Rangefinder vs P&S?

[ice15]

Hi there.

to some this maybe a very stupid question but I really need some enlightenment on this one.

I have checked a rangefinder's definition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangefinder_camera) and I still don't understand the difference between one and a high end P&S camera like the LX3 (Lumix) or G10 (Canon)

Can we consider these two examples (G10 and LX3) as digital rangefinders?

Thanks in advance.

[Neo]

Rangefinder cameras uses a triangulation method to achieve focus from two separate "finders" or "windows". Cameras like the Canon G10 or Panasonic LX-3 uses phase-detection or contrast-detection on the AF module, and are technically not considered rangefinders.

It's a technical difference really... If you're looking for electronic rangefinders, look for the Contax G1 or G2. No relationship to the Canon G10 of course...

[LowLights]

Originally Posted by ice15 Hi there. to some this maybe a very stupid question but I really need some enlightenment on this one. I have checked a rangefinder's definition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rangefinder_camera) and I still don't understand the difference between one and a high end P&S camera like the LX3 (Lumix) or G10 (Canon) Can we consider these two examples (G10 and LX3) as digital rangefinders? Thanks in advance.

Rangefinder is a method of "focusing" if I may put it plainly...For RF shooter, to get the image in focus, we need to make sure that the "double" image becomes one.

Back in the days when there was no DSLR... SLR camera uses a different method of focusing, focused object is done by making sure the the image through the view finder is clear..

The way that this 2 focuses different is purely a design decision. But as we can see that the SLR method has evolve and taken the World by Storm.

You will not be wrong if you say that RF shooters are Old school. But if you give RF a try (assuming that you have not), you will be very surprise that you can actually shoot fast and accurate.

There are many type of photography that RF can handle.. except for Birding (which is the first thing that comes to mind).

Unfortunately, the 2 example of the G10 and LX3 that you state can not be claim as a RF in a pure sense. At least not a technical one.

But one might argue that it is discreet enough to be use for Street Photographic.. then one can not be faulted to feel that the G10 and LX3 is not a RF.. this is really up to how you want to interpret it, and what one use it for.

Let me put it this way.. I got a friend who treat his Nikon D700 with a AF 35mm as his RF.. how's that

Neo hit the nail on the head.. in the technical sense

[cy_j]

seriously, and I mean SERIOUSLY, if you're splitting this much hair, you're not shooting enough.... (and this is no glib answer)....

[merelyok]

Rangefinder = Manual, coincidental focusing.

P&S = P&S!