Need a new digital camera. . . advice? help?

[ktturner]

Not sure if this is the right place to post, if not, please move!

I need a new digital camera. I like my old one (HP) because it was easy to use, took good pictures, and didn't have huge battery charging issues. I have 2 DDs and don't have time to play with attachments.

SO, I need your recommendations. What brands should I look at? What should be my minimum megapixel? Specific camera suggestions?

I want it to be easy to use, long life on batteries, take QUALITY pictures, and have basic controls, small enough to tote around hanging on my wrist, not too simple. I guess I need a digital camera for almost dummies. . .

Please advise. . .Thanks!

FYI: I posted this a few days ago, but in the wrong area. A few people responded, cannon was the recommended brand by them. . . Thoughts from y'all, now that it's in the right place? Also, DH said I can get one if it doesn't cost an arm and a leg, so I'd like to make the right choice. . . Thanks!

 

[ukcatfan]

For Canon, look at the "A" and "SD" series. You should also look at the Fuji models. I am not familiar with them, but some of them have a larger sensor and less image noise because of that. Look for a sensor that is 1/1.7 or 1/1.8. Most of the Canons have the smaller 1/2.5 sensor. I would look for around 5-6MPs. More than that ususally just means more image noise and not any more actual usable area. Unfortunately, MPs have become a marketing tool and most people think that it is the most important factor when it is actually one of the least important.

Kevin

 

[ktturner]

So does anyone by Nikon any more? They used to be highly recommended. . ..

 

[ktturner]

For Canon, look at the "A" and "SD" series. You should also look at the Fuji models. I am not familiar with them, but some of them have a larger sensor and less image noise because of that. Look for a sensor that is 1/1.7 or 1/1.8. Most of the Canons have the smaller 1/2.5 sensor. I would look for around 5-6MPs. More than that ususally just means more image noise and not any more actual usable area. Unfortunately, MPs have become a marketing tool and most people think that it is the most important factor when it is actually one of the least important.

Kevin

Thanks for the advice, I didn't really have a clue about what features are important. I appreciate you telling me specifically what to look for!

 

[KrazyPete]

So does anyone by Nikon any more? They used to be highly recommended. . ..

I don't ever hear too much good or bad about Nikon's point and shoot line. They did release a new one at PMA with a big LCD and built in WIFI that sounded pretty cool.

Source DPReview: Nikon S50/S50c