Recently, we received a query from a reader who explained that they were on a hunt for a camera that would be ideal for capturing swim meets. They wanted to know what models offered a large zoom, decent video function and portable size, in addition to rapid image capture or burst modes. What we're dealing with here is a compact that is conducive to sports, one with a large zoom for honing in on a particular athlete or action-packed play. Nearly every compact on the market has some echelon of video capability, but certain formats offer longer recording times and higher quality than others. Most cameras also have burst modes, but certain manufacturers, like Casio, have greatly increased the number of images-per-second in order to create a real high-speed shooting experience.
Canon PowerShot SX10 IS
The reader went on to mention that they were interested in the 10-megapixel Canon PowerShot SX10 IS, which is a decent all-around Super Zoom with a substantial 10x optical zoom and standard-definition video capability. The PowerShot SX10 IS has a wealth of manual controls, including a fast shutter speed, which is conducive to shooting quick action. Since video is standard-definition, the files sizes will not consume as much space, allowing shooters to capture longer videos and store more clips, as long as a high capacity SDHC card is used. However, the PowerShot SX10 IS is a fairly bulky camera, residing within the same ballpark as a compact DSLR, so the more compact Canon PowerShot SX110 IS would be the best option in this case. The 10-megapixel PowerShot SX110 IS still packs in a fair amount of manual controls and has a 10x optical zoom, as well as standard-definition video.
Casio Exilim EX-FH20
Though we didn't experience the greatest image quality with the 9-megapixel Casio Exilim EX-FH20, it has a massive 20x optical zoom and high-speed image capability of up to 40fps. So, if you want to capture a swimmer in mid-butterfly, the EX-FH20 will allow you to pick the best shot out of a series. There are also Scene presets like Multi Motion Image, which captures a series of images and overlays them in order to show the sequential action. The EX-FH20 is not the most compact camera on the market, but it's not a tank. As far as video, the EX-FH20 can capture 720p HD video, in addition to standard-definition video. Also, the EX-FH20 can capture high-speed video of up to 1,000fps, giving true slow motion. The caveat is that the high-speed video resolution at higher frame rates amounts to the size of a piece of trident gum. If image quality is not at the top of your list, the Casio Exilim EX-FH20 is stocked with plenty of tricks for shooting fast action.
Olympus Stylus SP-565UZ
The 10-megapixel Olympus Stylus SP-565UZ performed very well in our hands. It's like the Casio Exilim EX-FH20, only with better image quality and fewer fancy features. You won't find ultimate high-speed shooting on the Stylus SP-565UZ, but it does have a respectable 13.5 fps burst mode, though images can only be captured at 3-megapixels. The Stylus SP-565UZ has a generous 20x optical zoom and a great suite of manual controls, including a high shutter speed for quick action. The Stylus SP-565UZ is surprisingly compact as well and it's built like a little tank. Video is standard-definition, but recording to xD cards is a pain, so we recommend recording to Micro SD cards using an adapter.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ50
Let's ignore the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ50's wretched Internet feature and focus on its good traits. The 9-megapixel Lumix DMC-TZ50 is one of the most compact Super Zooms we've come across, offering a 10x optical zoom lens in a body that's slightly larger than most pocket-friendly cams in its class. The Lumix DMC-TZ50 is a little short-staffed when it comes to features, but it cranked out some beautiful images, even in low light. Standard-definition video is how the how the Lumix DMC-TZ50 rolls, so there's no major concern regarding recording space. An even cheaper option is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5, which is devoid of the Internet feature, and that's a good thing. Both models are identical, so there's no loss in the feature department.
Upcoming Models
There have been waves of recent announcements this year, including a few Super and Ultra-zoom models. The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS will replace the PowerShot SX10 IS while the Canon PowerShot SX200 IS will fill the shoes of the Canon PowerShot SX110 IS. Panasonic's Lumix DMC-ZS3 boasts a 12x optical zoom compared to the Lumix DMC-TZ50's and the Fujifilm Finepix S1500 has a 12x optical zoom as well. Sony just announced the 10-megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20, which has a 10x optical zoom and can record HD video.
A Little Advice
When shooting sports, it's important to keep in mind that fast action requires a fast shutter speed, therefore the camera needs a lot of light. Don't be afraid of the flash, or the use of a tripod in order to freeze the subject, especially when using burst modes. When shooting video, sometimes zooming all the way in on the action is not the best idea because of the unpredictable nature of the movement of that action. So, always keep a decent border around all action to leave some breathing room for unexpected events.
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