X-5

Isn't 1000fps sporty enough? Yes, it's got both aperture and shutter priority. Seems current model is EX-FH25.

If looking for a Bridge Camera then I would recommend the X-5. But only because being a Pentax forum it wouldn't be right to recommend the Canon SX50, which a lot of birders are using for a less complex solution than a DSLR :arrow:

Hi Ralph

I always have an X5 with me at work, not a problem with image quality even with some digital zoom although @ 26 times magnification is huge. Colour is fine. A Dslr it isn`t but it`s a great light little fella with good battery life. I will upload some pics shortly. Straight out of the camera. It`s not fair to compare with a DSLR so I won`t. Different horses etc.

Straight out of an X5.

sorry what I meant was that's I bit too much as I only need single shots.

Alan, good point although I wasn't actually looking for alternatives, it's just everybody else kept suggesting them:

Cedric, you're a star. Thanks for those, my fears have been calmed. So it looks like I may be off to Wex at the weekend.

Thanks for all your comments.

I think you'd have to spend rather more to get much of an increase in IQ. The MX-1 or Q would both beat it (but without the superzoom range), and outside Pentaxland, the Panasonic FZ200, Canon SX50 or Fuji XS1 may be worth a look. The X-5 is included on the ImagingResource comparometer, so you can have a play with that - I was surprised to see quite a lot of purple fringing in some shots.

Glad to help Ralph, seeing is beleiving. It`s that old saying about pictures and words. I think for the money the X5 is great value.