I am a 'collector' of dslr cameras. I have just about every panasonic lumix camera available and quite a few canons, sonys, and nikons. This camera, by far, is my favorite. It is easy to handle, easy to use, totally stupid proof, and the pictures come out great. I have a Nikon d80 and it's a great camera but for me, this is still my favorite. It's just a funner camera and easier to handle. I am in no-way a professional photographer, I just love photography and this camera is a joy.