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View Full Version : sub-$400 for family, some action, some video



vetxer
12-19-2004, 09:23 AM
I'm looking to replace a Toshiba PDR-3320 digital for all-purpose use in my family with little kids. Here are my requirements:

(1) No more than 5x8 prints so 3-ish MP is fine
(2) auto-focus lag - small kids won't wait 3 seconds for the half-press/full-press/whatever-press to do it's thing
(3) Movie mode
(4) Decent action shots to capture those first bicycle jumps and skateboarding tricks
(5) 3x optical zoom seems to be OK

The Toshiba we have has no movie mode, a long time after the half-press, 400ISO has to be manually set every time the camera is off, and I can't get a decently exposed picture with the auto-exposure control (almost always too dark).

It seems like a lot of people like the Panasonic FZ3 for the requirements I have, but the movie mode seems suspect and I don't need the super-zoom. But at the $300-range Circuit City deal it sure seems inviting.

My mother in law has an HP735 (sub $200) camera that does OK in the same situations that I am struggling with the Toshiba. I am tempted to go get the same camera but it seems that there should be something better out there now....

TheObiJuan
12-19-2004, 08:48 PM
I would suggest the sony P100. 5MP but compact, 3x zoom, and fast shutter.

vetxer
12-22-2004, 06:00 PM
no other opinions out there?

I'm looking for pretty good video and might upgrade my $$ amount...