I need someone experienced with digital cameras to help me narrow down my choices..?

Question

I'm not a professional - only 14 - but I have a serious passion for graphic design, and so therefore want a camera with excellent image quality as to make them easier to work with in Photoshop. Great macro shots and night shots would be nice, but in particular, I want something you can recommend with your full confidence.

But it can't be too pricey either - I don't think I'll be able to spend more than 500-600, though one of the cameras I've narrowed it down to is in the 800's.

So if you have any personal experience with the following cameras, and any advice as to what's best for ME, I would really appreciate it. :)

nikon coolpix p3
canon powershot g7
nikon d80
canon powershot a640

which one?

Answer 1

In the real world, I think you are looking at the A640. The D80 with a good lens is simply out of your price range. Do not get the P3 without considering that it does not have an optical viewfinder. Also, the default settings are somewhat soft and this may not be best for graphic applications. You CAN sharpen them in the menu system of the camera or using Photoshop, etc. If you are still interest in the Nikon, consider a P4, which is about $50 cheaper because it does not have the WiFi connection, unless your computer and/or printer are suitably equipped. Otherwise, they are identical.

In the review of the G7, the conclusion states, " Interestingly the output from the G7 and it's far less pricey stable mate, the A640, is pretty much identical (in fact if anything the A640 actually manages a fractionally higher resolution)." The G7 and A640 go down to 1 cm for macro, also.

Since the G7 sells for $550-600 and the A640 sells for $400 or less, the choice is clear. Besides, you will need another $50-60 for a good 1 GB memory card, which would put the G7 out of your budget. The G7 (and P3/P4) DO have image stabilization, but for serious graphic work, you will be using a tripod anyhow and won't need that feature.

Go here and look at the green links for "Our in-depth review" and read the user comments. I only included the A620 so you can read the review and comments. This is pretty much the same camera as the A640, except for the obvious improvement in pixel count.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_a640%2Ccanon_g7%2Cnikon_cpp3%2Ccanon_a620&show=all

Answer 2

Of these, the D80 will take you much farther in your photography efforts It will have better higher ISO performance and much more flexibility than the others. You can add lenses as you have the budget,
I have the Canon Powershot G6, and it is a great little camera, within its limitations. So if I couldn't swing the D80, I would probably opt for the G7, although it does not have raw. (The G6 does, and it has a bit faster lens. You might find a new G6 at a good price, something to think about)
Good luck!

Answer 3

Some of the best camera's that you can find online are the Canon S2 IS, S3 IS, and the Canon SD600/630/700/800 models. They are below your price range but will give you high quality shot and easy to use cameras.

The S2 IS and S3 IS are more professional and larger then the SD cameras which are smaller and more compact.

Answer 4

sure, Canon is an precise form...and the A630 & A640 are wonderful digital cameras. the sole distinction between them is that the A640 has 2 extra megapixels and is a diverse shade. i think of try to be extra effective than happy with the A630 (it takes great high quality pictures & video clips, has finished instruction manual controls in case you prefer them, and has that very reachable vari-attitude lcd). purely confirm you place money right into a quickly SD reminiscence card for correct digicam overall performance (i might propose the 1GB Sandisk extreme III). And if occurring holiday, you could desire to choose one extra card. additionally, you will choose rechargeable NiMh batteries (2500+) and a charger. i'm particular you will adore it. great determination. happy shooting!