makes sense, without interesting textures might as well just apply standard materials/shaders to objects and be done with it, which would result in a very "Toy Story" look (plastic).

But there will be weathering of plane exteriors, so will you be able to repaint your plane or get new markings? Perhaps take it into the hangar and get some repairs? This would be similar to what most driving sims have.

Thanks a lot for your advice! The shop I went to this afternoon only had the TZ7 in red so no deal today. My old party/kid/hiking camera that I am about to replace is actually a Sony DSC-P200 - and I have been very content with that camera. A new Sony could sure be an alternative. The WX1 seems like the modern version of my old cam, and very comparable to the TZ-7 with long zoom and good video capabilities. What makes me want to replace the DSC-P200 is mainly the weak video compared to new compact cameras (though it was good in 2005), the still images as still OK. It has rather OK manual options, but I realize that with my pocket cam - it often goes on auto... To lazy I guess. Even though raw mode and more manual stuff would be nice, I have my D-80 for that - which even my wife has started to like! She finally understood this year that a DSLR is perfect for shooting kids with fast AF, autofocus and great portraits with millimeter thick focus...

Reading up on forums, the WX1 gets some bashing for flash shadows from the lens at max wideangle (24mm), that's a minus as many images indoors tend to go on maximum angle... Then it has a weight of only 129 instead of a hulking 229 for the TZ7... Add that you have great high ISO performance in the WX1 (which is not to be understated - my D80 does a great job compared to my old Canon 300d, but the D80 is getting old too...). And then the Casio Exlim Ex-H10 has got great reviews in the same category.

It's never easy to buy new hardware with all the information we have today ;)

/Mazex

I can understand that but it's a matter of degree: to put some dirtying, imperfections and oil spots is one thing, to get a corrugated sheet covering entirely rusted 2 months after installation is another...

JV

+1. I could kill for a beautiful shot of the hurricane........(now where's the drool emoticon?) :grin:

I never reply to wish posts - until now. The Hurricane! Some preview shots would be wonderful. Sydney Camm's finest. The plane that for me perfectly catches the evolution from biplanes to monoplanes.

RedToo.

I admit I'm on the fence with the whole weathering thing, the hangar doesn't bother me really. I understand this is likely not going to be but it would be damn cool if the cockpits slowly showed wear and tear over time, every scratch would be a badge of honor and I would imagine endear you to the plane.

just thought I'd indulge myself for a moment

Good camera. I was using this one almost 3 years.
If to shot in RAW - is possible to get simply outstanding quality of images on relatively low ISO.

Ok, Today will be Hurricane, however a bit unfinished.

I don't know any compact camera that would wortk with internal flash gently.

My wife simply don't take in hands compacts and using DSLR only. Even when it is 2,5 Kg of weight (with heavy battery vertical grip) she takes it in a trip for everyday shooting.

Brilliant! Thanks Oleg.

RedToo.