modern DSLR cameras versus prosumer camera?

[gem32]

hi i'm just learning the difference between all these terms but has anyone got an opinion when it comes to taking good quality (i'm no professional mind) pictures between the DSLR's and the prosumer cameras like the panasonic fz range for example. i have a panasonic fz7. prosumer cameras seem to have bridged the gap hugely between compact and SLR or am i missing soething?

any comments appreciated, thanks!

[matt_xyz]

Prosumer cameras like the FZ range are very capable cameras. However, these cameras have a large number of pixels on a relatively small sensor and as a result tend to suffer from noise, particularly at higher ISO levels. As a result, their low light performance is limited. In good light they can produce good quality images although when viewed at 100% the difference in quality between a prosumer camera and a DSLR with a good lens is normally evident. DSLRs use larger sensors and so do not suffer from noise to the same degree, particularly some of the higher spec ones such as the new Nikon D3. DSLRs also tend to have faster and more accurate autofocus.

However, to get high quality images from a DSLR you do need high quality lenses which are very expensive. So, you do tend to get more for your money with prosumers. It all depends what you plan to photograph. For general purpose photography, e.g. holidays, a prosumer may be ideal. For more specialised wildlife photography, a DSLR set-up is capable of providing better results.

Matt

[Walwyn]

I've been very pleased with my FZ30 particularly when combined with the Raynox DCR-250 for macro photography. However, as Matt says low light levels can be a problem, Its not insurmountable if you use Neat Image to tidy stuff up.

But you are welcome to can check out my Gallery both here and on flickr.