Just ordered RX100 II

[Insomniator]

Hey everyone, I know next to nothing about photography (use my cell phone mainly) and last night purchased a Sony RX100 II for ~$350.

My current camera is a Panasonic TS25 that I bought for underwater photos on vacation... and its OK... but the pics barely look better than my cell phone. So this time I decided enough with cheap cameras and got this Sony after seeing tons of good reviews.

I wonder though, should I have gone for something simpler like the Canon S120 which lets you focus by touching the screen and has a wider field of view (24 vs 28)? I really want good low light performance and to just be able to take really sharp looking photos. I know the larger sensor on the Sony with help with that but I wonder if the Canon is better for a novice. I do plan on learning some basics, as I know performance can be greatly improved by not using the 'Auto' setting all the time.

So for the same price, new Canon S120 or refurb Sony RX100 II?

 

[CuriousMike]

Be happy with the RX100 II - it was a good choice.

Be sure to turn on auto-ISO so it behaves more like your phone in low light - but your photos should look appreciably better in low light.

 

[blastingcap]

So for the same price, new Canon S120 or refurb Sony RX100 II?

Please tell me you're joking. RX100II all day everyday. Hell, even if it cost more I'd still take the RX100II.

 

[zCypher]

I see the Sony RX100 II going for $649 here, so it sounds like you got a sweet friggin deal. I'm pretty sure you'll be happy with it. It will be fine whether you're a novice or not. You should learn the basics regardless of which camera you're shooting with.

The wider angle depends on what you like to shoot. 24-28 isn't a huge difference. Personally, I like wide angle, but mostly cause I enjoy shooting landscapes. There are lots of situations where you actually prefer not to have that wide angle. All depends on you.

I will surely pick up an RX100 at some point, it's a great little camera.