They're broadly similar. If image stablisation is an issue for you the get the Panasonic..
I prefer the ergonomics of the Fuji 9100 and the 28mm wide angle over the longer reach on the Panasonic. (Deal breaker for me)Whatever you get be sure you're going to be OK with noise at higher iSOs (400+).
John.Please visit me at:http://www.pbase.com/johnfr/backtothebridgehttp://www.pbase.com/johnfr..
You can compare ISO tests on dpreview and steves-digicams and dcresource websites. Camerlabs is another possible site to look at..
You should be aware that the S9100 ( also called the S9600 ) is an improved version ( slightly ) of the S9000 ( also called the S9500 ). Image quality of the S9100 and S9000 are identical..
Have a look at the S6500/6000 as well..
Of the two cameras I'd say the S9100 ( etc ) has lower noise levels than the FZ50, but you can judge these yourself in the ISO tests. This of course is not the only reason to choose one over the other camera. As has been said your personal comfort with the camera is arguably just as important. Bare in mind, however, that while you can become comfortable with a camera, image quality is limited by the combination of sensor and lens and a few other things. The Panasonic's lens is better, but it's sensor is worse - catch 22 in camera terms..
StephenG.
Fuji S9600Fuji S5200Fuji F30Fuji E900Canon A710ISPCLinuxOS..
I was in the same position 3 months ago and really could not decide. I went for the FZ50. I am new to photography and take mainly landscape and family photos. So far I have been really impressed with the camera. I really like the feel of the FZ50 it feels very sturdy......however I am biased because I bought one!.
Overall I am very happy with it for my needs..
Good luck.
Andrew..
As mentioned above, the main difference seems to be the zoom. If you care more about wide then go with the fuji. If the long end is more important then go for the pany. Fuji supposedly has an advantage at high ISO's but it's a minor difference in my oppinion. These are both very good cameras. You can't go wrong with either.
Mike.
Http://www.liquidartgallery.com.
'For every complex problem there is a solution that is obvious, simple..and wrong'..
I was at the same point you were looking at both the s9100 and FZ50 but ultimately went for the s9100 because of the better ISO performance, wide angle, and it's feel. Another point that sealed the deal was the fact that when shooting in RAW you get in theory 18 megapixel images if you use the Fuji software to extract the RAW files and finally the Fuji uses honeycombed sensors on the CCD which provide higher dynamic range than other bridge cameras which means it's great for creating HDR images.Fuji Film S9100..