ERIC KIM

Are Point-and-Shoot Cameras the Best Cameras?

A thought while watching John Wick 2:

John Wick seems to ultimately prefer his pistols (small, most versatile gun). Perhaps we as photographers should also prioritize our smallest and most effective cameras– aka point-and-shoot cameras?

Upsides of point and shoot cameras:

Point and shoot cameras (like RICOH GR II):

  1. Always with you
  2. Fits in your front pocket
  3. Nowadays they pack a ton of power (so many APS-C DSLR-sized sensors in compact point and shoot cameras). RICOH GR III seems to have the best image quality (ever) in a point-and-shoot camera.
  4. Superior ergonomics: Fits well in your hand, lightweight, and versatile.
  5. Has integrated flash (Fujifilm XF10 and RICOH GR II)
  6. LCD screen allows for creative perspectives and angles in photography (shooting from a super high-angle, pointing down) or putting the camera on the ground from a super low-angle.
  7. Democratic: The best tools are democratic; cheap, affordable, and everyone has access to them.

Obviously if you want the most supreme image quality, you should get a digital medium format camera. But in terms of what I consider the best camera:

  1. Fits in your front pocket
  2. Great image quality
  3. Allows you to shoot everyday, and all-day

Standalone digital point and shoot cameras are supreme.

ERIC

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RICOH GR II PHOTOS:

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Equipment

There is no “perfect” camera. Don’t fall into GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) and falsely believe that buying a new camera will make you a better photographer. If you’re not feeling inspired in your photography, I recommend you to buy books, not gear. Also check out these 75+ Inspirational Photo Books You Gotta Buy. You can also download my free books.

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