Canon EOS 500D

• Launched: March 2009
• Type: Digital SLR
• Sensor size: APS-C, 22.3 x 14.9mm
• Resolution: 15.1 megapixels
• Lenses: Canon EF-S, EF
• Key features: Full HD movie mode (20fps only)
• Links: Press release | Product page

Summary: Short-lived mid-range camera rapidly superseded by the EOS 550D. Not bad, but the EOS 550D is much better, though the increases in resolution of newer Canon SLRs don't seem to make the pictures any sharper.

Panasonic Lumix GH1

• Launched: March 2009
• Type: SLR style hybrid
• Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds, 17.3 x 13mm
• Resolution: 12.1 megapixels
• Lenses: Micro Four Thirds
• Key features: Full HD movie mode, articulating LCD, 10x zoom kit lens
• Links: Press release | Product page

Summary: SLR-style hybrid camera designed specifically for shooting full HD movies. It comes with an excellent 10x zoom kit lens. Now superseded by the GH2.