DSLR Reviews

The best photo and imaging products of 2010 were voted on at the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) General Assembly held from April 8-10, 2010 in New York. The editors of the 28 member photo and imaging magazines from nine European countries plus Canada, South Africa, and the United States met to vote on the TIPA Awards 2010 and discuss the association’s activities and projects. Shutterbug, the sole US magazine in the association, was represented at the meetings by Editorial Director George Schaub.

Best D-SLR Entry Level: Pentax K-x
Equipped with a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor, a dust remover mode, a sensor-shift stabilizer, a Video mode, a shutter that goes up to 1⁄6000 sec, and a sensitivity range expandable to ISO 12,800 from a top speed of ISO 6400, this entry-level and compact D-SLR is an excellent choice to discover the delights of the SLR camera system.

Best D-SLR Advanced: Canon EOS 550D/Rebel T2i
With a definition of 18 megapixels, the Canon EOS 550D/Rebel T2i includes a 1920x1080 full-HD Video mode, efficient Live View, an impressive number of settings and functions, and is dedicated to the demanding consumer, but definitely usable by any amateur and enthusiast photographer.

Best D-SLR Expert: Canon EOS 7D
With this EOS, designed for demanding users, Canon shows that using a small sensor APS-C is not an obstacle to achieving high image quality. The new CMOS 18-megapixel EOS 7D provides superb results up to ISO 3200. Action photographers will love shooting at 1⁄8000 sec shutter speed and ultra-fast frame rates. Exceptional HD video makes this camera the choice of many professional video makers.

Best D-SLR Professional: Nikon D3S
Taking up most of the functions that made the Nikon D3 successful, the D3S marks a milestone in photography: it is the first D-SLR to sport the record “push” sensitivity of ISO 102,400. Superbly constructed, with an excellent viewfinder and a top-level autofocus system, it is an ideal D-SLR for pros, in particular for reportage and sports photography.

Best Compact System Camera (CSC) Entry Level: Olympus PEN E-PL1
Positioned as an entry-level model, the Olympus PEN E-PL1 is equipped with a new Live Guide interface, which makes it easy for users to get the results they want even if they have little previous experience with photography. Based on the Micro Four Thirds System, it is an interchangeable lens digital camera with built-in flash and image stabilization, offering high-quality images in a compact package.

Best Compact System Camera (CSC) Advanced: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2
By using the Micro Four Thirds System standard and developing a camera body that eliminates the mirror box and optical viewfinder unit, Panasonic was able to create a new-generation system camera that features full-time Live View, high-speed, high-precision Contrast AF, HD movie recording, and now also Touch Screen Control with Touch-AF. With its lightweight body, the Lumix DMC-G2 provides experienced photographers the ideal digital camera to carry with them at all times.

Best Compact Camera: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5V
The Sony Cyber-shot HX5V is the world’s first camera that integrates GPS and compass functions, as well as Sony’s unique Sweep Panorama function. It features a 25-250mm (equivalent) lens and a 10.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor. The built-in HDR (High Dynamic Range) Backlight Correction produces natural, balanced results with high contrast and strongly backlit scenes. The Optical SteadyShot with new Active mode provides up to 10x more shake correction than conventional cameras.

Best Expert Compact Camera: Canon PowerShot G11
Well built and user friendly, the PowerShot G11 has all the manual functions that photographers need.

The 28-140mm zoom (equivalent) andits sensor, smartly limited to 10 megapixels, are evidence of its positioning as an “expert” camera. It does not try to dazzle the beginner; rather, it reassures the specialist.

Best Superzoom Camera: Fujifilm FinePix HS10
Serious photographers wanting the versatility and performance of an SLR system without the bulk or expense now have the perfect solution in the shape of the Fujifilm FinePix HS10. The FinePix HS10 offers an extensive feature set that combines a powerful 24-720mm (30x) zoom lens with sophisticated photographic controls, advanced functionality and SLR-like handling, and excellent image quality in a compact, affordable unit.

Best Rugged Compact Camera: Casio EXILIM EX-G1
The water and freezeproof Casio EX-G1 is designed with shock-resistant elements throughout the camera, both inside and out, creating a smart look in a slim-line camera with functional beauty. In addition to capturing high-resolution 12.1-megapixel images, the EX-G1 with a 3x optical zoom also features modes such as interval shooting and multi-image capture.

Best Medium Format D-System: Hasselblad H4D-40
The H4D-40 features a 40-megapixel medium format sensor and True Focus with APL (Absolute Position Lock), making autofocus easier and more accurate. The H4D series has been designed to meet the demands of high-end commercial photographers who require the ultimate in both image quality and performance.

Best Prestige Camera: Leica M9
Long awaited by rangefinder fans, the Leica M9 became an immediate hit. With its full-frame 18-megapixel sensor, it can be used with all Leica M lenses with the advantage of the nominal focal length. Beautifully constructed with a luxurious simplicity, it offers great image quality.