EVF Vs OVF

[Willo]

I am in the decision process of upgrading my photographic equipment and there are a number of questions I still need to find answers to.

I am currently using an Oly SP550UZ and am thinking of moving up to an interchangeable lens system. One of the systems I am considering is the new micro-four thirds (particularly the Panasonic G1) which has an EVF. The reviews say that it is an excellent EVF but not as good as OVF without explaining what is so good about an OVF. So, what is so good about an OVF?

As already mentioned I am using the 550UZ which has an EVF. It does have some problems, particularly in bright light but I find the ability to view the effect changing a setting without having to take a picture first very handy.

I am looking forward to reading your opinions.

[Tringa]

Its said EVF are more difficult to use at low light levels and can be difficult to focus manually. I have seen some camera reviews which criticise EVFs because they are felt to be too small, probably because on some cameras its assumed the LCD will be used in preference to the EVF.

However, I think this is a very personal issue. I've used an Olympus C700UZ and now use a Panasonic FZ28 both of which have an EVF and have no problems with them.

For me the fact that with an EVF I can get all the information I get from the LCD screen is important, but others may be happy without that info.

I think the only way is to have a try of a few of each.

Dave

[eeyore]

also on some models the EVF crops the edge of the shot so you only see about 90% of what you are taking - the OVF doesnt suffer from this.

(btw if anyone is wondering this is Electronic view finder vs optical view finder)

[Willo]

I have to agree with Dave as I also find it very useful to see such things as histogram and settings without taking my eye from the view finder. However I had a play in a camera shop today and the clarity of what you see through an optical view finder is quite compelling.