Good digital camera for a beginner to slightly more experienced amateur?

Question

Hi,

I am just starting to get into photography as a hobby and I want a digital camera that will be suitable for me to start off with. I wanted to get 8+ optical zoom, and I have been told that 6 megapixels is more than enough, but can't decide on a specific camera, as I can't be sure if they have enough manual controls. Given that I want to spend $300 can anyone reccomend a couple of cameras to look at, or avoid?

Answer 1

Well, for anyone really interested in photography I recommend a digital SLR or a manual SLR film camera, which many beginning photography courses require.

The problem with DSLRs is price, with starting models like the Nikon D40 closer to $500. Maybe check Ebay for used ones- for example a 6 megapixel DSLR that's a year old. This may still be too expensive, but I figured it's an option worth mentioning.

A 35mm camera like the Pentax K1000 or Nikon FM2 is perfect for learning- I'd recommend something like that over a $300 point-and-shoot digital camera.

Check out www.dpreview.com to get reviews and information on digital cameras in every price range, and compare models. Good luck!

I've linked a couple of example Ebay auctions along with an excellent article by Ken Rockwell, below:

Answer 2

All of the major brands are good. Choose a brand that appeals to you. Then you have to think about getting a spare battery, what size memory card, if you want an extended warranty, how much you can afford, what size zoom, if you want manual controls, the size of the camera, finding a reliable place to purchase it, and the list goes on and on and on.......

The first thing to realize is that almost any digital camera will take good pictures. If more people would read the manual more than once, they would be able to take better pictures. Usually, the person assumes it is the camera when it could be them not knowing exactly what to do. Just give yourself more photographic knowledge by doing more reading on the internet.

I really believe buying a camera is an individual choice.
The person needs to read alot of reviews on cameras so they can decide on the features that they really want and need.
Go to the store and hold them so you can see if they feel comfortable in your hands. If possible, take some pictures in the store to check the quality of the pictures.
I can only give a suggestion of what to look for in a new digital camera.
Good Luck

my suggestion
go to yahoo shopping
digital cameras
digital camera GUIDE
be sure to check titles on the left side
the guide should answer your questions

Answer 3

Canon make good cameras.

If you want 8x optical zoom or more, I think you'll be good with a Powershot S5 IS. Its slightly more expensive than what your budget allow at the moment, but I think it fits your profile best. Not too small, 12x optical zoom, 8 megapixel and there's some similarities in control to an SRL camera - something you'll find to be a benefit when you eventually upgrade your camera.

or if you want something cheaper, a Canon Powershot A570 should be just good for you.

Avoid Polaroid, and stick with the bigger brand. Canon and Nikon make the best camera out there. Olympus, Pentax and Sony are good also. If you shoot a lot in low light condition, get a Fuji.

Answer 4

canon A610
It is a very easy to use camera. It takes wonderful pictures. there are enough advanced features to keep you learning and improving your skills. It is also great to just pick up and use right off the bat. The batteries are normal AA type. You should use good rechargeables for the longest battery life. you can use regular AAs but they go dead pretty quick. The camera has full sound with it's movie mode.
Just over all a great camera.
I use one for record and document photography im my job. I take about 600 to 1000 pictures a day with mine. It is very durable and always produces excellent quality images. This great litle camera has been performing for me every day at that work pace for over a year now.
I have owned 4 other digital cameras but none has been as reliable and produced as consistent results as this one. Check out the other Canon A series cameras too. I am upgrading to the A650 at the end of this year. The A610 is now on the way out... you can find them if you search retail outlets though. the current model similar to it is the Canon A630.

Answer 5

If you learned how to shoot a 35mm SLR and develop film etc; you may quickly out grow a point and shoot digital. The advantage of a good DSLR is that it has your full auto settings and most of the advanced settings as well. I would recommend a Cannon Rebel T1i or perhaps the Nikon D3000. I have the T1i and I am happy with it.

Answer 6

Sony dsc-h2. Some places like Best Buy and Office Depot (not online) are selling them for around $200 - $300.

Answer 7

for a starter oviod as many extra buttons there is a simply good one will be the best when i got my frisy i had a very very simple one then got a little beter one then a good one find something thats simple to use

Answer 8

Make sure it has a tripod mount. Using a rechargeable lithium-ion battery is also nice.