I want a new camera

[LVSWL]

So, I am hoping to get some good info and help from my fellow DISers. I already have a small Canon that fits in my pocket, and an older Kodak..4mp and 10 optical zoom. My biggest problem is that I would LOVE to have more zoom.
Honestly, I don't think we have a single decent picture of our kids end of year celebration (we are in bleachers and they are on the floor). I will be the first to admit that I do not know a lot about all of the functions that I see on the better(larger SLRs), but would be willing to learn.
Any suggestions?
Thanks so much!

 

[PixarNut]

Look into an entry level dSLR like the Canon XSi or even a used 40D. I will warn you however; once you get a camera with upgrade options, you will become addicted!

 

[zackiedawg]

For someone without a lot of knowledge in photography, you could learn a lot from a good high-end ultra-zoom camera. These have a far greater bang-for-the-buck than you will ever get from a DSLR, as far as zoom for the money. And they are usually more advanced and more capable than a typical compact pocket cam, as they have more manual control options to help learn more about aperture and shutter settings, white balance control, manual ISO control, various focus and metering modes, etc.

Before any DSLR folks go nuts (as they often do when anyone recommends anything but a DSLR), I use a DSLR myself, and they are always going to be a better camera overall, and with greater flexibility overall, than an ultrazoom P&S camera.

However, not everyone needs a Ferrari when a Toyota will do just fine. Ultra-zoom cameras will typically cost less than $500, whereas a very basic entry-level DSLR kit will be a little higher with a cheap kit lens. The Ultrazoom will provide an F2.8 lens with a zoom range of up to 18x optically, ranging from 28-36mm on the wide end to as long as 520mm on the tele end. The DSLR kit lens usually won't go much beyond 120mm, and usually much less sensitive (F3.5 or worse). To get the equivalent lens range as an ultra-zoom, a DSLR buyer would have to spend another $1,000 to purchase a telezoom that can reach to 300-400mm. The DSLR may be better in handling high ISO, low light focus, and flexibility to extend the range with myriad lenses, but the ultrazoom can give the average consumer a portable, light, cheap, one-box solution with a huge optical range. And since not everyone wants to become 'a photographer', but may simply want to document trips and family with a decent camera that's at-the-ready when needed and is reliable...not everyone honestly needs a DSLR even if they are better (back to the exotic-car reference!).

So my recommendation would be to look at ultrazooms like the Canon S5 IS, Sony H50, Panasonic FZ28, Nikon P80, etc. You can grow from a novice to a very talented photographer with these devices - they can take a good photo in auto mode when you need to, and have room to grow and learn manual controls. They have awesome lens range in a small, light package. And they are very reasonably priced. Hope that helps!

 

[PixarNut]

So my recommendation would be to look at ultrazooms like the Canon S5 IS, Sony H50, Panasonic FZ28, Nikon P80, etc. You can grow from a novice to a very talented photographer with these devices - they can take a good photo in auto mode when you need to, and have room to grow and learn manual controls. They have awesome lens range in a small, light package. And they are very reasonably priced. Hope that helps!

I would 2nd the S5. I've seen some great shots out of that camera if a DSLR is out of your budget.

 

[bob100]

I would 2nd the S5. I've seen some great shots out of that camera if a DSLR is out of your budget.

I'll 3rd the recommendation but Canon doesn't make the S5 anymore. The good news is the newer Canon SX10 and SX1 are better with more features and the superzoom Panasonic FZ28 is also good for less than $300. Zoom telephoto, good pics, all the manual controls you will need, macro, high resolution video, etc. I don't think you can go wrong with these (unless you need something that can fit in your pocket)

 

[Nik's Mom]

I agree. I have a dslr, but often grab my smaller camera for convenience. It isn't fun to lug my D70 around everywhere sometimes. I just decided to replace my smaller camera. I've been researching a lot (particularly consumer report). What I have come up with is either Panasonic Luminix DMC - FZ28, Panasonic Luminix DMC-TZ5 or Canon PowerShot SX110. All 3 of these have optical zoom range of at least 10mm, image stabilizer and are in the "super zoom" category.

Go on over to dpreview.com for a lot more information. You can even compare the cameras that you are considering. It makes it a little easier to come to a decision. Have fun shopping.

 

[LVSWL]

Ya'll are great!!! I have been so on the fence with this decision. I have been looking at both of the Canon Rebels and the Nikon D40. A lot to take in for a novice. But the options that you gave me sound and look really great! Not quite as big, or intimidating, great zoom, and lower price. Price wasn't really that big of a deal, just want a camera that I will be happy with. So, I think that the Canon that was mentioned has lens thread. Does this mean that if I wanted to I could add a different lens down the road? Both the Canon and the Nikon got "mostly" great reviews, but I wasn't crazy about the fact that the Canon used AA batteries. I have looked at the Panasonic also because I know that lots of people on the DIS have mentioned this. I was looking at the DMC-FZ28 because of the 18 optical zoom. I guess I need to go to the camera store and play Thanks for all the info!