Suggestions for easy to use camera

[OMD13]

I need to get a new camera and was wondering what anyone could suggest. I would like something that is easy to use and not to big. Hope to get some ideas.

 

[JimGA]

Tough question. I have a Cannon power shot sx 230 and it is an easy point and shoot. I read some website on reviews and this one had good reviews for pictures indoors and outdoors. This one cost us $250 and it fits in your pocket.

We had a cheaper camera around $120, never could take pictures indoors, great at outdoors but horrible in.

Check out consumer reports, they have good reviews.

Good luck

 

[Aby]

I have the first generation Canon D10 waterproof camera....it takes beautiful pictures, in the water as well as out. I have a DSLR, but if I was in the market for a point and shoot to take anywhere, I would definitely go for their next generation, the Canon D20. I like the versatility of these go anywhere cameras, and they take great pics. Also I find all Canon point and shoots (and their basic DSLR's too!) very easy to use!

Just my 2 cents...

Aby

 

[jilljill]

Moved this to the Photography board since it's not directly DCL related.

 

[photo_chick]

Any camera that has auto could be considered easy to use really. YOu need to narrow down the features you want and the price range you're looking at. And check out sites like dpreview.com for their buying guides.

 

[Kogo Shuko]

I agree on the Canon Powershot.

Before I graduated to something more expensive and big, I had a little Powershot that lasted quite a few years that took some amazing photos.

It was the perfect camera, but eventually the flash died, which resulted in my taking my hobby to the next level. I actually still own the Powershot and use it on occasions where there is good lighting and I don't want to lug my big guy around.

 

[hakepb]

The Olympus OMD E M5 would best fit your user name
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/olympusem5

(And is a great "smaller than a DSlr " alternative. But probably not what you are looking for.

Personally, I like how a good Sony looks in Auto mode vs other brands but that is personal preference.

In general you need to determine your parameters for
Indoor (low light) / outdoor
Size
Zoom
Cost

 

[havoc315]

As Photochick and hakepb have suggested, it really depends on your preferences and priorities. Every camera on the market is basically equally easy to use, if you set it in auto mode. Every camera can set the exposure itself, auto focus, and usually recognize a scene to further set parameters.

First question I ask: How important is size? Fit in a shirt pocket? Fit in a small pouch/case? Don't mind something bulky around your neck?
Second: What type of uses do you want to get out of it? Low light? Top notch image quality? Do you need a big telephoto for sports or wildlife?
Third: Any extra features that are important to you? Wifi, GPS, tilting screens, etc?
Fourth: Cost. (I ask this last, because we would all prefer to spend less, instead of spending more. So let's say the cheapest camera that matches all your preferences costs too much.... Then you go back and start making compromises).