Camera

[dippy_dumbo]

I've recently decided that I'd like to invest in a high-quality camera. I'm only 17 years of age and am currently the 'proud' owner of a very bad camera, and so as you can probably guess, I have absolutely no idea what I'm talking about when it comes to cameras.

I'd like very high-quality one if possible, and a well-respected one, again, if possible. I'm willing to spend up to �300-�400 and obviously any below that price would be very welcome!

I've attempted to do a bit of research so far and looked at cameras such as the Nikon D50 and the Canon Powershot S3 IS, which to me, look good, but I honestly don't know if that's just because I don't know what I'm talking about, or if they really are genuinely good cameras.

So, was just wondering if anyone could lend me a bit of help on the matter? All suggestions are welcome :]

Thanks in advance x

[ianmunt]

I'm considering an Olympus SP550UZ.
It has a fantastic zoom range coupled with an anti shake mechanism (vital for zoom shots) and only draw back seems to be slightly slow time lapse between pressing the shutter and the photo actually being taken.Only a problem if you expect to take lots of action shots.Best price when I last checked was Kamera Altrincham Ltd SP550UZ inc Free case �289.99

[fo3nix]

You don't mention what you want it for.

Are you wanting a good camera for taking pictures of your friends and general point-and-click usage, or are you wanting to get more into the artistic side of photography and experiment with different things?

We need to know what you want to do with it, before recommending any particular camera.

[dippy_dumbo]

Well it would ideally be so I could experiment a bit with photography etc. but would also be used for general photo-taking and so on.

[fo3nix]

If you think you're going to want to experiment and get into photography, then definitely go for an SLR, with changeable lenses. These are too bulky to quickly grab and take surprise shots with though. If so, I'd recommend the Canon 350D

If you are content to play with some manual controls but be limited by the features of a smaller camera (regardless of what technology they fit into it, they're constrained by certain laws of physics), then go for an advanced compact camera. If so, I'd recommend the Casio EX-Z850 or Canon SD850.

Another type of camera that's becoming popular is for those that want more of the SLR features, with larger zooms and more controls, without the hassle that a SLR brings (changing lenses, etc.). These mega-zoom cameras, such as many in the Panasonic range, are very good too.

You're best to try them out first, and see which one you'd be happy with, in terms of size, and ability. A compact will never give you the range of playfulness that an SLR can bring, but it may well be enough for you, especially if you're just starting out.