I *think* I've decided...would love your opinion

[blestmom]

Boy, I have been going back and forth for weeks on a new camera decision! I pretty much decided to get the Canon S3 IS. But then I saw the superior photos with a dSLR and started to change my thinking.

However...I think I'm going to stick with the Canon S3 IS for now, and maybe in the future I can move up to a dSLR.

Here are my thoughts...

1. Portability: I want to be able to carry my camera around with me most of the time to get those un-planned pictures of the kids, etc. I have a large purse for the S3 IS, but don't want to carry a separate camera bag around on a regular basis.

2. Cost: I really don't want to go above $500 right now. I don't have the money for extra lenses and such at this time.

3. Ease of use: I'm ashamed to admit it, but I really don't know anything about aperture, ISO, f/-whatever...it's like Greek to me. "Some day" I would really like to learn more about photography, but I'm being realistic and don't think now is the right time.

I really must thank whoever it was on this board who said that not everyone who CAN get a dSLR SHOULD get one. I think that for right now, this may be too much camera for me.

The photos I've seen here, though, are simply gorgeous. I would love to get great dance recital pictures of my daughters and sports photos of my sons, but I think the cost, bulkiness, and learning curve are too much right now.

So...does this sound sensible? Or will I really regret getting the S3 IS?

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Deb

 

[Groucho]

If you're interested in low-light performance especially when shooting moving things like dancers, you will probably be better off with a Fuji S6000fd, which you can also get for cheaper ($252 after rebate last time I checked) - it has quite a bit larger sensor than the S3 so its low-light performance is much better. It also has more advanced DSLR-like features if you want to learn more about such things in the future, like RAW mode, etc; and really looks and operates like a DSLR. It also can take photos at a wider focal length (ie, you can get more around you in the frame) than most other superzoom cameras like the S3.

However, it lacks image stabilization, but IS helps steady a slower shutter speed, and you want a faster shutter speed if you'll be taking photos of dancing. To get a faster shutter speed in low light, you need to bump up the ISO, and that's where the Fuji really shines.

The other downside is that it takes xD memory cards instead of SD, which are not as common and more expensive.

Good luck!

 

[blestmom]

Thank you for your advice...I really appreciate it!

I went and looked at some reviews for the Fuji S6000fd, and it looks really good. Maybe this would be a better 'in-between' camera for me.

Thank you again.

 

[photo_chick]

I agree that not everyone who can get a DSLR should get a DSLR. 5 years ago everyone was not running out and buying 35mm SLR's. They are not right or everyone. I also really don't agree with the idea that you can't take a great shot with a point and shoot. You can. They are limiting, but you can get good shots with them. Whatever camera you get, it has to be the right camera for you.

I second the Fuji line. I am a big fan of their point and shoots, I have 2 and they are great. It is worth looking at.

 

[YEKCIM]

Another vote for Fuji. I have an S5200 that I used at WDW last year and, while it has its limitations, I was pleased with most of the shots I got. To be fair, though, I'm hoping for substantial improvement in July with my new Nikon gear.

If interested in my July 06 WDW gallery, go here.

~YEKCIM

 

[blestmom]

YEKCIM,

I just looked at your gallery...great pictures!!! Thanks for sharing the link.

Deb

 

[LPZ_Stitch!]

Before you give up on the S3, I think you should take a look at what it's capable of in normal shooting situations; check out this thread over on the Digital Camera Resource Page: Some S3 Pics....

Whichever way you decide to go (Canon/Fuji -- P&S/DSLR) just do your best to get the right camera for *you*.

I love my S3. In one compact package I've got macro, wide angle, long zoom, and great video, too. Auto mode if I need to hand it to someone to take *my* picture and full manual controls whenever I want them.

I realize it's no DSLR, but it takes *great* pics..

 

[YEKCIM]

YEKCIM,

I just looked at your gallery...great pictures!!! Thanks for sharing the link.

Deb

My pleasure; glad you liked them.

~YEKCIM

 

[boBQuincy]

Boy, I have been going back and forth for weeks on a new camera decision! I pretty much decided to get the Canon S3 IS. But then I saw the superior photos with a dSLR and started to change my thinking.

However...I think I'm going to stick with the Canon S3 IS for now, and maybe in the future I can move up to a dSLR.

Here are my thoughts...

1. Portability: I want to be able to carry my camera around with me most of the time to get those un-planned pictures of the kids, etc. I have a large purse for the S3 IS, but don't want to carry a separate camera bag around on a regular basis.

2. Cost: I really don't want to go above $500 right now. I don't have the money for extra lenses and such at this time.

3. Ease of use: I'm ashamed to admit it, but I really don't know anything about aperture, ISO, f/-whatever...it's like Greek to me. "Some day" I would really like to learn more about photography, but I'm being realistic and don't think now is the right time.

I really must thank whoever it was on this board who said that not everyone who CAN get a dSLR SHOULD get one. I think that for right now, this may be too much camera for me.

Points #1 and #2 are for real, dSLRs are generally larger and more $$$ than p&s.
#3 is not a real worry, most dSLRs are fine in "Auto" or even one of the preset modes. It's not necessary to know aperture and all to get great photos, anymore then it is with a p&s.
There are those who will tell you that you aren't using the camera properly until you use Manual mode exclusively. Ignore them, use "auto" for as long as it does what you need.

 

[Master Mason]

There are those who will tell you that you aren't using the camera properly until you use Manual mode exclusively. Ignore them, use "auto" for as long as it does what you need.

I guess I don't use my camera properly, because I seldom shoot on full Manual, really the only time I can think of was when I am shooting long exposure night pictures.

 

[boBQuincy]

I rarely (make that never, since I use RAW) shoot in Auto either. I guess I didn't phrase it correctly, there is nothing wrong with Auto, Program, or Manual.

The wrong thing (to me) is when someone says you must use Manual or you are not using the camera properly. Since I use Program almost exclusively I must be doing it wrong too (to them anyway).

 

[Master Mason]

I rarely (make that never, since I use RAW) shoot in Auto either. I guess I didn't phrase it correctly, there is nothing wrong with Auto, Program, or Manual.

The wrong thing (to me) is when someone says you must use Manual or you are not using the camera properly. Since I use Program almost exclusively I must be doing it wrong too (to them anyway).

No you wrote it write, I said auto when I meant manual...doh!!!! changed in my original post

I shoot in AV mode about 99% of the time, that way I control the DOF.

 

[photo_chick]

I rarely (make that never, since I use RAW) shoot in Auto either. I guess I didn't phrase it correctly, there is nothing wrong with Auto, Program, or Manual.

The wrong thing (to me) is when someone says you must use Manual or you are not using the camera properly. Since I use Program almost exclusively I must be doing it wrong too (to them anyway).

I agree. While I think that it is very helpful to improve your images by learning what ISO, shutter speed, and aperture are and how they work together... I rarely use the all manual mode to set them. I pick one variable and go from there and I often use P, Tv, or Av so I can change one and let the camera choose the rest. I guess I am doing it wrong too, but that would not be a first.

 

[Michigan_tinkerbell]

I just got hte S6000 about two days ago and I LOVE it. I got it online at circutcity.com for 348 and i got a 50 rebate on it. The camara rock.s


Dianna

 

[YEKCIM]

I just got hte S6000 about two days ago and I LOVE it. I got it online at circutcity.com for 348 and i got a 50 rebate on it. The camara rock.s


Dianna

We'll be watching for your POTD's when you get back from The World in October; in the meantime, please post some examples for the benefit of others who may be considering this camera. It has been much discussed (by me, as well as others), but I have not seen too many examples posted here.

~YEKCIM