Cameras that Delivers - Panasonic LX3 and Fujifilm F200EXR
Cameras that Delivers - Panasonic LX3 and Fujifilm F200EXR
Cameras that Delivers - Panasonic LX3 and Fujifilm F200EXR
07 July 2009
Low light photography and dynamic range are two things which are challenging to the small compact cameras. However, there are always exceptions to the rules and two prime examples of these are the Panasonic LX3 and the Fujifilm F200EXR. While the Panasonic LX3 achieves this by means of a superior lens and comprehensive manual controls, the Fujifilm F200EXR does it through its EXR technology via its latest generation of Super CCD HR sensor. Both cameras have sensors which lean towards the larger sizes for compacts with both CCD sensors of approximately 1/1.6 inch in size. However, that is as far as the similarity goes. The Fujifilm F200EXR uses its own array of pixel that differs from the more common Bayern Sensors. Furthermore, the processor will analyse the scene and use one of three methods to read off the sensor, thereby offering High Resolution, High Sensitivity or High Dynamic Range as necessary.
Strictly speaking, they are not cameras which are comparable like for like but rather offering similar qualities through different methods. Those already familiar with the LX3 knows that its major selling points are excellent quality optics as well as a comprehensive range of manual features which allow you to fine tune the settings just as you would like. The LX3 comes with iAuto but anyone buying the LX3 will be wasting the best of the camera if they don't make use of the more hands-on modes like Manual, Shutter or Aperture Priority.
With the Fujifilm F200EXR, the camera is more automatic in the sense that most of the settings can be determined by the processor to achieve your results. While it offers a number of different modes, you may find yourself fully entrusting all your shots to the EXR mode which makes full use of the advances in F200EXR. While the High Sensitivity and High Dynamic Range modes would restrict the resolution of the images to six megapixels, the results are excellent and the resolution sufficient for most use.
With the right knowledge, the LX3 will outperform the F200EXR most of the time without fail. However, that is not to say the F200EXR is inferior. It is easy to use and gives consistent results. In the right situation, it can better the LX3's results. This of course is limited to the situations when its High Dynamic Range mode is employed. In High Resolution mode, you would expect the LX3's optics to give you more clarity and light given its larger aperture and better glass. This would likely be the case as well in most low light situations as well. The F200EXR truly stands out in High Dynamic Range mode, and given the price difference between the two cameras, its performance is really excellent value for money. However, for those who prefer to take control of their settings, the Panasonic Lumix LX3 would be the best bet.
Panasonic Lumix LX3 Test Shot
Fujifilm F200EXR Test Shot
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"Bayern Sensors"? As in Bavaria? Oh, well.
Regardless of the light conditions, the Fuji looks like its eeking out a little more detail.
Anonymous From CANADA
12 Sep 2009, 5:55am
Real hard to compare. The two shots weren't the exactly same angle, distant, and time condition. Could you please try again with something almost the same with tripod?
Thanks in advance.
Med Format Fan From AUSTRALIA
14 Aug 2009, 12:46pm
Can you control anything manually on the Fuji outher than +- compensation?
Pics arn't like for like onthe lighting front - difficult to compare!
Low light photography and dynamic range are two things which are challenging to the small compact cameras. However, there are always exceptions to the rules and two prime examples of these are the 
Strictly speaking, they are not cameras which are comparable like for like but rather offering similar qualities through different methods. Those already familiar with the LX3 knows that its major selling points are excellent quality optics as well as a comprehensive range of manual features which allow you to fine tune the settings just as you would like. The LX3 comes with iAuto but anyone buying the LX3 will be wasting the best of the camera if they don't make use of the more hands-on modes like Manual, Shutter or Aperture Priority.
