My first digicam

[rhymes116]

Hey guys,
Im new here to this forum (and website!)
Been searchin all over for a forum that contained digicam enthusiasts! Hope you guys can help me out!


Okay so I want to buy a digicam for the fam. We've never had a digicam before, so this would be our first.

I would like to keep the entire package under $240 (camera, battery, flash memory 128MB, recharger, cables)

I say "package" b/c some cameras ship with rechargers and others dont.

I've been looking at a few cams and the Sony DSC-P72 3.2MP appealed to me. It would fit in a pocket and is sub $200 AND includes a recharger, so it would fit my budget. It also has nice movie capabilities.

I'm not looking for some hardcore digicam with a load of manual features. Just something that would take nice pictures! 3-4 MP would be nice.

Remember, under $200 for the cam. I hope you guys could help me out...chirstmas season is coming up! ANY input is greatly appreciated!


btw, what are your opinions on the Nikon Coolpix 3200 3.2MP?

[propwash]

I read your post and was going to suggest the CoolPix 3200 except it probably wouldn't fall under your $240 limit with the accessories you listed. However, since you mentioned this camera, I thought I would respond. My daughter has this camera and really likes it. It's small enough to fit into her purse and she takes it everywhere. It's now available for under $200, and various retailers periodically throw in a free SD card into the package. You can get a fairly nice set of four rechargeable NiMH batteries of more than 2000 mAh capacity for $20-25. This should keep you pretty close to your limit. Check this camera out. With it's focus assist lamp and compact size, it is a pretty versatile package. Good luck in your search.

[leadeater]

I'm not looking for some hardcore digicam with a load of manual features. Just something that would take nice pictures!

Even at your relatively low but still extremely useful budget, there are quite a few cameras that will easily satisfy your needs. As long as you stay with a major maker, it's pretty much a wash between them. It comes down to personal preferences as to things such as size, battery type, etc. I know this might not help a bunch, but there really isn't a standout in this category, and you would do well with any of them.

The Sony you mentioned would be an excellent choice, as would the Nikon. Nikons are known for their macro capabilities, Sonys are known for quick startup and shutter lag times. One can also find a neat little 3.2mp Olympus with 3x optical zoom at Wal-mart for just under $150. Oly's are known for their excellent lenses. In the end though, going with what appeals to you is your best bet, especially since you can't do better in that price range. Buy the Sony, don't look back.....

PhilR.

[rhymes116]

Oh okay thanx alot for the input. I've heard people say the a75 was a good camera. But does anyone find it a bit bulky/heavy?

[james]

You're right: The A75 is a really nice camera. But I may be a bit biased as I'm a Canon fan: Bought an A80 for a mate's 30th last year, A70 for Dad, then an A60 for myself. So far this year I bought an A75 for another mate (wedding pressie) and last night I bought an A400 for the outlaws Christmas pressent!

The A75 is a little bulky, sure, but it's got so many great features: Full manual overide, 13 pre-set programs, big bright screen. It isn't too bulky/heavy to fit in a pocket or carry in your hand when trekking.

I'd also sight the standard AA batteries as a great plus (cost and battery life over proprietary ones) and the ability to buy add-on lenses for them.

And of course Canon's great lens and sensor (much improved on the A75 in low light conditions).

My only gripe is that everyone keeps upping the pixel count: I'm more than happy with the 2mp of my A60 which helps keep storage space down, and hence costs.

let us know what you end up buying and how it works!

[rhymes116]

hmm okay thanx for the info! I guess I've now narrowed it down to either the p72 or the a75. I know I'm going to have to dish out more bucks for the a75 because it doesnt come with rechargeable batteries and a recharger. Anyone else wanna persuade? :D