Hi everyone.

nilagin · 29-12-2005, 15:18

Hi everyone. I'm nilagin. I'm not a serious photohrapher, but I do like to capture photos of motor racing as well as my family. I have a couple of 35mm auto focus cameras with zoom lens as well as four digital cameras ranging from my first an old Kodak 1.3MP to a Nikon Coolpix 5200. My reason for joining this forum is to learn how to make better use of my cameras especially when it comes to the motor racing. I would like to get a digital camera with a bigger zoom and feel tempted by th Panasonic DMC FZ5 with its 12x optical zoom (very handy for race tracks where the cars are too far away for a camera with a 3X zoom lens. Jessops are currently selling the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ20 for £199.99 does anyone have this camera and how good is it for a relative novice. I've read mixed reviews in magazines and on searches on the web.
Nice to meet you all.
Nilagin.

digitalfailure · 29-12-2005, 15:37

Hi there

Another motorsport fan eh

Your in a good place to learn about and improve your photography, so don't be afraid to ask questions.

With regard to the camera your researching, why not post a thread in the general sections where you'll reach a wider audience?

On the subject of the 12x zoom, what would the focal length be equal to?
sometimes even a 300mm lense won't get you the pictures you want because of the fencing and safety areas pushing you even further back.

Beware though, photography becomes a bug.....you say your not serious at the moment, i'm sure we'll remember those words when your upgrading the panasonic for the top of the line dSLR

CT · 29-12-2005, 15:38

Welcome!

Those Panasonics have a good reputation. One of our members gandhi has one and is turning in some impressive shots with it. I think his is the top end version, but if you can hang on till he's around in the new year, he's the guy to speak to.