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choosing a point and shoot

Discussion

5 replies
Posted by Bonnie Forte on March 23, 2008 at 11:38 AM
HAPPY EASTER to all!!!
I am looking to purchase a simple yet decent point and shoot digital, that I can carry in my purse where ever I go. My Nikon D40 is an awsome DSL, but too big and expensive to just carry w/me all over the place. I don't want to spend hundreds of dollars, thinking of more like $100-$200 or so. Prefer closer to $100 in case it gets damaged or stolen. My concerns are...shutter lag..and blinding flash...don't want them! Also something slim and not bulky would be nice as well as zoom and big LCD screen. I have read up on a few, but would like the opinion of someone who has actually bought and used one. Thanks for your help and hope everyone enjoys this blessed Easter Day.
Bonnie ><> :jump:
Posted by Jack Garrett on March 23, 2008 at 12:39 PM
Hi Bonnie,

Unfortunately, you cannot avoid shutter lag in most point and shoot cameras. They are designed to first focus, then shoot. If you press the shutter all the way, it first finds the right focus point, then fires the shutter. This lag can be approximately 2/10 sec. If you press the shutter halfway down to pre-focus, the shutter lag is almost non existent.

That being said, I think one of the best cameras I've seen is the Canon A720 IS. It boasts 8.0 MP and a 6x optical zoom. I sell point and shoots and think this is the best one I've seen yet (price $199). My wife and 2 sisters have it and we are very impressed by the results. It is rated #2 or 3 in Consumer Reports mag.

You can also check www.dpreview.com for unbiased reviews of many different cameras.

Hope this helps.

Jack
Posted by Buck Ward on March 23, 2008 at 2:41 PM
I echo Jack's opinion of the Canon A720. After doing some research I selected it as a gift for my wife, her first digital camera. Not disappointed.

DPReveiw gives it their 'Highly Recommended" rating.
Posted by Eric Peterson on March 24, 2008 at 8:30 AM
I also have the A720IS and have had no complaints. I also purchased a Gorilla Pod for it makes for a pretty versatile combo. Hope this helps.
Posted by Ned Fenimore on March 24, 2008 at 10:59 AM
I just purchased this camera for my daughter's birthday. Testing it out it seemed great, and I am excited about giving it to her this weekend. I think it is a great choice. I got this one at B&H for $175 last week.
Posted by Bonnie Forte on March 24, 2008 at 8:15 PM
Thanks to all for your opinions on this camera...I am going to check out the reviews on it right now!
Bonnie ><> :jump: