I still use my RX100 m3 for all my street and travel photography. I won a street photography contest a few years ago, competing with about 20 others using "that German brand with the red dot" proving, it's the photographer, not the camera.
hi ted! just FYI...If you hold down the power button when closing the viewfinder, it stops the camera from from turning off. Thought you might want to know.
I bought this camera in late 2016, used, for $450. It's so good that my Canon DSLR kit mostly stays home. I shoot RAW and convert with DxO PhotoLab which has great noise reduction ability. I keep it in the center console of my car, protected by a tight-fitting flexible case (Lowepro Camera Pouch Tahoe 10) that also holds a spare battery.
I took this camera on a trip to Manhattan NY the other week... It works great! I hate carrying around massive DSLRs, and being able to fit this bad boy in any jacket/jean pocked was a great improvement over a large camera bag slung around my shoulder. Video/photo quality is great. The only gripes I have is the audio (is a bit tinny sounding), and the lack of a hotshoe. In saying that, you have to sacrifice things for such a tiny camera, and at the end of the day only the image/video quality really matters to me.
sounds like this is the camera to have with you every where you go, sony seems to be innovating and pushing the envelope in so many levels. enjoyed the review. Thanks for sharing
I definitely love mine since 5 month now. One of my MR settings is A, square B&W, jpg+raw. So I have the preview on the camera screen and the raw is full format in color, ready for my lightroom. I love to have the choice when I'm in front of my computer... and often the jpg is good enough. Image quality is perfect for the size and sometimes I use is as a lightmeter for my 500c/m... don't forget to block the ND filter ;-) Thank for all your work here, Ted, I really appreciate the tone you use in your videos and the way you share your love of photography.
My favorite settings b&w jpg+raw. I have had this camera for about 9 years and it still amazes me how practical and great it is. I have many beautiful photos and memories thanks to it because it is so easy to have it with me all the time.
Wow thanks Ted for the shoutout, that's really nice of you and an honor! You will love this camera. The grip is a great thing to get as well. Its sadly 15 bucks but it helps the ergonomics ten fold.
***** Anytime Eric! Credit where due - your video was one that convinced me to take the plunge. And yes - the grip should have just come on the thing. I have no idea why that is an accessory. And $15 at that!
The Art of Photography Glad I could help your purchase, its fantastic. Another thing I read is that, as you know, the screen is always exposed to get some sort of screen/scratch protection for it. Just two things I think can really help it.
Already nicked mine ;-) I got mine from B+H and they threw in that goofy leather "never ready" case. I wish they could use better glass on the LCD. If they can do it on an iPhone, they could upgrade to better glass on an $800 point and shoot. Still love the camera though - it is fantastic.
The Art of Photography ouch, yeah that was something I heard when researching so I made sure I got a little thing to make sure lol. But its just how it goes, the tech is there why is it not being used
I paid the extra hundred sum odd dollars for a three year squaretrade warranty. I carry it around my neck via Artisan strap pretty much everywhere. The body and LCD are completely dinged and scratched up and it's totally worth it to have such easy access to great photos all the time. I got it to supplement my micro 4/3 (EP-5) and i'm using it a lot more than I initially thought I would, though I have no intention of parting with my Olympus and lenses. I strongly recommend the $15 stick on rubber grip from Sony. It dramatically improves the handling and over all shooting experience with the camera.
I have the RX100 11 and it is awesome. Great review. I will use the setting for video you suggested. Yes, many options for set-up. Using the focus ring for aperture was also a great idea. Thank you.
Honestly, I love the grain pattern that the Sony sensors are producing. It's fine and random enough that it reminds me of film. The old Ilford stock comes to mind. I've considered the RX100 III several times as my ultimate point and shoot camera solution, but alas I'm a gear head at times so I'm waiting to see what's going to be announced this year. Thanks for the review!
Well, I'm sure I would :) The intro on your video was really good looking. Did you set it up with some custom settings? Your image did NOT look over processed in any way. Your sharpness was smooth. I didn't notice any overly harsh edges. very filmic IMO.
I lost my camera a month ago but someone had found it where I work and locked it away so I was able to claim it. I was lost without it and it is wonderful to have it back. I took it to Everest Base Camp in October 2014. It worked beautifully, only requiring one charge at Namche Bazaar where I was able to hire a powerpoint for a while, and the cold did not worry it for a second. I know it is hard to take a bad photograph in that area, but the resolution of its photos is just amazing.
Good strategy having the little Canon beater for more risky shots. I use the Sony HX50v in my book bag ready to go and have a Panasonic DMC FH25 and a Möbius Action Cam as a beaters in pocket for quicker spur of the moment shots. Always being ready on so many levels like that has helped me produce a lot of good content. Also when you shoot with them well they can get great results.
I 'm at the point of buying a camera and I have been reading and watching a lot of videos about the RX100 m3, but for someone that is not a professional photographer it gets very annoying because of the details that other youtubers talk about, This guys made me take a decision after finishing the video. Im buying it Thank you Liked and subscribed
There is a way to overcome the turning off issue; it's not a permanent fix, but I've gotten used to it. When you close the viewfinder, press the power button immediate afterwards, that will keep the lens open , and the camera on. However, if you shoot in NTSC standard, you will always have that annoying message popping up saying that you are "running in NTSC". Sony should really do a firmware upgrade to remove that warning screen. I only found this out a few weeks ago, after having had the camera for a year.
Only a few months ago I bought an RX100 Mark I, given the much cheaper price at this stage. I've used it to shoot all my videos and don't have many complaints. The only thing that drives me crazy is that at times I click on record and start shooting, only to realize that it never started recording when I click again to stop it... I don't know, it seems that the button doesn't always work, maybe it's sensitive to the angle at which you click it.
Thanks for uploading this video, Ted. While I am at it, I wanted to compliment you on the informative quality of your other videos, in particular those regarding Saul Leiter and Ernst Haas. I have watched those videos many times, and always draw inspiration from them. Best wishes.
That's a good camera I got mine in Toronto Canada in Henry store where they sale thousands of different kinds of camera so I got the mark 3 costs like $1049.99 with 64GB memory card
I have had one since this past summer, and I love that little camera. I then turned around and bought a Leica M3 because it really reminded me I still need the film option :D I carry both. The Sony for color since all of the local labs are gone, and the Leica for shooting Tri-X.
The Art of Photography I have been using it to record my masters classes and it has been invaluable. Going to class after teaching high school all day is really tough -- especially considering the topic. This little guy allows me to watch my classes when I am rested. What a life saver.
That's a great idea! The fact this does such great video is amazing. When I use my big cameras, there's a lot of fooling around with setup. Its nice to have a small camera that does so well when you need to just set up and go!
This camera line up is so good, the second hand price is crazy..., i mean for an 8 years old camera, it's crazy over here it's still cost around $300 - $400ish
I've been looking at this camera for a little while now. I can't decide between it and the Canon G7X. Some people have mentioned this had difficulty in video mode with focusing. Have you experienced anything like that? I know the G7X does at times as well. I'm not sure if you have used the Canon, but if you have, I'd love to know your thoughts on which has the better video quality. Reviews seem to be quite close.
CookingwithKarma The Sony is much better all around in my opinion. I've had no trouble with autofocus. Are you going to be using it for your YT channel? I just use facial recognition and go from there - I've used the RX on a lot of my stuff recently (including the intro to this video)… hope that helps.
Thanks for replying. I will be using it for my upcoming trip to America for Vidcon. I wanted it for vlogs but also to film collabs while I'm there. I didn't want to have to take my bulky dslr :)
***** yeah I did see that. It was going to be out of my price range though. I managed to knab myself a good 2nd one for a good price. Love the camera but the zoom is terrible!! Lol
I have a Galaxy Note 4, and while I love the camera on it and the fact that it fulfills most of my needs, I've recently wanted to get something high-end that I could have fun with, and that I'll enjoy using for years to come. I'm thinking about getting this with an accessory package on Amazon, and hopefully the time will come when I finally come to a decision. I figure down the road I'd probably like something with much greater zoom, but since I've always enjoyed taking regular pictures, and close-ups for really high detailed pictures, I think this (or a later model down the road) will suit me just fine. Since I'm not too familiar with the ins and outs of photography, hopefully I can learn by the time I come to a decision. Thanks for the review!
Hey Ted, I love how you give nice camera reviews without pixel peeping or talking hours and hours about its mtf chart. Did you ever consider fixed lens point and shots like the x100s? Thanks!
Markus Kretzschmar no - for this camera size was a big deal - I wanted something really small. This was the biggest I was willing to go. Do you mean the RX1? It looks fabulous, but its much more pricey.
I know I'm not Ted but I actually sold my Fuji x100 because I didnt like its fixed lens. That Fuji, I thought, was a dream camera. But when I had it and shot on the street, it wasnt the best to capture things because of that restriction. Owning this mark 3, best choice ive bad for discreet street shots.
I saw a really good doco vid on the PCT I think it was , shot with the RX100, so it can be used on hike... probably not a bad idea to have a waterproof pouch for time lapses etc.
Just a bit too late, Ted, but it's funny, I just bought a Panasonic LX100 to add to the Fuji Xpro1. I've thought about the Sony, but the Panasonic is just... more beautiful...pointing to the past... I know, no argument... just finished the first recording with both camera's, and as much as I love the Fuji for its look on stills, the Panasonic is so much better for video, I can't believe it... A new piece BTW, written in late 18th century style in 2010 by a young Greek composer! For the 10th of April. But what am I saying here...? Great video Ted, as always. Beer is in the refrigerator waiting for your stay in Belgium (and of that we have the best here in Belgium) :-)
Good video! I'd really like have the chance to try this Sony. From 2012 to 2014 I used the Nex 3 but with and old manual Canon lenses (35+50mm). The quality was superb.
I came so close to buying this.... then panasonic released the GM5. Pretty much the same size with the kit lens, bigger sensor, touch screen (though not flip) smaller viewfinder but at least it has one and of course heaps of lens options. Good review though.
reg171reg thanks! Remember once you start putting lenses on its no longer a pocket camera. Gets big quick. The fixed-lens on here keeps it compact. Don't know if that's a deal breaker for you or not, but worth noting. I have an older NEX-6 (now the a6000) that's awesome with old lenses, but I needed the portability with this camera. The lens on here is fantastic.
A 20mm 1.7 pancake lives on my GM5. It's my fun camera. I've also got an nex6 which is still a very good camera but I don't tend to use it now I've got the A7. Like you I wanted something compact yet capable. The RX100 is fantastic but the GM5 gave me more flexibility for not much more $$$ in a package that is almost the same size.
Great video buddy thanks. I was just about to pull the trigger on an RX10 but having seen this, im not sure theres that much to gain apart from the extra zoom lense on the 10, apart from that it appears the iii is the same package but more portable.
Thanks for this overview. I think I'm gonna sell my Sony A7 and get this one instead, need a compact camera for travel and this one looks like it'll fit my needs.
Ted, does the pop-up flash angle like the NEX-series flashes? Might be worth mentioning since it's very easy to bounce flash like that. I got distracted for a minute or two, so I'm not entirely sure if you mentioned the fact there's no filter threads, so picking up a $40 Magfilter is a great investment for this guy.
You forgot to mention that, on top of being a very expensive camera (for a compact cam), if you want to install apps on it, they are also expensive. Some silly filters and features that should be built-in, they ask you to pay 9$ !! Totally crazy.
Has there been an update that stops the camera switching off after the view finder is pushed down? Seems like something that would become annoying after a awhile.
Hi Ted, thanks for the review. I have the opportunity to buy one at 160$ is that a fair price for this camera in 2020? I will use it on my Thailand trip and sell it again.
In India this model is cheaper now around ₹30k to ₹40k. So how good is it in 2021? Can you make another video? Compare it with smartphones plz. RX100 V is above ₹50k so out of budget.
Ted, I know this doesn't really fit in with the theme of the video, but how do/did you store/look after/present all your prints? And do you look through old pictures and reminisce? Keep up the awesome work and have a great remainder to your day. -Rob
The apreture on mine broke. It won't go to f:1.8 and you have to close then open the apreture when powering on. Sony would replace the whole lense assembly for 600€ since it's way pass the warranty.
I really enjoyed watching this video -- you went thru all the features in a camera that I was looking to learn about. I'm trying to get into photography/video and on a whim bought a used Canon G7x I. The autofocus makes an annoying sound while filming, so I'm not sure if I should stick with it or bite the bullet and buy a Sony RX100 III. Because I don't have a lot of experience using cameras (besides my iphone), I'm nervous about navigating thru the Sony. Do you have any advice on what might be best thing to do? Should I stick it out with the G7x until I learn my way around?
the art of photography...I'm a little confused a lot of ppl say the best cameras for making tube videos have the ability to use a external mic. How did you do,this with this camera, if I not seat an input for it. thanks
Old video but still, remembering when it first came out :) I bought the Mark III after seeing this video when you released it and I'm very happy with the camera. However I haven't done a lot of videos with it. Do you have a rought estimate how many minutes you can get out of it on the "best settings"?
Thanks for the review. I have been considering this RX model or the canon g9x. I am leaning towards the sony given what seems to be better image quality. Do you have an opinion between the two? The canon seems to be better with regards to size.
Jenny from the YT channel "Jenny Daily" uses the RX100m3 for her vlogging, and it's very, very nice. Personally, I am a camera nut (you know how people are gun-nuts, or whatever), and I already have the HX400v. So there's VERY little chance I'll get it but still. 0_0 Great camera.
Cool camera, but I'll stick with my Canon SX260 HS just because I'm a Canon guy and it gives me more reach. Still nice to see reviews of consumer cameras. Keep up the good work!
joe z A little too late, but I own rx100 1 and sx260, and now own the sx700 and the rx100 3, the canons have more reach and good image quality in general, but the image quality of the rxs are far better, at times when with the canons I need to use iso 1600 in determinante situations, with the rxs only need 200 or 400. Both are my fav cameras, canon for good quality relation between telezoom+image, and the rx for the image quality in general. If you have the chance to buy a rx, do It, in general its a much better camera than sx260/700, and both of them are very good.
Really, can you axplain why? I am having a big trouble deciding. The M4 is much more expensive in my country this is why I am considering M3, but the picture quality is priority. Thank you for your time and answer.
I recently bought this camera and have a question I can't seem to get answered....can I do continuous nighttime shots at, let's say, 25 second shutter speed?
I'm interested in this camera for Everest base camp trek, but I'm too shit scared to think about getting dust on it or moisture, would it hold up to cold either?
The Art of Photography That is a well-rounded review and I didn't know about that 'memory recall settings' mode that you referred to... thanks, Ted. :) I've pimped out my RX100M3 with two excellent accessories. One is a Gordy's leather camera strap: www.gordyscamerastraps.com/wrist-string/index.htm Second is the brilliantly designed Sony case for the camera: www.amazon.com/Sony-LCJRXF-Premium-Jacket-Black/dp/B00KOUIC0Q I hope that these suggestions may be helpful in providing practical resources/tool that make an excellent camera a bit better.
I’m not a professional...I’ve heard this is not good on zoom, maybe compared to the Alphas. But compared to iPhone 6 does it zoom or take night photos noticeably better?
Would the Sony rx100 be good for me? Im 16 years old, and i like taking pictures when i travel! Im not that good but i enjoy it. Would you recommend Sony rx100 m2 or m3?
Nice -- really enjoyed this and it may well be the tipping point to me getting this. However, I'm really trying to find someone, somewhere, who has posted some video shot with this at the lowest saturation, contrast and sharpness settings so I can see how well I can color grade the footage to match my DSLR stuff (so it would be a viable secondary camera). If you've done this or know someone who has I'd love to have a link. Also -- I hear your concerns about carrying a $$$ camera around, which is why if I get this I'll also get the BestBuy's protection plan (which covers against accidental drops, sand, and water damage -- I specifically asked about this). Well worth the $150 or so for three years peace of mind and the ability to carry it to the beach :>)
If you were looking at this and the Sony 5100, which one would you go with? Which one has better photo and video quality? I recently got the A5100 and I like this form factor more
Ted Forbes I bought this camera 2 months ago and I constantly have it with me. It's quality is simply impressive (e.g. www.flickr.com/photos/jorgeschramm/16486151698/)
