How Creative Can You Be w/ Canon SD200?

[dubdub57]

I am looking to buy a camera but I am stumped. I am not sure if the SD200 has enough manual controls to satisfy a novice who wants to explore with those. I am leaning to a A520 because of all its manual stuff right now but I would love the size of the SD200.

PRICE: I am looking for something for 200 bucks or lower

SIZE: Small not ultra tiny but so it could fit into a pocket

FEATURES: 3+ MP, manual controls to explore with

GENERAL USAGE: snapshots of people as well as more creative uses

I was looking at the SD200 because its so tiny. I would like a smaller camera but it doesnt have to be ultra compact. I would use it for quick snapshots and I would also like to get really creative. I am a novice so I would like to explore mostly manual controls like shutter speeds and things like that. What kind of manual functions does the SD200 have. Is it enough to actually get creative or is it only for snapshots? Ive also been looking at the Canon A520 because of its cheap price, and lots of manual controls. I am pretty sure the A520 is small enough for me though it is rather bulky, I would really prefer the size of the SD200 but only if it has enough manual controls to actually get creative with, does it? If not, I will go for the A520.

[Rex914]

The SD200 has no manual controls to speak of with the exception of manual white balance. You'd be a lot better off with the A520 or better yet, the A610.

[dubdub57]

ok, thanks for the reply, I would love the size of the SD200, but I would rather have a camera that has manual controls. I think the A610 is a little out of my price range. Does someone have one, is it that much better then the A520?

[TampaJim]

At the risk of being stoned - I am going to suggest that you go take a look at the Sony DSC-S90. It can be purchased for under $200 "in-the-door". It comes with AA NiMH batteries and charger, it comes with 32MB of built-in memory (only 16 pics at highest res, but included), it is compact, it has a huge display on the back (2.5"), it is about as "user controllable" as they get anywhere near your price range (without sacrificing significant quality).

I love Canon and own two digital Canon cameras - but I think this might just be what you are looking for. Sony makes a nice product and I don't believe you would be disappointed.

[JTL]

The Sony DSC-90 certainly offers more creative control for the money. I have 3 Canons, but I'm not a fan of the SD200...just too many compromises...

But, your best bet for creative control, if you can only spend under $200, IMO is the Canon A520...no one can touch the specs at the price...