Journal Engineer-Poet's Journal: Cameras 3
I looked at cameras at the local store and was taken by two: the Fujifilm S5200 (on clearance at $255) and the Canon Powershot S3 IS at $350.
After checking the specs on-line, I think I am going for the Canon. The Fujifilm may have slightly better color rendition and a faster sensor (ISO 1600 to the Canon's 800), but the Canon has a better optical zoom, image stabilization, stereo microphones, USB 2.0 interface and it's more compact. The 5.2 vs. 6.1 megapixel is close to a wash.
I have seen the Canon priced on-line at about $300. Any better suggestions?
Digital SLR (Score:2)
For the size and bulk you might as well go the full DSLR route. Otherwise get something that fits easily in a pocket (say the A540)
DSLR is outside my budget (Score:2)
There are a couple advantages of the bulk: it allows a much faster lens than a compact, and it fits my (large) hands.
Re: (Score:2)
I don't do enough photography to want to spend that much anyway, and then I'd need a pile of lenses.
Well just pointing out that a basic DSLR kit is getting pretty cheap now days. You don't need the pile of lenses unless you want it. Even with a relatively cheap lens covering the field of view you are interested in you'll get better results than with an all-in-one type camera.
(BTW huge complaints from a co-worker who bought an S3 about shutter lag, he bought a DSLR and was much happier)
There are a couple advantages of the bulk: it allows a much faster lens than a compact, and it fits my (large) hands.
True on the lens, some compacts have decent fast lenses (though small sensors). I've got big hands too and I haven't rea