This $200 Street Photography Camera is Wild! USED*

[@GeorgeHolden]

Check out MPB here and grab a used camera deal! MPB UK: prf.hn/l/QLBLRLl MPB US: prf.hn/l/y8b8X8w MPB EU: prf.hn/l/BJ1JqJo

[@andrewcooper4119]

I found one of these cameras in a bag by a bin in Paris about a month ago. I grabbed it, took it home to London, bought a charger and a couple of batteries and then switched it on... catastrophic zoom/focus error. Started massaging the lens to see if it was off of its tracks and to loosen anything stopping the zoom mechanism. I also pulled (gently) the lens in and out of its housing making sure that the lens was facing the ground for any dirt/grit/sand to fall away from the lens and sensor. 30 seconds to a minute of massaging later and it's a perfectly-working beast of a camera and even in 2023 I'm impressed by the photos.

[@andrewcooper4119]

I think there are loads of LX100s with this issue on eBay and they sell for £30-£100 - it may be worth someone buying them and seeing if you can sort the zoom/focus error which affects many of them (they hoover-up dust and sand into the zoom mechanism). There are also people who open up these cameras and do a mechanical fix for about £100-150. Could be a money-spinner as these cameras still sell for a lot of money considering their age.

[@MuttnikSS6]

That has happened a couple of times to my LX100 but that fix seems to work.

[@thxylivx]

$200 before or after this video? I swear the second a KZbinr mentions a camera, say goodbye to the insane price they got it at. This cameras like $700 on eBay right now.

[@GeorgeHolden]

$200 when I bought it, at the time was hardly mentioned anywhere and when I eventually sold mine I sold it for the same price

[@photo_n_art]

There is LUMIX LX100 mark II which is newer and more expensive model and this is probably what you have seen. Mark I is less expensive but still for $200 it is hard to find. I own one since it was released, it is nice and small but with many limitations you have to take in account.

[@GameSpot1990]

I just found it for $100

[@arthurgphotography]

Yeah they go for 200 broken now lol

[@AlexChama]

No kidding, fuck videos like these... At least stop mentioning the price so the scalpers don't get investment tips on the most approachable level. For everyone who doesn't watch in the first few days videos like these do a complete disservice. But if you don't mention the price to reel in interested buyers for side-kick gear or starter gear you won't get as many clicks and hence money yourself....

[@hVF8KZuQPeCc8u]

I've been watching videos by KZbinrs, like yourself, who are enjoying budget compact cameras. I really enjoyed watching your take on the LX100. Reminds of a Fuji with the retro dials. I own a Lumix G85 which is a great little camera. Very fun to use and great for street photography. Refreshing to see someone that isn't coveting after the latest and greatest camera gear.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Glad you enjoyed! I considered the G85 a while back, Lumix definitely have some interesting cameras to offer. I'm guilty of enjoying up to date gear, but I love creating with older kit too - often frees things up for me creatively!

[@shahriarrahman9881]

@@GeorgeHolden hlw🥰

[@martingreenberg870]

​@@GeorgeHolden The G85 too large? Consider the GX85. A little larger than the LX100(which I also have). It has the ability to use multiple lenses. The IBIS is very good as is the video. I frequently use it as a 2nd camera when shooting street along the quite larger G9. The GX85 costs more than the LX100 and you have to purchase a lens. It is a good alternative for the LX100. Sadly, Panasonic has chosen to disable both bodies by not including an audio in socket. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@TDtog2112]

I bought this camera a couple of years ago after being recommended by a friend and to be honest it has just sat on my shelf unused so I am so glad I found this video as I will now take it out more often and try to fall in love with it. Thanks again for the wake up call.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Definitely worth trying it's a great camera!

[@ShizuoDai1]

Great camera indeed. And what makes it great is that it is easy to carry everyday and not think that you've got smth like 1k+ expensive gear on you all the time. Amazing overall controls but my only complaint about it is the weather sealing ( more like the more common dust problem that is associated with this camera. I got mine used and it had dust in the sensor. Cleaned it ( took me 2-3hours to reassemble ) and after accidentally dropping it dust was on the sensor again. A lot of people have complained about this but i would still recommend this to anyone.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes this is something I've heard a lot sadly, did you successfully disassemble and reassemble yours to clean the sensor?

[@JamesMincey]

Yeppp. Sensor dust that can't easily be cleaned is why I refuse to get fixed lens cameras now (e.g., LX100, RX100, X100, GR Digital, etc).

[@JoseOnTheAir]

Lumix user here! Primarily GX85 but secondary is the LX10. I'm video before photo but I am longing for Panasonic to reinvigorate their compact camera line again. If we got an LX100III with a flip/fully articulating screen and clean HDMI, I'd honestly be able to downsize to one camera for all my use cases

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah I agree! Not sure we'd get a full articulating in that body size and to be honest the Sony zv1 has one but it does feel too flimsy being that lightweight. I think as many people have mentioned in the comments the weather sealing really does need improving too, not a problem I've had personally but definitely an obstacle to making it your main camera!

[@FrerkMeyer]

I have a LX100 Mark II and I love it! Its my travel and street photography camera, which I try to have with me every time I leave my house. The quality of the pictures always blows me away. Downsides: no flip screen, no weather sealing and fixed lens, so you canot get dust out. I love the manual dials, this is simliar to the feeling of Fuhi cameras.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks for sharing!

[@petergribben7294]

Had quite a few Lumix cameras, currently G85 and GX85. All have been great for stills and videos with huge range of affordable lenses. Agree with you, great value

[@chrishuang8763]

I bought this camera new many years ago and love the ease of use, the design and ergonomic. The only problem one must be careful is not go to a dusty enviroment with it. There is not dust or weather sealing. Once the dust gets in you would need to send it back to the service centre.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That's great, have you kept the camera since new? Also have you tried the updated version by any chance?

[@chrishuang8763]

@@GeorgeHolden Yes, I have kept it as new since I bought. I will use it for certain occasion. I have many cameras, some I use more often.

[@BrownPeterAnthony]

Your right, the camera is like a vacuum cleaner for sucking dust in. After shooting a week in Mexico city, I have black spec's on the sensor.

[@GeorgeHolden]

@@BrownPeterAnthony I'm interested to see how mine handles Glastonbury festival next week 😂

[@teacherpe1710]

oh man. Seeing your photos at 2:59 brings back tons of memories. I missed Manchester man. Btw great video!

[@dominolastley1754]

I own a LX100ii and love it. It's a perfect casual point and shoot, and yet you can do some sophisticated stuff with it when needed. It's quite easy to get very acceptable pictures.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Awesome!

[@horaciomillan4181]

I have the Leica version of this camera, which is slightly more expensive, but of great quality and very amusing. I have taken lots of photos with it and it´s delightfull. Plus it is very unintrusive, so it´s perfect to shot in small gatherings and friend`s parties without being notorious. As you say, it´s perfect for that situations when you want to catch the moment, without people stopping what they´re doing. I had some experiences with people asking me not to take their photos when I use bigger cameras, as if they were doing something ilegal and a bulky one would put then in danger of being discovered, but with this kind of device they act confident, as if suddenly being innocent. Very strange, but convenient for the street or intimate photographer. At last, the important thing is having the photo.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Completely agree, the informal nature of the camera makes for much more disposable camera experience with other people! I'm heading to a festival with it this weekend so I'm excited for what results I'll get

[@ricardorgomez]

I had the even older LX3 with a 1" sensor and absolutely loved it. With the Leica lens, I got some fantastic shots. Sharpness. Color science. Lumix positioned these LX cameras for the high-end enthusiast and professional. I'd agree.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Totally! I think they're positioned well

[@tikkathreebarrels]

LX3? Me too! I've added the LX5 and the LX7 to see how they compare. Honestly the LX3 remains my fave: I like the joystick on the back, I find the PUSH/TURN control dial on the back needs to communicate directly with your brain to overcome the sensitivity/pressure issues: frankly I can't find my brain so the camera has no chance! Yes I like the 1:1 option and I like the lens ring setting for aperture on the later models but for me the trade-offs don't work.

[@SMGJohn]

LX3 had 1.7 inch CCD sensor, the LX100 and LX100 II are all CMOS MFT, if I remember the LX100 uses the GH3 sensor which is a shame since the GH1 and GH2 have amazing colour science but the GH3 and GH4 are a bit, meh

[@photo1416]

@@SMGJohn 1, 63 "

[@jeffriart]

I currently have the LX100ii and I would say it's my favorite compact ever! I never tried the first version, but based on the video, the touchscreen is a great addition and it has a much higher resolution sensor. The lens is quite sharp and also pretty bright, so shallow DoF can be accomplished quite well with this. Another good thing is the macro capability, we can get pretty close to our subject. The flexibility of zoom lens, rangefinder style control, MFT sensor size and in such compact body, there is just simply nothing like this in the market.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Really what is the useless resolution of the sensor?

[@unbroken1010]

Stop being a bokeh head.

[@wanderlustdetailer]

@@GeorgeHolden it's a 20mp sensor and uses I believe 16.9mp

[@Americanomondays]

Dang. This just brought back some memories. I bought that camera when it first came out after many years of wanting to find a perfect carry around camera and that thing was such a impressive camera for its time. Especially after coming from all of the old canon G series cameras. That’s crazy that it’s still around and for so cheap. Yeah man, enjoy that thing. Now I wish I wouldn’t have sold it.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That's crazy! It's never too late to pick up a used one, I'm very happy with mine as a run around camera

[@jonmnelson]

I rented one years ago and loved it. I have several much more expensive, “better” cameras, but that LX100 has taken some of my favorite photos. The Fuji X70 is another similar, very good camera.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah I loved the x70! I haven't owned one but that size of camera from Fuji is an easy win for me

[@israelbotello4864]

You got me with the photos from MCR and the videos. Good memories, good times in MCR.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Glad you like Manchester!

[@findermanimages]

I bought one of these for a trip to Egypt in 2016. Fantastic little camera that produced some great images.

[@SiddharthHaobijam]

I don't think I will be getting this camera but i ended up watching ur video , I like ur style of presentation

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks for watching, the camera won't be for everyone! What do you shoot with at the moment?

[@Ken-pc4jj]

I love the battery door work around. I'm glad I'm not the only one looking for functional bargains. I have many misfit toys (not just cameras) myself. I have a Sony HX-400V with a busted view finder. I paid $100 for it last year and it's a great super-zoom camera, if you're OK without a viewfinder. I also have a HX-80 that was cheap because the touch screen is worn. Good video, thanks for sharing.

[@waynebeaumont3274]

I bought the LX100 mkII shortly after it came out. It's my favorite camera for grabbing something quick (I always know what lens is attached :-). I like that it has a flash shoe and is fully compatible with my M43 flashes. Although it doesn't support hi speed sync, the leaf shutter allows going quite a bit beyond the normal 1/250th. Great camera and I never feel I'm compromising on image quality.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Same here, I'm curious to try out a flash system with it but can imagine it delivers well

[@yfstefan]

Apparently this is the video that made you stand out on youtube 😁great job mate, great job!!!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks Stefan! Very grateful that more people have found this video and taken the time to comment 😄

[@seabud6408]

I would recommend a secondhand Sony NEX7 with the 16 to 35 zoom or similar Sony Camera. It isn’t much bigger than the LUMIX and the images are great at 24mp

[@JayPozo]

This is a hugely underrated camera! I bought mine new and so glad I kept mine.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah I love it already!

[@aiofilms]

I bought the LX100 II after using the original LX100 for more than three years for reasons covered in this video. This is how good this camera series is to me.

[@MarkCranerium]

I love videos about frugal photography. Thanks.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Glad you like them!

[@okaro6595]

On most cameras 16:9 just crops from the native resolution. With the LX100 you actually get more horizontally. It keeps the diagonal always same (with the exception of 1:1 which is cropped) so the camera really has no native aspect ratio.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah it's a great function!

[@matswk]

About the LX100 "dust plague" I had dust on my sensor. I simply vacuumed it with a household vacuum cleaner (a small setup easily found on KZbin). 15,000 photos later, still no dust. When the dust comes back, I would just do the same again :)

[@GeorgeHolden]

Wait, how do I get a vaccum inside?! I need to see this tutorial

[@xyz4503]

im having same problems and can't really find tutorials :(

[@idreaminsurfgreen5327]

My battery door also broke off. I just bought the mega gear half case which has its own battery door. No problems, and looks great.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Oh!! I wanna look into this

[@JonathanPace]

Great video George! I’ve been searching info on this Lx100 camera for a long time being a Lumix user, but I always came to the conclusion that it’s still too big to be considered compact (at least to me), even though the smaller alternatives (eg. Ricoh) are much more expensive and pack less features. Must’ve been a fun experience for you to try this Lx100 out! Anyway, I just discovered your channel and I like your approach to photography 😎 subscribed!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks Jonathan! To be honest it is very small, besides the lens it's the smallest camera I have next to a GoPro - I suppose a 'proper' compact with no fewer manual controls could be a good alternative? And thank you for subscribing!

[@BryanElliott_]

New subscriber here I’m looking for some type of camera like this

[@jazzmanematthews8376]

Still have this camera and it has always been a small beast! It had 4k in a small camera before all of these other small cameras.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes it's really a great little package! Do you use the 4K much?

[@TheoDahlemPickups]

I owned this camera for quite a while. The lens is incredible and can take shots that look like daytime even in almost absolute dark situations. However it was collecting dust inside the lens probably due its' zoom movement. And then, the biggest frustration was the sporadical freeze up of the whole system. I wasn't even able to shut it down so I always had to remove the battery and restart. Weird. Beautifully designed camera that can do almost all. But you had to really shoot very close to the subject to get a nice bokeh. The huge lens is not pocketable except in a larger jacket pocket. On the other hand the body is too small for my hands. My move to Fujifilm X-E2 and 4 was the best thing I could do. Never looked back again

[@GeorgeHolden]

That's interesting thanks for sharing! Yes the dust vacuum issue seems to be very common in the comments so it's definitely something I'm wary of - glad you've found a good rhythm with the X-E2!

[@textcentric]

I agree about the low light performance. It's amazing.

[@ManyDoors777]

Cool camera!! My compact camera is the Fujifilm XF10. Totally underrated and over looked.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That was literally my first choice! I just wanted the video option for my shooting sitch

[@raulmedina6223]

A7c with the sony zeiss 35mm 2.8 is the perfect combo for me when it comes to traveling

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah agreed, I used the A7C 28mm f2

[@towmlvb3423]

I have the M2 version and will do my best to keep it. I have 7 cameras and typically take this one along with the "camera of the day" as an occasional alternative and just in case I don't connect at all with the Chosen One that day. I have yet to find a shot I would like to take that the LX does not handle very well. I challenge myself, not the camera. I don't "blog" or "vlog". I don't do "street" or "travel". I just do photography and the LX100 really suits me.

[@manchesterstreetphotos5126]

I have one and covered the branding with black tape to make it super discreet. Nobody realises it is really quite a high-end camera.

[@季宇新]

3:07 That's Manchester Arndale! I took lots of pictures there too!

[@GeorgeHolden]

It is! I'm around there all the time 😂

[@g10col92]

Yes the focal length doubles because of crop factor but no the aperture does not. The f1.7 on a micro four thirds is f1.7 not f3.5 regarding exposure. If you set studio lights for full frame exposure at a set aperture you don't have to increase the amount of light power if you shoot a micro four thirds camera at the same aperture. The depth of field will be greater because of crop factor but generally that is not a bad thing.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Depth of field* I should have clarified I don't mean exposure effects but depth of field because that is the function of aperture

[@towmlvb3423]

I bought a used LX100 and really enjoyed it. It has only been very recently replaced by an LX100M2 because someone made me an offer I could not refuse... Auto-focus performance is not a problem because the selection of MF gives the opportunity to focus on whichever part of the subject you wish. Combined with manual selection of the aperture, (from f1.7 to f16), the MF choice gives very good control over focus, composition and depth of field. The ease with which exposure can be modified to suit, for example, irregular lighting is another source of pleasure for this old photographer... I started at age 7, which is now an embarrassing number of years ago, (69), with my mother's replaced Brownie Box so doing for myself whatever the camera will not do for me is, at the very worst, interesting. Was it a rational decision to go from am LX100 to an LX100M2? Of course not. Am I happy with the result? Yes. Case closed... I will only stop doing photography when it ceases to please me. Or "inevitably"... Hey ho!

[@keithheaven176]

Thoroughly enjoying my LX100 which I bought new a few years ago. Added UV filter and lens hood more for a bit of lens protection. Also spare battery (or two) essential especially if using 4K. Impressed with mono and manual options facilities. 12.8 megapixel is fine: it's easy to get too hung up on counting megapixels, when not so many years ago 10 Mp was considered top notch.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I'm impressed with the battery life so far, I've been shooting more 1080p 50p recently and it does well not to eat through power

[@rewdotkim]

Happy to have stumbled across your video. I too have the original LX100 and absolutely love mine. Tiny bonus feature I appreciate is adding up to 6 faces with personal recognition so the camera adjusts focus and exposure with the registered people as higher priority. 🤓

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks for watching! I did not know of that personal recognition trick, I'll check it out 😀

[@textcentric]

Great video - thank you. I bought the LX100 for travel photography and I love it! Even on total auto it makes excellent exposures. One big plus for me is there is a comprehensive guidebook available that helps you get the most out of its features. Your trick for moving the focus area is genius too. I'll be using that. Have you tried the face recognition for portraits? Cheers mate!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes I have used facial recognition as well it works well! Slow in video of course but useful in photo mode for sure

[@savedasrob]

Im currently using my Panasonic Lumix LX100 mark I and honestly the monochrome filter has been good in photo and on video. My last two youtube videos were shot with it.

[@mrboult]

The aspect ratio lever being so prominent is an integral part of this cameras unique design. The lens image circle never uses/covers the full 4/3rds sensor. So a 16:9 will use the full width, and 1x1 will use the full height. Ironically the 4:3 aspect ratio has the biggest crop, neither using the full width or height of the sensor. All because that tiny lens doesn't fully cover the 4:3 sensor size. The corners are clearly unusable as the camera never uses them :) It's a nice camera!

[@garethwalker3446]

I bought my mk1 from a dealer. He had taken it back after a few days from a guy who said he wanted something smaller. The truth was probably that he couldn't work out how to access Aperture priority etc. Not immediately obvious. The result was I got a great little almost new camera for a knock down price. I love it. If I want to take an unobtrusive camera with me this is my first choice. Also my Canon DSLR plus 15/85 lens is just too heavy, bulky and obvious to lug around. I might get rid of them both and get the Mk 2 before we all end up with £2,000 smart phones!

[@certs743]

Nice video. I have a similarly designed Panasonic GX7 and I use is like my digital "rangefinder". Definitely my favorite for street photography.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks for sharing!

[@chrisf5475]

I started with a mirrorless but switched to a D7100 because of the speed of the focussing system (I was getting more into photographing people and the mirrorless just wasn’t fast enough for moving targets)…. But the Nikon is huge and heavy… So now when I go hiking / camping I end up not taking a camera. This looks ideal!

[@AgeOfApocyplse]

Lol I literally have a d7100 and am looking for a mirrorless right now!

[@hfranke07]

Fujifilm X-E3 or X-E4 are my pick for small and street

[@stephencharlton2024]

Excellent, I have this camera (from MPB) I am a fuji User but this is the camera I reach for.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That's interesting! Which Fuji do you use?

[@sjanssen]

Damn I miss my LX100, it got stolen in Berlin and I remember quite well how nice the build and picture quality was. I also think it was one of the first 4K capable camera's for filming which was quite interesting.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Oh man that's not good, yeah the 4K is there but without some stabilization it's pretty unusable 😂

[@numbersix8919]

Thank you for your service!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks for sharing!

[@pamelaswarts]

I have this camera!! It’s great! I do agree it is hard to find as people don’t get rid of them.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I've found plenty going, it's just finding the cheap ones in a condition you're okay with

[@polonatic]

On an M4/3 camera, f/1.7 is still f/1.7. The brightness doesn't change, but the depth of field will be different.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Exactly

[@dodgy1954]

Compact wise, I have owned Sony Rx100 V / Canon G1X / Canon G5X / Canon G5X II / Fujifilm X100T & / Lumix LX100 I & II.... now I have none of them. All great in their own different ways but none of them a photopher's-joy for me. The is mainly because of ergonomics in way or another. Now I have buit a system around the Fujifilm X-S10 which I love... but not to carry everywhere. Which cameras do I very much regret selling, both versions of the LX100. I love these cameras and miss the LX100 ike hell. I hoped Panasonic would carry on the development to an LX100 III with a tilt screen.... it seems that there is o chance. These cameras are lovely...I/ll buy another one day and probably from MpB :-) - Nice video.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That's great to hear Simon! The X-S10 is one of my main suggestions to people interested in Fuji

[@wongjefx980]

I went with a Panasonic GX1 used and GF1 brand new from a bidding site, for something to carry for fun. Tried using adapters for DSLR lenses, but found the size and image quality to be quite poor. Got two used M4/3 lenses and makes an easy carry-around, but still not crazy about image quality and miss image stablization. iphone unfornately still the most convienent everyday carry.

[@dino2400]

very interesting. I have this camera, but some of the functions shown I have never been able to discover. Time to re-read the manual!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Good to hear! I'm always digging through settings when creating custom buttons to suit my needs, takes some trial and error but you find cool functions!

[@christopherjhall]

I’ve had 2 of these. Both had massive issues with dust on sensor, which cannot be readily resolved for a fixed lens camera. I would not advise buying one

[@GeorgeHolden]

Keep hearing about this now quite nervous if mine will suffer the same 😂

[@RustyOrange71]

Very handy and versatile device but they don't like the damp either, so not an all weather camera.

[@richardgagne8488]

A good way to limite dust is to blocking the 2 microphones on the top and the speaker , on the bottom with black Electric tape. Also chech the Barrel Before closing the caméra. 6 years I own a Leica d lux 109 ( whom is the same as this lumix and made by Them) and Never had any problèm of dust inside the caméra.

[@carauctiontalk]

I have has a LX100 since they came out. Was going to sell it but never got around to that. It’s been on a shelf for a while but might take it out for to see how it does now a days vs my iPhone 13 Pro.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Depending on the condition you could get a good price! I'd say keep it and give it some time using again 😄

[@ludgeisatmcdonalds]

I have the LX10 which is really great as well. Picked it up for $300

[@GeorgeHolden]

Sounds a good deal!

[@SuperRaven79]

The LX10/15 (here in Germany it is LX15) got my main camera the last few month. I also have the ZV-1. BUT one of the greatest features of ALL compact Panasonic cameras ist the macro-mode. I have it always set to "on". Focussing takes a lot longer someteims, but i can take every picture everytime i want without stepping back several times until the focuspoint is far enough. I guess the LX100 have the same feature.

[@justusgovaert]

I think this camera is really interesting but with a updated version it should have more megapixels and slightly more zoom. The lens can be 24-85mm equivalent instead of 75mm. Which is slightly nicer I think. Or maybe even slightly more zoom. And maybe even a slightly nicer aperture in the lens. But let's see what Panasonic will do 😁

[@moviedorkproductions9465]

Grat video; very informative. I liked and subscribed. Cheers 🍻 👏 ✌️

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks so much 😄

[@pjrove]

I have been using the LX100 for several years and love it's ergonomics and functions. The only problem I have is that the lens sucks in dust. This becomes a problem when using small apetures for subjects with large areas sky etc. Probably not an issue for most street photography.

[@GeorgeHolden]

The dust issue really is a shame, I've yet to have any problems but I'm cautious now!

[@azaz911c]

I understand the appeal, nostalgia, and tactile feel of these older, prosumer compact digital cameras. I've bought a couple, and that's why I'm watching this video. Yet, when I used my wife's fairly new, mid-range smartphone camera, I was stunned by its fantastic image quality, which outperforms these old cameras in every measure. It also offers more manual control, refreshes faster, has superior image stabilization, is more pocketable and discreet, and is fully connected to the Internet. The optics and sensors on smartphone cameras have advanced tremendously in the last 10 years. The phenomenal processing power of a new smartphone means photos taken in low light can be fairly well lit and sharp. I offer my perspective in case people are shopping for these cameras in the quest for better image quality. If that's what they are looking for, then they may find it in a newer used smartphone for a lower price. Still, these old cameras can be a lot of fun, and sometimes, they can be found for bargain prices because only a small demographic appreciates them at this point.

[@GeorgeHolden]

That is fair, however I would argue that phones still don't offer much manua control in terms of shutter speed?

[@azaz911c]

@@GeorgeHoldenI manual mode, the typical Android phone camera allows for control of shutter speed from 1/6000 to 1/3 second.

[@Polyglotz]

And my phone gets super hot and dies quicker.

[@azaz911c]

@Omora I am a casual hobbyist, far from serious. I started photography decades ago on film, including darkroom developing and printing. Film photography has a completely different "spirit", especially if you do the developing and printing yourself. Different films and photo papers have their own "grain"; it's really like traditional art, and the prints are like drawings or paintings. Digital photography has never captured my heart the same way, but film is too inconvenient and expensive now to return to. Shooting with film makes you careful about every shot, because film was/is precious and expensive, and you have limited editing options during the printing process. Digital is more convenient, but all the shots seem "disposable" to me some how. Digital editing provides too many options after the fact, which makes for lazy photography. I value composition, and actually don't worry too much about digital image quality. My favorite camera at the moment is actually a Canon SD960 that I bought used for $20 with cosmetic wear. The image quality is mediocre (at best) by today's standards, but it's the camera I keep in my pocket, and don't fret about. Take more photos, worry less about the camera, I say.

[@undrwings]

If you can get your hands on a J.B. Camera Designs grip, you'll love it that much more.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I'll take a look!

[@GeorgeHolden]

For those that don't watch the whole video, just watch 1:50 - 2:25 and you will see the "well used" condition

[@busymamatips1475]

How loud is the shutter?

[@barbgannon3252]

Thanks for your review. I had a giggle with the predictive text underneath... this camera is the "Lunatics Alex 100". :)

[@GeorgeHolden]

Hahahaha I need to fix when I'm back at my laptop 😅

[@snappychappy]

If you get the chance then try the Lumix G100 camera, much maligned but rather good.

[@CapturingSpain]

Concerning video stabilisation, I heard when you put the camera in iA mode and then film, the camera stabiliser kicks in. I tried it, and it worked, I will update you when I film outside my house. :D

[@GeorgeHolden]

Oh that's interesting, let us know! I did experiment with iA but can't say I saw a big difference

[@thenullco]

Great video! I just got back from a holiday with the Leica Typ 109 (same camera) - first time travelling with a camera this small. Thought I'd miss my Fuji gear but enjoyed using it greatly. Found the green tint quite heavy but otherwise a joy.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I'm really curious to try a compact Leica... Might be next on my list!

[@thenullco]

@@GeorgeHolden Definitely worth a look. I got mine via MPB too (before realising the LX100 was the same camera). Hey ho!

[@wanderlustdetailer]

I have the typ 109 also and it's great! Very impressive considering it's only using 12.8 out of that 16mp sensor.

[@astrosathya1984]

nice video! The photos are from Piccadilly gardens aren't they! wow, i miss the place.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes they are! Taken when we were here viewing apartments 😂 now live in Manchester full time!

[@johncantrell614]

Another good camera for you to try would be the Pentax mx-1. Look it up, I bet you will like it.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks John I'll check it out! 👍

[@b.s.4478]

The LX100 is such and underrated camera...

[@GeorgeHolden]

Couldn't agree more

[@TheOnlyTaps]

Great video. Looks like a bargain. The only annoyance like some of the other comments noted is that whenever good deals like this pop up the cameras immediately sell out 😩. Hard to find them still in this price range.

[@GeorgeHolden]

This particular one was listed for days before I bought it, I genuinely think people don't hunt around enough for cameras or lenses

[@TheOnlyTaps]

@@GeorgeHolden Nice. That's awesome. And yeah I'd agree I think it's 50/50 on waiting tho coz I've been hunting for a cheap vlog camera a few months now but I've realized imma have to just bite the bullet a lil and up my budget. Coz I've come across some good deals here and there but I've often been too late with the listings leaving some of the more dodgy 2nd hand listings that you kinda look at and think twice before pulling the trigger on them when the condition is obviously a lil worse than the seller's giving value to. Then brand new I don't know if it's the demand that causes the price to go up or something coz a lot of the good cameras in a friendly budget range the price has almost damn near gone up by at least 1/3 or 2/3 each time. But fingers crossed I come across something soon, I know I just gotta be patient, if I've waited a few months now I can wait a few more if need be without compromising my budget too much. Got my eye on a few cameras and this is one of them where I'll happily try snag one if I come across it in my area 🙏🏿❤️

[@1194pa]

Good work👌

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks Sayed! 😄

[@grumblekin]

I have this camera and it beats any cell phone camera for sure. Love the 4k video quality as well, even if it's not 60fps.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes the stills offer so much more over smartphone photography but I think that gap will close in time

[@BruunMedia]

I use the Leica D-Lux 7 which is the exact same camera. I think Panasonic make it for Leica, great small camera.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Oh I didn't know that existed, I'm going to take a look 👍

[@wanderlustdetailer]

@@GeorgeHolden some else as for the D lux 109 and 7 is that they are made in Japan not China. I believe the software is different too the images look a little different.

[@igorpospishny7456]

thanks for this. just bought one to start practicing after 14 years of break from photos (it was on school hah). really good camera for its age but not price. I was lucky enough to get it for 400 CAD in a a good condition, but the usual price is 600-700 CAD (for a 9 year used camera is a psychological barrier hah)

[@GeorgeHolden]

Great to hear!

[@JonathanRhodes]

I love this camera and took it on a trip to Italy and had some really great shots. I really wish Panasonic would release a new version as the second version already seems a little dated and too pricey IMO.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes I agree! Unless you want to skip to a GX series there really isn't a decent upgrade that's cost effective - the mark ii is priced quite high considering the spec differences

[@prose4ever]

I bought the Mark 2 about a month ago, and I have been really enjoying it so far. One of my concerns has been the rumor that dust can get into the senor through the lens (which has happened to another lens I own), and I do wish there was a tilt screen for nice low/high angle shots.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I agree with the ergonomics factor, a tilt screen would be great but doesn't bother me too much. The dust factor isn't ideal, I'm hoping it doesn't effect mine down the line

[@gavinedmondstone316]

I have had this camera since 2014. Unfortunately it has acquired a dust spec on the sensor...and there is no way to remove it without dismantling the camera. It's not fatal; when the spot shows it it just a minor pain to remove in post.

[@FrontRangeGardener]

@@gavinedmondstone316 I also had a dust spec on the sensor. Later the lens failed to extend or retract, so sadly I am done with the camera.

[@vermontmike9800]

All collapsible lenses on compact camera can get dust due to the vacuum created when the lens goes in and out. Ricoh GR cameras are notorious for this.

[@daveys]

I was surprised (but pleasantly surprised) to see so many Manchester images after the $ sign on the camera cost. Shame that digital compacts went out of fashion, but as I always say “the best camera is the one you have with you” and now for me at least, that really means the smartphone. I have several cameras and none of them really make it out of the house these days. Perhaps I’ll make a trip out and take some pics.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Gotta keep it global for viewers but local in the photos 😄 I think the fact they went out of fashion is great, means they go cheap for enthusiasts! Hope you can get the cameras out again, but phones pack a punch now these days anyway

[@daveys]

- I dug out my TZ-20 and out taking a few pics. That together with Alphonso Dunn’s urban sketching video series will provide me with hours of fun!

[@lanx0003]

I still have LX100 but I never like the color. Instead, I will strongly recommend sony nex 5n. Very compact pocket portable with compact lens such as Zeiss 35 mill 2.8. Nice low light iso performance. Nice color, clean picture. Can be acquired under $100 body only.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes have seen NEX deals going!

[@MsSnowboarder94]

Ich hab sie mir wegen dir gekauft 😁 und bin super zufrieden.

[@jae791]

Thank you for this video! Made me appreciate my LX-100 (haven't used it in a while). I really enjoyed using in my trip to Europe yrs ago. It's the best compact I have. I do agree it would be nice if it had better video stabilization otherwise produced lovely photos ✨

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes agreed! The stabilisation would be amazing but considering it was (I think) the first compact with 4K, we can't complain for an 8yr old camera

[@psimmy73]

you sell presets or have any processing tutorials? Love the look of your work

[@GeorgeHolden]

Thanks! I have two packs available in my description

[@Fedorevsky]

Great little camera but a bit too small for my huge mitts. I rock the GX80/85 for street photography.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I'm the same to be fair! But that's also part of the charm for me, feels like a toy 😂

[@allyoursrob]

Wonderful

[@kdivanov]

The panasonic GX9 is for me a perfect small camera, got a G9 and bought for my brother a second hand GX9, so we use same lenses.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Great to hear!

[@Slightlyevil]

Had it and they are amazing cameras for the money.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yeah tremendous value, mine only cost £154 😅

[@Slightlyevil]

I had this, great camera.

[@GeorgeHolden]

👍

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Thank you for the video. As a hobbyist nature, street and wildlife photographer; I use Canon pro and semipro DSLRs. However, I’m looking for a good used pocket camera at around one hundred dollars. How about Canon Powershot S100!

[@GeorgeHolden]

Yes maybe a powershot or Lumix Compact!

[@quazisanjeed6395]

@@GeorgeHolden thank you.

[@andrewralte4844]

I have the Canon M200 with the kit lens for the streets. Then i got the Google pixel 6, even more discreet. I might get the clip-on ones next. Wish they shoot raw though.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Oh nice, yeah I'm keen to get an iPhone with raw when the 14 is out

[@patricklouis1583]

great camera but big problem of color rendition ; see "purple lips issue" on dpreview. the only good solution is to shoot raw.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Good point! I do shoot raw so not an issue

[@gradywilson9213]

You've got good taste in art, I see on your wall "The Wave" by Katsushika Hokusai. You may not know Hokusai was so under appreciated in his day, his prints were used to wrap fish.

[@rcpmac]

Most people are too timid to buy a used camera. I just bought a Nikon D750 with 35mm 1.8 for $700. 7k exposures. Retail on it would have been $2500

[@lynneftw]

Oh noes! I went down the rabbit hole. I don't need this. I have a Samsung S22 Ultra. I have to remind myself that THIS is my compact, use-anywhere camera.

[@GeorgeHolden]

Hahaha try not to buy anything you don't need 😅

[@radovansurlak7445]

man I am in almost the same situation, Fuji X100, RX100 IV, wanna switch to the LX

[@GeorgeHolden]

The compact camera search never stops! I'm enjoying the LX100 a lot right now!

[@film.fiasco]

I need that one now

[@GeorgeHolden]

Plenty of other lumix or Olympus options

[@RotterStudios]

What are you using for audio in this video? Sounds great.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I think this video was just my old rode video mic pro

[@Benjamin_Jehne]

You should have tried the Canon G5XII with it's 1" 20mpix sensor and the 24-120mm F1.8-2.8. I thought about the Panasonic , too, but it's not even close to the Canon. The way the lens renders lights is so lovely and you get a really usefull amount of pixels. If the AF would be as good as the one of my RX100VII, the camera would be perfect.

[@GeorgeHolden]

I could have! For now this is a nice fit, especially because it offers a filter thread - does the canon?

[@Benjamin_Jehne]

@@GeorgeHolden I just glued a filter thread on the lens. Bought it from Ali Express and it fits perfect. But I realized that I just need the ND filter, which is already build in.