Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2003/01/24
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]>I'm in need of a P&S camera for an upcoming trip to Paris. My >requirements are as follows: > >Reasonably compact and rugged >Affordable <$350 >Night/low light capable >-fast lens (zoom or fixed) >-fairly long shutter times (T or B mode) >-remote shutter release >Competent AF/AE for snapshots > >As of right now I'm leaning towards: >-Leica Z2X >-Remote shutter release >-Slik U2000 tripod > >I'm sure a Leica Minilux would be perfect but unfortunately I'm also on >a pretty tight budget (gotta save some money for the actual trip). > >My question is this can I do better in the sub $350 range? What about >skimping on a used Leica Mini or Mini Zoom (couldn't find any specs on >these)? Where can I find used Leicas (either on the web or in lower >Michigan)? > >I haven't owned a camera since Junior High School and I could use all >the help I can get. > >Thanks. G'day Andre, I have a Z2X which I have used for 4 or 5 years, and in general, I am delighted with it. Its images are razor sharp, and as good as those from the Rollei QZT, but it does have a couple of minor quirks -- at least in my hands. For some reason, it does not handle focus/exposure as well in the vertical format: I've learnt to focus and hold the setting in horizonal, swing around to vertical and shoot. I can see no reason for this, and perhaps it only happens downunder in Australia, but it does "seem" to be the case. It is very light, and you must hold it firmly. The flash is fine, but there is not option for off the camera flash or hotshoe. One thing I'm happy with is that the flash exposures are more to my likeing: ie a little less exposure than many P&S cameras. It is a bit heavy on batteries, but remember I'm used to the M6 and Rollei TLR's, so any battery seems expensive and short lived to me ;-) Its probably no worse than other P&S's, though I don't change them as often in the Rollei, I don't use the Rollei nearly as much My wife carries it EVERYWHERE in a small Lowe case. I'm not saying other cameras are not as good or better, but I've been very happy with the Z2X - -- Alastair Firkin http://www.afirkin.com http://www.familyofman2.com ()" "'() ( '0',) (,,)(")(") - -- To unsubscribe, see http://mejac.palo-alto.ca.us/leica-users/unsub.html