Canon G12 vs S95 I currently have a little Sony Cyber Shot and am looking for a camera with more manual controls and much better image quality. I generally take lots of macros and would like to expand into more candid people shots, so a camera that lets me be fast and subtle in not perfect lighting conditions would be ideal. I think I have narrowed it to the Canon G12 or S95, but I am unsure how to decide between them. Advise?? Canon G12 vs S95 I currently have a little Sony Cyber Shot and am looking for a camera with more manual controls and much better image quality. I generally take lots of macros and would like to... » Read More Canon G12 vs S95 I currently have a little Sony Cyber Shot and am looking for a camera with more manual controls and much better image quality. I generally take lots of macros and would like to expand into more candid people shots, so a camera that lets me be fast and subtle in not perfect lighting conditions would be ideal. I think I have narrowed it to the Canon G12 or S95, but I am unsure how to decide between them. Advise?? « Show Less
163527
Check the f numbers. I think the S is faster over the G. Probably the same under the hood though.
163528
It usually happens to amazon when a new model of a camera is to be released. In this case, the new Canon Gx1 flagship camera is the new 'breed' of the G series. Either that it the G12 production has completely stopped, meaning that's it. Hence price hike.
163529
I am also considering this choice and I'm wondering if any s95 owners could answer something for me, does the S95 allow you to use add-on lenses, like telephoto and wide angle lenses, and, if so, are they 52mm lenses or 58mm? And secondly, does the S95 have a manual viewfinder or can you only frame shots using the LCD screen? I am trading up from an old Powershot A70 and I don't want to lose the features that I love so I'm thinking that I need a G12 but I'd rather get an S95 if it has the same features.
163530
I have had several G series (G7 and G9) and am now working with the s90. Although these are earlier models of the ones you are looking at, the general pros/cons remain the same. The positive for the S90 is that it is great for low light (F 2.0 and in-between ISOs of 125 and 160).The bad news is that the image quality of the s90 is just not the same as the G series. Prints that are crops or over 24x30 inches have too much pixellation to be exhibited professionally. However, if you print at 8x10 inches or smaller, the s95 should be fine for you.As for me, I'm planning on returning to the G series with my next camera purchase. I have had several G series (G7 and G9) and am now working with the s90. Although these are earlier models of the ones you are looking at, the general pros/cons remain the same. The positive for the S90 is that it is great for low light (F 2.0 and in-between ISOs of 125 and 160).The bad news is that the image quality of the s90 is just not the same as the G series. Prints that are crops or over 24x30 inches have too much pixellation to be exhibited professionally. However, if you print at 8x10 inches or smaller, the s95 should be fine for you.As for me,... » Read More I have had several G series (G7 and G9) and am now working with the s90. Although these are earlier models of the ones you are looking at, the general pros/cons remain the same. The positive for the S90 is that it is great for low light (F 2.0 and in-between ISOs of 125 and 160).The bad news is that the image quality of the s90 is just not the same as the G series. Prints that are crops or over 24x30 inches have too much pixellation to be exhibited professionally. However, if you print at 8x10 inches or smaller, the s95 should be fine for you.As for me, I'm planning on returning to the G series with my next camera purchase. « Show Less
163531
Hi Hammysg1....The S95 does NOT have a manual viewfinder and no, it does NOT have the capacity to allow you to put lenses and filters. The G12 is hands down, the best if you're seeking these two options not available on the S95.Plus, the G12 has a hot shoe so you can put external flash! =) Don't get me wrong the S95 is cute, as I saw it finally at the store the other day...it's sleek, cute but the G12 has the extras I mentioned above and the S95 doesn't!I HOPE this helps. =)
163532
I am on the same predicament here....Tough choice. From the reviews I 've read/viewed, they are practically the same. The only big difference is the portability of each camera. The S95 is more 'pocketable' versus the G12. I think I'm going for the G12 since I've got the G10 and I'm familiar with the G series anyway. I hope this video helps:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jto9C5uZIWU
163533
I did buy the G12 and I love it! I find the flip out screen extremely useful, because I like to take photos at wacky angles, especially since I am short and this way I can hold the camera over my head and still frame the shot.
163534
The S95 has a nice f/2.0 lens, while the G12 is f/2.8. However, just about everything else tips the G12's way. The ergonomics are better (it actually helps a lot that it's significantly larger), it has a built-in optical neutral density filter that buys an extra three stops in bright light, and slightly longer zoom. The G12 is absolutely killer.
163535
For me the big difference is that the G12 has the flip out screen. If you like to take pictures from different angles the movable screen lets you get these shots without having to get down on the ground or climb up on stuff. My old Canon A620 has this kind of screen and it is worth the extra money.
650801
I didn't like the image quality of either of them. I think the sensor is too small. The s120 is better than the s110 with faster focusing and a better sensor. I may consider spending a little more for the Sony rx100 with a bigger sensor (price dropped).
1417750
I've had my s120 since February, I had an old s720 before. The 120 is pretty incredible with it's faster lens, the only thing I have to adjust is that often in Auto mode I'll need a flash to illuminate my subject due to lighting and I'll have to switch over to "SCN" (scene) mode and select portrait, once there I have to pop-up the flash and then set the flash to always flash and not auto. Then it delivers an awesome pic... On a side note, I had to dig down into the settings and set the flash intensity to medium. An extra battery would be handy, I'd also get one of those little tripod to lash to a poll or set on a table. :) I've had my s120 since February, I had an old s720 before. The 120 is pretty incredible with it's faster lens, the only thing I have to adjust is that often in Auto mode I'll need a flash to illuminate my subject due to lighting and I'll have to switch over to "SCN" (scene) mode and select portrait, once there I have to pop-up the flash and then set the flash to always flash and not auto. Then it delivers an awesome pic... On a side note, I had to dig down into the settings and set the flash intensity to medium. An extra battery would be handy, I'd also get one of those little... » Read More I've had my s120 since February, I had an old s720 before. The 120 is pretty incredible with it's faster lens, the only thing I have to adjust is that often in Auto mode I'll need a flash to illuminate my subject due to lighting and I'll have to switch over to "SCN" (scene) mode and select portrait, once there I have to pop-up the flash and then set the flash to always flash and not auto. Then it delivers an awesome pic... On a side note, I had to dig down into the settings and set the flash intensity to medium. An extra battery would be handy, I'd also get one of those little tripod to lash to a poll or set on a table. :) « Show Less
1222639
I can't give you a comparison of them. I can tell you the S1000 is an awesom bridge camera. You can have full manual control or just use auto. The zoom is great both optical and digital. I highly recommend the S1000. Other revues I've read say shooting video you can hear the lens motor when zooming and ths is true. However you can remove the sound when editing the project.
1672718
Hi Ram, I was also undecided between a Sony and a Canon. I went with a Canon and I am very happy. I used to have a Sony Cybershot and was generally happy. I am much more happy know with the quality and built of my Canon SD1000. I checked expert reviews before buying my camera. In this case, it seems that the SD1000 is better rated than the Sony DSC-W80. Here are some links to reviews and a summary of expert ratings: Canon SD1000: http://www.smartratings.com/review/photography/digital_cameras/1144 Sony DSC-W80: http://www.smartratings.com/review/photography/digital_cameras/1323
1419974
I am not obsessed with megapixel counts in cameras. I stopped printing sometime ago. My pictures go online or facebook. So I have to give up on the wish for a megazoom in a small package since I won't compromise picture quality for the zoom. I ruled out the S95 because of the zoom range. Now I have to reconsider. Other than the zoom, it still has most of the attributes I am looking for in a small package.Thank you so much for your research on sensor size and lens. This explains what I noticed for some years. My old trusty takes nicer pictures than many people's newer cameras. I am not obsessed with megapixel counts in cameras. I stopped printing sometime ago. My pictures go online or facebook. So I have to give up on the wish for a megazoom in a small package since I won't compromise picture quality for the zoom. I ruled out the S95 because of the zoom range. Now I have to reconsider. Other than the zoom, it still has most of the attributes I am looking for in a small package.Thank you so much for your research on sensor size and lens. This explains what I noticed for some years. My old trusty takes nicer pictures than many people's newer cameras.
922253
You really need to manually adjust the S95 to get the best out of it. It's a fantastic camera for those folks that know what they're doing, better pics than the S8100. But you need to work it. But if you're like most people that just sets the camera to auto and let it do all the work, the S8100 is a much better choice.
106956
i think s95 is compelling if u want better pictures and control. since s95 has the bigger sensor (better pictures) and the PASM (better control). but really, the 4000 is a true P&S wif some kick-ass hardware baked in.
488637
I originally bought the Sony W90 based on specs. My first one was defective. It took pictures, but only the pictures in very bright light were acceptable. I exchanged for another W90 and although better, it still had VERY high levels of noise even with flash. I returned that one and bought a Canon 800IS. The Canon has taken EXCELLENT pictures even in low light. The image stabilization works well and the pictures taken with ISO 1600 are about the same noise level as the sony at 400 and 800 ISO. At 800 ISO the Canon produces better pictures than the Sony at 100 ISO. For my money...The Canon is better hands down.
6580
I have an S95 which has is basically similar internally to the G12. It's far better indoors and in low light than my Nex 5 which produces very dull pictures lacking color indoors without a flash. The Nex 5 18/55 has a 3.5 lens therefore let's far less light into the sensor.
2055505
I am trying to decide between these 2 cameras too (G7 and A710). I take lots of photos of pets - both inside and out, but cats are strictly inside, so I avoid a flash with them. I am looking for great quality photos and something easy to use. I have been using a Canon G2 (3MP) for a loooong time and I need a better camera (plus the G2 has been acting up). I have also historically had trouble with black dogs and cats, so any advice regarding that dilemma and the better camera would be appreciated. Also, why is a G7 more expensive than a G9? Thanks.
795288
I have the Nikon S8100 and tested it against the Canon S95 and Canon SX210. Overall I like the Nikon the best based on very good photos, great 300mm zoom, terrific indoor (on Party/Indoor mode), and ease of operation. For 5x7 prints or posting photos to Internet the cameras were all comparable. However, when really zooming in on my 27" monitor you can see the qualitative difference. The Nikon S95 simply gets sharper colors perhaps due to its lens and larger sensors. The SX210 and S8100 took similar photos. If I sifted through many comparison shots really zooming in I'd say the SX210 was, at times, just a hair sharper than the S8100. Having said that I like the overall results from the S8100 based on its superior indoor results, bigger and easier to use controls and overall simplicity of use. However, if you are comfortable with the controls of the S95 the SX210 has similar menu options.
687249
I am wondering the same thing.I chose the SD4500 over the S95 because it has HD 1920x 1080 Full HD movie and because it has a 10x zoom lens..If anyone can point out why I should have went with the S95 instead please let me know.
1718027
I have had both the s95 and s100 and they are wonderful cameras..What I love about the Canon 120 : touch screen..great for spot focusing with stills and movies Faster Af Slow motion video option Shoots 10 fps Very sold feel....great pocket camera HDR that really works very well Terrific low light So my answer to you is I think you would be very very happy with the S120//Hope that helps Dave
2102118
At the end of the day... its about image quality and flexibility vs. convenience. The G9 is one of the best P&S cameras out there and allows full manual control if you are so inclined. At 12MP it will have a higher on subject pixel density which will allow for cropping. On the other hand a 6mp cropped image (down from the full 12) will not look as good as a full size optically zoomed image (6mp full on the D40) The D40 also gives you 2.5 fps vs the ~1.5 of the G9. The D40 will have better low light (high iso) performance in comparison to the G9 due to its larger photosites. I personally have 4 cameras: Canon SD800IS for when it MUST to fit in my pocket. Canon G9 when weight and size is a factor but I want better image quality and faster response than the SD800 (or external flash). The D40 when I want good low light and the ability to mount a fast lens. I use the 18-200 VR as leave on lens, the 18-55 when I want to travel light and the 24-70 f/2.8 for high image quality (the lens is 3x price of the camera). I usually only take the one lens I intend to use with the D40. I have ordered the Nikon D3 for when there is no alternative than having the best, but at 4+lbs its a massive beast and certainly beyond the scope if this discussion. The G9 is with me at almost all times just in case I come across some shot I just have to take. If it is a really compelling image and I have the opportunity to go back and shoot it again I do so with the D40 and much better glass.
1419976
Thank you for the advice. I played with the ISO, MP and color settings a little bit today and got some pictures that came out a little better. Sadly, I am comparing the pictures to my 8 year old Canon S50 and the S50 takes better pictures. Indoor flash pictures are particularly disappointing. It is hard for me to accept this. The reason I want to upgrade the S50 is for the smaller size, wider angle, zoom and HD video. I expect the pictures to be at least as good if not better after so many years.The S95 is a great suggestion. I may look into a Panasonic too. Now back to the search for the S50 successor. Thank you for the advice. I played with the ISO, MP and color settings a little bit today and got some pictures that came out a little better. Sadly, I am comparing the pictures to my 8 year old Canon S50 and the S50 takes better pictures. Indoor flash pictures are particularly disappointing. It is hard for me to accept this. The reason I want to upgrade the S50 is for the smaller size, wider angle, zoom and HD video. I expect the pictures to be at least as good if not better after so many years.The S95 is a great suggestion. I may look into a Panasonic too. Now back to the... » Read More Thank you for the advice. I played with the ISO, MP and color settings a little bit today and got some pictures that came out a little better. Sadly, I am comparing the pictures to my 8 year old Canon S50 and the S50 takes better pictures. Indoor flash pictures are particularly disappointing. It is hard for me to accept this. The reason I want to upgrade the S50 is for the smaller size, wider angle, zoom and HD video. I expect the pictures to be at least as good if not better after so many years.The S95 is a great suggestion. I may look into a Panasonic too. Now back to the search for the S50 successor. « Show Less
922247
Nikon Coolpix S8100 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 10x Zoom-Nikkor ED Lens and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black)Antonpd is 100% correct-If image quality is your primary goal, then go with the Canon S95. If you are willing to make some image quality compromises to get a Full Auto operation, the the S8100 is for you. The S8100 is a great concept, bug fails to totally deliver on the low light and great video advertised features. It is all a matter of what you want to compromise.Sarah Joyce