You may be able to find a used Panasonic LX100 for under $500. But a couple of things to be aware of: you may want to buy an extra battery (the LX100 uses a proprietary model, not AAs) and it only has 3X zoom (unlike the SX130's 12X, but I don't see why you'd need more than 3X for landscapes and macros).
But I haven't heard anything about Canon having a macro focusing problem. So if you'd like to trouble shoot the SX130: zoom all the way out (widest possible angle) and place the camera on the floor (or sturdy table) about in inch away from a table/chair leg (or salt/pepper shaker). If the resulting picture is in focus (at least partially; macro photos are almost never entirely in focus due to the shallow Depth of Field -- and as an aside, stopping down to f22 can cause defraction), the issue is either camera or subject movement, neither of which will be solved by upgrading.
I am in my first digital camera (4.5 years now) - Canon SX130is, 12x zoom, f-8 maximum. I've had no formal training - and there will not be any.
I do a lot of hiking with groups and take all their pics. I need something that will not slow me down any more than I already am - they are not patient.
I take lots of landscapes and macros, some video.
I love the video I have; the macro refuses to focus too many times - I understand this is a Canon problem.
I have been encouraged to get away from camera presets and learn to use the manual settings; however, Manual, AV & TV, at f-8, give lots of mud. A photog advised I need at least F-22 - if this is not so, please advise.
I have checked a few reviews: Nikon Coolpix L830, L840 & D5500. All of them have a lower maximum F-stop than currently.
I'm not necessarily looking for anothter Canon but I am familiar with its terminology.
I order 5x7 & 8x10 prints for gifts, so I need excellent color reproduction and image quality.
I don't have a $$$ amount - but would like to keep it as far under $500 as possible. It does not have to be new - I'll shop Craigslist.
I need some good, solid information on particular brands/models.
Thank you for any help you may be able to provide!

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