Compact Camera Reviews

Entry-level and mid-range compact cameras have fallen by the wayside as most of us own a high-end smartphone that’s sufficient for capturing impromptu images. But for “serious” photography on the go there are still several compelling reasons to carry a premium point-and shoot camera with easily accessible creative controls.

Street photography is like chili recipes: every practitioner has their own flavor and style. One thing that all variations have in common, though, is the need for the right equipment to make it happen. Here are the five best cameras that can be used for nearly every street photography situation. And as an added bonus, an example of work from a young street shooter, Yuqi Wang, who has followed her own road.

Leica just announced the full frame Leica Q2 Monochrom, a black-and-white-only version of the popular Leica Q2. Shutterbug was able to borrow an early sample before the announcement and we put her through the paces. Sporting the same sharp Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH non-interchangeable lens and a modified version of the 47.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, the new Leica Q2 Monochrom wears covert dress without the famous red Leica circle logo and has a new maximum ISO 100,000.

It's that time again when Shutterbug's editors and writers pick the best cameras and lenses of the year.

Aimed at sophisticated shooters who don't mind spending a bit more on a small camera (instead of using their smart phone), the five best premium compact cameras in this buying guide have large sensors and robust feature sets that deliver outstanding performance and superior image control.

Nikon recently announced the Coolpix B600, a superzoom with a 24-1440mm equivalent range, highly effective image stabilization, 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and a lens that’s sharper than kittens’ teeth. Priced at just $299, this easy-to-use point-and-shoot spent nearly two months in our hands, and here is what we learned.

Even if you don’t snorkel, ski or engage in any outdoor activities that can be unfriendly toward cameras, you need a ruggedized, waterproof, compact zoom that can stay in your pocket through cloudbursts, snowball fights and a capsized canoe without fret or falter. They are the SUVs of the camera world, and they’re great for younger kids, too. (And if you’re looking for a Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or Graduation gift, these cameras…