Canon S2IS vs Nikon Coolpix 8400- I need your thoughts please

[karebear1]

OK- I'm in the process of buying a new camera. I stopped at Ritz camera this afternoon just to look at different cameras and learn what little I could. I know everyone here loves the Canon S2IS- it has recieved great reviews from the Disers that use it. Ritz has this camera available for $499.00- this includes 9 classes on how to use the camera (which I desperately need!). The other camera I'm looking at is a Nikon Cool Pix 8400. This is regularly a $900.00 camera, but they are selling it for $399.00 because Nikon is discontinuing this model. (8.0 mega pixels- 3.5 zoom) This camera also includes the free classes (did I mention I think I really need these classes?!?! ) I realize we're comparing 2 different types of cameras (mega pixels and zoom) but taking all into consideration- would it be worth saving the 100.00 and going with the Nikon- or should I splurge and take the Canon?
I would really appreciate any insight into this that you all have.
TIA

 

[Greg K.]

And I don't even own it. But it seems to me you'd be getting a lot more camera with the Canon: 12x zoom, image stabilizer, swivel LCD, and excellent snapshots (the samples people post here, I think, speak for themselves.)

Visit this site for reviews of both and see what you think. They say the Nikon's pictures aren't as sharp as some others in its class (and, fwiw, it only has a 3x zoom...).

www.dpreview.com

 

[Kelly Grannell]

Nikon: 3.5x Zoom, no image stabilizer
Canon: 12x Zoom, with Image Stabilizer.

For me, it's a clear cut decision.

 

[mhutchinson]

I would lean towards the Canon with the better zoom over the Nikon. Nikons tend to be a little on the blue side of the colors when pics are done and can be a little soft. A lot of people like that image type, I tend to perfer the Canon image over Nikon...you should check out the site previously listed in this thread and I would also not rule out Panasonic's camera which is also fairly good and similar to the Canon....but then again I would end up with the Canon as I tend to stick with them for their color accuracy.

 

[geetey]

Hi Karen!

The image stabilization would be enough to make me purchase the Canon over the Nikon. Do they sell the classess seperately from the camera? You may get a better deal buying the camera online and the classes on their own. Just a thought.

 

[Greg K.]

Hi Karen!

The image stabilization would be enough to make me purchase the Canon over the Nikon. Do they sell the classess seperately from the camera? You may get a better deal buying the camera online and the classes on their own. Just a thought.

Check around, and you should be able to find the Canon for less than $400 online ...

Try here: www.buydig.com

Last I looked, they had it for $389, with no tax and free shipping ...

 

[karebear1]

Thanks everyone- I appreciate all your thoughts. I guess it's the Canon for me! You all ought to be on their payroll!!. I'm not sure if Ritz offers the classes if you just came in and asked, but from what the flier says- it's a 270.00 value- so it would make better sense to buy it there even if it is more expenesive because I'd get teh lcasses. If I bought from buydig for 389.00 then had to add 270.00 to take the classes I'd be spending way more then if I just paid the 499.00 at Ritz. Hopwever, I think I'll call RItz today and ask if they offer classes on how to use cameras and what teh cost is. I'll let you all know what they say later. If I invest this much money in a camera- I want to be sure I really know how to use it!

Hi Terry!!!!

 

[mhutchinson]

You might also want to check the Canon site for tips and info on how to use the camera before dropping a lot on a class. Plus the camera is digital, the best training is take tons of pictures and learn from the bad shots....you might even find a basic or advanced using digital camera book that would meet the class....just food for thought...I bought one on my 20D

btw...I also bought my camera from buydig and it was about $500 less than Ritz (enough to cover some extra gadgets)

 

[Kelly Grannell]

Although your camera is not a dSLR, it has boatloads of dSLR features. I strongly suggest Canon's tutorial site:

http://web.canon.jp/Imaging/enjoydslr/

Sure beats buying a book or beginners classes. (y'know free = good)

 

[karebear1]

I'm more then willing to use tutorials for free if they are easily understandable. Do these sites use terms that are easily understandable- or do they have video tutorials? I have a hard time sometimes reading a manual and understanding it. I am much more of a hands on learner. I'd really like to learn about using the manual controls etc. for the camera as well. Is there an digital cameras for dummies book???

 

[Kelly Grannell]

The website I posted, to me at least, is easier to understand than the Digital Photo for Dummies. Just click the link and see whether it's suitable for you.

 

[karebear1]

Thanks Kelly for your patience and advice! And thanks to evryone else that posted too. I really need lots advice and opinions. The more I get, the better for me in this particular situation. I really want to learn how to take good photos.

 

[geetey]

Hi Karen,

You may want to clarify the classes with Ritz. Some camera shops offer very general, basic classes - not specific to your camera - so it may not be as much help as you like. I have a friend who just purchased a Canon Rebel XT. She took a class from her store that is specifically about the XT. They were shown specific settings for different photo settings - like in a gymnasium under fluorescent lighting. A camera specific class I would find very helpful because it would speed up the learning curve on using the camera. However, if the class is just a general photo class, I would probably be more inclined to skip it.

Not sure that helps! Just my thoughts.

 

[karebear1]

Good idea Terry! I'll be sure to ask that very question.

 

[makinorlando]

I took this photo today at MK with my Canon S2IS. I was standing in front of Crystal Palace. I'm pretty impressed with the ZOOM!

 

[karebear1]

Wow! that is one convincing picture! I can't believe that was taken all the way across from the CP. I do believe I am convinced. Thank you!

 

[gabbyrosebud]

I took this photo today at MK with my Canon S2IS. I was standing in front of Crystal Palace. I'm pretty impressed with the ZOOM!

Wow! That picture is impressive! I just got my S2IS in the mail yesterday and can't wait to try it out. Could you tell me if this was taken in Auto mode? Thanks!