Digital Camera advice needed

[sashimi]

Thanks, you two - but, I'm more than aware of websites and forums with reviews, etc. The problem is that there are too many of them, and many are too full of information to be useful. Info overload. That's the problem with these gadget expert websites, they are too informative, detailing every little thing, 80% of which I have no time to read, 50% of which I don't understand or care for...


So to cut a long story short, I need a personalized recommendation for a camera model (or two). : ) That's why I specifically posted here, hoping to find a fellow parent who can share a recommendation based on his/her personal use of a camera for family purposes.

[s00s_dad]

Personally I still prefer Canon. Currently I am using my old IXUS 800IS and I am quite happy with the photo quality.

Recently my colleague had bought the IXUS 95IS and I find the picture are quite sharp too. It cost about $300+. You may consider it.

[super_dad]

check out the Lumix range. They are quite popular and are easy to use. However, may be a bit out of the price range.

[nightsky87]

Panasonic Lumix FX series. One of the better PnS cameras out there. I think that price range should be able to get the FX36, of which the more important and relevant features include


Panasonic Intelligent Auto, IA (anti shake),
25mm wide lens (great for party/group shots)
HD video recording 16:9 720p (woohoo!)

[hquek]

Hi Sashimi,


I would recommend Panasonic TZ series. it’s a bit bulky, but has very good optical zoom and it is wide range (more things in the picture).

I’m using TZ3, happy with it but of course will take the next chance to upgrade to the later models.

Long winded details below. Have fun with your purchase!

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The following are very important to me to consider (in the order provided):
1. Price
2. Bulkiness
3. Zoom (look for optical zoom, digital no use)
4. Anti shake (my hands always tremble)
5. Low light
6. Video zooming (some don’t allow you to zoom when you are recording video, quite sian when recording child’s actions/performances).

[sashimi]

Hey thanks a lot everyone - I already bought the camera.


Panasonic is always high on my list as it is a brand I have absolute trust in, but most of the models that fit my needs were way over my budget. Including the LXes, the FX38 (which is now obsolete I guess, after the other day's big advert for the FX48).

If I found a Panasonic (was also considering Canon) that was within budget, its functions would pale in comparison to the camera I finally bought.

(Incidently as a busy family man I'm not at all into running around looking for the best deals, I really hate doing that these days.)

So anyway, I settled for the Casio Exilim Z300 - it was $399 at Harvey Norman, had a lot of features dedicated to capturing family pics and moving kids, for touristy needs and was essentially a point-and-shoot too. 28mm wide angle, 4x optical zoom, etc. - really great set of features for <400.

[nightsky87]

congrats on your new purchase! I think at the end of the day, what counts is the timeless moments captured in the camera that's important. Black cat white cat, can catch mice is a good cat, no? :lol:

[JHJC]

sashimi:

Hey thanks a lot everyone - I already bought the camera.


Panasonic is always high on my list as it is a brand I have absolute trust in, but most of the models that fit my needs were way over my budget. Including the LXes, the FX38 (which is now obsolete I guess, after the other day's big advert for the FX48).

If I found a Panasonic (was also considering Canon) that was within budget, its functions would pale in comparison to the camera I finally bought.

(Incidently as a busy family man I'm not at all into running around looking for the best deals, I really hate doing that these days.)

So anyway, I settled for the Casio Exilim Z300 - it was $399 at Harvey Norman, had a lot of features dedicated to capturing family pics and moving kids, for touristy needs and was essentially a point-and-shoot too. 28mm wide angle, 4x optical zoom, etc. - really great set of features for <400.

Hi Sashimi
i never realise how cool a Casio Exilim camera was till i borrow one from my sister. I went ahead to get one 7.2 MP that cost me abt $800 more than 4 years. It is still serving me well.. its compact and always in my handbag, i will capture or video moments..of my children,.... it is thus far one of my best investment!

[sashimi]

Thanks for the show of support! I was actually a bit concerned that, when I searched around local forums and gadget sites, Casio had very little mention at all. Ultimately I figured it was because your typical brand-conscious sg buyer focuses only on those few well-marketed brands (like mobiles and Nokia).

[mother_teresa]

i do prefer leica lenses…there’s nothing like it…and optical zoom is impt as digital zoom makes images blur