Could you recommend a camera for a novice?

[dannysmommyval]

Hi,

I went to WDW in April and previously posted how horrible my cheap camera pictures were. It was so sunny they appear to be white washed and the inside pictures were so dark it was terrible.

I am planning on going back in October and was wondering if I had $150-$200 what camera should I buy? I am looking for something that can zoom, auto adjust for light/dark, and be relatively small. I know that may be asking for a lot but I thought I would shoot for the stars and hopefully land on the moon.

Can you wise folks help me out so I can get some decent pictures next time 'round?

Thanks so much!
Valere

 

[JoeDif]

Hi Valere....welcome to the DIS Photo forums

All of the major manufacturers make good cameras in your price range. Check out this site for reviews and comparisons...http://www.dpreview.com/

Just remember that even a $2,000 DSLR may not produce incredible photos in the conditions you mentioned above. Bright direct mid day sunlight is the worst time for photography no matter what camera you have. Indoor photography without the use of flash or a fast lens (aperture of f1.4 - f2.8) will usually make for dark photos.

Hope this helps!!

 

[oregondaddyof2]

I have a Nikon D60, but my wife wanted something smaller and easier for her to use, so we found her a Canon Powershot A560 that was about $150. It works great and takes amazing pictures for a P&S. We actually were grateful that we had it on us during the Halloween Party last year cause we used it for it's video feature. Still pictures were good of my kids during the dancing with Donald, but video was the best...

 

[oregondaddyof2]

Here is a link the the CNet review of the camera...

http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/canon-powershot-a560/4505-6501_7-32314658.html

 

[CharacterFan]

Depending on how much zoom you want, you could look into the Kodak Z915 it's 10x zoom, smart capture, and 10megapixil.
if you want something small, Kodak V1073 it's 10megapixil, 3x zoom, smart capture, and can record HD movies.
I've been using Kodak point and shoots for many years, and love them. There are each 200, but you can find older models cheaper. I have a Z712 and a V603 and while I've since dontated them to friends and family, they call me all the time to tell me how they love them.

 

[dannysmommyval]

This is great info! Thanks so much. I will certainly check out your recommendations and links.