What's the point of A on a compact?

grey.squirrel

grey.squirrel

Suspended / Banned
Messages
731
Name
Dave
Edit My Images
Yes
OK, so I am right on the verge of getting a Canon S95 so I can take it around with me everywhere instead of lugging the DSLR and lenses about and after reading a lot of reviews it dawned on me that A mode is essentially useless on a compact. Seeing as even wide open it's still going to get most things in focus anyway what's the point of sticking it on A and changing the aperture for each shot like most people do with their DSLRs. I know there's a fair few S95 and other high end compact owners on here so what do you normally leave it on (assuming it's not auto)? Surely a better option would be S where at least any adjustments you make actually do make a difference?!

Hopefully someone can clear this up for me so I can set my mind at ease that buying a compact is worth it despite the limitations. I'd probably get one anyway but I am curious as to what everyone else does about this.
 
I use a Panasonic LX5 in the same circumstances you are considering an S95 for and most of the time it's on Aperture Priority.

Not sure how the S95 operates or the speed of the lens, but the LX5 has a max f2 lens and can be used very creatively in A mode (as well as S and M modes) and gives some excellent results.

For instance I have no problems taking portrait shots with nicely blurred backgrounds in A mode and the single focus point is adjustable in both size and position - so IMHO, whilst a bit more fiddly due to it's size, is very much a mini-DSLR for me.
 
Thanks for the reply Justin. The S95 has an f2 lens and I think a slightly larger or equal sensor to the LX5 (which I also looked into) so I guess it's probably a matter of getting it and playing around lol. I think I'm expecting a little too much from it maybe. I've seen some very creative shots using the macro to get some nice bokeh.
 
I had an S90 before and changed it for the LX5 but thats just personal preference!

We did consider a GF1 but size was the main consideration and whilst the GF1 is undoubtedly better performance, it wasn't compact enough for us. The thing I liked about the S90/95 though is the size, it is a bit more pocketable than the LX5.

I don't think you'd be disappointed with either, but maybe also consider the Canon G12 as, while bigger again, is still much smaller than a DSLR and has more external controls than either the LX5 or S95.
 
Pocketability is the most important factor for me. If I couldn't put it in my jeans or coat pocket I'd stick with the DSLR. After a lot of looking around I think the S95 is the one for me, I just need someone to kick me up the arse to get it lol.
 
I'd tend to agree with you in that case Dave, I don't think you'd regret it! Just sneak out today and buy one :D

Maybe have a look at this thread here to give you an idea of what these little pocket rockets can do!
 
grey.squirrel said:
Pocketability is the most important factor for me. If I couldn't put it in my jeans or coat pocket I'd stick with the DSLR. After a lot of looking around I think the S95 is the one for me, I just need someone to kick me up the arse to get it lol.
Click to expand...

Battery for the new (Today!) S95 just finished cooking:thumbs:
 
justinitus said:
I'd tend to agree with you in that case Dave, I don't think you'd regret it! Just sneak out today and buy one :D

Maybe have a look at this thread here to give you an idea of what these little pocket rockets can do!
Click to expand...

I wish you hadn't posted that link. I've been thinking about getting a new compact for a while and that may have pushed me over the edge :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top