Oly E-420 vs 790IS

[bflemingor]

I've been a photography nut for over 40 years, and was an early adaptor for digital format. Plus, I ONLY use MAC OS systems.

I've tried various camera manufacturers & always come back to Canon. I own a 30D EOS (with lenes, filters, etc), and the TX-1 and SD550 point & shoots.

The TX-1 looks cool, but has been a disappointment since day one - the 10X optical zoom brings "stars" or lighter spots on most of the shots - even after after a cycle through Canon repair. So I'm going to replace it.

I torn between the SD790IS (another point & shoot), the Canon G-9, and the new Olympus E-420.

I shoot a lot from the saddle - including movie shorts - I rarely pose shots, and require the power button & shutter can be operated with one hand while riding. I am also concerned that the Olympus lens cover is standard SLR (two hands, or no cover) - risky on a bike.

Any experience with the Olympus? G9? My conservative notion is to stay with my comfort zone and get the 790. Comments welcome.

Be happy to share some of my pics, when the server allows it...

[bflemingor]

OK, for those interested, I bought the 790IS. The G9 was too big heavy vs the additional features it brought to the table &, while the Oly is a nice camera, I would pack our 30D, if I wanted the DSLR along too.

Just my $0.02

[dmatson]

I shoot a lot from the bike and for that I use a couple of Canons (S500,SD900) and I have a few Olympus's (E1,E510,E3). The S500 fits my hand the best but I have to tape the controls so I don't start shooting a movie and I also use a double lanyard set up so I can shoot almost at road level without loosing the camera. The E-510 is very close to the E-420 in layout but the 420 is just a tad smaller. I just slapped a couple of lenses on the 510 and played with it and one hand operation would be easy with it. So the 420 and say the 14-42 and even the 40-150 kit lenses which are both light and compact would be even nicer. The kit lenses are very sharp but slower than the ED versions. The big advantage for me is that I can change hands for a shot and with the 420 you pretty much have to hold it with your right hand.