Samsung Maxima Zoom 145 UPDATED 11-22-11

[br1078lum]

On my last jaunt from New Castle, I took two cameras with me to check out.  The first, a Ricoh Shotmaster 130 Super QD, you already may have read about.  The second one was a Samsung Maxima Zoom 145, with a Schneider-Kreuznach 38-145mm Super Macro lens.  It performed splendidly, but I didn't test all the features as I don't have a manual yet for it.  That, and chasing the late afternoon sun in October didn't leave a lot of time for more than quick shots in any location.  But that is where the versitility of the Samsung came in handy.  The only fault was a common one for P&S type cameras, and that is a tendency for flaring when pointed towards the sun. But there may be a time when I want that in an image, so at least I know what it looks like, and can plan accordingly.

The complete review is on Flickr at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7699588@N07/sets/72157628045982803/

And below are a few selections from the test.


Lowering Sun by br1078phot, on Flickr
Along Craig Creek, just before the shadows took over.


Painted On The Water by br1078phot, on Flickr
One of those times when things just work out right.


Craig Creek Rapids by br1078phot, on Flickr


Suspension Bridge Oblique by br1078phot, on Flickr
How to get across when the Jeep won’t make it through the ford.


Pasture With A View by br1078phot, on Flickr
I wouldn’t call them lucky, but these cattle have a nice place to feed until its market time.


Rat Hole Mountain Outcropping by br1078phot, on Flickr
Tectonic force is an amazing thing.

The Samsung Maxima Zoom 145 is now one of my four favorite P&S cameras.

PF

11-22-11 Updated the Flickr page with photos of the camera.

[Olypen]

Phil:

That is a very scenic area and the camera you're testing really does it justice-- great colors and sharpness.  Is there an exposure compensation function on it?  it doesn't seem to let the sky dominate the exposure the way some P&S cameras do.  I can see why it's one of your favorites.

[br1078lum]

Bill, this model has no exposure compensation that I am aware of.  It just seems to work really well with 400 speed film.

PF

[jamesmck]

That sure is a feature-rich P&S.  Love the reflections in number two.

James

[lesged]

Phil,

Once again you have presented another excellent comparative study of two similar P&S cameras that enlightens and entertains.

In the last decade, it's been rare to find any decent P&S cameras in thrift shops or yard sales locally. In the past, all sorts of goodies were available and inexpensive including many classic cameras.

Thanks for this producing this ongoing series. 

[br1078lum]

Thanks, James and Les.  I've still got a few models in the box to explore, so this will be a continuing series for a while.

PF