An easy one for you gurus...(I think)

[fly235]

Hi all! I am looking for a camera to take pics of my daughter during her college volleyball career. So fast shooting capability, good low light (gym lighting can be all over the place) good image stabilization, and I would think a zoom of say 6X at a minimum(?) Of course I want good quality pictures, but I am NOT nearly as sensitive to the nuances that I see discussed on this board as many posters are. Finally, I would LOVE to find something $300 range but would like to hear thoughts regardless of price. Thanks in advance for your input!

[David Metsky]

Take a look at the Fuji S6000. You'll want more then 6x zoom, probably something in the 300mm+ range will do you better, so you're looking at 10x. The Fujis have the best low light performance, and the manual zoom and focus rings could really be helpful in this type of shooting.

[fly235]

Thank you. I was looking at that camera. I was also looking at the Panasonic FZ8. I like the rechargeable batteries and it seems to have very good reviews as well. You have any experience with this one?
The Fuji is better in your opinion? Thanks!

[David Metsky]

You'll need to get rechargeable NiMH batteries for any camera that uses AAs, so add that into the price, but they're cheaper then additional Li-Ion batteries and in a pinch you can use Alkalines.

While the FZ is a fine camera, nothing out there can compete with the Fujis in low light performance.

[AlexMonro]

I agree with David, the Fuji S6000 is the best camera for low light action shots anywhere near your price range. Forget image stabilisation, it only helps steady a shaky camera, not the motion blur caused by the subject moving.

[BiPolarBear]

Yes, and with Fuji's excellent high ISO performance combined with that particular models very fast lens, you'll be able to use faster shutter speeds compared to other cameras, which will allow you to stop the action

[Rex914]

good image stabilization

IS is not going to do squat if you are taking pictures of her while in action. IS only helps on still objects. Moving objects still need a high shutter speed to freeze the action.

Go for a Fuji, which lacks IS but has very good high ISO performance.

- Jon

[AlexMonro]

Yes, and with Fuji's excellent high ISO performance combined with that particular models very fast lens, you'll be able to use faster shutter speeds compared to other cameras, which will allow you to stop the action

The Fuji lens isn't quite as fast (f/4.9) at the long end as the FZ8 (f/3.1), but the low noise at high ISO more than makes up for it, and the smaller aperture may be needed for depth of field at longer focal lengths anyway.

The best thing about the S6000 for action shots in my opinion is the manual zoom ring, making it lightning fast, almost instinctive after a little practice, to frame a shot.

[fly235]

It will be the Fuji. Thanks for all the input!!!

[bascom]

Does her college allow a carry-in camera bag the size you will need for an S6000?

[fly235]

Thanks to all for your advice, I bought the 6000 and I really love how it is performing for me. There is a 3 shot option that takes 3 quick shots (duh!) in a row and in a fast paced game like volleyball it makes all the difference. Picture speed and quality in fast action and low or bright light are all that was claimed.
Also, you can set it on manual focus and hit a button one time to use the auto-focus at that moment, then shoot quickly without waiting for a focus on every shot- very handy. Couldn't be happier. thanks again