I have been extolling the virtues of the Canon Rebel T3i of late, but have you heard about the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 yet? The new model has the look and feel of a high-end point and shoot camera, but it is really a powerful SLR-type camera, including interchaneable lenses.

Panasonic Lumix G3 front view	Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 (red)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 top view with lens	Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 with fully articulating LCD

Always looking for special ways to develop camera technology, Panasonic has continued to be a front-runner in their field with this four-thirds SLR-type camera. Though new, the reviews are coming in very early, and they seem to agree that this camera is deserving of excellent marks. While Canon and Nikon are the acknowledged top producers of digital cameras, especially DSLRs, this newfangled Panasonic G3 is getting excellent marks from the experts.

There are two previous models of this camera, the G1 and G2, but judging by the camera geek commentaries, this one might be the most fantastic in this line.

If you are considering an entry-level digital camera that can compete with digital SLRs and compete in image quality and versatility, then read on.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 – Small Size But Big Inside

Really, the G3 looks more like a compact camera rather than a pro model. The explanation for the small girth is that there is no mirror needed to reflect the image onto the sensor. It is “mirror-less” technolgy. Quite simply, less “stuff” inside allows for the camera to be smaller.

In terms of sensor size, the G3 sensor is about the same as one of the APS-C cameras. This new sensor provides excellent image quality, lots better than its predecessor. Actually, compared to digital SLRs in the entry-level category such as the Canon T3i or Nikon D3100, this one will hold its own. And don’t look now, but it does all this for a price tag of several hundred dollars less.

DMC-G3 Performance

Photographers who are buying their first exchangeable lens camera will plausibly like the petite, condensed size of this camera, nevertheless if you are used to a more traditional DSLR, you will without doubt experience a shock at first due to the small size and feel. However, this size factor might be preferable for individuals who naturally choose light and compact. It will save on the physical weariness that comes from hauling a large camera around all day.

The LCD panel on this camera is also a great feature. It is a full swivel screen that helps make getting shots from all weird angles and positions really easy. The LCD also has touch-screen technology.

It allows interaction by allowing the user to change settings, but it also gives more user control over live view. The photographer can touch the point on the live view screen to focus on that special point. Want to zoom in on a point of interest? Just touch the screen. This can be very helpful when shooting macro images.

Although the camera has adequate settings to gratify the most control hungry photographer, it is possible just to use the iA setting and not need to be bothered about any added selections. Just “set is and forget it.” If you still want a bit of control, don’t fret, it is still available in iA. Again, using the touch-screen, you can change Aperture, ISO, or Shutter speed with the slip of a finger.

Is Mirrorless The Trend Of The Future?

The excitement is mounting with regard to the new cameras that are being produced. Will this camera style replace the traditional digital SLR models with their mirrors? Probably not, but time will tell. However, if you are interested in being part of photography history, or if new gear gives you a buzz, this could be your next camera.

Thinking about how new the technology is, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 has worked out a lot of the bugs of the original four thirds cameras. This is truly an exciting time to be looking for an entry-level SLR-type camera. See all the specs and features at digital-photographic-resources.com.

Sample Photos from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3
These photos are from the CameraLabs review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. To see their review, click here ==>Camera Labs Review<==

Canon Rebel T3i – Entry-Level Just Got Better!

The new Canon Rebel T3i (aka 600D) camera has arrived on your dealer’s shelves, and quite honestly, it is a camera for beginners who really want to be creative.

It seems that Canon must have the interests of new digital SLR buyers at heart in the development of the T3i, since they have added several features that should really be alluring to the brand new DSLR camera buyer.

Why Buy A Canon Rebel T3i?

Of course, the reasons for purchasing a DSLR in the first place are twofold. Digital SLR cameras give superior image quality when compared to point and shoot digital cameras. That has to be the first consideration. Using different lenses for each photo opportunity is also significant as a motivation for getting that first digital SLR camera.

With identical hardware, which includes the 18 megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, the T3i looks identical to the T2i. As a matter of fact, the only item that “looks” different is the LCD panel. The T3i now has an articulating LCD screen similar to the one on the higher quality Canon 60D.

Creativity And The Canon Rebel T3i

Instead of upgrading the hardware, Canon has opted to add to the software on this model. They have included “creativity a-plenty” in the T3i, beginning with an item they are calling “the Green Square.” Using the Green Square, which is a selection on the mode dial at the top of the camera, you will allow the camera to make some difficult decisions with regard to exposure, shutter speed, and ISO. Canon actually calls this new setting “Scene Intelligent Auto,” and it is the equivalent of “Intelligent Auto” on some point and shoot models.

The real role of Scene Intelligent Auto is to take control of the image output by choosing the correct setting selections in the camera. The new owner can pick up this camera and take great pictures right away, without knowing much about digital SLR settings.

(just an aside… I got my Canon Rebel T3i awhile ago and recorded the “unboxing”)

Canon Rebel T3i – High-end Features for a Low-end Price

Looks good, right? But wait, there’s more! By setting the mode dial on one of the Basic Zone modes, you can access the Basic+ selections in the Quick Control screen in the LCD display. There are two different options to choose from once you access the Basic+ screen. You can choose Ambience settings or the Lighting/Scene Type settings. Again, the camera uses the in-camera software to make major decisions concerning the settings for individual images, making you appear to be a real creative pro.

Since the Canon Rebel T3i includes most of the features of much more high-priced models, it should be exceptionally attractive to buyers with a desire to move up the digital SLR ladder one step at a time without investing too much money at the outset.

And because of the new creative features, you, the new digital SLR photographer, will be able to learn about your new photography tool with comfort since you can learn the “pro settings” when you have extra time. When that essential shot is necessary, you can switch to one of the Auto Modes.

The Canon Rebel T3i gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to digital SLR photography.

The Canon EOS 600D, aka Rebel T3i, could just be THE choice for you when it comes to beginning digital SLR photography. For further product review, go to www.canonrebelt3i600d.com

It’s time for one more DSLR shootout. This time it’s the Canon 60D vs Canon Rebel T2i (aka Rebel 550D).

Canon has done something different with the development and release of the 60D. The name “Canon 60D” really belongs to a model that is an upgrade of the Canon 50D, but the 60D does not fit that spot. For it is not actually an upgrade in the most technical sense.

But wait, all things considered, it actually does fit the “spot” that Canon is marketing it for. Engineers have been functioning in overtime throughout the past year, and it is apparently paying off “in spades” as the Canon T2i and the Canon 7D have done extremely well against all competition.

It is quite interesting to look at the Canon 60D vs Rebel T2i in comparison. While both use the exact same sensor and processor, as well as the body construction, there are a few differences that make the newer camera worth the extra money.

Sample image from the Canon 60D

Canon has seemingly set an unstated goal to bring video to the Digital SLR market. The fact that Canon has made it a priority to get high quality video into their DSLR cameras is exhibited in all three releases in the entry and semi-pro level cameras having the exact same video capabilities. Actually, there is one more thing. The 60D has a new audio input capability which allows for better stereo input from two mics.

Other additions that appear to put the 60D into a category all its own include an articulating LCD panel. It is the first DSLR by Canon to have this feature. Video capture is made so much easier if it can be done without your eye having to be attached to the camera’s viewfinder.

Yet another advantage of the 60D vs T2i is the rate of image capture. The 60D can operate at 5.3 fps vs 3.7 fps in the Rebel model.

Are you one who has difficulty getting your photos straight? If so, the new electronic level in the viewfinder of the 60D will make your photographic life complete.

Cross-type focal points help the photographer to have more control over the composition of the image. While both cameras have nine focal points, only the 60D features each focal point as a cross-type auto focus point. The T2i has only one such cross-type auto focus point.

Add wireless flash control and improved control over the auto-ISO function, and that about rounds out the new and improved features.

Sample image from a Canon Rebel T2i

As first time buyer’s digital SLR, the Canon T2i is at the top of the heap right now. Excellent image quality is just one of many reasons for the popularity of the T2i. Just check the user satisfaction at the online stores to see that the Rebel T2i is among the best sellers in the digital SLR category. You just can’t miss if you decide to purchase one.

The Canon 60D, in comparison, may end up being in the same entry level category, since semi-pros might be put off by the “hybridization” of the new model, the more durable magnesium body construction (available in the 50D) being just one example.

So which digital SLR will you choose in the Canon 60D vs Canon T2i competition? Are you still on the fence? There is a side-by-side-by-side parallel view (including the 7D) at http://digital-photographic-resources.com/cameras/canon-mid-range.html