Need: new camera and lots of help picking one

[BostonTink85]

Okay I got my Nikon CoolPix 2200 as a present three years ago and I'm looking to buy a new camera for my Disney trip in August. What I don't like about my current camera is the delay in taking the picture and the time is takes for the flash to reload (not sure if that the right word? lol) Plus it only has 2 MPs. I'm not a camera pro and just want a nice new one that is easy to use, but at the same time has some different scene modes, etc. I don't want to go too expensive, I was thinking of somewhere in the $200 range. So if anyone can help with any info that would be great!

 

[YEKCIM]

If you have the requisite funding, and want something that is a lot more capable (and considerably bulkier...) you might want to consider a DSLR. I personally have a Fuji S5200, which takes decent pix, and is only about $225 online at present. It has very little shutter lag, and I have never really kept track of how long it takes to cycle the flash, but don't recall it ever being an issue.

If you are interested in some examples of pix I made in The World last week, go here: http://s76.photobucket.com/albums/j11/fasteddiew/DisneyWorld 2006/

I'm not necessarily recommending the 5200; there are plenty of really good cameras out there. The Canon A610 and A620, as well as the Canon S2-IS and S3-IS are very popular, and with good reason. No idea about shutter lag or flash cycle times.

You may want to check some camera reviews at www.steves-digicams.com or www.dpreview.com.

~YEKCIM

 

[BostonTink85]

Thanks Yekcim! Those are great websites...I just spent prbly too much time on when I should be doing work I don't think I really want a DSLR, a little over my head.
Does anyone else have any experience with non DSLR cameras that you'd recommend? I'm just trying to get as much personal experiences info as possible before I purchase one. I've read a bunch of reviews but I figured you guys on the Dis always have great advice so any is welcome

 

[YEKCIM]

May I suggest you use this online tool as a starting point?

http://www.myproductadvisor.com/mpa/camera/inputSummary.do

It will help guide you thru the various features you will need to consider in your purchase. If you have a general idea of what kind of picture taking you will be doing, I think this will help you narrow your choices down a bit. Once you work thru this, and have a few specific models in mind, you may want to ask for some recommendations from forum members.

~YEKCIM

 

[MOmousefan]

If you need to stay below $200 then you might consider the Nikon Coolpix L3. My daughter bought one at WalMart for $179 and likes using it.
She used it while on vacation and took over 100 pictures. It even takes videos.

At the Naval Air Museum

At the beach

 

[minmaui]

I have the Canon A620...virtually no shutter lag, swivel screen and 7.1...