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Post by muzicfreak on Apr 20, 2005 12:12:14 GMT -5
Whats up everyone.. Well i have been a long term film fan and never thought i would want to change over.. But digital is just going to be more convinent than lugging 50 rolls of film around.. I will be traveling in europe for a month then off to NZ/Aussie land for 10 months.. So i am going to need a nice digital camera that is pocket size.. I'm looking for something that will capture every type of picture on a long trip..<not being very specific i know> and can house a memory card that can hold tons of pictures.. I'm looking in the price range of 150-300 dollars.. If anyone has any ideas or opinion on their cameras i would love to hear any suggestions!
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Post by Eagle on Apr 20, 2005 13:35:31 GMT -5
Another convert! Before too long, perhaps everyone here will be on the digital "bandwagon" (maybe even Dustoffmom???). Check some of the previous posts on this Board with regard to Digital Cameras, as there's lots of information already listed on this subject. I suspect you might have to allocate more funds for this purchase though, as you're going to need some accessory devices as well. The Camera is only part of the purchase. There's also Memory Cards, Batteries, a good quality case, etc. If you want portable photo storage while travelling, that's another expense (Portable Hard Drive or Portable CD Burner). That's not a necessity though, as there are increasing numbers of photo shops or net cafes where you can get photos "burned". This allows the memory cards to be erased for re-use. I'm partial to Canon or Nikon products, but most of the big manufacturers are producing a good quality product now. I try to stay away from Sony products, as they use those goofy Memory Sticks, which are generally quite a bit more expensive than other memory formats. My Camera uses CF cards, and these are about the most cost effective, and have the largest capacities. If the Camera is capable of using both Type I & Type II CF cards, there's also the option of using the 4GB Microdrives. Have a look around in your local stores to see what's available. If you find a model that you're interested in, check it on www.dpreview.com or www.steves-digicams.com as they have some excellent reviews (there are lots of other sites too, but those two come to mind). Check the forums on those sites also, as I got a lot of useful information from other users of the Camera I selected. Some things to watch out for -- how well the camera handles white balance issues, "purple fringing", flash effectiveness, auto focus speed and "shutter lag". On dpreview, look for the coveted "Highly Recommended" tag in the conclusion section. With the budget that you have allocated, you're probably looking at a 4-5 MP Camera with 3-4X zoom and built-in flash. This will give you fairly good resolution, and ability for enlargements if you choose. It is possible to add extra lenses, filters, flashes, etc. to the small "Point & Shoot" Cameras, but this is often a bit awkward as external adapters are needed. With the Canon line (which I'm more familiar with), you have three "lines" to choose from -- the "A" line, the mid-range S-400/500 line and the high-end S-60/70 line (assuming you're not interested in the DSLR's which are a lot more expensive). One other thing to consider is how many / few controls you prefer? Do you want a Camera that's completely automatic, or would you prefer the option of changing shutter speed, aperature, etc.? I chose a Camera (Canon S-50) that has both automatic features as well as extensive manual controls, so I've got the flexibility to "grow" as my abilities improve. I'm somewhat limited by the weak 3x zoom, but that was a compromise as I wanted a Camera that is easy to carry (I'm more likely to have it with me when a photo op appears!). There is definetely a learning curve with digicams, so make sure you become familiar with the Camera well before you leave on your trip. I thought I was a die hard film fanatic also, but I've been very surprised at how quickly the Digital Camera has replaced film as my primary Camera. On a trip to Portland and Seattle last week, I took both types of Cameras but the film model remained in the Backpack the whole trip. On my trip to the U.K. last year, I found that I initially started out using both Cameras but by the end I was using Digital almost exclusively. The ability to re-take less-than-perfect photos is awesome, and I found the low light capabilities to be excellent also (especially as I had the ability to change the settings if needed). With Digital you will also avoid the usual problems with taking film through airport X-Ray scanners. I don't believe Memory Cards are affected by these (they're also a lot less bulky to pack around!). One final item to mention is the type of batteries. Some people select a Camera that uses "AA" rechargeables. The primary logic is that they will be able to use AA alkaline batteries in an "emergency". This is somewhat flawed logic, as in reality alkaline batteries are very ineffective in digi-cams due to their discharge curve. I don't believe it makes any difference - choose a Camera that fits your needs and don't worry about what type of batteries it uses. My Camera uses the "proprietary" Lithium Ion batteries, and I've never had a problem with these (I carry three batteries when travelling). One very important thing to consider though, especially as you're going to be travelling, is to MAKE SURE the Charger supplied with your Camera is capable of operation on 100-240 VAC! I believe the chargers supplied with Canon Cameras have this feature, but this is not true with all cameras sold in North America. You will still need Plug Adapters specific to the country you're visiting, but with a "world" charger at least you won't have to worry about voltage converters. Good luck with your Camera purchase! Hope this info is some help. Cheers!!! |
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Post by muzicfreak on Apr 21, 2005 12:02:40 GMT -5
Eagle your crazy:) I love it! Thanks for all the information i will check out those websites and start looking in the forums! Thanks so much again:) I will keep you updated on my purchase!
cheers
Gary
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Post by Eagle on Apr 23, 2005 17:59:53 GMT -5
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Post by noelle lawrence on May 31, 2005 15:59:44 GMT -5
one camera that i recomend is the Olympus C-765, it is a little bigger that your itty bitty digital camera but that is because it has a 10X optical zoom, i think it costs around $350 and can be purchased at circtuit city, you can also purchase spare batteries for really cheap on ebay(i bought some but havent checked if they work on not yet though) but it is a great camera that takes awesome pictures, especially if you are looking for something that can take good photography type pictures, example: i took a picture of a flower and it not only captured the rain drop on the flower, but also the reflection in that rain drop. So far my only complaint is that it is a little bigger than i would like, but as for quality of pictures for a good price I havent found better.
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Post by muzicfreak on Jun 21, 2005 13:44:28 GMT -5
Well after quick and long drawn out thought about the digital camara... Plus a little finanical hardship.. Today i have decided to finally purchase one! Woohoo I have gone with the last posting of Noelle and go with the Olympus C-765. This looks perfect for what i am trying to do:) I am very happy with the suggestions from all! When I get back from Germany and Greece you all will be the first to see the pics!
cheers
Gary
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Post by Eagle on Jun 21, 2005 15:35:41 GMT -5
muzicfreak, before you make the final "plunge" and buy a Camera, you might want to also have a look at the new Canon S2-IS, which has just been introduced. I haven't seen any detailed reviews yet, but so far the user comments have been outstanding! It has a 12x optical zoom with an image stabliized lens (which is extremely important when using longer zoom ranges!). It also has stereo recording capability, and the ability to take a "snap" while using the video mode. Unfortunatly, it is more expensive than the other model you were considering. You might check the Canon Forum at www.dpreview.com to see some of the comments. The camera buffs have been waiting for this model for months, and from what I've heard so far it doesn't disappoint! Cheers!!!
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Post by LHR02 on Jun 21, 2005 15:38:47 GMT -5
Eagle...how do you always know the latest techno info?  Are you sure you actually work anywhere? You must spend 18 hours a day reading gadget forums!  I repeat myself...you are such a valued member of this forum! And no, Dustoffmom is surely NOT going digital anytime in the near future.  I love my film and the expectations. ging |
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Post by Libby on Jun 22, 2005 18:24:42 GMT -5
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Post by Eagle on Jun 23, 2005 0:30:06 GMT -5
Libby, another convert to the Digital realm!!! Perhaps one of these days Dustoffmom will make the switch (although I suspect it will be a snowy day in August in South Florida before that ever happens!!!). I had a look at the links you provided for the Pentax S5i, and it looks like a good Camera. However, my advice would be to carefully assess your needs, and not limit yourself to that particular model. The S5i was introduced in August 2004, so it's almost a year old and in the digital Camera world that's significant as technology has advanced a lot since then. I suspect it will be discontinued soon? One of the reviews stated "On the downside the image quality is good, but not great, the low light focus is a little hit and miss (though better than you'd expect given the lack of an illuminator) and the LCD can be difficult to see in dim conditions. That all said, my only serious problem with the Optio S5i was the poor shot-to-shot performance and unimpressive burst mode". It's not exactly a "raving endorsement", but still not too bad. You would have to read the entire review to get a balanced view of these comments. The S5i was given the "Recommended" rating, rather than the more prestigious "Highly Recommended". I tend to approach Camera purchases by dividing these into three categores: > "standard" Point & Shoot - typically with 3-5x optical zoom plus some digital zoom, small flash, sometimes focus assist light for night shooting, usually no ability to attach external Flash unit or Filters, but very easy to carry (which is one of their best attributes). Some of these are only capable of "auto" operation, some are equipped with a full range of auto & manual controls and some pre-set "scene" modes. Examples of these are the S5i that you mentioned, the Canon S-70, etc. > "monster Zoom" Cameras such as the Canon S2-IS that I mentioned earlier, the Panasonic FZ5, etc. These are a bit larger but provide the capability of very long zoom ranges; it's very important to have an image stablized zoom, as at the longer zoom ranges any slight movement can produce significant "blurring" in the image. Some of these have a full range of auto and manual controls as well as scene modes and movie modes, some are a bit "limited". > Digital Single Lens Reflex (dSLR) Cameras - these are usually the largest and heaviest, but also provide the most versatility and often the best image quality (usually because these have better lenses & sensors, and a wider variety of lenses for any occasion). As might be expected, these are also the most expensive (especially when you start adding "glass" to your kit - some of the Pro "L" series Canon Lenses start at US$7,000!!!). Examples of these are the Canon 350D (AKA Digital Rebel), the coveted EOS-20D (which is probably more of a semi-professional model) and the Nikon D70S (which is an updated version of the D70). These are not as easy to carry around, and therefore are not as easy to travel with (there's probably a greater "worry factor" also, with regard to theft and other perils). The size & weight factors are the main reason I've been travelling with a P&S Camera up until now, however I'm intending to go the dSLR route before my next trip, and will use that in conjunction with the P&S (which is more likely to be with me at most times). Not quite sure how I'm going to fit the dSLR, Lenses and other kit into my Backpack, but I'm working on it? Some people choose a Camera based on what type of Batteries it uses (AA or Li-Ion). IMO this is not something to worry about -- choose the best Camera for your needs and just adapt to whichever type of Batteries it uses. One thing that IS important is the ability to charge the Battery outside the Camera with a separate Charger. Some Cameras only provide for charging with the Battery in the Camera, which means you can't put one battery on charge and continue using the Camera -- that's a "goofy" design IMO and I would never buy a Camera like that. Another very important aspect of Battery Chargers for us travellers, is a World Charger, which can be used on North American or European electrical systems without a Voltage Converter (however a Plug Adapter will stil be required). The Charger supplied with my Canon S-50 is a "world charger", and is designed for travel as it is very small & light and has folding pins. Keep in mind that whichever Camera you buy, you will have to budget for Memory Cards, spare Batteries and a good Case. Give some thought on which format of Memory Cards to use -- Compact Flash and SD are about the least expensive these days, XD is a bit more expensive and Memory Stick format (exclusive to Sony) is often the MOST expensive. You will also have to give some thought on how you're going to deal with "emptying" the Memory Cards while travelling (that's been well covered on this Board, so check some of the other Posts in the "Camera" section), and how you're going to archive your photos (don't rely just on the hard drive in your computer, as they DO fail on occasion; CD's are not infallible either). As you can probably tell, I'm a big fan of Canon Cameras. I really like the Digic chip, Isaps technology, white balance settings and the general design features (check www.powershot.com for more information on these). I suppose it was a logical progression for me, as I used Canon models when shooting 35mm format. To help with your decision making, you might also have a look at www.imaging-resource.com/WB/WB.HTM which is a good reference site to help choose a Digital Camera. Also have a look at the Review of the S5i at www.dpreview.com as it is a very concise and detailed review (which is normal for dpreview). Try out several different models in the stores, to see which one "feels right" for you. Many stores often have sample pictures from various Cameras, so have a look at those also. Hope I haven't included too much information? Good luck with your decision! Cheers!!
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Post by MuvverRussia on Jun 23, 2005 6:50:10 GMT -5
The Pentax Optios aren't bad cameras. I've got quite an old Optio430RS and it's fine for what I need. Mine has a separate charger and takes Li-ion batteries, so it's always good to go.
In terms of buying older models, I'd certainly consider them. You can often get really good deals which makes up for the fact that the camera isn't as technologically advanced.
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Post by Libby on Jun 23, 2005 9:19:49 GMT -5
I bought a Digitial camera 5 or 6 years ago, paid nearly $600 for it and used it only a handfull of times. It was horrible! It took great pictures, but it ate batteries like a hog and could only store on it's 4mb card (the biggest available at the time) 16 pictures on "good" quality. That was the top of the line at the time and I promised myself I wouldn't be suckered into spending that type of money again on something I wouldn't really use. So, all those fancy features and stuff doesn't really turn me on. I"m not even a big fan of Zoom. If I wanted that I'd use my SLR I want something that works and takes good pictures (Doesn't have to be amazing pictures, I use my Minolta if I need that). Edited to add: I visited another Camera shop and you were right Eagle, the S5i has been discontinued. It's been replaced with the S5n for the same price. Thats proven to be harder to find reviews for. *sigh* I hate trying to decide on stuff like this. |
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Post by muzicfreak on Jun 23, 2005 12:41:58 GMT -5
Well Eagle i have to agree with everyone else:) you are a mad man in the digital world! That is awesome:) Thanks again for your help i checked out the Canon it looks really nice but out of my price range.. Plus i put my order in last night i was over zealous! The Olympus C-765 looks like a great camera.. I saw nothing but good reviews and i bought it plus an extra battery, 516 mb card<how many pics can fit on one of these babies?> and a warranty for 370 dollars. Now i just need a battery charger and i will be in good spirits of the digital world!
cheers
Gary
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Post by Eagle on Jun 24, 2005 14:52:49 GMT -5
Gary, glad to see you've now bought a Camera. With regard to the Memory Card you bought, this is probably a 512 MB Card as memory is expressed in terms of 128/ 256 / 512 / 1024 MB due to issues which go back to the early origins of computer memory.
In terms of how many photos it can "hold", this will depend on which resolution and / or compression you select at the time you take the photos. According to the spec's I was looking at, the C765 is a 4 MP Camera and is capable of about 185 images at "SHQ" setting using a 512 MB XD Card, and 44 images if using TIFF format (which is basically like a "digital negative" and allow the most post-processing flexibility, but also creates the largest file sizes - Canon uses something similar called "RAW"). File sizes are related to the size of the image sensor, so 5 MP images will take up a bit more memory space (and consequently you would be able to fit fewer of them on each memory card than with a 4 MP Camera).
The Battery Charger should be supplied with the Camera, as it uses proprietary Li-Ion Batteries, so you won't have to worry about this to be "in good spirits of the digital world".
Happy shooting! Have fun!
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Post by Libby on Jun 25, 2005 12:13:21 GMT -5
Well Eagle...I made the plunge I did it again! I bought a digi camera. I went with the Pentax Optio s5n. It's very small, but I had the guy develop a few pictures I took and they look really good. I'm happy, but I am suffering some buyers remourse. I do that all the time. |
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Are you sure you actually work anywhere? You must spend 18 hours a day reading gadget forums! 
I love my film and the expectations. 
