Getting a new camera

[Thrawn]

I'm planning to get a new digital camera sometime next week, but I have no idea where to start. I want something small, where the emphasis is on image quality, everything else is secondary. My ceiling is $500, but of course I'd prefer something cheaper if it can get the job done just as well. What kind would you recommend? What brands to go for/ones to avoid?

Any help is much appreciated.

 

[Rod Stroker]

Can't recommend any particular model for you, but I can recommend that you start here:
http://www.dpreview.com/

Awesome site where you can compare cameras, read reviews, user feedback, etc. Been using it for years.

 

[scooterb]

I'm no expert, but apparently the news is avoid Kodak and go with Sony or Canon.

 

[Bombers_Forever]

I have a couple of Nikon cameras and never have a problem. Go with a Nikon or a Canon - they usually have the biggest range but they really specialise in digitial cameras these days.

 

[mighty mick]

canon ixus range now have 5 optical range, anything in the megapixel range as well, sdhc cards are cheap.

sony are ok but make sure you get similar features as the canon ixus 970. sony memory cards are more expensive.

one brand to have a look at although a bit larger than most, the panasonic lumix range, can get 10 optical in this with about 8 megapixel, sdhc cards too.

 

[Jafa]

I have an ixus i - It's a pretty good camera.

I know you have a ceiling of $500 but I will mention the Canon G10. It's almost at the top level for point and shoots but it comes with many DSLR type features. Built like a brick shithouse and will deliver a far superior picture over the cheaper units.

 

[Jafa]

I will also give a recommendation for the Canon SX10 which comes in right on your budget.

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The G10 does Raw and the SX10 doesn't however the SX10 has a far superior lens range.

 

[Braddles94]

Recently been using fujifilm cameras, had no problems yet, take a great quality picture. Mum and sister have the finepix Z10 although i advise you avoid this if your looking for something that has no delay wen taking the pic (ie. if you want to use if for taking a action pic.) Personally i use Finepix S5700 - great camera although a bit bulky.

 

[old_clint]

I'm planning to get a new digital camera sometime next week, but I have no idea where to start. I want something small, where the emphasis is on image quality, everything else is secondary. My ceiling is $500, but of course I'd prefer something cheaper if it can get the job done just as well. What kind would you recommend? What brands to go for/ones to avoid?

Any help is much appreciated.

You can get a Panasonic Lumix DMC FS-3 8MP online for $206, plus freight (or pay $236 at JB). The Leica lens is as good or better as any on a sub-$500 camera. I don't know what Mighty Mick is on about them being "bigger" (maybe the previous series with AA power were bulkier than the current Li-ion generation).

 

[mighty mick]

You can get a Panasonic Lumix DMC FS-3 8MP online for $206, plus freight (or pay $236 at JB). The Leica lens is as good or better as any on a sub-$500 camera. I don't know what Mighty Mick is on about them being "bigger" (maybe the previous series with AA power were bulkier than the current Li-ion generation).

compared to most ixus and cybershot slimmer lithium battery models, but definitely would go with a panasonic.

 

[old_clint]

Or if you really feel you need some more pixels this one is still well under your limit (and the pixels are not "squeezed on", the CCD is actually proportionately bigger).

http://www.citiwide-online.com/au/i...ion=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1&vmcchk=1&Itemid=1

 

[tarky]

i started with a small point and click canon digital camera, but i've since switched to a canon 450d slr camera. The image quality is sooo much better, it's like day and night between the two.