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17.04.09

World's best gear

The editors of 25 rival photo magazines from 10 European countries met in Budapest last month to argue over who should win the prestigious TIPA Awards. Here are the results.

Best expert compact

Canon PowerShot G10

They say: “With its new 28-140mm zoom (equivalent) and its 14.7MP CCD sensor, the Canon PowerShot G10 offers a solid alternative to bridge and DSLR cameras. The G10 lets the user choose the mode of exposure (PSAM) and saves images in Raw format. It is very well built and its grip ensures good stability.”

We say: “Canon’s PowerShot G10 is certainly no slouch in the features department, offering DSLR-style functionality with manual focus, exposure compensation and auto exposure bracketing. Its bulky design and chunky controls are reassuring on a camera that fits in your pocket. It feels like a picture-taking workhorse and confirms this by delivering results that are reliably consistent.”

Best entry-level lens

Sigma 18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM lens

They say: “The 13.8x zoom Sigma 18-250mm lens integrates the exclusive Hybrid Optical Stabilisation system. Four special low dispersion (SLD) glass elements and three aspheric elements ensure very high quality. A minimum focus distance of 45cm at all focal lengths proves a very appreciated solution.”

We say: “This eagerly awaited superzoom from Sigma will open creative doors for all photographers looking for an all-in-one lens solution. Available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony fittings, with image stabilisation and a Hyper Sonic Motor for speed of focusing, this neat little all-rounder will answer a lot of prayers.”

Best photo bag

Lowepro Classified AW (series)

They say: “The LowePro Classified AW series is a new breed of camera bags created with the unique requirements of the photojournalist in mind, inside and out. Classified AW shoulder bags conceal photographers’ gear with a discreet, slim profile, contoured to be comfortable, move easily with the body and help navigate a busy street or crowded subway knowing the photo equipment is safe.”

We say: “If you don’t want to announce the presence of your camera gear to all and sundry, this discreet series of slimline shoulder bags is perfect. With all-weather cover, padded interior, leather details and neat styling the bag certainly looks the business.”

Best entry-level DSLR

Olympus E-620

They say: “This lightweight FourThirds DSLR camera features enough technologies to satisfy all novice photographers. Beyond the ISO 3200 sensitivity of its Live MOS 12.3MP sensor, we welcome its autofocus system with 7 points, several artistic filters and the swivelling display which allows the use of Live View from all angles.”

We say: “Though it’s packed with features – including state of the art swing and tilt LCD monitor, 16 scene modes, ‘Art’ filters and switchable aspect ratios – the E-620 is still small and lightweight compared to other entry-level cameras."

Best expert DSLR

Canon EOS 5D Mk II

They say: “Replacing the very popular EOS 5D, the Mk II multiplies its pixels to reach a definition of 21.1MP allowing shooting at an expanded sensitivity from ISO 50 up to 25,6000. It comes with a full HD movie mode driven by a DIGIC IV processor. Fast, reliable and discreet, this expert DSLR challenges in quality the best pro models.”

We say: “There’s much to praise about the EOS 5D Mk II. It’s an exceptionally well-designed piece of kit with a perfectly balanced feel and a great set of features. This is a camera for those who are very serious about their photography. The AF is rapid. The metering is virtually unflappable and the noise performance is amazing. The higher speeds show a contrast increase but noise is supremely controlled.”

Best advanced DSLR

Nikon D90

They say: “In its compact body the Nikon D90 offers a true concentration of technology, with a great innovation for a DSLR: the possibility of making HD videos. Its CMOS sensor offers the definition and quality of the successful D300, at a much lower price. A true, sturdy and all-terrain DSLR.”

We say: “Small, robust, well-specified and capable of great results – what more could you ask from a digital SLR? The D90, like its more pricey stable mates, delivers on every level. As a pure picture-taking machine there’s very little to fault.”

Best accessory

Vanguard Alta Pro (series)

They say: “Unlike traditional tripods, Vanguard’s Alta Pro’s innovative multi-angle central column (MACC) allows users to move the central column as needed, from zero to 130° angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions. Its instant swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) system allows photographers to securely reposition the central column in one simple movement in just a few seconds while maintaining the tripod’s stability.”

We say: “The multi-angle centre column provides welcome manoeuvrability for the creative photographer. Lightweight to carry, the Alta Pro 283CT tripod can support up to 17.6lbs, with non-slip spiked rubber feet to assist stability. The Stop-n-Lock system will certainly make it quicker to line up compositions.”

Remaining Categories

Best compact digital camera: Fujifilm Finepix F200EXR

Best rugged digital camera: Olympus Mju Tough 8000

Best digital superzoom camera: Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1

Best professional DSLR: Nikon D3x

Best medium format digital system: Hasselblad H3DII-50

Best prestige camera: Leica M8.2

Best expert lens: Sony 70-400mm f/4.5-5.6 G SSM

Best professional lens: Canon TS-E 17mm f/4L

Best expert photo printer: Canon Pixma Pro9500 Mk II

Best multifunction photo printer: Epson Stylus PX800FW

Best large format printer: Epson Stylus Pro GS6000

Best fine art inkjet paper: Hahnemühle Photo Rag Baryta 315g

Best expert photo projector: EpsonEH-TW5000

Best professional photo projector: JVC DLA-HD750

Best photo software: Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 2

Best design innovation: Panasonic G series

Best imaging innovation: Fujifilm Super CCD EXR

Best film: Kodak Ektar 100

Best digital accessory: Wacom Intuos4

Best photo frame: Kodak OLED Wireless Frame

Best imaging storage media: Panasonic 32GB SDHC

Best storage back up media Data: Robotics Drobo

Best entry level camcorder: Samsung SMX-F34

Best expert HD camcorder: Canon Legria HF S10

Best mobile imaging device: Nokia N86

Best retail finishing system: Noritsu D502

Best photo kiosk: Kis Photobook Maker

Best mobile flash generator: Hensel Porty Lithium

Best studio flash generator: Broncolor Scoro series

Best compact flash system: Profoto D1, series

Best photomonitor: Eizo ColorEdge CG242W

Best photo display: JVC LT-42WX70EU

Best photo service: Fujifilm Photobook Brilliant

WHO IS TIPA? The Technical Image Press Association is an international organisation established in 1991 representing the interests of photographic magazines as a not for profit organisation. Formerly pan-European, it has this year opened its doors to members from the US, Canada and South Africa.

Which Digital Camera - Camera Finder

: DSLR

You want to take the best photos you can and possibly explore photography as a hobby

Enter this section if you are looking for a more advanced camera with the ability to change lenses to suit your needs. You will find entry-level cameras through to high-end models favoured by professional photographers.

What’s your budget?
Do you have a specific brand in mind?
Resolution

: Bridge

You want the convenience of a compact with the versatility of a DSLR

Enter this section if you are looking for the convenience of a compact camera but the photographic power of a DSLR. You will find both point-and-shoot cameras as well models offering more advanced functionality.

What’s your budget?
Do you have a specific brand in mind?
Resolution
Zoom Range

: Compact

You want to take family snaps, events and holidays

Enter this section if you are looking for a small easy-to-use camera. You will find a wide range of models to suit every budget all of which offer a wide range of features for everyday shooting.

What’s your budget?
Do you have a specific brand in mind?
Resolution
Zoom Range
The range of compact cameras available in the sub £250 price bracket frequently changes. Therefore Which Digital Camera has invited manufacturers to maintain their own listings in this section only. This includes their own recommendations.

We regret we are unable to include all manufacturers.

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