| Author | Thread |
|
|
05/22/2006 11:55:16 AM · #1 |
| I am in the market for a new camera. I am rather frustrated with my camera because of the flash. The one thing I miss the most about my film camera is my flash that I could bounce off the celing indoors to get a much better photo. I currently have a Minolta Dimage G500 which I bought about 2 years ago. What I am looking for in a new camera is a hotshoe and a good optical zoom. I have my eye on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30k...but at around 500 bucks the debate is should I just up to an SLR. Trouble is I am not good at using my camera. (Pathetic I know) I don't understand how to really manually control what I have let alone put more on it. Well if anyone knows the perfect camera with hot shoe and good optical zoom for an amature that tries real had I would love some thoughts on the matter. |
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:09:28 PM · #2 |
Why not get the DMC FZ-20. Much cheaper and basically the same as the 30, with a little more MP, but the sensor size is the same I think. 12x Zoom, 2.8f all the way, and lots of manual and auto options.
The FZ-30 does not have a telescoping lens, and has threads, but I would not get the 30 even if I had a choice. The FZ-20 is a good camera to learn on and get started.
A good dSLR for you would be the Canon Rebel XT (350D). Lenses can get expensive though.
Edit: Go to Steves Digicams for reviews, and also check out the FZ7.
Message edited by author 2006-05-22 12:11:47. |
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:22:45 PM · #3 |
First of all, I can completely relate. Seriously my advice is to put your camera on "M" and force yourself to use it. If your current camera's M mode is difficult to use, the FZ models are probably much easier. I just got the FZ7 as a matter of fact (no hot-shoe is one of the main differences between it and the 20 and 30), but i have to say it's good for all-around shooting. It is extremely user-friendly and has a superb zoom. I wanted to take pics at NBA games from FAR away and had some success.
 this is one of the best as far as clarity etc. This camera does suffer from major problems at above ISO 200 (dark situations). PS: this image was about 10x zoom and I was pretty far away -I did mess with the noise and sharpness in PS.
--- I also have the D-70 SLR. If you wanna learn manual and can spend money on lenses, I would definitely get an SLR -- they are similar it seems, it just basically comes down to lenses ... which means money.
Again: USE MANUAL - the learning will come naturally and contact myself or better photogrpahers for tips. Digital is great for learning because the test images are virtually unlimited (as opposed to film).
Message edited by author 2006-05-22 12:24:49.
|
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:27:15 PM · #4 |
| I'd check out the Canon Powershot G6. I've not read extensive reviews but I started out with a G3 and loved it (and still love it, actually). It has manual controls, a hotshoe and 140mm optical zoom (4x). |
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:33:58 PM · #5 |
I will third the FZ suggestion. Great series of cameras, great lens. Only downside is the noise issue. The FZ20 and FZ30 both have hotshoes and a manual focus ring. I'm not sure how well the focus ring works, but it's there if you ever want to try and use it. The FZ20 has a constant aperature (f/2.8) lens throughout the enter 35-420mm zoom range, the FZ30 does not (it's f/2.8-3.3 or something like that). All FZ cameras also have a very good IS system, so using a slower shutter speed is more managable. All in all a very good series of cameras. You can see examples of shots taken with the FZ4 in my portfolio.
|
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:40:47 PM · #6 |
Sounds like you would be happier with the Panasonic and it is the right choice. $500 is, for the most part, the end of the costs with the P&S's. If you go to a DSLR it is just the beginning and you will likley spend in the thousands. I would go with the FZ series and see if you out grow it. If you do then think about swithing to a DSLR.
IMHO of course.
|
|
|
|
05/22/2006 12:48:14 PM · #7 |
You can get a Nikon D50 with lens for $550. I'm inclined to say consider DSLRs. :)
You can still shoot in total auto mode, it puts out solid images, and gives you room to grow. |
|
|
|
05/22/2006 01:29:55 PM · #8 |
I've got an FZ5 with a wide angle attachment lens I'm looking to sell.
Both in excellent condition.
PM me with an offer if you like.
As far as flashes go, I picked up an el cheapo (~60 bux US) Vivitar slave unit that I either hand hold or mount on the included bracket to the camera.
Works great, I'll also include the flash and bracket if interested.
My original post on this. Haven't put it on eBay yet.
//www.dpchallenge.com/forum.php?action=read&FORUM_THREAD_ID=380810 |
|
Home -
Challenges -
Community -
League -
Photos -
Cameras -
Lenses -
Learn -
Prints! -
Help -
Terms of Use -
Privacy -
Top ^
DPChallenge, and website content and design, Copyright © 2001-2024 Challenging Technologies, LLC.
All digital photo copyrights belong to the photographers and may not be used without permission.
Current Server Time: 04/25/2024 11:33:50 AM EDT.
