What long-range zoom camera should I get?

Question

I want something that's a step up from a regular point and shoot but below a DSLR since I am still learning and can't afford a DSLR right now. So I started looking into a bunch of 12x optical zoom cameras and it is somewhat what I am looking for.

Choices so far:
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H5/B (7.2MP)

Canon PowerShot S3 IS (6MP)

Panasonic DMC-FZ7K (6MP)

Kodak Easyshare P712 (7.1MP)

I will use it for everything... still shots, action shots, scenery, close ups, etc.

I read a review that said the Sony one does well in low-light settings. But, there's a 3-second wait for the flash to charge up again.

Any help and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

Out of the 4 models you mention, my nod goes to the Canon S3. If you click on my profile, there are links for DPReview and Steve's Digicams, two of the best review sites out there.
But here's a few things to consider:
* None of those models are great for low light photography. The only point & shoot cameras that do that well are made by Fuji - and Fuji doesn't have a good mega-zoom model.
* All cameras take a few seconds to recharge the flash. Even external flashes take a few seconds, unless you invest several hundred dollars in (semi) pro flash guns with extra battery packs.
* The main benefit of a mega-zoom camera is just that... the extra zoom range. Despite the extra price, they are not more responsive than 3x zoom cameras (for action shots). As with low light photography, for that you really do need a dSLR.
So before you buy, consider saving a bit more for something like a Nikon D50 / Canon 400D.

Answer 2

I would not recommend a digital zoom because the qualiy will go way down. Only an optical zoom is a "real" zoom. For really high zoom (like 20X or more) you need to get a camcorder, not a digital camera. Keep in mind there are camcorders that will take still pictures so you'll only be missing out on compact size of a digital camera. There are expensive digital cameras with optical zoom up to about 15X, but at your price range, you'll have to settle for the 6-10X zoom you've already found.

Answer 3

I'm not a big fan of Kodak products, but honestly any of the other three would be fine.

If I had to pick a favorite, I would pick the Panasonic.

Panasonic cameras have optical image stabilizers which are far better then cameras with digital image stabilizers. This is especially true in long-zoom situations.

Another key feature is the Intelligent ISO controls, this allows even novice photographers to take great looking pictures in low light or fast motion situations.

The FZ7 also has a fast burst mode which will shoot 3 frames per second, and is very user friendly/easy to operate.

If that isn't enough, Panasonic cameras(at least the upper end models) come with a Leica lens. Lei ca is the Mercedes of lens developers/manufacturers.

Oddly enough, with all these features, my favorite is the "child" mode where you have the ability to input the date and time of a child's birth and the camera will allow you to shoot photos that show the child's age to the min. That's a great feature for parents or grandparents.(or you can use it to mess with your older relatives, this is a pic of you at 63 yrs 263 day 14 hrs and 27 mins lol)

Answer 4

I don't have the DSC-H5. I do love my Sony CyberShot DSC-H2.
6 MP, 12X zoom, image stabilizer, 1 sec delay between shots, comes with batteries and charger. Makes excelleny 8X10s when enlarged. Can be bought for about $300-. You kinda remind me of me. I bought a decent camera but didn't want to get into DSLR; and buy everything all over again because of different format than 35mm.

Answer 5

Go for the canon i have always used canon cameras and have had no trouble with them and they take a nicer picture than most of my friends cheaper cameras