Our Favorite Compact Point-and-Shoots at PMA 2009

The pros love their DSLRs, but even professionals can appreciate a good pocket size point-and-shoot. And realistically, under optimal environmental conditions a compact camera performs as well as most pro-grade cameras. We've compiled some photos and info on some of our favorite compacts from the PMA showroom this year to give you an idea what you'll see on store shelves this year.




Fujifilm Finepix F200EXR
12 megapixels
5x zoom
$399.95


Casio Exilim EX-S12
3x zoom
2.7 LCD
12.1 megapixel
$249.99


GE A1250
3-inch Touchscreen
12.2 megapixels
5x zoom
$129.99


Canon Powershot SD780 IS
12.1 megapixels
3x zoom
$279.99


Olympus FE 3010
12 megapixel
5x zoom
$149.99


Pentax Optio E70
10 megapixel
3x optical zoom
$199.95

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1
12.1 megapixel
4x zoom
Waterproof at up to 10 feet
Shockproof
$399.95

As you can see, compacts are getting more, well, compact. They cover quite a large price range, and are available with loads of different feature sets. Everybody offers their new compacts with improved image stabilization and some light "on screen" editing features. While we appreciate the general trend toward increased optical zoom, we don't find it to be critical on a compact.

As far as trends go, the entire pallet of colors is represented this year. The Exilim is available in pink, green, black and silver; GE's A series ships in every color under the sun; Canon's PowerShot SD780IS is colored from the telescoping lens all the way down to the interface buttons.



Expect to see point and shoots available in every color of the rainbow this year.

More from PMA 2009:

Kodak Theatre HD Brings Everything to Your TV

Samsung NX at PMA, Details Still Lacking

Olympus Skinit Offers Way to Customize Cameras

Sony Webbie HD and Kodak HD ZX1 Pocket Video Cameras Coming Soon