The right camera for me?

[langs14]

Hey,

I am no sure what camera is right for me. I dont' know a lot about cameras really, I know the basics and I can tell you I am not a bad shot myself. I want atleast a 6.0 megapixel camera....it hasn't really interested me to know about before. Right now I have a Konica Minolta Dimage Z6. I am wanting a camera that has a quicker shutter and also that isn't as bury on the full zoomed(if that is possible). I would be taking shots of ice hockey games, swim meets, surfing, the ocean, fish...along with photos of friends, family, and vacation photos. I am looking to spend somewhere between $200-$400, I may go a bit more. I would be taking shots inside as well as out. I guess I am looking for an all around camera with a quick shutter but with pretty good quality shots. I was looking at the Canon PowerShot S2 IS which looks like a great camera. Not sure if it's a big step from the Konica Minolta, if it's not, than I will jsut stay with my current setup foor now.

[mattdm]

I wasn't familiar with your current camera, so I read the review at Steve's Digicams (http://www.steves-digicams.com/2005_reviews/z6_pg5.html). The specs on this camera are pretty similar to the Canon S3 IS (the replacement for the Canon S2 IS you're looking at).

From the reviews, I agree that the Canon is probably a better camera, but if you're looking for a world of difference, I think you'll be disappointed. If you can sell your Z6 for not too bad of a loss, might be okay to trade up, but if you're looking for a huge improvement, I'd save up for a year or two and see what the options look like then.

[langs14]

Thank you very much. Would a world of difference come from a Nikon, Fugi, Olympus, or a Sony? Or would it just be best all around too wait a year or two..?

[mattdm]

If you spend another $1000-2000, you can see a big difference now. Otherwise, it's all about waiting for the next generation.

[flippedgazelle]

I agree with mattdm. The latest Canon/Fuji/Panasonic/Sony ultrazooms are probably better than your Z6. I quickly checked out Ebay and saw a Z6 up to $150 with about 4 hours left. If you could sell yours for $200+, it may well be worth the upgrade. Otherwise, as mattdm says, wait.

[langs14]

You know...it's not really worth it...I am just goin' to wait for the next gen. Thank you all for the great help!