Basically every digital camera that’s not a digital SLR (dSLR) is a point-and-shoot camera. From there though, the camera model types get more segmented by features as well as by size: compact, ultra-compact, advanced/enthusiast and super-zoom. And with so many models of each type on the market, we decided it was about time we broke down and told you about some of our favorites.
Compact models usually are priced on the budget end, are small enough to fit in a jacket pocket and come with with a decent selection of standard auto settings and scene modes. Ultra-compacts are more expensive due to their minuscule size. They can be quite feature-packed and able to take some great high-resolution pictures. However, many of them rely on the LCD as the sole viewfinder, which means once your batteries can no longer power the screen, you’re out of business.
Advanced/Enthusiast cameras generally have more manual options than you’ll find on other point-and-shoots. Things like extended zoom, higher-quality optics, add-on lenses and flashes and support for RAW files are also likely to be found. Super-zooms are just that — advanced cameras that can do 10x or 12x optical zooms.
All of the cameras we’ve suggested take good snapshots that can stand-up to being printed at 8×10 inches. Some are, of course, going to be better than others, but we don’t think you’ll go wrong with anything we’ve picked out. All that’s left for you to do is match your feature needs to your new camera.
, A540, A630, S80 to name just four. But for our money, the best super-zoom advanced camera is hands-down the PowerShot S3 IS. The shots it takes are excellent thanks to good image stabilization, Digic II imaging processor, a high-quality lens and a top-notch 6-megapixel CCD. And then there is the 12x optical zoom. It’s lack of support for RAW will keep it out of some enthusiasts’ hands, but if it doesn’t bother you this is a solid alternative to more expensive dSLR options. $359 <A HREF=){kind=tracking}
Fellow Digital camera researchers,
I recently got a Powershot S3 and quite happy with it overall, but as an astronomer who desires astrophotography from it – it falls a bit short. More on that later.
I researched the digital world extensively, desiring to upgrade from my trusty Kodak DX 3215, as it was quite limited and I needed something more robust. I looked into obtaining a strict DSLR, but the prices are in the high hundreds and low thousands…out of my price range. And I wanted the capability of shooting video. The S3 had everytning I desired…and more. The movie feature is quite nice, even at it’s lowest settings.
Baseline prices were averaging around $399.00, with small variations. On-line deals were slightly better, but not much, and…I prefer to pick up my electronics in person to examine the product. I saw an ad from OfficeMax offering the S3 for $369.00 – with an instant $30.00 in-store rebate. They threw in a free 512mb SD card and the option to purchase a $100.00 Canon photo printer for $30.00. I took the offer, but declined the extended warrenty of $79.00 for two years. I could have waited till the prices came down some more, most likely after Christmas, but I liked the deal offered. I am happy with the purchase.
It has plenty of zoom (12x), takes very good images, and the sharpness of the images are quite good. I have plenty of experience with my old 35mm Nikon film camera, and the S3 exceeds it in many areas. I do not miss at all lugging around various lenses and accessories, and this camera has plenty of features to satisfy the photographer.
I have experimented with the manual controls and find them exceptional, with real time results. And as an additional benefit, everybody who has seen it, has complimented me on the purchase…even die hard strict DSLR users. I will look into aftermarket Lens hoods and tele-converters to enhance the performance.
ASTROPHOGRAPHY -
I needed a camera for astrophotography, and I hope this one will serve well, but one nagging observation…
It’s remarkable that I have been able to record stars, constellations and nebulae with just the camera lens, but I find it bothersome that I cannot focus stars down to pin points, it just stops short. I don’t know if this is inherent to all digital cameras, but maybe it’s just mine.
There are examples of my practice begining astrophotography efforts with the Powershot S3 here:
http://astronomer.proboards23.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=ps3&thread=1166148281&page=1
and here
http://astronomer.proboards23.com/index.cgi?action=display&board=ps3&thread=1166148281&page=1
Other than the difficulties of obtaining pin point stars, I highly recommend this camera.
Respectfully,
Chicago Astronomer Joe
Administrator
http://www.chicagoastronomer.com