with a standard picture style.
