Compact Cameras for the Nimble Photographer

I love traveling light, yet still having all the tools I need to capture, process, and upload images. It's what I call "The Nimble Photographer."

DP Review has just published an excellent group test of the Canon S95, Panasonic LX5, and the Nikon P7000 -- three excellent choices for the shooter on the go.

Along with the micro four/thirds options, such as the new Olympus E-PL2, any of these capture devices can round out your travel kit nicely. But how do they stack up against each other?

Well DP Review has done a lot of leg work for us on the compact side. Their S95 - LX5 - P7000 roundup is excellent. My favorite of the bunch is the Canon S95, followed by the LX5.

If you want interchangeable lenses, I'm really liking the Olympus E-PL2 because of its ergonomic body, great lens options, and cool variety of accessories. I'm working on a full review of the E-PL2 now, and should have more published about it soon.

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7 Comments

Craig | January 21, 2011 10:37 AM

Got a link for more info on or where to buy that microphone?

Thomas Emmerich | January 22, 2011 11:23 AM

I think it is called the MicFlex USB Microphone http://www.welovemacs.com/54999.html

Derrick Story | January 22, 2011 11:49 AM

Yes, that's correct:

http://www.welovemacs.com/54999.html

John Russell | January 22, 2011 4:43 PM

I was just about to write and ask if I were a bad person for leaving my Nikon D90 and related gear home and only taking my Canon S90 on MacMania 11. (So much to lug through security, on the plane, through customs, on tour buses...) Then your "nimble photographer" remarks removed my feelings of guilt! Thanks.

Chris Parker | January 23, 2011 6:22 AM

Just got my E-PL2 on Friday, with the Panasonic 20mm/f1.7 and Olympus 9-18mm lenses. Seems like a great little camera so far.
Going to leave my 5D2 at home and take the Oly on a trip to Ghana tonight.

James Vornov | January 27, 2011 4:30 AM

Derrick-

Any thoughts on the new Olympus XZ-1? I've always loved Olympus glass back to the Stylus Epic and then the E-1. I switched to Nikon for DSLRs because they just weren't competive and can't see using one of the new PENs instead of my current D7000.

The XZ-1 looks like the return of the Stylus era to me with that fast glass and the high contrast I see in the DPReview images.

Jennifer | February 24, 2011 10:34 AM

So, what apps are loaded on the nimble photographer's iPad?