what sort of camera to buy?

[minnie4me]

Thinking of buying DH a camera for Christmas. We currently have a Panasonic Lumix (DMC-TZ3). It is basically a pocket size camera w/ 10x optical zoom, which way outdoes the 3x we had before. I am not sure of the pixels, but it is decent.
It is basically a point and shoot, good enough for me. But, DH would like to explore photography as more of a hobby and wants something with a big lens and shoots frames quickly. Obviously I don't know all the technical terms !!
Anyway, what are some good options? We have a neighbor who took a wonderful pic of DS at Halloween, of course his lens cost $1000, so I can imagine the cost of the camera too. He takes pics for insurance Co's of car accidents etc.. so details are a must. I don't think we need to be that detail oriented, but DH would like to get shots of DS say playing tball, where the bat isn't a blur as he swings.
Any help greatly appreciated.
I enjoy looking at the photo contests !! I often vote, its fun !!

 

[jfinke]

Actually, the lenses are probably the majority of cost of most people's kit here.

I currently have a Canon 350d, which cost me $400 refurbed with the kit lens. My other 3 lenses together were purchased for around $1200 with one being $900 for used.

If you are just looking to get started, I would recommend going to a camera store and handling the various models. Pretty much any entry level camera is going to get you pretty good results. Obviously, the more you spend, the more extras you get.

 

[minnie4me]

bump...

 

[bob100]

bump...

you don't specify your budget - that's an important item.

If your budget is $400 or less look at the superzoom type cameras, Canon SX10, Panasonic FZ28, for example. you get telephoto, macro, wide angle, video, manual controls, and good pictures.
If you're willing to spend more and go beyond the "auto mode" then maybe the dSLR is the best route however some will say you need additional lens, more than what's normally supplied with dSLR's to get the best out of them.

 

[minnie4me]

Bob100
what does dsLR mean? I am sorry for being such a novice !! I think I would like to keep it $700 or lower w/out investing in extra lenses (that is something DH can always do down the road.)
I saw an advertisement for some Sony that has a screen that moves, but am not sire if that is the sort of camera I want.
Slick advertising and showy looks don't always make the best product.
Thanks again for the input !!

 

[bob100]

Bob100
what does dsLR mean? I am sorry for being such a novice !! I think I would like to keep it $700 or lower w/out investing in extra lenses (that is something DH can always do down the road.)
I saw an advertisement for some Sony that has a screen that moves, but am not sire if that is the sort of camera I want.
Slick advertising and showy looks don't always make the best product.
Thanks again for the input !!

dSLR= digital single lens reflex
but the real question is how seriously you think DH is going to take photography as a hobby. If he enjoys learning about different camera settings and gadgets then "dSLR" could be the better buy although more expensive and the dSLR type cameras get expensive when you start adding lens.
if it was me though I know I would enjoy Best Buy's current sale on dSLR cameras: Nikon D60 with the extra 55-200mm VR zoom lens at $724
another option: you could always give a gift card (but not at Circuit city!) whatever you choose will be cheaper and better in the future