Camera confusion!

[dreamsail]

There are literally thousands of cameras to choose from anymore. I usually shoot with a p&s, but want to start doing more, learning more.

First, are the cameras I have worth keeping (I'm willing to shell out 400-500 in addition to whatever the cameras I currently have can get me).

Camera 1: 35mm Sigma SA-7N with 28-80mm lens and 70-300mm lens (I can probably get about $100-$125 for this on ebay with the case)

Camera 2: Canon SX30IS - I like this camera, but for normal "mom" days, it is just too bulky AND its not a DSLR...if I have bulky, it needs to be at least a DSLR (I can probably get around $275 for this one)

Camera 3: Panasonic DMC-TZ3 - this has been my go to easy camera for years, but it is showing its age and I really need to replace it (the Canon was supposed to replace it, but...) ... this one I can probably get $25, but will probably just give it to my son once I have a replacement

What I would like...
I'm am thinking that I need 2 cameras
**a p&s (I've been looking at the Panasonic Lumix TX3 - currently $240, but that would take away money from the DSLR), but would give me a great waterproof video and p&s
**a DSLR with exchangeable lenses (but with my budget, I probably can't afford a good one, especially if I get the p&s)

Any suggestions/comments are welcome!

 

[Pea-n-Me]

What I would like...
I'm am thinking that I need 2 cameras
**a p&s (I've been looking at the Panasonic Lumix TX3 - currently $240, but that would take away money from the DSLR), but would give me a great waterproof video and p&s
**a DSLR with exchangeable lenses (but with my budget, I probably can't afford a good one, especially if I get the p&s)

Any suggestions/comments are welcome!

Have you looked at the Mirrorless options?

 

[HPS3]

I sold my D5100 and bought the Sony Nex 5n and love it. It can be pocketable like a P&S or work in place of a DSLR. It's the same sensor that's in the D7000 or Pentax K5. It has great low light capabilities. Look at the last couple of pages pn the Sony Photo Sharing thread on here for for shots taken with the 5n. You could also look into the M4/3's from Olympus and Panasonic. I've seen some fantastic shots from these also. I opted for the Nex because of its lower noise at high ISO and the focus peaking when using old manual lenses. I'm just saying for general photography you can get by without a DSLR and still get the same quality photos.

 

[dreamsail]

Thanks for the replies...I had to look up mirrorless as I'd never heard of them before (oh no, even MORE choices!)

I think I have to make a trip to a city photography shop as our local camera store no longer sells cameras

It's too hard to just research online without holding and feeling the differences