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View Full Version : What is a good camera for an amateur?


Daredevil
03-14-2009, 07:06 PM
My wedding is coming up in May and later in the year we will be visiting Greece. Since our cameras are at least 5 years old (point and shoot), can you guys suggest a camera to get to snap some scenic photos?

Should I get another P&S? Or something more complex?

Zurbaran1
03-14-2009, 07:34 PM
Canon Powershot G10. It's as sophisticated a camera as you want it to be. You can use it as a P&S or get creative with it. It's really a DSLR in a P&S body. Just a fantastic camera that takes amazing pictures.

Tyz1on
03-15-2009, 03:00 PM
All depends on how much you want to spend and what you want to do with it. If you want to keep it reasonable and not do to much upgrading then go for a G10 like Zurbaran said. If you want to spend a bit more and expand your lens choices then look for a Canon Xsi or other DLSR. I have an Xsi and have not regretted it for an instant. It's been fun and easy to use.

Hulk5150
03-16-2009, 12:30 AM
Hey, I'm also looking for one, too. The G10 sounds really good! What do you guys think about these 2 negative reviews? Any weight in what they say?

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Powershot-G10-Digital-Stabilized/product-reviews/B001G5ZTPY/ref=cm_cr_dp_hist_1?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&filterBy=addOneStar

rilynil
03-16-2009, 12:31 AM
Sony Cybershot cameras are all good. I've had by 5.1 megapixel camera about five years and it's awesome. When I get a new one, I'll get a newer Cybershot

vpw
03-16-2009, 05:27 AM
My 5 yr old F717 is not working anymore :( I think the image processor is fried...
Been using a p&s 9mbp lumix recently.
Anyone tried the Lumix G1? I heard great things about it, and the pricing is quite reasonable...

corythosaurus
03-17-2009, 09:22 AM
Hey, I'm also looking for one, too. The G10 sounds really good! What do you guys think about these 2 negative reviews? Any weight in what they say?

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Powershot-G10-Digital-Stabilized/product-reviews/B001G5ZTPY/ref=cm_cr_dp_hist_1?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&filterBy=addOneStar
I own the G10 and it is an excellent P&S camera, but like all P&S it has it's limitations and those limitations are in the higher ISO ranges.

However, the G10, unlike other P&Ss has a hot shoe for additional flash or triggers for off camera flash.

A very versatile camera.

Here is an un-scientific test.

All taken with the Canon G10 under standard flourescent lighting; all handheld. No PP done except for cropping.

Settings - Macro Setting, 6.1mm Focal Length, f/2.8, no flash.

ISO 200 - 1/3 Second Shutter
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0005-1.jpg

ISO 400 - 1/6 Second Shutter
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0006.jpg

ISO 800 - 1/13 Second Shutter
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0007.jpg

ISO 1600 - 1/25 Second Shutter
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0008-1.jpg

Hulk5150
03-18-2009, 10:11 PM
Awesome! Thank you so much!

IronLungs31
03-20-2009, 11:04 AM
I must thank you guys a well I have learned a lot about photos, and setting just reading threads like these. You guy do, and have done the board a great service with thread like these.
Just wondering I have a Kodak Z812 IS 8.1 MP.
Is this and okay camera or should I be the market for something better? I have post a few pics that I have taking with this camera. I really would appreciate the help that anyone would be gracious enough to share.

A basic shot 2' or 3' ft away outside, no flash, and some shaded light.
http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/IronLungs31/100_3044.jpg

This shot was taking for about 8' to 9' ft away. Inside
http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/IronLungs31/100_3013.jpg

In my collection room with just the blinds open and flash. 2' 3" ft. away.

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/IronLungs31/TerrellDavisCloseUpcopy.jpg

Outside, no flash 6" to 8" in away

http://i486.photobucket.com/albums/rr221/IronLungs31/100_3217.jpg

I think the only really problem that I'm having is that I really want get closer shot like of Venom touge, but when I try I can't get a real clear shot. I hope this helps explain where I'm coming from and the help I'm seeking.

corythosaurus
03-20-2009, 11:22 AM
IronLungs here is a good review....

http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=3209

This is on the lower end of digital cameras but looks like it has several features that will allow you to "control" the photograph.

Understanding ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speeds and how they relate will go a long way to capturing better photos.

Worst case: read the manual, I always end up there. :)

Mandragora
03-20-2009, 11:22 AM
Iron Lungs, I don't know if your model has a Macro setting or not, but that's what you want to look into for the close up shots.

it looks like you're getting some nice images out of that camera :thumbs2:

corythosaurus
03-20-2009, 11:37 AM
Iron Lungs, I don't know if your model has a Macro setting or not, but that's what you want to look into for the close up shots.

it looks like you're getting some nice images out of that camera :thumbs2:All cameras have a minimal focal distance; for the Kodak Z812....

"Close-ups are very sharp, but the minimum focusing distance is 4.7 inches/12 centimeters (at the wide angle end of the zoom)"

Not sure if this camera has a Macro setting or not.

IronLungs31
03-20-2009, 11:45 AM
Iron Lungs, I don't know if your model has a Macro setting or not, but that's what you want to look into for the close up shots.

it looks like you're getting some nice images out of that camera :thumbs2:

I was looking and I don't see a Macro setting on this camera. I will be pulling out the manual today for sure.

IronLungs31
03-20-2009, 11:50 AM
All cameras have a minimal focal distance; for the Kodak Z812....

"Close-ups are very sharp, but the minimum focusing distance is 4.7 inches/12 centimeters (at the wide angle end of the zoom)"

Not sure if this camera has a Macro setting or not.

What camera are out there with this Macro setting I should be looking for? Plese post the link so that I know what I'm looking for.

Thanks...

corythosaurus
03-20-2009, 12:22 PM
What camera are out there with this Macro setting I should be looking for? Plese post the link so that I know what I'm looking for.

Thanks...If you what to do Macro photography, you'll want to look at the camera's minimum focal length.

For instance, the Canon G10 has a minimum focal length of 6.1 millimeters.

Taken about 6 inches from my morning fix:
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0001.jpg

And taken about 1/2" from the cup:
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc16/corythosaurus/IMG_0002.jpg

IronLungs31
03-20-2009, 12:45 PM
Cory you have been a big help this moring, and I will now start the hunt for some new cameras. I like the one that I have now just need something a little different, as well read up on how to control lighting.

Sweet!

Thanks to all that has put in their knowledge of the photo game.

Daredevil
04-01-2009, 02:21 AM
How do you guys feel about the Nikon D40?

mongobredboy
04-01-2009, 06:10 AM
you might want to consider, panasonic lumix LX3

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicdmclx3/

speedracer
04-06-2009, 04:22 AM
Lumix LX3 is an awesome camera..very highly recommended..=)

Zurbaran1
04-06-2009, 01:34 PM
How do you guys feel about the Nikon D40?

Canon all the way for me: G7, G10, 40D and soon the awesome 5D Mark ii

xnavyguy
04-06-2009, 02:57 PM
How do you guys feel about the Nikon D40?


The Nikon D40 is a nice entry level DSLR. For a few dollars more I would suggest the D60. It's a 10.2 MP rather than the 6.1 MP on the D40. There are also a few more nice features on the D60 as well that makes the 100 dollar difference well worth it. Crutchfield has a nice D60 kit with a 18-55MM VR (vibration reduction) lens right now for about $550. You may be able to find it cheaper at other places.

I own a Nikon D40X (10.1 MP) camera as my backup and a D300 (12.3 MP) as my main shooter with a lot of various lenses from macro to large zoom depending on my subjects. I've never had any problems with my Nikons and have great things to say about them.

Bottom line - If you stick with the larger brand name cameras such as Nikon, Canon, Pentax, etc... you can't go wrong. I suggest getting a camera that will fit your current needs but that can also handle your needs in the future should they change.

jsnchrry
04-10-2009, 04:01 AM
i need to get a camera, what is good