Developed some DSLR pics. Can this quality be achieved with a bridge?

[chunx]

I just received my annual Christmas gift calendars in the mail (I am required to make these for my sibs/mama every year!). I was SO impressed with the quality of the photos in the calendar that were taken with the DSLR vs my old P&S ( Kodak Z740 Zoom 5mp).

Now, my P&S was from 2005 & was not even close to most P&S's on todays market, this is obvious- but can the quality of a photo like this by achieved with a good bridge, such as the Panasonic DMC-FZ150K? or Canon SX40? Canon G12?

I'm asking because I was seriously looking into one of the mentioned cameras, but would like to achieve a quality like the one achieved by the entry level DSLR (Nikon D3100). I am new to anything other than my old Kodak P&S, so I'm pretty sure the quality of the photo I took wasn't great, but my jaw dropped when I could see the wrinkles in my husband's face (I liked it ).

When I try to put it on this post I get a red exclamation error icon, so here's the flickr album, if you are able to take the time to look at them. The particular photo I'm talking about is the 5th photo entitled "loving her papa" (all 5 photos are within the first few days of owning the cam).

Flickr: hugocuenca's Photostream

I don't know how to make it a link yet.... THANK YOU, in advance for your time in reading this!

 

[chunx]

oh wait, it posted as a link...i get it I think ...

 

[Big Mike]

The big difference between a DSLR and 99% of other digital cameras (compact, bridge etc.) is the size of the sensor. All those other cameras have a tiny little sensor, which will hold it back from top end image quality, especially when it comes to higher ISO levels.

 

[chunx]

So...is that a no?

 

[usayit]

You question is too broad to provide a concrete answer. I'm inclined to say no (I do a fair amount with a P&S as well).

In general, the DSLR's quality will be far better than even high end point and shoot cameras. The next question, how many photo opportunities are you going to miss because you don't want to lug around a larger/heavier DSLR?

See? its all relative and subjective.

Of the P&S cameras you listed... the most capable in terms of my definition of IQ is probably the G12. If someone defines "image quality" as its ability to have extended focal lengths, then the G12 would be a great disadvantage to the Panasonic. Again.. its subjective.


May I also make another suggestion...

Mirrorless is a compromise between the two. Much larger sensor and better features than a P&S but still quite compact. IQ (by my definition) is still lagging behind a DSLR but good enough for how I use it.

Mirrorless Roundup 2011: Digital Photography Review

 

[chunx]

Thank you so much for your response & recommendation.

I did find that I was missing many shots that I otherwise would have taken because I didn't want to lug around the DSLR lenses.

I will look into your link right now, thanks, again!

 

[usayit]

PS.

Not too many here shoot with mirrorless cameras. If you google search, you'll find active forums dedicated to the mirrorless system that peaks your interest.