123compact!
Regular
Step 1. Work all the way up to biggest, most expensive DSLR with highest possible IQ.
Step 2. Realise that high performance digital cameras need heavy, expensive and bulky high quality glass.
Step 3. Gradually stop using above, due to impracticality of lugging around for shooting when needed.
Step 4. Go back to basics, with smallest high quality P&S available. Realise that photography is fun.
Step 5. Gradually work through a variety of cameras and systems until the best compromise of size/weight to quality and flexibility reached.
Step 6. Enjoy your m4/3rds system (in good light)
Step 7. Enjoy your X100 (in any light, at 35mm)
Step 8. Keep an eye out for something which provides a much better compromise, but don't hold your breath - and don't believe the hype.
Cheers
Brian
Well, I already use a big DSLR for my editorial and concert work so that step was checked off years ago.
Also, see my review here on the NEX with the cheap 35mm 1.7 c mount for my thoughts on "fun" photography.
m4/3s was sold to make way for the X100 and I won't be going back unless they come out with a fixed lens compact that truly fits in the pocket. Different strokes, but for me, that's the holy grail that has yet to be delivered. Sure there are some nice small sensor compacts out there but we have yet to realize digitally what the Ricoh GR could do with film years ago - full frame in a compact body.
My 14 steps were just a humorous look back at the chase for that goal. If I wanted a Leica CL or Contax G replacement I would be more than satisfied by now with the awesome cameras we have from the m4/3, NEX and Fuji platforms. They may not be full frame but their compact size, excellent IQ and the flexibility of digital make them a fair match.
Indeed, I am holding my breath for an APS-C Ricoh GRD or a Fuji X camera modeled after the Natura S but it looks like the mirrorless market is currently infatuated with system cameras.