As was pointed out earlier in this thread we seem to have broken into two groups.
Group 1 is engaged in discussion about what constitutes a point and shoot camera, and I wish them luck with that, but it doesn't interest me.
Group 2 is engaged in framing a set of rules for what is currently called the "Point and Shoot Contest". I am with this second group and my comments apply solely to that contest and its future rules.
In suggesting rules for this competition I would suggest :-
We change the name to the "Compact Camera Contest" so as to avoid getting caught up in the whole Point and Shoot versus Point and focus and shoot etc argument.
The objective is to have a fun contest for photographers using cameras where depth of field is not optically viewable while taking the shot.
The contest will be judged on the subject and composition rather than image quality.
The Rules
1. Have Fun!
2.
Allowed Cameras- Digital Interchangeable lens cameras with sensors up to 1" (Includes Pentax Q and Nikon 1)
- Digital fixed lens cameras with sensors up to APS-C (Includes Fuji X100)
- Film Interchangeable lens cameras producing a negative up to 24 x18
- Film fixed lens cameras up to medium format
Cameras
ineligible for the contests are:-
- Large format film cameras
- DSLRs or MILCs with Micro 4/3 or larger digital sensors
- SLRs taking 35mm or larger format film
3. Entries will close on ___________
4. Maximum image dimensions are 1024x768 pixels.
5. List camera brand, model with entry for all to see.
6. THEME: ________________
7. Max of 3 photographs per person.
8. Post processing is fine.
9. Contest winner agrees to use these rules, selects theme, sets closing date and judges next competition
My own feeling is that this "discussion" has now gone on long enough with respect to the Compact Camera Competition.
I believe most of the participants will be quite happy with these rules, including those who sometimes use film cameras but have been regular participants for a long time.
The only issue which may be contentious is the limiting sensor size for ILCs - should it be 1" or 4/3? There seemed to be a majority for 1" but I am not phased if this is upped to 4/3.
Overall I think these rules are fair for everyone who has previously entered these contests. They provide a reasonably level playing field.
I would now suggest that we either introduce them in January for the next Compact Camera Contest (formerly known as the Point and Shoot Contest) OR
We form a brand new contest called the Compact Camera Contest with these new rules while those who disagree with them and want to continue arguing, herding cats or run their own contest for pocket cameras or whatever they like, can do so on their own...
How does everyone feel about that?