BEST CAMERA for photographing?

[cyclogenesis]

Any of you weather hobbyists have recommendations for THE BEST CAMERA for taking HIGHEST RESOLUTION VIDEO & photography?

The camera NEEDS to EXCEL in LOW-LIGHTING and ZOOMING capabilities, WITHOUT graininess, blurring & coarseness.  As I poured through a number of cameras, the market release dates were all in the late 2017's era.  It seems they're letting PHONE cameras take over the market.  

Any insights on this subject, for the BEST camera in highest resolution, zooming, and low-lighting??

[weatherwiz]

I second this. 

[LibertyBell]

For an all in one solution I highly recommend reading reviews of the Panasonic FZ300 camera, it is absolutely amazing.

Being able to go from 25-600mm EFL on a constant f/2.8 lens with the extensive feature set of this camera is absolutely amazing. It's weather and dust resistant too! It also does 4K extremely well and has 4K Photo Mode on top of it for up to 30 minutes of continuous photography!

 

I just got this camera this past fall and I absolutely love it!

 

 

[LibertyBell]

Here is a complete review of this camera including very compelling and complete tests performed using it.  I love this site for their full featured reviews:

 

https://www.photoreview.com.au/reviews/advanced-compact-cameras/fixed-lens/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz300/

 

some highlights

 

Who’s it for?
 Cameras in Panasonic’s FZ series have always been popular with travellers, partly because of their relatively long zoom range but also because their lenses are usually faster than those attached to smaller-bodied digicams. The constant f/2.8 maximum aperture provides a bright image that will be particularly useful for wildlife photographers, particularly birders. Although the small sensor limits background de-focusing, at the maximum optical zoom range, background blurring is better than we expected for a small-sensor digicam.

We took the review camera on a camping trip that included kayaking on flat water. Because it has splash- and dust-proof sealing, we felt confident it could be used for shooting from the kayak as well as in heavy mist and light rain. The camera justified these beliefs and performed well, even in near-freezing conditions.

Support for 4K video recording is another reason to buy this camera, even if you don’t have a 4K TV set. The ability to record movies with 3840 x 2160-pixel resolution allows you to extract 8-megapixel   frames from the clips and produce acceptable A4-sized print, should you wish. The camera also supports normal 1920 x 1080-pixel video recording with progressive and interlaced scanning and a choice between 50 and 25 frames/second, which is ideal for playback on widescreen HD TV sets.

 

What’s New?
Although it retains the same sensor and lens as the FZ200, the FZ300 introduces some significant advantages, which are listed below.

1. Splash- and dust-proof sealing enables the camera to withstand harsh weather conditions and makes it suitable for outdoor photographers.

2. The latest Venus Engine processor is faster and more capable, delivering superior noise reduction at high ISO settings, adding diffraction compensation for small lens apertures and enabling the FZ300 to provide 4K video recording (see below). It also enables a fast 12 frames/second (fps) shooting rate at full-resolution with the mechanical shutter or 60 fps shooting with the electronic shutter.

3. Five-axis Hybrid O.I.S.+ stabilisation can compensate for horizontal, vertical and rotational movements as well as pitch and yaw. Its full capabilities are only available when recording movie clips at 1080p or lower resolutions. In addition, the built-in Level Shot Function can detect horizontal lines in the scene and maintain it even if the camera is tilted, a handy feature when recording movie clips.

4. Both the monitor and EVF screens have higher resolution. The monitor’s resolution has increased from 460,000 dots in the FZ200 to 1,040,000 dots and it includes touch control. The EVF has been upgraded to an OLED display with 2,360,000 dots (compared with 1,312,000  dots in the FZ200). It also has a proximity sensor that switches between the monitor and EVF when you raise the camera to your eye. The monitor can be used as a touch-pad for setting focus while framing shots with the EVF.

5. The 49-area  AF system is based upon Panasonic’s G-system cameras and features the latest Light Speed AF, which includes the Depth From Defocus technology, which was introduced with the GH4.  The system has a refresh rate of 240 frames per second and includes predictive AF algorithms that make focusing roughly twice as fast as in the FZ200, particularly for tracking AF. Low-light AF performance is also improved and the system can operate as low as -3EV with Starlight AF (which is automatically initiated if the camera detects stars in the night sky).

6. An electronic shutter has been added, augmenting the mechanical system with a top speed of 1/16,000 second. Additionally, the mechanical shutter can operate at 1/4000 second when the lens is stopped down below f/4, something not available with the FZ200.

7. 4K recording functions are the same as in other recent Panasonic digicams, with a top movie resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels at 24 or 30 frames/second.  Like other recent 4K-enabled Panasonic cameras, the FZ300’s 4K photo mode uses the camera’s movie-recording function to capture 8-megapixel still images at 30 frames/second, with recording beginning when you half-press the shutter button. The 4K Pre-burst and 4K Burst modes are outlined in our review of the Panasonic G7. A new 4K Burst(S/S) mode lets you add a marker to a movie clip. Up to 40 markers can be added, enabling you to skip from one to the next in playback mode.

8. The FZ300 also offers the same Full HD and HD movie recording options as the FZ200, including a high-speed video recording is available in HD quality (720p), with a frame rate of 100 frames/second or with VGA quality at 200 frames/second. Clips played back at normal speeds reveal dramatic slow motion sequences. Photos taken with the burst modes are automatically organised and can be played back either in the camera or on a computer using the bundled PHOTOfunSTUDIO software.

9. Built-in Wi-Fi enables the FZ300 to interact with a smart device loaded with the Panasonic Image App and supports remote controls of the camera’s focusing, shutter release and image playback functions as well as sharing of images and movie clips via social media. Geotagging is available using data from the smart device and Android and iOS devices can pair via a QR code on the camera’s display.

10. The dedicated macro mode supports autofocusing down to 1 cm from the subject at the lens’s widest angle of view. In addition, the Macro Zoom setting provides further magnification of up to 3x via the Digital Zoom control, also at 1 cm from the subject at the   widest angle of view.

11. Panorama shooting has been moved from the Scene pre-sets to the mode dial, where it’s been dubbed ‘Creative Panorama’. The function is essentially unchanged and works like the Sony Sweep Panorama function. You simply select the direction of the pan, choose between standard and wide sizes and pan across the   scene to capture wide-field views. The camera stitches the frames together automatically.

12. In-camera raw file processing is also available, although the resulting images can only be saved in JPEG format. However, adjustments can be made to exposure levels, white balance, Photo Style, highlight and shadow rendition and a number of other parameters.

 

Performance
 For its relatively small image sensor, the review camera was generally a good performer. It was as at least as responsive to operate as previous Lumix Super-zoom series cameras. Autofocusing was generally fast and accurate in all AF modes, with the fast lens undoubtedly making a contribution at longer focal length settings. Low light autofocusing was very fast and accurate and noticeably better than most digicams we’ve tested.

 

The addition of 4K movie recording provides higher-resolution movie files with more potential for editing plus the ability to produce 8-megapixel frame grabs. This augments the already excellent movie recording quality we found with the FZ200. Contrast and saturation were slightly boosted in movie mode and the continuous AF setting minimised re-focusing times when zooming or moving between subjects. The quality of the soundtracks was similar to the FZ200 movies.

Our timing tests were conducted with a Panasonic 16GB Extreme Pro SDHC U3 memory card, which was supplied with the camera. The review camera powered-up in just under a second, which is slightly faster than its predecessor. Shut down time was virtually instantaneous.

Capture lag was essentially negligible, even without pre-focusing. Shot-to-shot times averaged 0.55 seconds without flash and 1.9 seconds with. JPEG images took 2.1 seconds to process, while RW2.RAW files took 2.3 seconds and RAW+JPEG pairs 2.4 seconds. Recording high-resolution images with the high-speed burst mode, the camera matched specifications, capturing 50 frames in 10.1 seconds without showing any signs of slowing. Processing appeared to be on-the-fly.

For raw file bursts, the buffer limit appeared to be 30 frames, which were captured in 4.8 seconds. Processing of this burst was completed within a further two seconds. When  RAW+JPEG capture was selected, the buffer filled by 24 frames, which were recorded in 3.7 seconds. Processing was completed within a further 1.5 seconds.

Conclusion
 Three years ago, when the FZ200 was released, it was one of the fastest cameras in the super-zoom category. The FZ300 improves upon that performance and also delivers higher resolution, better stabilisation and 4K movie recording in a more robust, weather-sealed body.

[LibertyBell]

I found these two solar filters from B&H that cut out UV and IR (note they still warn not to use them for visual use-- only photographic!)

They're somewhat more expensive than the filter I'm getting but still reasonable (75-79 dollars in the 58mm size.) I'd personally go for the NiSi, it looks better to me. The Tiffen isn't on Amazon, the NiSi is, but only in 77/82/95mm size.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1776711-REG/tiffen_58nd54_58mm_neutral_density_filter.html/overview

The 58mm Special 50th Aniversary Edition 18-stop Solar ND Filter from Tiffen is a solid ND filter with a 262,144x filter factor that provides an 18-stop exposure reduction. Its 5.4 density darkens the entire image, allowing you to photograph with a wider aperture or slower shutter speed while reducing the risk of overexposure. This means you can capture more detailed solar images than might be possible under normal conditions. This filter limits IR and UV light, ensuring color-neutral images, and reduces glare with its multi-layer coating.

In honor of B&H's 50th anniversary, Tiffen presents this limited edition run, specially designed to celebrate five decades of creative partnership. This exclusive Special 50th Anniversary Edition embodies the commitment to excellence that B&H stands for. Get your hands on a piece of history with this distinctive edition.

This filter is designed specifically for photography applications. This filter is not suitable for direct solar viewing with the naked eye, including with optical viewfinders.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1776573-REG/nisi_nir_nd5_0_58_solar_filter_pro_nano.html/overview?ap=y&ap=y&smp=y&smp=y&lsft=BI%3A6879&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwh4-wBhB3EiwAeJsppMYxxflB3KZqA-5lyK1WULFWuPvDpeJmF5BJzDdF2cTuBP1JOvY8lRoCjyMQAvD_BwE

This 58mm Solar Filter Pro Nano UV/IR Cut ND100000 Filter from NiSi is an essential tool for any photographer looking to capture stunning solar images. This high-quality filter is made from optical glass and is designed to provide a 16.5-stop light reduction, making it possible to capture detailed images of the sun without overexposing them. The filter also cuts UV and IR light, ensuring the most color-neutral result. The Nano coating on the filter also helps to reduce reflections and glare, improving the overall image quality.

The NiSi Solar Filter Pro Nano UV/IR Cut ND100000 is essential for capturing stunning solar images that will stand out from the crowd. With its high-quality construction, advanced features, and ease of use, this filter is a must-have for any photographer looking to take their solar photography to the next level.

This filter is designed specifically for photography applications. This filter is not suitable for direct solar viewing with the naked eye, including with optical viewfinders.

Precautions and Warnings

• This filter is not appropriate for direct solar observation with the naked eye, and should exclusively be used for photographic purposes.
• Check the solar filter for damage before each use by holding it up to a bright light (not the sun). Secure the filter properly by screwing it fully onto the lens.
• The NiSi Solar Filter is not suitable eye protection for extended view of sun or solar eclipses. Do not look directly or indirectly into the sun without appropriate eye protection. The Solar Filter should be installed in front of the camera lens or telescope before trying to align it with the sun. Point the camera away from the sun when attaching and removing the solar filter.
• Do not use an optical viewfinder when aligning your camera or telescope with the sun. It is recommended to use the live view feature of the camera for aligning it with the sun and for viewing.
• Do not leave a camera unattended where a child or inexperienced adult could point it at the sun without the filter adequately attached.
• The filter may absorb solar energy and get hot during use. Use extra care when removing it.

https://www.amazon.com/NiSi-ND100000-Optical-Lightweight-Transport/dp/B0C4BYXBGZ/ref=sr_1_5?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HtkYMfB0ZcCTA2LLKodj91MA_JajzmSQ8NgrwKpcgOKcDyrfAJP92pqPSGqf0b6Ol8GRHDQ7rtW-_qXKb1cDo5Dt4Q4IDhX9Qmu4MjOmE0Wnr12iTJB0zvRDFtkHBeFz3z40Kgu2QX2GnqlrLADhqT0QBo7Qss3IB2jCOsJC1IocL0TWwMstwq0X6GkFtVB6aKvSlJ_pyhGAgChNFWt8wzT35GmsCwuvfLiw71Jz3aw.B8UkcqBatf90_Di4XithmiLi-_DZFjQNE1KdiHt5j6w&dib_tag=se&keywords=nisi%2Bfilters&qid=1711556322&sr=8-5&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/NiSi-ND100000-Optical-Lightweight-Transport/dp/B0C4BYXBGZ/ref=sr_1_5?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HtkYMfB0ZcCTA2LLKodj91MA_JajzmSQ8NgrwKpcgOKcDyrfAJP92pqPSGqf0b6Ol8GRHDQ7rtW-_qXKb1cDo5Dt4Q4IDhX9Qmu4MjOmE0Wnr12iTJB0zvRDFtkHBeFz3z40Kgu2QX2GnqlrLADhqT0QBo7Qss3IB2jCOsJC1IocL0TWwMstwq0X6GkFtVB6aKvSlJ_pyhGAgChNFWt8wzT35GmsCwuvfLiw71Jz3aw.B8UkcqBatf90_Di4XithmiLi-_DZFjQNE1KdiHt5j6w&dib_tag=se&keywords=nisi%2Bfilters&qid=1711556322&sr=8-5&th=1

About this item

• SIZING: Designed with a standard filter thread. Confirm your lens size by locating the "ø" symbol.
• NEUTRAL DENSITY: The 5.0 density reduces the amount of light entering the camera by 16.6 stops.
• COLOR-NEUTRAL: Distortion protection from both ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light spectrum.
• NANO COATING: Reduces unwanted reflections, waterproof, dust-proof, and scratch-resistant.
• HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS: Premium camera lens optical glass housed in a slim, knurled aluminum frame.

https://www.amazon.com/NiSi-ND5-0-Bundle-Low-Profile-Photography/dp/B0CTD75T9L

Brand NiSi Material Optical Glass Photo Filter Thread Size 82 Millimeters Coating Description Nano Coating Photo Filter Effect Type Neutral Density Water Resistance Level Waterproof Product Dimensions 3.23"L x 3.23"W Photo Filter Size 82 Millimeters
About this item

• With a 16.6-stop light reduction, this filter is perfect for capturing stunning details without overexposing your images
• The filter is designed to cut UV and IR light, ensuring the most color-neutral result when shooting in bright conditions
• The Nano coating helps to reduce reflections and glare, improving the overall quality of your images
• Allow the ND100000 filter to attach to lenses with a filter thread of 77mm (using the Step Up Ring) or directly to an 82mm filter thread.
• Ultra-thin aluminum step-up ring allows for use on 77mm lenses and keeps the filter close to your lens to avoid vignetting.