G9 is one of the best P&S cameras, but as others have noted, there are some caveats:
- For about a hundred or two more, you can get a DSLR kit.
- For wide angle photography, you will need to purchase expensive wide angle converter.
- Slow max aperture at telephoto.
- Extremely high noise at or above ISO 800.
- Large for P&S camera (definitely not compact).
I'm not a DSLR user. Used to shoot an SLR with Film in the day, but with kids I just can't chase that hobby. I also need a camera that will double-duty: pics and movies while on the go. Have been using the Canon SDs. Very nice for quick pics, but doesn't satisfy the arteest in me.
Have had the G9 only for a day, but I took it to the local symphony last night, and the ability to discreetly snap 6X zoom and control my own shutter speed was great. I think I'm going to like this camera. Also, for me, the local photo shop charges a 15% restock fee, so I made a bet -- I'll risk that restock fee, and give it a good shake-down over 2 weeks. I think my money was well risked, though. I don't see this one going back.
p.s. did I mention I can shoot raw from a camera in my pocket? Can definitely post-process the colors much better in RAW, though I don't quite have the noise reduction workflow down yet. Anyone know how to actually use Noise Ninja
"But Mr. Fawlty, I learn! I learn!"