I own an SLR (Canon 650D) with which I love taking photos but quite bulky with 3 goals and lots of accessories. Was looking for a compact camera that follows me everywhere, which takes in the pocket, with a high magnification zoom to take pictures "quickly" without much thought but I could disengage the automation if the need (or desire) arose. With the Sony HX50V, I'm thrilled! In automatic or manual modes, the pictures are good, quality pictures Sony is waiting for you. In photo as video, we go out beautiful images. Another plus: the control via smartphone that allows shooting in confidence. The very small regret: no raw format. But this is not essential. I highly recommend this camera for beginners who will appreciate the automatic modes and powerful zoom. The more experienced will be happy to use in circumstances that do not always have time to "work" the photo or dragging a bulky backpack.