Best Backup Point and Shoot
Normally these days I use a 50D and 400mm f/5.6L lens for the birds, but sometimes I find I'm missing shots because I've got the wrong lens attached at the right time. E.g. I've got the macro lens on the camera when the hawk flies by or vice versa. And sometimes I'm just casually out walking and want to have something with me, but not obviously be in full photographer drag.
I know some folks carry double DSLRs, but that's a bit much for me. I was wondering what the best nature photographer point and shoot is these days. I'm looking for something that will go from macro to landscape to telephoto to portrait and due a decent job in all ranges. I'm not looking to replace my DSLR, just to supplement it with a backup zoom.
How good are the point-and-shoots these days? I know there are a couple of 26x zooms that extend into the 600mm+ range (35 mm equivalent). Are they any good? I'm mostly concerned about autofocus response time and sharpness.