Samsung Digimax GX-10 Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens Review

Best Value Digital SLR Under $1000

"I first had the chance to checkout the GX-10 at a local store and I was very impressed with the Build Quality of the Body and Feature Set that this product presented (Personally I feel that this body has enough features to keep any Amatuer, enthusiast or Professional happy for a long time to come.)



Let me just say that if you want specs read the product description because I'm basically putting the features that I like and Dislike in the review...



One of my favorite features is of course the ability to use older lenses such as the Rikenon XR or Pentax Super-Takumar or SMC lenses. Not only do I get great glass but I get it at bargain prices and there are quite a few deals out there considering the sharpness of the glass.



Another feature / added Benefit to this camera is the OIS (Shake Reduction System or Optical Image Stabilization) which allows the camera to compensate for movement regardless of the lens I'm using. This is a big benefit to anyone that needs to shoot with slower shutter speeds where they don't want to sacrifice image quality because you'll be able to keep the camera at lower ISO Speeds and it also helps add life to those older lenses that you would otherwise have to purchase newer models to get stabilization.



Still yet another feature I really like is the removable Focusing Screen which works out great if you favor split prism focusing screens like they use to put in the older Manual Focus SLR as these screens allow you to more easily Manual Focus the camera in a fashion very similar to a range finder.



And a very nice feature that allows for quick feedback of the lighting and depth of field is the Digital View of the Depth of Field Information as it will take a quick low res image while displaying a histogram and small copy of the picture you just snapped. Note though that it doesn't store the picture it is just there to help you get the camera setup for what you're trying to achieve.



Of course you can read about all of these features elsewhere but to me these features stand out and really tip the scales in favor of this camera when compared to pretty much any other Digital SLR under $1000.



My biggest Gripes with the camera are as follows.



To get the most out of the camera you're required to shoot RAW, Keep the ISO at 400 or below and use Shake Reduction Whenever Possible (if you're not above 1/500 shutter speeds then you have some movement). Of course I've been a RAW Junkie for years so it isn't that big of a deal to me but it is a real turn off to others.



The viewfinder is very dark and really makes for some tough Manual Focus Sessions with older lenses to which you're almost required to purchase a split image focusing screen (I did) but once this is replaced you won't have an issue with MF again.



Lens production is very slow for the Pentax K Mount with both Pentax and 3rd Party Lens Manufacturers much slower at releasing new lenses than any other mount. This is such an issue that it can often be tough to find many of the newer lenses even those from Pentax themselves. Ultimately, this also drives up premiums on older MF lenses and older Auto-Focus Lenses and that takes away a big plus for this system.



Anyway, even with all of the pros and cons this system has I still thoroughly enjoy shooting with the camera and I feel that I've found a body that will last me a long time with very little temptation to upgrade to whatever Pentax releases next. So let me say that I would highly recommend this body to anyone that wants to learn more about photography or even to those Enthusiast / Pros aspiring to be much better than they presently are.



Believe me when I say that you will not be disappointed with this camera."

Rachel Rocks

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