I have been using both the Sony DSC-HX1 REVIEW

This is a 20X zoom camera, that has a really nice feature for taking panoramic pictures. The mode switch has a setting, when you select it, you get an arrow pointing right, and you press the picture taking button, and keep it down, as you move in the direction of the arrow, sweeping the view you wish to have as a panorama. That is it, and one one gets a great looking panorama without any further stitching.

It also takes great HD video clips.

The second camera is the Panasonic DMC-TZ7. It is a small pocket camera, that has a 12X optical zoom, and takes HD video as well. It is really great to keep in your pocket. In fact, it has replaced my old standbye, the Canon Ixus of various models that I used to carry with me.

I am out of the country until the 15th. I will post some sample photos when I get back.

Saeed,

I'm at a crossroads with cameras...

I've considered the HX1 as it takes high quality digital video.

I'm also looking at the capability of the of the so called latest and greatest, those that take amazing photos, but can capture video with high quality lenses and auto focus or manual zoom.

I'll probably end up with a Canon EOS T1i. What I like about it, as opposed to the HX1 is the compatability. You can swap lenses...

Also, the Panasonic Lumix GH1 is giving everything, including the Canon 5D MKII a run for its money as far as HD quality goes.

It has the option of being a dedicated HD video camera. If you know your way around a camera it takes uparralled digital video.

I may steer clear from it as the software to edit, hasn't caught up with the camera. Kinda like SUB-MOA rifles haven't caught up with the average shooter, and therefore users are bound to be disappointed!

Either way, am looking forward to hearing about your review. I'm making a decision on a camera soon; perhaps I'll have a review and footage shortly...

-mark

Mark,

My advice is to stay away from any of the SLRs that are available today if you want to take video clips as well.

I have tried several of them - the latest is the Nikon D300S.

Thei video is rather soft - no where near as good as from smaller non-SLR pocket cameras.

Both the Panasonic TZ7 and the Sony HX1 have much better video.

Also, despite all the claims that they do have auto focus while videoing, it does NOT work very well at all.

Of course, for photos, the SLRs are much better.

quote:

Thei video is rather soft - no where near as good as from smaller non-SLR pocket cameras.

Both the Panasonic TZ7 and the Sony HX1 have much better video.

thank you very much Saeed. That is very valuable information.

Saeed and all concerned,

I picked up the Canon T1i. I tried out the HX1. It's one of the easiest cameras to use that I've tried.

The reason I went with the T1i is because I take lots of pictures. The video, if you set the focus properly, is insanely clear, but it takes careful time to set up, and I use a tripod, so it won't compare to the practicality of a hand-held with auto-focus.

My vote would be for the HX1 for ease of use, and non-complicated documentation, and the T1i for carefully planned projects.