What a year it has been. This year we enjoy so many improvements and options from camera makers. Last year, only 2 DSLR camera can shoot video, this year, almost all new releases can shoot video even beginner DSLR cameras. This year is also marked as the rise of micro four third system (mirrorless interchangeable lens) cameras. These camera have some characteristics of DSLR camera, but presented in a smaller package.
The megapixel race is also over. Instead of increasing image resolution as high as possible, manufacturers are more concern about image quality in high ISO level. Most cameras released in 2009 has ISO range of 10-15 mp, which is almost the same as 2008. However, there is some exception, Canon new 7D has 18 mp and some full frame cameras has over 20 megapixel.
A few surprises come from Leica and Ricoh. Leica introduces Leica M9, the first Leica rangefinder camera with full format sensor, Leica S2, the medium format portable camera and the Leica X1, the compact camera with sensor as big as regular DSLR cameras. Ricoh on the other hand, comes out with interesting concept. Instead of developing interchangeable lens system, they introduces Ricoh GRX camera with interchangeable module (lens+sensor). So that you can interchange camera format (compact camera sensor / DSLR sensor) as you like. Future development could include storage module, wireless module and so on.
Without further ado, here are best of the best cameras of 2009
Note: This is based on my own subjectivity, so if you have other favorites, please share with us
Best beginner DSLR camera : Pentax K-X
The big underdog Pentax kx is the best value camera in 2009
Pentax KX is a full featured beginner cameras. It has almost every features you can think of: video recording mode, auto HDR, fast continuous shooting, small form factor, and most importantly, it produces very clean image in high ISO setting. You should check out my Pentax KX review. Pentax KX is also the cheapest among other beginner DSLR camera at the time it is released, make it the best value camera overall.
Best mid-range camera : Sony A550
Sony A550, which is launced together with A500, is designed as mid range DSLR camera. It is targeted for more serious enthusiasts or back-up camera for professional photographer. It produces great image quality in low light, shoot up to 7 fps. Unlike Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras, Sony has built-in image stabilization that might be useful when you use prime lenses in low light condition. It does not have video feature but you get tiltable LCD screen and fast AF in live view mode.
Best Advanced DSLR : Canon EOS 7D
Canon fans at last can fight back Nikonian. 7D is a serious threat to Nikon
This is one of the most anticipated camera by Canon fans. For a few years, Canon is crawling behind Nikon in the advanced DSLR camera market, but now, the 7D might turn the tide around. It has a new revamped AF system, shoots 7 fps, magnesium alloy body, and record video as well. Interestingly, Canon 7D breaks the trend in 2009. It has 18 megapixel but still doing very good in high ISO.
Best full frame camera : Sony A850
Sony A850 gets the best category in full frame camera because of its value. It is the cheapest full frame DSLR camera in the market at the time of launch. With only $2000 (compare with Nikon D700 = $2700, Canon 5D mark II = 3000), photo enthusiasts or semi professional photographer can enjoy to use full frame sensor. It also packed 24 mp image resolution (It matches Nikon D3x ($9999), 2 times Nikon D700 or Nikon D3s, and 3 MP more than Canon 5D mark II).
Best Micro four thirds camera: Panasonic GH1
When developing m43 cameras, Panasonic does it right, it develops a fast auto focus sensor, which is what other brand (Olympus lacks). GH1, is not only great in AF performance (compared to other m43 cameras. It also has high-end features especially related to video recording. It can record full HD 1080p movie, has hi-res viewfinder, external microphone option, auto focus tracking, plus kit lens specifically designed for video. The price point is also very appealing. It is only $1500 with lens.
Best Innovative camera: Ricoh GRX
Ricoh GRX is a very controversial camera system. It offers offers interchangeable module instead of interchangeable lens. As a result, you can change your sensor/format as you wish. So far, many people are skeptic about this design and pricing. But hardcore Ricoh fans will likely to get one no matter what. Ricoh interface are just that good.
Ricoh comes out with a radical new ideas. Will it success?
BEST LENSES
Some of my favorites release of this year:
Best telephoto zoom lens: Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VR II $2400
This lens has been long waited by pro photographer. The old lens, is not optimized for Nikon full frame camera. This telephoto lens does. The image quality is improved, brighter but also heavier.
Best value lens: Nikon AF-S 35mm f/1.8 $200
Many Nikon beginner DSLR cameras do not have built-in auto focus motor in the camera. Therefore, many are waiting for Nikon to releaseprime lens that has built-in auto focus. The 35mm f/1.8 is a great answer from Nikon, not only it has auto focus motor, it also has an affordable price point.
Best zoom lens: Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 VC $650
Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 VC has been great alternative for enthusiasts on budget. On Nikon side there is no such lens. The closest to this lens is Nikon AF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 with $1300 price tag. On Canon side, EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM is $400 more expensive. That is why I can see this lens become a popular alternative.
Overall it is a great year and I hope next year will be better.
Related posts
- Best value beginner DSLR camera
- Pentax K-x review
- Best advanced DSLR camera
- Canon 7D vs Nikon D300s
- Ricoh GXR – versatile camera
- Ricoh GXR – pro and cons
- Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 sample
- Leica M9 and X1
- Nikon 70-200mm VR II a worthy upgrade?
- Sony A850 – affordable full frame camera
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