Canon G9 that seemed to have nice specs (12.1 megapixels, a 35-210mm image stabilized lens, and RAW capabilities) and an even nicer price (under $500).
The images on the big LCD looked great and the list of pro features on the camera was impressive.

I wondered if this camera had more potential than just being a “snapshot” camera. For example, not only does the camera have manual mode, exposure compensation, a great macro mode, RAW capability, and a live histogram, but it also has 3-frame auto bracketing in 1/3-stop increments up to 2 stops, over and under. I could easily do HDR (high dynamic range) images with the G9 if I wanted. The camera also has an optional filter adapter and I could use my polarizer and grads on the camera. I am lost without filters and the ability to use my arsenal of camera filters on a point-and-shoot is really important to me. This camera had the potential to produce photos I could use professionally with its pro-like controls and a big pixel count.
the images from the G9 made sharp, clean files that produced amazing 12x16 enlargements that easily rivaled that from 35mm film. Wow, a snapshot camera that could make big photos! The lower ISO settings made the best quality images (ISO 80-200) but I was still impressed by the higher ISO settings given the huge pixel count on the small sensor.


Is there anything missing from the camera? Sure, it would be nice if the lens was wider than 35mm. You can buy a wide angle adapter lens that gives you about 28mm, but that just means hauling more gear around which counters the reason for owning the camera. Also it would be great if Canon returned to a swiveling LCD for low-level, macro, and surreptitious photography. I also wish there was a cable release socket on the camera. I can work around all these issues, but overall, this little camera has ignited a renewed passion for photographing the world around me.