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What Camera to Buy

M

Milwaukee Reptiles

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Alright guys and girls, I need some help.
My Sony W1 is working alright, but I'm looking to upgrade my photo equipment to something more Prosumer/Pro than consumer. I'm looking for any suggestions/advice on particular models given the following requirements:

- Minimum 5 Megapixels
- Awesome Macro (or be able to attach a lens that will do it)
- Large Zoom (at least 10X)(or be able to attach a lens that will do it)
- External Flash Possible (with ability to disable internal flash)
- Manual settings for White balance, exposure time, shutter speed, ect.

- An interval feature would be nice, but not necessary (something that takes a photo every 5 minutes for example)
- I have a sony memory stick duo and a few SD cards, so if it will take either of those that'd be great, if not oh well.

Any ideas on what camera would work? Even better.. if you've used one that does all that, which one, what do you like about it and what don't you? Thanks!
 
Brian,

You need to consider whether you want a camera or a camera system, that is one with interchangeable lenses, etc. If you want the former, a 10x zoom will leave you with inferior glass and it's the glass that makes the image for the most part along with the CCD or CMOS sensor.

If you go with a camera system, there are several excellent manufacturers out there. Canon and Nikon are probably the most popular. I have always been a Canon guy for my film camera though I use a Leica digital with a non-interchangeable zoom lens. I like the Canon interface better but Canon vs Nikon is almost a religious question for dedicated users of both brands.

I suggest that you go to a local camera shop and rent one and then the other. Then buy the one you like from B&H in NY.
 
I bought a Fuji S3 Pro camera recently, and mated with some of the excellent Nikkor lenses it is an awsome piece of equipment.

Highly recommended!
 

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Thanks for the replies guys... I like the idea of going and renting one to figure it out first. I'll probably end up doing a "system" as you say, with the interchangable lenses and all that... I guess the only thing keeping me from doing it is the cash, I know those things get really expensive.

Rich, that camera looks huge! I guess there would be reason to keep the W1 around for vacations and family events after all.

I'll let you all know when I pick one... you'll be able to tell by the large flood of photos... lol
 
I'd like to spend less than $1000, but I know that's not really an option given current market costs, but it's a nice goal. If it's more than that I'm going to have to wait for christmas and convince someone to pay half... hehe =)
 
Then I would not settle for anything less than a nikon d70. You can get packages thru ebay or cameta camera for around that price that include everything you need to get started.
 
Would anyone consider buying a camera on ebay? Just asking as I am looking at a Canon Digital Rebel with no reserve and the bid is only at $300.
 
The last two cameras I purchased (both Fuji digitals) were off of Ebay from private parties. I was completely satisfied with both of the transactions. Your mileage may vary.
 
Matt Haines said:
Would anyone consider buying a camera on ebay? Just asking as I am looking at a Canon Digital Rebel with no reserve and the bid is only at $300.
Click to expand...
I used to sell cameras at ebay several years back (~199-2001) but gave it up. At the time there were good sellers and bad ones. If the seller is reputable (based on feedback) then you're likely to be OK. Just be sure that the item will go up greatly in the last several hours of the auction. If you do a "closed item" search you will get an idea of what it will go for.
 
I'm definately use to the last minute feeding frenzy. I am currently just trying to figure out if the rebel xt is enough of an improvement from the rebel to spend the extra money or not. I may just wait and get a package with several lenses.
 
Heck, I thought everyone used sniping programs on Ebay these days. Nearly all of the real bidding takes place within the last 20 seconds of the auction.
 
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