Canon Powershot G10 Review
Comments(110) (Note, my final review is here along with lots of shots from my recent trip to Slovenia and Scotland.)
As an avid user of the Canon Powershot G9, a camera that I said was the perfect travel camera, I had high hopes for the Canon Powershot G10. See my detailed review of the G9 here.
When the G10 was announced, I was especially pleased that Canon had changed the lens to 28-140mm instead of the 35mm-210mm on the G9. I found the 35mm limit of the G9 very restrive when doing landscape photography. Although, I must admit, I did make some fantastic images with the G9. Like this one:
Click on Image to See a Larger Version
Others liked the image too, it won Elements of Human Kind Image of the Week at Nature Scapes Net.
So, I bought the Canon Powershot G10 when it became available locally. My first camera had a hot pixel and I had to return it for exchange, the one I have now is fine. Please note that I buy cameras that I review, unfortunately Canon and Nikon don’t send me stuff to test like they do with the better known camera review sites. And, please note that I do not bore you with totally technical stuff. If you want that kind of information about the Canon Powershot G10, you can read the press release at Canon here.
With camera in hand and tripod set up, I took my first photograph with the G10 yesterday morning.
Click on Image to See a Larger Version
Unfortunately for me, a RAW plugin is not yet available for use with Adobe Photoshop, so I had to use Canon’s DPP software to process the shot. Thus, my normal workflow was totally different, and the subtle things I can do with Lightroom and Adobe RAW processing are missing from the shots you see here.
From the outset, I liked the ergonomics of the G10 much better than the G9. One improvement I especially like is the move of the ISO dial underneath the mode dial and the creation of a exposure compensation dial here shown on the top right. When I used the G9, I had a tendency to accidentally change the ISO settings when holding the camera. I also like the new grip on the G10, it is easier to hold and fits my hand much better than the G9.
The new LCD panel is much better than the one on the G9 with an improved resolution (461,000 pixels versus 230,000 pixels).
I very much like the human/camera interface. Buttons and menus are easily understood and can be employed nearly instantly. The controls are intuitive and natural. A G9 user will not have to consult the G10 manual to take advantage of all the camera’s options since the interface is very similar.
And so far, I am pleased with the details I am getting doing hand-held shots, as in this one shown in the 100% crop.
Color balance has been an issue for me because of my restricted workflow. I hope that Adobe releases the RAW plugins soon, it will greatly improve the final images I can produce with the camera. Canon’s DPP software is minimal at best.
As with the G9, the G10 is wonderful to use. Light, good ergonomics, and a pleasure to take with you on a walk, to a ball game, or to a birthday party. Being small has it advantages. I remember how disappointed I was with the images produced by the Leica M8. The Canon G10 costs 1/10th as much as the Leica M8 body alone and yet both the G9 and the G10 produce better images with substantially less noise. However, I must say, that Canon did not give me the highest quality lens that it could have produced. I would gladly have paid more money for glass like Leica makes. The perfect camera would be a combination of the G10 and a Leica 20mm lens. That would really get me excited!
Although, I must admit too, that the G10 can produce excellent photos.
Let me not forget to say that there are limitations to using either the G9 or the G10. If you shoot at anything higher than ISO 100 you will be disappointed with the noise that results in your images. ISO 400 is useless on the G10. This does not matter to me, since my primary interest in the camera is for landscape and street photography. I have no need for high ISOs.
I already appreciate the wider 28mm lens on the G10. That is a tool I will use continually. How I wish it were a 20mm!
The true test for me will come when I visit Slovenia and Scotland. I hope to return with shots I can share with you, perhaps some videos as well. And BTW, yes, the videos on the G10 are superb, although not HD.
So please come back again as I continue to evaluate the G10. Let me know if you have questions or issues about the camera you wish to discuss with me.
I will say that if you own the G9, keep it. Wait until the G11 comes out. For those of you who don’t own the G9, consider the G10 (with the caveat that it meets your needs). However, following some of the comments on this blog entry, I should also advise that you wait before making a purchase as early production models often suffer from quality controls. So far, in my preliminary review, it is an excellent camera with lots to like. But the proof will come after I have had the opportunity to do some extensive shooting.
Post Review Comment
A reader asked me after posting this review whether he should buy a DSLR or the G10. In my opinion, there is no compact camera made today that will equal the quality one can obtain with a DSLR, and that includes the Canon Powershot G10. I strongly recommend that you consider what you will use the camera for before making any purchase. The G10 has the advantage of being small and easily transported, I like that about it, but I am more than positive that the final image quality of this camera will not compare favorably with an entry level DSLR such as the Canon EOS 1000D and a good quality lens. And please know that I no yet had sufficient experience with the G10 to render an honest opinion about whether it is a camera that you should buy.
Post Script.
Some blogs have asked about clarification of my concerns about shooting with the G10 at higher ISO settings.
Three shots follow, the first an overall shot done at ISO 400 with two 100% crops from that image. You decide about whether the noise level is acceptable. Later today I will do so outside shots in full sunlight and add the images here.
Post Script II.
Dan’s comment about walking prompts me to share this shot done this morning (Sunday). Glad I had the G10 with me. And yes, it makes a big difference having a light weight camera. Plus a little magic with Photoshop. 
Looking forward to the Slovenia/Scotland shots!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Travis
I have just ordered a G10 with the expectation that it would be much more noise free than the G9, which is very noisy over ASA 100. It sounds like it is not. True?
Hi Pete,
The G10 is just as prone to noise as the G9. My experience thus far is that there is no difference between the two cameras. ISO 200 is about as high as I will go. Anything above that will produce unacceptable noise.
On the other hand, there is nothing on the market today that is as good. And yes, I have looked at the Panasonic and the Leica and everything else out there.
One has to live with ISO 80 or 100 if you want noise free shots.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill,
Thank you for your quick review – good photos (Especially considering you had to use canon’s software… – it’s a shame, they make really good cameras, but their software, well…)
I have a question / input / critique concerning the “noise-level”.
Whilst I do not YET have the G10 (it’s not yet available in Switzerland – unfortunately) I’ve used the G9, own a Nikon D70s, and had a good number of Film SLRs in the years before Digital Photography…
Noise imho – whilst the less the better – is getting a tad overrated these days…
if I compare my D70s (I know APS-C Sized sensor) at ISO 1600 (and mind you, that generation of DSLR is comparable to the newer ones in the regards of High ISO)… well at ISO 1600 my DSLR produces “cleaner” shots (if processed properly) than my old Film SLR would get using ISO 1600 colour film.
That is of course, back then it was called “grain” and was artistic
Sure modern “Digital Noise” is not monochromatic, and details get “washed out” by noise reduction…
but if I compare a Fuji Velvia ISO 50 Film to a ISO 1600 Film, well there’s a lot more grain and less detail in with the 1600 Film…
I think, basically you’re perfectly right by opting to keep ISO Values on the G9/G10 as low as possible – for landscapes (where fine detail, colour and a lot more are highly important)..
But I’ve taken some nice street shots using various “higher end” compact cameras (Such as the G9) going as high as ISO 800… yes, there’s need for some Post processing… ..
I used ISO 1600… which was too much…
but I got very usable and pleasing results up to 800… especially if printed no larger than
297×210mm
so I think that saying that anything above ISO 200 with the G9 / G10 is “useless” is a bit “extreme”…
it always depends on what you need.
Comparatively, shots taken with my D70s at ISO 1600 are not going to be printed at billboard-size either… and 297×210 is about as good as it gets… as anything larger – the loss of detail or noise at ISO 1600 is VERY visible.
even when watchin on screen… if light conditions on scene were not “good enough” the iso 1600 shots from the D70s are sometimes “stretching it…”…
(however I find when overexposed by a little, and converted to a hard contrast B&W style the ISO 1600 shots, especially portraits look amazing…)
I am amazed by the colors.
Hi Dan,
The ISO debate will fill volumes of comments, and yours are very appropriate. I remember the old days when I shot with TriX. I loved the grain in the shots. But, in today’s world, images are mostly posted on websites where noise is ever an issue. As to prints, well, that is a different story.
I do not want to appear extreme in my comments. But, I feel the need to be honest. And in my opinion the G10 is not effective above 200 ISO. Maybe I could do some artistic stuff at higher ISOs. But, I would not like the results.
Again, my interest is in doing landscape photography with a small camera that is easily transported. I am lazy, I hate carrying around 25 pounds of equipment across trails that sometimes are long and difficult to traverse. ISO 80 is fine with me.
Nikon has made wonderful strides in improving higher ISO shots. Far better than Canon. And yes, I await the D3x. If Nikon gets the megapixels up to about 16MP I am tempted to buy into that concept. Especially because the Nikon lenses are far superior to the Canon offerings, especially in the wider ranges.
In sum, I do not want to mislead my readers. I am expressing my views honestly. The bottom line is that the G10 cannot be used above ISO 200 without the introduction of noise, noise that I find unacceptable.
Best regards and thanks,
Bill
Bill,
I bought a G10 last weekend. Right out of the box I noticed some very strange behavior from the camera and I want to check if your experience has been the same or if mine is defective.
Indoors at night time there are two odd effects. First, the viewfinder shows large vertical purple bars (or rays) of light where there is ANY light source in the image (e.g., light bulb). These do not show up in captured images but they do show in captured movies. The G10 manual makes some reference to this effect but it is very pronounced in the camera that I have. Second, the colors of some light sources in captured images are VERY different from what the naked eye sees. For example, a street light outside my home casts an orange hue to the naked eye but shows as an unnatural lime/lemon tone in the captured image. Very strange.
Outdoor shots in the day time do not have peculiar color balance in the G10 that I have but every light reflection in the viewfinder has the same vertical purple bar/ray of light that I described above. Again, it does not show up in a captured image but it does show up in captured video. If this only occured occasionally, I could live with it but so far it has occured every time I have switched the camera on.
I hope your experience has not been the same as mine (so that I can return the G10 for a replacement)! I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Regards, CJ
Thank you for your honest and informative review of the G10 which I just purchased, and will try it out tomorrow. I had sold my G9 to buy the TZ5 for the zoom which I honestly regretted. I didn’t realize just how awesome the G9 was until I sold it. I couldn’t wait until the G10 came out. It has some upgraded features that I’m happy about especially the 28mm. I paid the same for the G9 as I just did for the G10.
I see the G10 as the best P&S out there. My main camera is the XTi – for more serious photography. In the meantime, I’m quite happy with all I’ve read about the G10 – and I love the feel. The images I’ve seen so far – the ones above look great to me. IQ is my first consideration in any camera I purchase. So thanks again!
Maria
I was disappointed to hear your first G10 had a hot pixel and you had to swap it. Hopefully this isn’t an early indication of quality control issues such as the G9 had.
My first G9 had a hot/stuck pixel right dead in the center of the images. I took it back, and my second one had three stuck pixels scattered throughout. My third one had none initially, but has since developed one – luckily in a not so obvious spot, so I let Adobe RAW map it out and can tolerate it. I REALLY hope as more people buy the G10, this quality control issue isn’t the same.
Nice pics though so far. Sounds like you’ll enjoy it.
Hi CJ,
I am not having the same issues as you are. If you are getting that kind of results with your camera, I would return it. As with all cameras, one takes a great risk in buying early production models, it is always best to wait a few months before buying any new camera. My experience has been very limited with the camera as of today. As I said earlier, the real test will come in my forthcoming trip to Slovenia and Scotland. I hope to capture several hundred shots on that trip. Then, I will know for sure whether the G10 is a useful tool.
I do note that some images I have shot have some issues with colors. But again, I do not have available plugins for photoshop RAW processing and DPP software, supplied by Canon, is simply too limiting. Thus, I cannot follow my normal workflow.
And too, we still do not have professional reviews to consider. I hope DPReview gets a review done soon, I highly respect them and trust their judgment above my own.
My recommendation is that you return the camera, get a refund, and then wait until other reviews are posted. Surely one month from now some of the experts will have reviews posted that we all can study.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill –
I too respect dpreview.com and will wait for their comments but it is good to see your early feedback of the G10 from a user’s point of view. I will wait to hear how the G10 will do for you in Slovenia and Scotland (when will that be?).
Here is an excellent ‘travel review’ of the G9 in this case from another excellent photo website:
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/G9-Japan.shtml
Thanks again,
Juan
Hello,
I was interested by your blog, and your experience with the Canon g10. You seem to suggest Canon may be coming up with a further model, referred to as the g11: is such a camera in preparation, and is it meant to be, like the g10, a high-end comact? Is there any indication available on its characteristics and possible selling price?
Thank you,
Jean-Jacques.
Juan,
I am leaving for Slovenia/Scotland soon and will have two weeks of shooting landscapes in both countries. I hope to post shots done in both countries sometime in late November, both here in my blog and on my website.
Best regards,
Bill
Jean-Jacques,
My suggestion that there will be a G11 is simply following the progression of new cameras offered by Canon and other manufacturers. The cycle seems to be roughly every two years. It is only my speculation, I have no personal knowledge that Canon will introduce such a camera in the future.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks Bill,
Will check back with you in mid November to see how you liked the G10.
Cheers and safe travels.
Juan
Bill,
Thank you for your reply concerning my comment on noise-issues … and also the ISO 400 samples!!
The following part really made my day:
//****
Again, my interest is in doing landscape photography with a small camera that is easily transported. I am lazy, I hate carrying around 25 pounds of equipment across trails that sometimes are long and difficult to traverse. ISO 80 is fine with me.
//****
I just returned from a 6 hours hike with my dog…
I wish I had taken my camera along – as the weather proved interesting (light) and the scenery was lovely…
But I didn’t – you know why? well I hate lugging around all that stuff too… that is one of the major reasons why I’m looking for a “compact solution” like the G10.
I did a few trips where I took my whole setup along (back then consisting of a Nikon F100, F3 a
Bill,
I was wondering if you tried lowering the pixel count to help reduce the noise on the higher ISO shots. The noise above ISO 200 seems to be a constant complaint among reviewers. I have looked at the manual online and have seen that the pixel count can be set to M1 which brings it down to 9 megapixels. Would that help eliminate any noise?
Thanks for your review. I found it very helpful.
Tom S. -
I have tried what you have suggested and I see no difference in the level of noise at ISO 400. See two shots below. M1 mode at ISO 400.
Bill
Bill,
I was wondering if the view through the viewfinder was more accurate on the G10 than it is on the G9.
Mark,
It seems improved but it is still not WYSIWYG! Wish Canon would make an adapter for the flash slot that would improve the field of view. I love shooting through a viewfinder.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill,
How much more improved? I have been using Leica M’s for the past 25 years and was very excited when the M8 was announced. Given the problems with it, I can’t justify buying one until they make it right. I bought the G9 because of its’ RAW capabilities and the fact that it feels like a Leica M. The one drawback has been the necessity of using the LCD screen to frame images accurately. The viewfinder on the G9 isn’t even close to the captured image. Has the G10 gotten much closer to WYSIWYG?
On another note, I just got back from 10 days in Scotland and loved it.
Mark
Mark,
Here is a quick test. The Color Chart represents what I saw through the manual viewfinder, that is, I filled the viewfinder with the chart. The full frame shows that the viewfinder is skewed up and slightly right. To compensate, one would have to remember to move up and a little right. I hope I made myself clear.
Best regards,
Bill
Thanks for doing the test Bill. I guess we are still a way off from WYSIWYG.
Mark
Bill,
Thanks for the review! We just received our Canon G10 last Friday and so far, so good. I can’t wait until the G10 RAW format gets supported in Photoshop (which will probably happen in the next 2 weeks). Actually, I have been shooting more video on it than photos so far. We posted some on our website. It would be awesome to see some video from Slovenia and Scotland.
Best Regards,
Travis Peltz
Bill,
Thank you for the very informative and honest review of the G10. Based on your review, I think I know the answer to this, but perhaps you can clarify.
–Will the G10 yield better results than most other point and shoots?
I have looked at a lot of cameras and most have a 1/2.33 or 1/2.5 image sensors. Some sales people say that the 1/1.7 sensor on the G10 (or G9) will not give you much better results than any other p&s sensor. Although I would prefer to purchase a DSLR and have the inherant image quality, most of my camera use necessitates a smaller more portable camera (family vacations and business travel). I grew up with SLR’s and want to get as close as possible but understand the limitations of p&s’s. I am therefore attracted to the idea of the larger image sensor on the G10.
–Does the larger image sensor on the G10 (compared to 1/2.33 or 1/2.5) make a difference?
Last question. About once or twice a year I go on a vacation hiking and need a longer zoom than 140mm equiv. I am temped to buy a super zoom p&s, but want the camera to be the best quality for most of my use.
–Is the lens quality on the G10 is better than a super zoom (other Canons like the new S10 IS or Panasonic’s Leica branded lenses on the FZ28)?
–Do you happen to know anything about the Canon lens adaptor accessories for the G10 (or G9 since you had that for a longer period of time)? Will a teleconverter suffice for infrequent use once or twice a year?
Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Stuart,
An excellent article which discusses your first two questions can be found at: http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/digital-camera-sensor-size.htm
As one can discern from the article, the matter of sensor size does make a difference along with a host of other factors discussed in the article.
I have used a teleconverter with the G9 and have gotten some decent photographs with it, however, overall, any converter will degrade image quality when compared with the original lens. I have not tried the teleconverter with the G10, but will do so soon.
I cannot give you advice about super zoom cameras versus the G10 since I have not had the opportunity to shoot with them. My test for image quality is simple. Shoot with a camera and look at the photos that result. One soon concludes which are better. Unfortunately, we don’t have that option when buying a new camera and must rely on the opinions of others. Normally, I never purchase a camera until I have seen full frame shots done with them. The new Canon super zooms look interesting, especially the new one with the CMOS sensor, but I have no experience to judge one way or another about just how good or bad they are.
In your decision process you might consider a small DSLR and perhaps two lenses that fit your needs. I recognize, painfully, what that means in terms of travel and portability. In the end, you must decide what is more important; image quality or size and portability.
Best regards,
Bill
Which DSLR? which two lenses?
Pentax? good bad k2000? or they just dropped the k20…
thanx
michael
Hi Mike,
There are several excellent choices. I am wedded to Canon because of the lenses I own ( I am not a fanboy of Canon) and I very much like the new Nikon offerings. A really good mix might be the Canon 1000D and the Canon 28-135mm lens, or the Nikon D40x with the 28-105mm.
The Canon 28-135mm varies by copy, if you get a good one it is an outstanding lens. DPReview highly recommends the Canon 1000D (street price around $550).
I am unfamiliar with the Pentax offerings.
Yes, you might spend about $300 more for such a combo, but you would have the flexibility of adding more lens down the road. And of course, you are back in the “luggable” category, giving up the portability of the G10.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill
nice pictures and great report. I come as a german “foreigner” to your website
I love photography – with my canon 40D – and I have the G9 which makes good shots if there is good light and nearly noise free after I reduced to 8 mio. pixel on 80ISO (now selling in Ebay).
I would like to now, if the speed (shutter release) of the G10 has improved (the G9 has 0,54 sec.) AND if the barrel distortion on 28 (6,1) mm is as “horrible” as I saw it here http://www.flickr.com/photos/minami/2933655979/in/set-72157607814855241/
The Lumix LX3 would be perfect for street photography (24-60 mm, less distortion, noise) BUT it is to slow (shutter release = 0,75 sec.).
So if the shutter release and distortion would be acceptable (of course I should now the limit of the lens before I create a “shot”) I would love the G10…
Kindly regards from Germany
Manoj
And I apology for my bad english
Hi,
I also look forward to your Scotland and Slovenia pictures! And I thank you for your comments above. You mentioned having tried the Panasonic; was it the LX3?
I am torn between that (with essentially no tele and with wide angle distortion) and the Canon G10 with apparently worse noise issues above 200.
I have the Nikon D80 but there are many times I’d much rather have a good IQ small pocket or bag size camera.
thanks,
Betsy
Hi Manoj,
Your English is much better than my German.
Shutter release: I cannot find the specifications for the shutter release time on the G10, but from experience, I can state that it is as good or better then the G9.
Your link to the shot on Flickr shows a photograph that was obviously taken when the camera was pointing up. In other words, the film plane was not level in the Flickr shot, and in my opinion, it would be incorrect to say that the shot shows barrel distortion. Any camera, when pointed up, with the film plane not square with the subject matter, will produce the same distortion.
In sum, when level, the G10 does not show barrel distortion even at it widest setting (28mm).
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Betsy,
I have not shot with the LX3, I have only looked at shots done by others using the camera. Thus, I cannot say that the LX3 is better or worse than the G10.
Recommend that you find some full-sized shots done with the LX3 and the G10 before deciding. It is always best to make your own decisions rather than rely on what some one else has said. And don’t taken my comments in this blog as concluding that the G10 is the best compact camera made, I have still to use the camera extensively. In three weeks I should know more.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
First off, love your photos here. I have been doing a review of the G10 for comparison to my own. I have been using a simple SD700is and wanted a bit more of an upgrade. More manual control but I want the size (just cannot bring myself to carry a SLR).
Just got the G10 on Friday and took it to NYC. Upon reviewing the pics I am coming up with some questionable barrel distortion.
I see it pretty strongly in this wide angle shot, then just a few pictures later, in this series, i took same show but with a bit of zoom and I see no real distortion.
I am by no means an expert here, and I am just a bit beyond a point and shooter here, but the distortion seems a bit too much. Im wondering if the upgrade was worth it or if a smaller camera like the new 880is would be good enough.
Thoughts on the distortion?
Thanks Randy
Hi Randy,
I have looked at your photographs taken in NYC and yes, I am seeing what you see — obvious barrel distortion.
Manoj earlier said that he was experiencing the same distortion. My reply was that the G10 shows no distortion at 28mm. My statement is apparently incorrect. What I should have said was that I have not noted any distortion.
It could be that I simply have not replicated the same distance to subjects as you have. Today I will try some really close shots to see if my camera products similar results.
Our viewers can look at your shots by clicking on your name in your comment, it links to your shots.
A good article about barrel distortion can be found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wide-angle_lens
Such distortion is easily corrected in Photoshop with some degree of clipping of the final image.
All compact cameras will have some degree of barrel distortion, simply because of their design. Likewise, so will any wide angle lens. So, choosing another compact camera may not result in a better choice. The G10 has a 28mm lens versus the 35mm lens on the G9, obviously the G10 may more prone to distortion than the G9.
The Canon Powershot SD880IS is roughly half the cost of the G10. It may very well be a good choice for you considering that you want a small camera and your interests are not as obsessive compulsive as my own.
But let me point out that the 880IS also has a 28mm lens. Likely it will produce the same results.
Give me some time and let me try to replicate what you have demonstrated with your shots.
Best regards,
Bill
I had a G9.The only negative thing about was its range in contrasty situations.I shoot manually & try to expose for the highlights & worry about the shadows & low tones later, jpeg/raw.like to stick to 4.5 sweet spot.Will I be able to recover the shadows.Like many I am worried about the smaller photosites.Pixel peeking G10 jpeg files show great res & seem to respond well to processing.worried that icontrast will give a processed look too.If theres a slight improvement in DR might take the plunge.please will someone specifically address the tonal range/clipping etc in their review comparing to g9.
regards
Fred
Hi Fred,
So far the G10 seems to deal with highlights better than the G9. Course, dealing with highlights in any camera is an issue, one that has driven me nuts through the years. If one underexposes, noise intrudes, if one exposes generally, well we have blown highlights. Dynamic range is the bane of us all.
So far, I do see an improvement. I think the key is to shoot in light that is not harsh. So it is with all photography.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thanks a lot for your G10 review.
I own a Nikon D300, but I need a compact camera
for specific use and as the second camera too.
I am among Nikon P6000, Lumix LX3 and Canon G10.
Sometimes I heard some good or bad things about them, so I keep stil confuse. I would like to Know
your opinion about my ‘dilema’. Coul like help me
make the correct choice?.
Best regards,
Themis
Hi Themis,
Lots of good things have been said about the Lumix LX3. See: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/lx3.shtml
Many professionals think that Panasonic has hit the mark with the camera. Less MG pixels and better clarity.
However, luminious-landscapes says that shooting at ISO 400 is an issue too.
Advantages of the LX3: HD Video, cheaper cost, RAW for 16:9. But, the conversion software for RAW is an issue.
I have not read about the Nikon P6000 except to learn that RAW conversion is an issue.
The point is to look, read, and the decide what is best for you.
I cannot make a good judgment yet, it will take time, for the worth of the G10.
Give me some time.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill ,
thank you for your reply.
I found the G9’s screen the most unrepresentative of the file of any compact Ive used, though we got a feel for its limitations & worked around them.Actually it was always a pleasant surprise to find a better than anticipated image on the computers screen.
Other than 461k do you find the screen shows a more accurate image?.
I loved the G9 but felt the IQ was just not quite there.Heres hoping the G10 can nudge up a bit closer to that perfect small camera yet to be produced.
regards
Fred
Hallo Bil:
I am interested how he does function with the
flash and with the extern flashlight.
Greetings:
René (Netherland)
Bill,
Reading your review, as someone who has owned the G10 for a little more than a week, I found myself empathising with much of your commentary.
I purchased the G10 to avoid carrying the heavy load of EOS 10D and a variety of lenses. My wife is delighted that I no longer spend ages changing lenses and setting up. We have just returned from a long weekend, where I took around 600 images using the superfine setting, but not Raw, and the results have been a mixture of surprisingly good to a little disappointing. Budapest is very photogenic and the night shots at 100 ASA using a small tripod on a wall are exceptionally good. Shots at 400 and above suffer from a more noise than I would have expected.
However the greatest surprises were in the battery life (I went with a spare that I didn’t use) and the 4GB card, which comfortably held my images.
I am not disappointed with my purchase and wish I had found your review before I left for Budapest as I unquestionably would have approached my weekend photography differently and benefitted.
I look forward to gathering more images without ending up with a broken back.
Keep up the good work.
Willie D.
Bill and all,
Here is a new review of the G10 from Luminous.
http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/pocket-battleships.shtml
I hope this helps answer some of the questions posted here. I can’t wait to see your slovenia shots and not just for the technical aspects but for the beauty that country has.
Juan
At Studionemo.com we did our own review, thoughts?
Canon G10 review – New but not improved from Dave Allen on Vimeo.
I am a G9 owner that was hoping that the G10 would be a significant improvement… at least enough to merit an upgrade… but thus far it seems it does not. If you DON’T currently own a Gp then it IS the way to go… or get a G9 at a great discount. If I could just get a G9/G10 that had quicker response time…… Nothing more frustrationg to see that decisve moment and see it pass while your camera is still thinking about shooting… and finally does… after the perfect shot is GONE! But that’s true with most P&S and even DSLRs.
Thanks for the great review Bill… and all the wonderful and thoughtful comments.
I just bought the canon powershot G10 and am definatly not very educated in photography but am very interested and am trying to learn. Would this be a good camera to learn on? is there any place that you know of that i could go to for education on this camera besides the manual lol i have read it over 3 times.
thank you
I was interested to see Randy’s question asking for a comparison of the 880is to G10. I realize the 880 does not allow nearly the same degree of manual control and subsequent manipulation of RAW images….but I have read elsewhere that the image quality is actually higher with the 880, and that there is substantially less noise, because there is not the imbalance between the megapixels (so high in the G10) and image sensor (not correspondingly larger in the G!0). It seems questionable whether it is worth paying more and starting off at a disadvantage with image quality (in less than optimal bright conditions) just to get the manual options. Strikes me as preferable either get a point and shoot that does that well, or opt for a DSLR…unless someone tells me that the G10 does not in fact have more noise than the 880. I welcome correction on this.
Hi Lorna,
The Canon G10 is an excellent camera to learn with. It has so many wonderful features that can aid the beginning photographer. I suggest you enroll in a photography course, lots of courses are offered in every community. Or better yet, find a friend who lives close by who can aid you in the learning process. Most good photographers are always ready to help a beginner. Check your community for a photography club. Join. It’s the best way to learn, and you get to meet interesting people as well.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Nancy,
I have not used the 880 IS and cannot advise if it is indeed better at higher ISOs. Perhaps soon I will get one and try it out.
Try finding other reviews of the camera. DPReview is a great place to start. Google it.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill
Thanks for your informative and “real life” impressions of the G10. Your comments are easily understandable common-sense and will be extremely helpful to many users.
I use a Nikon D2X as my main camera, but still own an ancient Canon G3 – which still works very well. I intend to retire my trusty G3 in the very near future and replace it with a G10, so came across your review in the course of my research.
I, too, hate lugging huge, heavy camera bags on walks, and would like a camera that is capable of getting decent shots in good light. I have been missing far too many good photos recently after leaving the D2X at home – I want something I can carry with me everywhere, and my excellent experience with the (now dated) G3 has me looking at Canon’s latest.
Thanks again for the down-to-earth information.
Hi Bill
Thanks for your hands-on review and blog, and thanks to all for their great comments. I purchased my G9 soon after it was released in the US and have since enjoyed some great results, in spite of it’s here, well documented failings. A compact camera in the hand is worth two DSLR’s left behind. I too prefer to keep shots at 80 or 100. And, I also agree that 200/400 grain can selectively give acceptable, arty effects. But due to the ISO noise issue, I often wish for a dedicated ISO button or option. Does the G10 provide for that? And, can you recommend any small-sized tiltable dedicated flash units for the G9/G10 Series?
Finally, while I have yet to use the movie mode, how do the G9 & the G10’s video modes compare? Thank you.
Best regards,
Robert
Hi Bill,
I enjoyed your review and the good discussion following it. I’ve been considering a G10 as a replacement for my old Powershot Pro, but use mostly an EOS 5D for my “serious” amateur photography. However, I don’t think it makes sense for me to upgrade until Photoshop support for RAW image processing is there.
What I haven’t been able to find anywhere is a reason for some RAW formats being incompatible with others. Has the RAW format evolved so that there is more information in the G10 RAW image than Photoshop CS3 knows how to handle? Does every camera require a different “driver” for its RAW images built into Photoshop? What I’m reading between the lines is that the RAW format isn’t as standardized as the JPG format and others. That concerns me from the perspective of whether or not software will be readily available to process those images in 20 years.
Hi Robert,
The G10, has moved the ISO selection dial beneath the mode dial. It is an improvement over the G9 which had a separate wheel.
I can’t recommend a flash but I know that there are many available. I use my Canon flash unit that I have had for years.
The G9 allowed for larger videos but at 25fps, if I recall correctly, it still was not HD however. The G10 uses 640X480 at 30fps. I would say the two are very similar. In fact, I am impressed with the video output. It is certainly better than one would need for YouTube.
Bill
Hi Mike,
RAW is proprietary depending upon the camera manufacturer. Everyone expects Adobe to provide plugins for RAW conversion, but Adobe wants the world to adopt the DNG standard and makes the conversion software available for free. Problem is, the current version does not convert G10 files. A revision should be out in the next month or so that will.
So, yes, you are correct RAW is not standardized across manufacturers. While each camera company does provide a means for RAW conversion, some of the offerings are terrible, like the one offered by Panasonic.
Canon’s DPP software does a decent job of conversion, but like you I would prefer to convert using Adobe ACR.
We will have to wait and see where this goes, but Adobe, being the giant of digital photo processing, likely will force the DNG standard on all cameras.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
While I like all the convenience and portability advantages of the G10 which I’ve been thinking of buying, I have 2 concerns which really apply to all high-end compacts I see out there.
First, do you have any thoughts about the click-to-capture responsiveness of the G10 (or G9 for that matter). This may not be a concern to you for landscape shots, but capturing the moment when shooting people is definitely an issue with many non-SLR digital cameras. How is the capture speed of the G10?
Second is the fact that you can’t seem to use filters for any non-SLR digital cameras. While software can do wonders with an image after the fact for color balance, some things you can really only get with a filter (like a polarizer). Is there such a thing as a compact that actually has threading around the lens for filters? (Cokin’s adapters are probably not an answer since a polarizer has to be turned to give the desired effect.)
Thanks for the interesting blog and for any advice you can offer. Still hoping I can find something out there for under about $500 or $600 that will give me the lightweight portability I desire, but still give me creative control, optional use of filters and a hot shoe for flash.
Rich
Rich,
As I said in my final review, the shutter response time on the G10 is instant. No lag.
Capture speed depends on whether you are shooting in RAW or JPEG and what kind of card you are using. For me it is fast enough.
Yes, you can use filters with the G10 but you must purchase an adapter. Darwin Wiggett uses filters with his G9 with great success. I have the adapters for the G9 but they do not fit the G10, so must make a purchase.
As to your desires I think the G10 fits perfectly.
Best regards,
Bill
Again, Bill, thank you for the very informative discussion and for your prompt response.
Rich
Thanks for a great review. A bit off topic: Could you tell me which tripod you are using please.
Hi Android,
I use the Gitzo Series 1 Carbon 6X Tripod – 3 Section G-Lock. It is very light and fits in my suitcase with no difficulty.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Please comment on the set of filters available for the G10, How would they increase the fun and the presentation standard of my shots
Best Regards,
Hesham
Sydney, Australia
Hi Hesham,
My friend, Darwin Wiggett, uses filters with his Canon G9 and the same arrangement can be made with the G10. See his article here: http://singhray.blogspot.com/2007/11/ultralight-photography-with-canon-g9.html
Basically, one buys an adapter and then places the filter holder on the adapter. The best adapter is made by Lensmate. See: http://www.lensmateonline.com/newsite/G7.html
I bought an adapter for my G9 but it won’t fit the G10 so I am waiting until Lensmate produces one for it. It is far better than the Canon offering since Lensmate makes all their adapters out of metal.
With the adapter in place on can use a polarizing filter quite easily. It does make a difference.
And with the proper filter holders attached to the adapter, the possibilities are unlimited.
Best regards
Bill
Thanks for your G10 review. They’re great little compacts.
I use Leica M-series film and Canon EOS digital SLR equipment. I used to shoot with Nikon F-mount SLRs.
You say Nikon optics are better than Canon.
You’re wrong.
Use Nikon’s AF 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR in light rain, and it will stop working: no AF, no pictures, no function. This happened to me a couple years in a row shooting April’s Sea Otter Classic mountain bike races in Monterey, California. After the lens died the second year, I had it repaired again, and sold it.
I’ve never heard anyone complain about Canon’s EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS. Wildlife shooters like Artie Morris (www.birdsasart.com) use that lens all the time with no reliability problems and excellent optical results.
I use Canon’s EF 400mm f/4 DO-IS and EF 500mm f/4L IS for wildlife work. The EF 500mm is comparable to Nikon’s AF-S 500mm f/4G ED VR, and a couple thousand cheaper. Nikon doesn’t offer anything with light weight and f/4 speed together at 400mm. You need to buy Nikon’s heavy AF 200-400mm f/4G ED-IF zoom to get f/4.
For landscapes, portraits and closeups I use either the EF24-70mm f/2.8L or the EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS. Canon’s EF70-200mm is as good or better than the Nikon AF 80-200mm f/2.8 ED-IF I used to use for sports.
I switched to Canon in 2003 because Nikon didn’t have VR glass in long focal lengths at the time. Nikon took a long time to get VR telephotos, but their color post-processing has always been a bit better than Canon’s.
The bottom line? Buy the camera you need for your subjects. You may want a 50mm f/1 Noctilux or 35mm f/2 Summicron ASPH on a Leica M7 for wedding ceremonies where you need to be quiet and shoot in available darkness. You may need 500mm on an EOS 1D mk III for bison on Utah’s Antelope Island. Or you may go walking with a 400mm on an EOS 40D for those coyote grab shots.
But the best camera is always the one you have with you. The G10 gives great results within its limitations, and it’s small enough to go everywhere. My fiancee loves hers.
Hi Mark,
I have used many canon lenses and still own lots of them. My favorite wildlife lens is the 100-400mm (see example shots I have done with it here) but I prefer the 300mm f/4 for sharpness. The best Canon lens I ever used was the 300mm f/2.8 which is about as good as it gets. My 200mm f/2.8 is also a fabulous lens, especially for the price.
But, when one gets into landscape photography Canon does not offer a decent lens. The new Nikon 14-24mm is getting rave reviews, and many Canon shooters are using adapters to mount the lens on their 1Ds Mark III cameras. I am excited about the new Canon mount Zeiss lenses as well, but the 21mm won’t be out until sometime next year.
I should never make general statements such as “Nikon lenses are superior.” Some may be, but some may not. Thanks for pointing this out.
As we all know, the problem is that we invest in glass and making a shift to a different camera is often prohibitive. But, glass is more important than the camera body. Glass is forever, camera bodies come and go.
I agree that the best camera is the one you have with you. And more and more, I opt to pick up the G10. So far I am very pleased with the images I have gotten with the camera. But, it is still not a DSLR and yes I can see significant differences in images shot with my 1DS Mark II. But, the problem is that the Mark II is heavy! Yet, in the end, if I want to produce something really special, I should be using it.
However, I am very excited about the G10, if one takes one’s time and does what one should do, it will produce very high quality images that anyone would be proud to show to someone else.
Thanks for your comments, very good information about Nikon lenses, some things I sure did not know.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Please highlight the necessity of the ND Filter.
When should it be used, and setting examples of good shots, when the ND is in use [ Page 40 - G10 Manual ]
Also please, comments on Adjusting the tone and the White balance.
In What condiotions should I do the described set up from [ page 143 ]?
Well, what can I say I have one month to go to use the G10 for the New year’s eve Fire works over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this will be followed by the Cairo Pyramids By the Moon Light. Finally Firenze – Florence – at Sunrise in Feb 2009.
Regards,
Hesham
Sydney Australia
Hi Hesham,
Greetings from Florida. I must get to your wonderful country some day.
ND Filter. The purpose of the ND Filter, as I understand it, is to slow down action. For example, let’s say I am photographing a scene of a bay and I want to make the water appear smooth, I would use the filter, set my aperture to f/8 on the G10, and hope the shutter speed would diminish, in so doing achieve a smooth effect of the water in the bay. See my photo: http://www.bill.lockharts.com/index.php/photo/31
White balance is the bane of most photographers, the G10 allows one to set white balance manually, which sometimes is necessary. Most photographers simply shoot at auto white balance then make corrections in post processing using Adobe Photoshop. If one takes the time to set white balance manually, the final result will be superior to what one might achieve in post processing.
Tone. To quote from an article at Photo Composition Articles: “Tone is probably the most intangible element of composition. Tone may consist of shadings from white-to-gray-to-black, or it may consist of darks against lights with little or no grays. The use of dark areas against light areas is a common method of adding the feeling of a third dimension to a two-dimensional black-and-white picture. The interaction of light against dark shades in varying degrees helps to set the mood of a composition. A picture consisting of dark or somber shades conveys mystery, intrigue, or sadness. When the tones are mostly light and airy, the picture portrays lightness, joy, or airiness.” Thus, tone may best be described as a way to give a photograph an artistic result that the photographer intends while producing the image.
Your forthcoming trip sounds fantastic. It is the sort of journey I would love to make.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
With Awe and Full admiration I look at your works of Art from the Heavenly Florida.
I’d dream to do something near the following:
* Mr. Duncan Sinclair of Glenuig, Scotland
* Golden Evening Rannoch Moor
* The Window Frame
* Garden Chair
* At Rainbow’s End, Portuairk, Scotland
* House at Lake Bled
* Ardnamurchan Lighthouse.
Please can you reveal your G10 settings for the above shots?
I can see what a wealth of shots you can do Bill around our beautifull – sunny all year round – beaches, and the amazing native OZ birds and animals in the bush.
Best Regards,
Hesham
Sydney, Australia
Hi Hesham,
Gosh, to do what you request will require that I go back to each original shot and examine camera settings for each. That will take a great deal of time to accomplish, time that I do not have.
From the top of my head, I do remember that when I shot Mr. Duncan Sinclair of Glenuig, Scotland, that I had the aperture wide open, ISO 80, at somewhere around 1/20, and was using a tripod.
In the future I promise to post camera settings with the shots.
Also keep in mind that the original shots and the final postings are radically different because of my workflow in Adobe ACR and Photoshop.
Generally I shoot in aperture priority, adjusting for the proper DOF, then I deal with the shutter speed accordingly, using a tripod as necessary. I normally do not compensate for exposures but rather look at the live view histogram to get the exposure as close as possible to a bell curve by changing the aperture and then fix the exposure using the proper button on the camera.
Remember, the G10 has exceptional DOF at almost all settings. Certainly f/5.6 is more than adequate for landscapes, f/8 being my choice if possible. When shooting handheld I prefer to open up the aperture so that the shutter speed is higher.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
i thought with the aperature priority mode – that you prefer – you do select the aperature value and the camera chooses the shutter speed accordingly.Do you agree
I appreciate your explanation to follow the Histogram bell.
Please enlight me – when you can – with the settings of these two – only 2 – brilliant shots
* Mr. Duncan Sinclair of Glenuig, Scotland
* Golden Evening Rannoch Moor.
Best Regards,
hesham
Sydney, Australia
Hi Hesham,
OK.
Duncan Sinclair – Evaluative Metering, AWB, RAW, f/4.5, 1/13, ISO 80, at 6mm, tripod.
Golden Evening – Evaluative Metering, AWB, RAW, f/4, 1/200, ISO 80, at 8.1mm, hand held.
Best regards,
Bill
I currently have a Canon 400D and my wife carries a small Canon IXUS model. I am interested to know how the G1 compares to an IXUS rather than a DSLR? In most reviews of the G10 so far, they seem to be very critical but I would like to know if it would be worth upgrading from IXUS to a G10, would it be vastly superior or just a bit better for image quality?
Hi Bill,
Back to your detailes reply of November 22nd, 2008 in regard of new G10 Adapter to be offered by Lensmate.
Please, I’m eager to read your assessment of the the three parts that currently are available by Lensmate for G10.
Best Regards,
Hesham
Sydney, Australia
Hi Hesham,
Lensmate does not have the adapter’s available yet for the G10, although the company is in the process of making two options:
1. An adapter that is only for the telephoto lenses.
2. An adapter that is for the use of filters at any focal length.
The Canon adapter is only available for use with its telephoto lens, it cannot be used with filters.
So, I await the offerings from Lensmate. The one I want is for use of filters only.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill
I currently have a Canon 400D and my wife carries a small Canon IXUS model. I am interested to know how the G1 compares to an IXUS rather than a DSLR? In most reviews of the G10 so far, they seem to be very critical but I would like to know if it would be worth upgrading from IXUS to a G10, would it be vastly superior or just a bit better for image quality I would appreciate your thoughts.
Kind regards
Ben
Hi Ben,
The Canon ISUS models all shoot in JPEG format and do not offer RAW. In my opinion, RAW is superior to JPEG. One can shoot in RAW using the G10.
But, the answer to your question is what will the camera be used for? Many prefer smaller compact cameras, such as the IXUS series. Many do not care about post processing in RAW. Many only want a camera for sharing photographs through the web. Many never print larger that 5X7.
In my opinion, when shooting at ISO 80, the G10 is equal in quality to an entry level DSLR. I have printed shots done with it at 13X19. In sum, the G10 would produce better images than a IXUS model, but I would not upgrade to the G10 if my needs were limited to smaller prints, or sharing across the web, or if I continued to shoot only JPEGs.
Course there are many other features on the G10 well worth considering. For me, the G10 offers a small camera that is capable of producing images I might want to sell, it’s that good. Darwin Wiggett says that his stock agency uses shots he has done with the G9! Course Darwin could produce a masterpiece using a pin hole camera.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill,
Great site! You have a firm grip on what the practical shooter needs to know, unlike some other sites which I find overly technical.
In your above post you said that the capture time on the G10 was “fast enough.”
We have been using a G9 for the past year and have done okay with it, sold dozens of images produced with it to magazines and shot most of the images for a recent book. However, capture time remains an issue on action photos.
Question: Is the capture time of a G10 significantly faster than that of the G9?
Thanks in advance,
Morgan
Hi Morgan,
I find the G10 shutter release to be almost instant. Maybe just a tad off that, but far better than the G9.
Course, you gotta understand, I do landscapes with it and shutter lag is not an issue with me.
But, even with portraits, it is fast enough.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill,
Thanks for the info. “Far better,” is a Good Thing. Most of our work involves international l travel and we HATE lugging gear. Aside from the misery of being a pack mule we find heavy bulky gear to get in the way of the work. Not only it is off putting for some people shots, but after a few hours work we find ourselves looking for excuses to not go an extra mile for that perfect shot.
On our last trip (Italy) we used only a G9 and other than missing some action shots did ok. The freedom from gear was liberating, took me back to the old days when I shot with film and the smallest camera I could find.
Back in 60s I ditched Nikon F gear for OM1 rig. Yeah, it wore out and I had to replace it, but try outrunning incoming fire with thirty pounds of gear in a bag flapping on your hip. Shot more than one job with only a Rollei 35 or Leica with ONE lens.
Now trying to recreate compact film camera experience with digital. So far G9 is it. I am NOT technical, never have been. Learn enough to get shot. Shot is thing, not gear. At least for me. Favorite camera is Minox C. If I could sell images from it I would.
By the way, on one of your threads I saw some debate on film vs digital. My view is you are spot on. I don’t shoot for NG, but I have shot for $$$ off and on for over thirty years, commercial and editorial. Mostly now video, but still a good bit of still work.
We had a shoot in Prague about five years ago and were shooting both digital and film. We were new to digital and didn’t trust it. We shot 235 rolls of 35mm in five days, two shooters. By the time we got back to the US over 120 rolls were fogged and virtually unusable due to multiple airport xray exposure. Terrorist alerts were high and no one would allow us to avoid xrays, press cards useless. Digital images saved the shoot, and the client.
Now is total non issue due to cost. No one, at the level we shoot, will pay for film. All is now digital and is cheaper by order of magnitude.
Some of our work here: http://www.nomadicprods.com
Keep up your good work.
Cheers,
Morgan
Hi there, just came across your review. I was wondering, frankly, is G10 a worthwhile upgrade of a G7? Or is 1000D a better option? I have a 350D that I have access to that I use once in awhile.
Hi bem69,
It depends upon your use. If you want a small compact camera, then the G10 is an excellent choice. If you want a DSLR, the 1000D has earned high marks from many reviewers. For me the choice of the G10 was for those times when I want something small and light. And yes, it is a significant improvement over the G7.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the prompt reply. I’m interested in the G10 particularly for the RAW support. I’ve learned quite a lot from the comments and replies here too. Thanks for that.
Thanks for the review, Bill. Your blog was really helpful in choosing my camera. I just got the G10.
-Brittni
Hi
How does SD990IS compare to G10?
Thanks
April
Hi April,
I have not used the SD990IS and cannot make a comparison. Perhaps another reader will comment.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill-Your blog is great and most useful. Your reader are intelligent and hrlpful to us”onlookers”.
As a retired photo teacher at a NY StateUniversity, I would like to join in. I am rdcovering from a stroke and have to drastically change my photo methods. No longer can carry three cameras on my neck doing street and documentary shooting (now moving into landscape and “fine art”, in addition.
I am seriously considering the celebrated Canon G10 but I note using filters is a trial; what with adapters and the like. Any thoughts on that-and do you know of a quick release gadget if I want to use the G10 on a tripod.
Hi Len,
Using filters with the G10 is really no too much different than with a DSLR. The key is to get the right adapters. Lensmate offers some excellent ones made from aluminum. There are three parts, make sure you buy the two parts that allow you to use filters, the other part is for mounting a telephoto supplemental lens. From there, take a look at Darwin Wiggett’s article about using filters on his G9. See that article here: http://singhray.blogspot.com/2007/11/ultralight-photography-with-canon-g9.html
As to quick release, actually I just use a normal plate that I keep attached to the G10, it works well with a small ballhead. Course, you have to remove the plate to get to the battery and SD card. Grumble.
Another choice is to look into Really Right Stuff. They have an adapter that allows one to rotate the camera to vertical easily. But, it is designed for a larger ballhead.
Good luck on your recovery. I think the G10 may very well satisfy your needs for landscape and fine art photography. It truly is an amazing camera if you understand its limitations.
Best regards,
Bill
Bill:
I hit the wrong key and never completed my message:
I am on the verge of buying the G10 when I just looked at the Panasonic Lumix G1 with the leica 28mm-90mm lens and tiltable monitor. It appears to be an innovative variation of a mini DSLR, without the reflex. Do you have any take on this new camera? I am aware it is about $700 but when you consider the additional costs of adapter and filters on the G10–the question is, is it worth it? In your opinion, do the features and performance of the Lumix G1 outweigh the G10? If they are too close to call, I will stick to the G10.
Perhaps you and your loyal followers have an opinion.
Many thanks,
Len
Hi Len,
The reviews I have read about the G1 give high praise to what the camera offers. Having no experience with the camera, I cannot personally say one way or another as to its image quality.
Certainly, the advantage of using Leica lenses with it is a prime consideration.
Frankly, it is not all that much smaller than say the Canon Rebel XTi. So, one should take care in comparing it with DSLRs, the advantages of weight and size are not all that much.
One should remember that the major cost in a camera system is not the camera, it is the lenses. The G1 would not be a good choice for me because of my heavy investment in Canon L lenses. Thus, moving toward the G1 would likely involve a heavy investment.
Panasonic has done something innovative with the camera, but personally I would wait a goodly amount of time before considering a purchase.
As to how it might compare with the G10? Again, I cannot say until I see more shots done with the G1 to learn more about just how good its image quality is.
The advantage to the G10 is that it is small, no need for additional lens purchases, and from my experience produces excellent images. However, the G10 has its limitations. It is not a DSLR and should not be compared with one. I would never shoot with it at higher than ISO 200, which for me is not an issue, it may be an issue for others.
Hopefully, others who read this blog might make some comments about the G1, especially if they own one.
Good luck in your decision. The bottom line in any purchase is to do your research, know what you are getting into in terms of expenditures, and be satisfied that you made the right choice.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thanks for the review and the photos! Both are great.
I am looking to purchase a high end point and shoot and have done a ton of research. I did not take DPReview’s review on the G10 as a slam at all. First, it said the photos at base ISO were amazing. Bettering some DSLRs. Also, it said that the camera was a joy to use. I agree with both of those findings so why haven’t I run out and bought a G10. The answer is because of the flaws. (Many of which you have pointed out), The relatively slow and narrow lens, lack of internal memory buffer, detail smothering on anything higher than base iso, and large size for a p s. What DPReview said was that at base iso it was stunning. However, the Panasonic LX3 has a faster (by 1 to 2 stops), wider lens, less detail smothering at higher iso. This leads to a camera that in ideal conditions is not as good as the G10 but offers better handling day to day. Faster lens = lower iso, shallower depth of field, etc. So why haven’t I bought a LX3. Well because of its flaws, lens sticks out to far when off, menus suck, lens cap, not as much of a joy to use as the G10. What I would like is a G10 with the LX3’s lens. That is what you said you would like and that is the point that DPReview was making. Both camera’s are flawed but the LX3 is the more versatile day to day shooter. It makes for a very tough choice.
Regards
Brady
Hi Brady,
Thank you.
Many photographers like the Panasonic LX3. And, it is not my purpose here to say that the camera is good or bad. I don’t know since I have not used one. I have looked at photographs done with the camera provided to me by a reader. In my opinion, the G10 produces better quality after seeing shots done of the same scene at similar ISOs.
What troubles me is the reports from DXO which show that the ISOs on the Panasonic are actually much lower than what the manufacturer says they are. Thus when people shoot with the LX3 at higher ISO camera settings, they are actually shooting at much lower ISOs. So, comparing the LX3 shots with those done by the G10 at the same camera ISO settings is impossible, since the ISOs in reality are not the same.
I agree that having a faster and wider lens would be great. But, I have adapted well to the lens on the G10. I can always take two shots and blend them if I need a wider shot.
Hopefully I will someday shoot with the LX3. Again, lots of photographers like the camera very much.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thanks again for the review and response. Right now I am leaning toward the G10 for form factor and picture quality. it may be a flawed gem but it is still a gem non-the-less. At its best, nothing equals its PQ in its category.
/r
Brady
Bill,
I enjoyed your review of the G10. I’ve had mine for a couple of weeks now and will be giving it a good endurance test in Afghanistan. I’m doing a lot of experimentation with various setting combos and the scenery here is as beautiful as anyplace I’ve been to in the past. Take care.
Kevin
Hi Kevin,
WOW!
Send me some shots from Afghanistan, would love to share your work with others. Email some shots to bill@lockharts.com so I can post them here.
Best regards,
Bill
HAD TO LAUGH WHEN YOU REFERRED TO DPREVIEW
AS THE (STANDARD) RE. THE G10 REVIEW.
I HAD READ IT THREE TIMES ALREADY.
A NO BRAINER THERE.
MUCH PREFER YOUR FIELD TESTS OF THE G10
IN SLOVENIA AND SCOTLAND. YOUR ‘LIGHT THAT
DANCES PHOTO’ I LOVED. I ACHIEVED THAT MY
LAST TRIP TO ALASKA. WOW! WHAT A THRILL.
DUNCAN SINCLAIR – A LIFETIME PHOTO, BILL.
IT TELLS HIS WHOLE STORY IN HIS FACE.
AN OUTDOORSMAN IN (THE OUTDOOR COUNTRY- SCOTLAND)!
THANK YOU AND MICHAEL FOR THE (FIELD TESTS)
OF THE G10. MICHAEL’S PITTING THE G10 UP AGAINST
THE HASSELBLAD MEDIUM FORMAT – WHAT A CHALLENGE.
UP TO 13×19! WHO PRINTS BIGGER – FOR HOME USE?
THANK YOU. YOUR PROOF IS IN THE FIELD -
WHERE IT REALLY MATTERS, BILL.
MIKE
Bill – Really enjoyed your review and the photographs. Have tried DSLRs, but want a go-anywhere travel camera for landscapes and streetscapes. Being over 45 and now requiring readers for close work, I hate menu-driven cameras. I am thus drawn to the G10, despite its lack of a 24mm equivalent lens, because of its huge display and big controls. Don’t have a local camera shop where I can rent one. Alternatively, should I wait to see the Fujifilm F200EXR (no RAW, big display, good zoom range, great sensor, small) or just get a Canon 880 (no RAW, big display, cheap, small)? Probably too much to comment on – what do others think?
Thanks – Tom
hai Bill
I really enjoy your review about G10, a user point of view. And I also agree with your point about selecting camera, know your target then select your weapon.
I got some question regarding my activity, I’m a diver & currently need an underwater digicam to spice things up. Do you have any user perspective about G7/G9/G10 when underwater. I’ve try googling but no good review so far, if not any review. Maybe you could suggest any of your friend’s review (blog) about UW photography with G7/G9/G10.
The problem with underwater photography is about white balance setting which is mostly blue. I understand G7/G9/G10 have preset setting for UW, is it enough ??
have you try the Macro setting ??
Is it good ??
UW money shot usually from macro creatures, less than a finger nail in size
Thank you for your comment & sorry for newbie question.
Thanks – rD
Hello,
I have used the Canon Powershot G9 with the Canon underwater housing. It worked well. However, it is not a professional rig. I did not have a good lighting system to use with it and the housing is somewhat cumbersome. Here is a shot done with the rig: http://www.bill.lockharts.com/index.php/photo/56
The G10, like the G9, has a setting for underwater white balance. But my experience was that I needed to do a great deal of post-processing to get the results I was after.
In sum, if you dive below 30 feet or so, you will be disappointed with the rig. You must have a good lighting system to work with the camera to obtain good results, even at very shallow depths.
Underwater photography is perhaps the most difficult of all types of photography. It requires excellent equipment that can cost one in the thousands of dollars. And even then, it takes lots of training to get excellent results.
If your diving is shallow, you might consider the new Canon D10, coming out in May, which requires no housing but is limited to about 10 meters underwater. What I like about it is the size and less worry about condensation, and the price isn’t bad at around $325 street price. Else, I think you should look at other choices.
Sorry I can’t be more optimistic, but I think you will be dissatisfied with the G10 and the underwater housing for anything other then very shallow shots.
Best regards,
Bill
hahahah…thanks Bill for considering me in need for “professional rig”. I’m just a recreational diver who want to tell another kind of story to others.
My price range would be under $1000 rig, camera UW housing (hopefully) additional light source. Currently I use Oly SP-510UZ for outdoor & street/candid (although size does matter), for indoor & low light not so good but still got some picture from “artsy” angle & noise.
And it doesn’t have UW housing.
I dive in tropic, in a good day we can get 15-25m horizontal visibility in 25m deep. And because Canon A series can make it down here that’s why I consider G. My other candidate is Oly Miu 1030SW because it already water proof so a lot safer when there’s a leakage, but even Oly user still advice me to consider second hand G7.
My next long dive trip will be to Bunaken/Bali in August, so I still have some times to googling new rig. I’ll let you know my final decision & share some UW photo afterward with you.
O, you still haven’t comment about it Macro setting, do you have one ?
Thanks & take care…rD
Hi, i really keen in buying the G10 ever since i had a chance to use it and was very impressed by its quality and the color tone it can captured. but i did not really had a chance to explore it further.
I’m wondering if G10 can shoot with deep depth of field?
Hi Ben,
Yes, it does a wonderful job of DOF even at f/4. f/8 is awesome.
Take a look at this shot: http://www.bill.lockharts.com/index.php/photo/455
Best regards,
Bill
hai Bill
I just find this…is this what you mean by “Wait until the G11 comes out.” ??
http://www.canonrumors.com/2009/03/gmos-revisited/
is it worth to wait or it like Canom 5C ??
b//r
rD
Hi rD,
Any speculation about the “G 11″ is simply that. Sorta like my announcement of the “5C” on April 1.
Canon never releases information about product development. However, the idea of a CMOS sensor in the next G-series is not without merit. The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS uses a CMOS sensor, no reason why the G-series won’t move in that direction as well. We will just have to wait and see.
Course there are other matters I hope Canon’s engineers will consider:
A wider lens, at least 20mm.
A better wheel for making selections, the present one is full of issues. Something like the iPod wheel would be far better.
Weather sealing. I want the G-series to have the same specs as the D10, due out next month.
Higher ISOs with less noise, although this is a factor that relates to the sensor size. We need a revolution here.
Much higher quality lenses. Match the lenses with the resolution.
A camera I can use with gloves on. I know, but when working in sub-zero weather it does make a difference.
A viewfinder that is acurate! And one that I can use with the lens extended. DUH.
Plus a lot more things.
Best regards,
Bill
hai Bill
Yeah, I still have concern about the viewfinder. I start taking photo with my father’s old film camera, so it feel natural to use viewfinder. I guess more stability with 3 points contact & hold the camera by the lens.
For other technical Christmas wish, I’ll just follow the more experience photographer.
Do you have G9/G10 gallery that contain city live ??
People (active/working/walking), low light situation (not necessary night scene), or something like that ??
All I could find with google so far are landscape, nature/outdoor and static object. Maybe you can help.
thanks be4 Bill
rD
Hi rD,
The viewfinder is really off. My rule of thumb is to move up about 1/8th to 1/4th of the frame and right a tad. Takes a little practice but soon you will get used to it.
My G10 gallery is here: http://www.bill.lockharts.com/index.php/tag/canon-powershot-g10
Unfortunately for you, I do mostly landscapes and wildlife stuff. The shot of Duncan Sinclair was shot in very low light.
Remember, stay at ISO 80 unless you know how to process high noise images very well.
Best regards,
Bill
Just wanted to thank you for your review of the G10 and photo’s you have taken. I have Muscular Dystrophy and could no longer carry my Canon Sxi and lenses. So I tried and returned the Canon SD970 IS and the Canon SX200 IS. After much review I am going to purchase the G10. My main reason for returning the two Canon’s was picture quality. I know I can’t match my Rebe Xsi but want something that comes close and that I can more easily carry which using my trekking pole(s). Your photo’s with the G10 look like what I would like to expect. So, thank you and I will let you know how the G10 works out for me.
Regards,
David
Hi David,
Thank you for your kind comment.
Like you, I sometimes have difficulty with heavy equipment, especially over long treks. There is a great advantage to smaller cameras and lenses. I just sold my 1Ds Mark II and acquired the 5D Mark II. What a difference!
You will be pleased with the G10 if you stick to lower ISO settings, I highly recommend that you stay below ISO 200, best at ISO 80. If you do that, the images you will obtain will be as good as or better than those done with the Rebel Xsi. Really.
Please contact me once you have done some shots and let me know how the G10 is working for you. Would love to see some of your shots. Just email me at my contact information.
Best regards,
Bill
Hi Bill,
Thank you for all the wonderful information about the G10. I just upgraded to the G10 as my wife and I are on our way to Italy for a “once in a lifetime” trip. I am not a proffessional and take most photos on Auto/Auto as I am not as proficient with all the different settings as I was many years ago when I used my Minolta SLR. I will print 4×6 photos of the trip and post many images to my family website to share. Although I often use Fireworks to crop, zoom and resize I do not publish any photos for sale or print anything larger than an occasional 8” x 10”.
With that background, I am trying to decide what recording Pixel size and compression to set the G10 at. I really don’t have a use for 14.7mp but I do want the sharpest, clearest photos that I can take. My old Minolta was totally awesome on landscapes and I didn’t see that quality in my previous digital. I have taken a series of test shots at different settings and really don’t see a heck of a lot of difference on the computer screen between the three combinations listed below but 8-9mb photos fill up my hard drive fast and take a long time to open, save, and manipulate. i.e.
Superfine and Large = 8.3mb
Superfine and Med 1= 4.9 mb
Fine and Med 1 = 2.9 mb
I thought that I wanted to stick with Superfine as Canon claims it gives higher quality images but it looks like the SuperFine photo had 95% compression and the Fine had 86%. I am told that’s a very high number for fine, that’s why it’s so clear and that, for my needs, I may never see a difference between Fine and SuperFine (86 and 95)? Can you explain whether Pixel size or compression is more critical for sharpness and help me decide on the combination with the minimum file size that will still impress me with the photo quality? I don’t want to come back from Italy and wish I had set all the G10 settings at maximum but I don’t want to create excessively large files either if I will never use them.
Sorry this got so long. Thanks for your comments.
JIM
Hi Jim,
I always shoot RAW, but I do lots of post processing in Photoshop and I want all the data I can get. If I were going to Italy, I would shoot RAW.
Lots of folks don’t care about RAW and prefer JPEG shooting, including a great many professional photographers. I would recommend that you set your camera to Superfine and Large if you decide to shoot JPEGs. You should be able to print 8X10s with that setting and get reasonable quality.
If you are spending thousands of dollars on a “once in a lifetime trip” to me it seems the extra size of files should not matter much. SDHC cards are cheap today and having a few extra for large file sizes won’t set you back that much money.
Try shooting in Av mode, keep you camera set to about f/4 and hold the ISO down to 100 or less and you should be pleased with most shots.
As to pixel size and compression. JPEGs, as you know, are compressed files and you will encounter JPEG artifacts in your photographs. The more compressed files are, the worse the artifacts.
Again, there is nothing wrong with shooting JPEGs and many professionals do that. Just because I like to shoot in RAW does not mean that I am correct and others are wrong, it has to do with my work flow and my post processing needs.
In sum, if you simply do not want to shoot in RAW mode, I strongly recommend you use the highest JPEG settings.
Best regards,
Bill
Thank you very much for the advice. I will practice with the Av mode before we go and let you know how the trip photos come out.
JIM
Hey Bill,
I’m an amateur in photography and have recently got a G10 upon recommendation from a friend using G9
I love the fact that it produces amazing pictures and not the boring flat colors that most digi compact cameras give.
However, during our Bangkok trip a mth ago, while taking pics of me and my bf. Both of us realised that we seemed to be ‘compressed’. Meaning, looked stumpier or shorter in that sense. I’ve no idea why or is it some setting that I’ve accidentally pressed?
I asked my friend whos using a G9 and she says while taking portraits, she will always get the photographer to squat down and take so there has been no problems so far.
i know perhaps you might not have encounter such problems as you’re more prone to taking landscape photos. Just trying my luck to see if theres any information you can share with me
*Alas, i stil have a long way to go and spend more time playing with the camera and know how to optimise its potential
Thank you
Cheerios
Hi Gracie,
Perspective is important when doing portraits. If the camera lens is above the top of the person’s head they will look shorter than they actually are. If below the person’s head, they will look taller. It has to do with optics. Best to shoot at the same level as the person’s head.
Hope this helps.
Best regards,
Bill
This is an excellent camera for someone who is a dSLR shooter as a backup, or even someone wanting to graduate from a point and shoot to allow them more control over the camera.