 So, I've decided that I need to invest in a quality compact for some street photography. My SLRs being a bit conspicuous for some occasions. I really like shallow DOF pictures so I'd need one with a wide maximum aperture. However I realise that aperture isn't the only factor here. Sensor size also has an affect on the shallow DOF. For example f2 on a DSLR will be shallower than an f2 on a small compact size sensor. Cutting to the chase - anybody got any advice?
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 Sadly, you are spot on about the DoF on compacts. I'd concentrate more on zoom range, or rather the what to what and not the Nx. Lumix are doing a cracking little camera that might be suitable for what you want. A 24 - 60mm (eq) zoom range has to appeal. Proper hot-shoe, as well, please note and not a crappy little flash that's as much use as a chocolate fireguard. Well, I wouldn't mind testing one (hint, hint) for TC if Panasonic would care to send it. I will return it afterwards - promise! 
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| Edited: 17/11/08 22:21 |
Thanks Woody, yes I'd been looking at the Lumix you suggested. f2 at the wide end is appealing. However after a swift calculation (ie cheating here) I reckon that this would give the same DOF as 6.4 on a DSLR. Thats a bit rubbish frankly even if the camera does look smart. My need for shallow DOF is such that I think I may only have two options... either wait until someone (Sigma, Ricoh, even Espon) make a quality compact with a fast lens AND a full size sensor or buy a medium format camera - not exactly covert!
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Not sure if anyone is reading this, but I think I may have found a solution to my problem. Sigma have released a compact with a large sensor AND a fast lens! have a looky here its supposed to be complimentary to the DP1 having a normal fixed length lens.
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I have encountered a number of problems carrying SLR's in various asian and south american Countries and I too, decided to invest in a compact. I tried out the Sigma DP1 and found it to be limiting for what I require and possibly you would too. I have purchased the Canon Powershot G10 although too soon to give an evaluation, it does show promising results! very robust build, black and reasonably small ( it wont fit in your shirt pocket) and fairly light. However, DOF is a curse for those who require a shallow DOF. Regards
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 Options... Panasonic Lumix G1. Panasonic Lumix LX3. Sigma DP1 (depth of field good, image quality so-so). Canon G10. Nikon P6000.
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I think that for my purposes the Panasonic Lumix G1 is just a poor imitation of an SLR. (its not even a real SLR as it has an electronic view finder!). And unfortunately the Nikon, Canon and Panasonic options have really tiny sensors. John, when you said the DP1 was limiting, were you refering to the fixed focal length?
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yes I'd been looking at the Lumix you suggested. f2 at the wide end is appealing. However after a swift calculation (ie cheating here) I reckon that this would give the same DOF as 6.4 on a DSLR. Thats a bit rubbish frankly even if the camera does look smart.
Sigma have released a compact with a large sensor AND a fast lens! have a looky here
But that's only an f/2.8 which, as you said above, equates to "rubbish". You are simply not going to find shallow DOF in a compact. Certainly nothing compared to the f/1.2 on my Pentax APS-C.
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