The Superzoom camera In addition to the ever more compact models is a variant to still produce a large image in a small space with mirror-reflex sensors. Sony offers such cameras with just under 64 mm case depth, which is already the largest measure of the handle element. Otherwise the camera is just 25 mm thick. A big sensor in an ultra-compact camera is the goal of Superzoom camera which is achieved via APS-C CMOS or live MOS sensors. At Ricoh, even the P10 superzoomer squeezes 10 million pixels together so that they can be accommodated in a space of 0.3 cm².

Technology of Superzoom camera

Sony rushes at the Superzoom camera with its NEX system, which greatly simplifies operation. Competitors orientate themselves with the Superzoomern at the SLR with mode wheel, which is supported by a clear number classical controls. Sony equips the other hand Superzoom camera just like the youngest compact cameraswith modern buttons, the navigation through the menu via a cog-rocker construction. An experienced SLR photographer may find this somewhat confusing, but after a settling-in period, the Sony system seems very logical – even if the exposure compensation and the choice of sensor sensitivity are arranged under the Color and Brightness menu item.

Bayonet versus construction kit

A super zoom camera needs a corresponding lens system. For its attachment, there are different solutions from individual manufacturers. For Panasonic, Olympus and Sony, a metal bayonet is used to flare the lens to the camera. The focal length and the manual focus are then adjusted mechanically on the lens barrel. The Micro 4.3 models are considered relatively well balanced, while the NEX system can lead to imbalance between the camera and its lens system. In principle, the left hand supports and operates the entire construct in all systems. The forefinger and thumb of the right hand only adjust individual exposure parameters when needed and press the trigger. There are also exceptions to this arrangement, such as the GXR from Ricoh, which can sink its superzoom module into the guide and then function like a compact camera – so it can be operated with one hand. Similarly, other compact superzoom cameras such as the Panasonic TZ10 are built. The focal length can be changed in these models by the rear mounted small rocker, it may well over 30 settings through all focal lengths are possible. The balance is correct in every lens position.

Size can be crucial

The sensor size of the superzoom cameras clearly influences the picture quality. The Sony sensor, for example, shows no disturbing noise artifacts up to the ISO sensitivity of 3,200, and the noise is hardly noticeable even up to ISO 12,800. Image details are retained over the entire image. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 and the Olympus E-PL1 perform similarly well. However, they are equipped with smaller sensors whose extension factor to full-frame sensor is greater, which slightly reduces the sensitivity to light. Nevertheless, photographers can rely on the detail sharpness up to ISO 3,200. Even a possible image noise is hardly an issue. Focusing power is impressively high on Olympus superzoom cameras, followed by Panasonic, Sony and Ricoh. In the case of the latter, the comparatively tiny sensor of the construction kit used leads to slight restrictions starting at around ISO 1,600, which are even visible to photographic laypersons at ISO 3.200. Even with the automatic white balance Ricoh must give the competitors Panasonic, Olympus and Sony beaten.