Question for entry level (simple) P&S for my wife **update**

[Dan Murphy]

I feel like a stranger here, LOL, been a long time.

My wife asked me today to give her advice on buying (finally) a digital camera, and giving up on her one-use Kodaks. She is taking primarily people scenes. Also, she is going on a cruise next month, if that makes any difference.

I use the Canon S3 IS, very pleased. She wants simple. Any thoughts? Anybody have experience on the Canon A590 IS? I do like Canon overall, but open to others. Any suggestions appreciated.

Dan

ETA Thoughts also, if any, on Canon SD1100 IS

 

[campinggal]

Hi Dan!

You are always so helpful on these boards I'll try to return the favor.

While I have no direct experience with either of the models you listed- I have been a fan of the Canon Powershot series for years- my current P&S is a Canon A620- it is similar in design to the 590IS. I like the 'chunkiness' of this camera because it gives me something to hold on to rather than some of those slimmer P&S. I can also shoot with one hand and feel secure whereas the slimmer ones I feel I need two hands on it. The newer 590IS has the IS as well as their 'face detection' which seems like a great concept for the occaisional user. It would be good for her 'people scenes'.

The 1100IS is much slimmer and has slighly less zoom. It would fit in a pocket more easily but if she is one to always have a purse or bag- then that criteria isn't as important.

Looks like the controls near LCD screen are more distinct on the 590 rather than the circular wheel on the 1100. Having a distinct 'button' to push might make a new user more comfortable- just a thought.

Can't go wrong with either! She'll have fun with her new toy either way you go!

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Hi Dan

I have an S2 and S3 IS and I like them a lot. But yes, they can be a little complicated. I don't know other Canons but I'd say to find her one you think she'll like and stick with it. Ideally, one where you can share batteries, memory cards, software, etc, to keep life simple.

Good luck with your search, and my best to Marie. I hope she has a wonderful cruise.

 

[DizzyV6P]

My last 3 PnS cameras met their end by being dropped (yes, I dropped them, not my wife). So this time around, I picked up an Olympus Stylus 790SW which is shockproof (5ft), waterproof, freezeproof, etc...

My wife uses it all the time now and has loved it so far. This is coming from a guy who loves Canon products but only Olympus offered something that was a bit more durable than the normal PnS.

Any of the new Canon's should be fine. Have her goto a store and hold each one to see which is most comfortable in her hand. I loved the Casio's, but my wife hated them because she felt they were too small and slim to hold securely.

 

[Amy]

Hi Dan! Long time no see! I can't offer any camera advice - I'm an S3 user like you; my prior camera was a Canon A70 and DH has the Canon A95, both are dinosaurs now (but still work and still take good shots). I agree with Linda - get Marie a camera where you two can share memory cards and batteries, plus if you stick with Canon, you'll be able to help her out a little easier.

Be sure to tell Marie to post some of her photos here! We need to see more of yours, too.

 

[elizke]

After much research on easy, small cameras last Christmas, I got DH, who is not interested in settings or camera fussing whatsoever, a Canon SD1000. It's really compact and takes excellent pictures. Sometimes I think my "settings" are a waste of time when I see the careless pics he takes.

Here's a link to the camera at Imaging Resource....

http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/SD1000/SD1000A.HTM

 

[Blessed99]

I Bought the Canon SD 1100 IS today. Took around 200 pics just playing today and really liked it. Its very small too so will easily fit in purse. Easy to use IMO.

Kelly

Me Kelly and DD 8 Kamryn

 

[Dan Murphy]

Thanks for the input and thoughts. I did order the A590 IS, from Buydig, $150 delivered.

Several points that swayed were similarity to S3, a bit larger than the SD1100, easier to hold, SD memory and AA batteries. I have a lot of both. I think she will enjoy.

So nice to see everybody, and thanks for the input, the kind words and thoughts. Much appreciated.

 

[Tuffcookie]

Hi, Dan,

Why don't you give her lessons on your S3, give it to her and get yourself the S5?

TC

 

[Dan Murphy]

Just wanted to add an update. The camera was delivered (while I was in Disney) FEDEX (no charge shipping), on a Tuesday, after ordering it late on a Sunday evening. After opening the box and working a bit with the instruction book, settings, etc, so I can pass on some simple and basic (Marie's request) to Marie, I am really impressed with the quality and features of the camera, and all for $150 delivered (now actually $149 online. http://www.buydig.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=CNPSA590

It certainly is no a DSLR, not an S5, but for a nice, simple pocket camera, I am impressed very much so.

And again, as always, thanks everyone for your inputs.

Dan