Once again it’s time for me to try to direct the cameraless hordes to image capturing devices that will make all their wildest dreams come true – in other words – a Holiday camera guide. Cameras are ridiculously good now, with astounding low light image quality, great auto focus, super accurate exposure and all kinds of neat built-in features and shooting modes. To keep things under control, I’ve broken this guide into three categories – digital SLRs, compact system cameras (a.k.a. mirrorless) and point-and-shoot cameras. For each category I’ve made a list of five great cameras, including my favorite for that category. I’ve tried to cover a broad range of price points and feature sets so that we have something for everyone.
Click on the Point-and-Shoot, DSLR and Compact System Camera links below to see my picks for each camera category. There really should be something here for everyone. If you don’t find anything you like, the cameras I’ve chosen should help give you some direction. If you have questions about features, specs or other camera options go ahead and post in the comments section at the bottom of each page. Also, if you think I missed the boat and didn’t include a camera you love, go ahead and suggest it in the comments. The more comments we have, the richer this guide will be.
 Point-and-Shoots |
 Compact System Cameras |
 DSLRs |
Season’s Greetings to you too, Photo-John!
I too, am enamored of the Olympus OM-D, its ergonomics, feature set, extensive customization, and superb Olympus primes, That said, I also like the Fuji X-E1. Researching to see which system would permit the sharpest, most detailed prints at about 16×20, technique and post–processing notwithstanding. Happy Holidays, sir!
Thanks for the comment, Steve. If image quality is your number one requirement then I think you should pick the Fujifilm camera. I have used the X-Pro1 just a bit and as excellent as the OM-D is, I think the Fujifilm sensor’s larger surface area and proprietary pixel array will deliver better image quality. On the other hand, the OM-D handles really well and there are a lot more lenses now for the Micro Four Thirds system. So the OM-D has a definite edge when it comes to versatility. If you haven’t already, you should really go handle them both at a camera shop.