Need Camera Advice

[eTrain]

I'm looking into point and shoot cameras to photograph my tanks as well as other things in life. I really don't know much about cameras in general or what to consider while purchasing one. I don't think I can justify the purchase of a DSLR for the limited use that it will be getting. Basically I just want to know what to consider while looking for a camera to take good pictures of corals. What functions/specs are optimal when purchasing a point and shoot camera? I'm trying to stay under $300.

 

With little to no idea of what to look for the Sony WX350 seemed like a good choice. Any advice is much apreciated.

[jonny roks]

my first suggestion would be to choose a camera best buy offers and then ask if they have an open box. can save 100-300 dollars depending on the cameras original price. just a suggestion..

 

 

i paid 500 for a 749.99 dollar camera less then 2 weeks ago.

[jestep]

Make sure the camera supports RAW and not just jpg images. Makes post processing actually possible using lightroom or photoshop or other programs.

 

You can often find Rebel T2i's or univalent on ebay for around $300 - $350 with a decent lens. I snagged a brand new one about a year ago for around $400. There's a lot of great ~5 year old cameras that can take amazing pictures.

 

Otherwise I would definitely be going for a camera a few generations back as the price on new cameras will be significantly higher for similar specs.

[Nanofreak79]

I almost bought the new sony point and shoot. I ended up with the nikon 9600. Very nice camera with the ability for close ups and 22x zoom. Has wifi if that matters to you. Overall I'm very happy and price was about $279. There's also a 9700 as well with a 30x zoom and a few other features. That one creeps into the $350 range I think.

 

Make sure the camera supports RAW and not just jpg images. Makes post processing actually possible using lightroom or photoshop or other programs. You can often find Rebel T2i's or univalent on ebay for around $300 - $350 with a decent lens. I snagged a brand new one about a year ago for around $400. There's a lot of great ~5 year old cameras that can take amazing pictures. Otherwise I would definitely be going for a camera a few generations back as the price on new cameras will be significantly higher for similar specs.

Mine doesn't support RAW, but does take nice photos and I can still edit in Lightroom. I guess not everyone wants or needs a DSLR to take good photos.

[Gilligan]

I'm not a photographer.

 

As someone who has owned a decent point and shoot and a DSLR, I would have to recommend the DSLR for this type of photography.

 

I suppose as long as the Point and Shoot camera has some reasonable manual white balance editing options you could take some decent shots, however I wouldn't buy one though without trying it as aquarium photography seems challenging enough.

Maybe someone can upload some Point and Shoot pictures for you.

 

I think your chances of getting buyers remorse are higher with the point and shoot type camera.

 

The flexibility of interchangeable lenses and manual options make DSLRs ideal.

 

Really you are buying into a system, as you will likely keep your lenses if/when you upgrade your DSLR.

 

Canon and Nikon are very common to buy stuff for.

 

I myself am partial to Sony and have a a58 with some vintage Minolta lenses. (Minolta AF lenses going back over 20 years work with the Sony DSLR.)

While Sony lenses are not as common or are expensive at box stores, old Minolta lenses can be had for cheap at garage sales etc. Some are quite desirable. These are often overlooked because most photographers use Canon or Nikon.

 

My Sony uses a translucent prism, rather then a moving mirror which has the obvious advantage of being a smooth operator and continuous auto-focus etc. OLED viewfinder is a nice touch too.

[rolyat113]

I have the Nikon D40 and really like it. I have yet to take a GREAT picture of my tank with it, but I also haven't attempted to adjust the white balance or use a tripod. I just checked ebay and there are several on there under your budget. Might do a little research on some of the older model DSLRs. Having one would give you the option of upgrading lenses in the future.

[eTrain]

Thanks for all the help. I went with the Sony a3000 for $260 on eBay. From everything I've read and watched its a solid entry level DSLR. It doesn't have all the convenance of the higher end cameras but it is supposed to take very high quality still images. Guess I'll find out anyway.

[jestep]

That should be a killer camera.

[Gilligan]

Perfect.