Because small sensors have limited sensitivity, image stabilization
(allowing you to hand-hold the camera more steadily at longer
exposure times) net a great improvement in camera usability.
Both the Ricoh GRD and the Panasonic LX1 are basically ISO 64
cameras. At their shortest focal length settings, the two lenses are
both f/2.8 maximum aperture. The Panasonic's image stabilization will
allow extending the shutter speed range that I can get a sharp image
of a static subject by about 2EV with a lower ISO setting, hand held,
so it is more usable in low-light circumstances.
Godfrey
On Nov 19, 2005, at 8:04 AM, Shel Belinkoff wrote:
What has sensor size to do with IS being an advantage?
This is a camera with a standard1/1.8" sensor
...
After due thought and consideration, I decided to try
out the LX1 ... the image stabilization is, I feel, a
larger plus for a camera with this size sensor over
any advantages the prime lens of the Ricoh might offer.