Dilemma

[poison.pen]

Ok, I think we get this all the time.
I want a good camera. Been looking at 2 completely different types. Compact cameras like Canon IXUS are so handy and I could see myself taking them out everyday and get loads of memories out of them. Yet the toy-like nature of the camera just puts me off as well as the lack of control.

On the other hand, higher specs cameras like Fujifilm FinePix S5200 offers so much more possibilities and I must admit is a more exciting purchase, not to mention a more bearable price tag. Yet, it would be so bulky to carry them all around. Love the grip though.

I was just wondering if there are camera offering the best of both worlds. I guess I would have to compromise on the specs, but is there a pocket camera that have enough controls for me to play with? I've used Nikon 995 before and it was great for controls, not so keen on the size though.

One gadget that I find intriguing is the new Kodak V570 dual lens. It's out today and I'm trying to control mydself from impulse buying.

Any suggestions?

[JTL]

Ok, I think we get this all the time.
I want a good camera. Been looking at 2 completely different types. Compact cameras like Canon IXUS are so handy and I could see myself taking them out everyday and get loads of memories out of them. Yet the toy-like nature of the camera just puts me off as well as the lack of control.

On the other hand, higher specs cameras like Fujifilm FinePix S5200 offers so much more possibilities and I must admit is a more exciting purchase, not to mention a more bearable price tag. Yet, it would be so bulky to carry them all around. Love the grip though.

I was just wondering if there are camera offering the best of both worlds. I guess I would have to compromise on the specs, but is there a pocket camera that have enough controls for me to play with? I've used Nikon 995 before and it was great for controls, not so keen on the size though.

One gadget that I find intriguing is the new Kodak V570 dual lens. It's out today and I'm trying to control mydself from impulse buying.

Any suggestions?Well the Canon A610/A620 jump immediately to mind...serious cameras for serious photography, yet fairly compact and expandable. Simply the best cameras for the money, period. If the Canon A-line is still larger than what you're looking for, then another choice might be the Fuji F11. An incredible little camera that takes great photos and has great low-light capabilities and limited manual controls (more than the F10)...but enough control so that you can be creative. It's not really for sale in the U.S., but you can buy it with a third party warranty. If you live in Europe or Asia, you can get it with the Fuji warranty.

Oh, and BTW, the Canon SD550/Ixus 750 is not a "toy". It takes better pictures than some "prosumer" cameras! :cool:

[coldrain]

Two compact cameras would give you your desired manual possibilities and offer a smaller package than a Canon A6x0.

The Sony P200 is a 7mp 3x zoom camera with full manual controls and very good image quality, the Casio EX-Z750 also has full manual controls and good image quality. Read the reviews of them on this site.