@eyebrows hahaha my dad is looking to get me a camera because our family camera doesn't have a good focus and all the pics are blurry. Our budget is flexible, but we want nothing over 500 $
@esha you can get a nice starter DSLR like a Nikon D3100 for around $500. I'm sure there's a comparable camera in the Canon family as well. :) How exciting for you!
Unless you're planning on going professional and have a lot of money to spend. I'd suggest a Sony Alpha 390 if you're looking for a digital SLR. They are around $450 - $500 and are a great quality camera for thousands less in price. This is what I purchased in May and I've not regretted it a moment. Also, as you progress, additional lenses that are compatible can be less expensive than other brands.
If you're looking for a point & shoot or a bridge camera I can't help you there (except I hated the Kodak Easyshare I once had).
@esha With a DSLR you will need to consider a lens and that could easily drive up the price.
When I am not using my DSLR, I use a Canon G12. There are a lot of good choices out there, though. I am excited for you!
@esha I'd agree with @herussell here. I own a Sony A390 and I adore it, got it in January and I'm approaching picture number 10,000 with it. It's easy to use and well priced andas for picture quality you can browse through my 365 (which is months behind and not that inspiring I know but it'll give you an idea). The Sony brand lenses can be a bit pricey, but as most of the old Minolta lenses fit it too, you can pick up really cheap alternatives on eBay, as well as some Sigma lenses
Any of the Nikon coolpics are good cameras...I'm currently using the L120, it's got a lot of different settings to play around with, decent zoom, and so far (for me anyway) it takes pretty great pictures. and only costs about $280
For a family camera, I would chose a point and shoot camera.
Family cameras go everywhere. You can even get waterproof cameras. Alot of them are also good quality pictures. A slr camera has to be taken apart , put a different lense on , depending on what your shooting. I switch mostly between two lenses.
But I am a mom of a 12 year old and I don't let my son have my camera too long. Its expensive enough, that you can't run out and replace even if you only spend 500.00 for a camera thats alot. I'd rather you get a good point and shoot, with a video feature and timer. the whole family will enjoy it. My SLR does not have a timer, does not have a video, and its a much bigger duffle to carry around with ya.
My advice would be to go to a camera store where they let you handle the cameras. You need one that feels comfortable in your hands, that will do what you want . I'm sure you'll find one that fits your budget - happy shopping!
I have the Canon Powershot SX230 and LOVE LOVE LOVE it! Its can be easily taken places but takes awesome pictures! & has great zoom! Highly reccomend it! LOVE IT.
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If you're looking for a point & shoot or a bridge camera I can't help you there (except I hated the Kodak Easyshare I once had).
When I am not using my DSLR, I use a Canon G12. There are a lot of good choices out there, though. I am excited for you!
@alexgdowding Thanks!! your pics are great!!
Fry's have great prices too if you live in a state that has Fry's
Family cameras go everywhere. You can even get waterproof cameras. Alot of them are also good quality pictures. A slr camera has to be taken apart , put a different lense on , depending on what your shooting. I switch mostly between two lenses.
But I am a mom of a 12 year old and I don't let my son have my camera too long. Its expensive enough, that you can't run out and replace even if you only spend 500.00 for a camera thats alot. I'd rather you get a good point and shoot, with a video feature and timer. the whole family will enjoy it. My SLR does not have a timer, does not have a video, and its a much bigger duffle to carry around with ya.