Two interesting cameras were released this week by Canon and Fuji.

First up is the Canon Powershot GX 1. It is basically a slightly larger G12 (body size wise) but with a sensor that is basically a bit bigger than micro four thirds.

Here is a link to a preview: Canon G1 X preview

So it promises all the form and control features (minus the dedicated ISO ring) of the Canon G12 with a much larger sensor. That should help a bit with depth of field control and noise. My main complaint is that the lens is f/2.8 to f/5.6. An f/5.6 telephoto isn't going to give outstanding depth of field control. Better than the G12, but it won't differ from some of the smaller P&S from Olympus and Panasonic or Fuji with f/2.8 lens at the long end.

Second up is the marvelous Fuji X-Pro1. Preview here. I don't see this as particularly appealing for stock, but it is a very interesting camera. It is being released with ONLY fast prime lenses! The sensor is larger, but not full frame - and Fuji claims it will rival full frame for resolution (but not color depth or noise?). This is a pricy camera, and given the lack of flash options and video I can't see getting it over a Canon 5D MkII or Nikon D700 for a similar price. The Canikon options are cheaper once you consider getting all three primes for the Fuji to add macro capability. Still - I really like to see manufacturers pushing the envelope on what a camera can be. Classic rangefinder in form with modern bells and whistles. And a nice OVF/EVF to boot (likely driving or following the choice of primes).

Finally, I'm very excited to see Panasonic thinking about fast zooms for micro four thirds. It is about time, and will really flush out the lens lineup to the point that this is a very good option for stock. Link here

[note that the images used to illustrate this article are not the real cameras mentioned!]