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General discussion

first purchase of digital camera

Aug 14, 2004 9:30AM PDT

I would like a decent camera, don't want to spend a huge amount, but was a dependable solid built camera - thinking about either Canon A75, Canon A80, but don't know if the compact flash media is like the 8 track tapes..a dinosaur.

Was also leaning toward Kodak DX7440 - what do you wise folks advise? What is a good price for these cameras?

thanx, Meezer ^..^

Discussion is locked

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Re: first purchase of digital camera
Aug 14, 2004 5:51PM PDT

Well, I'm not familiar with Kodak DX7440. But, I lately heard that Kodak's products have significantly been improved and more friendlier to the customers. Nevertheless, Canon A75 and 80 are very good, considered the price vs performance. The compact flash will be around for quite sometimes although the other types of flash memory, SD Card, for instance, are replacing the bulky compact flash. Most Canon's camera, even the upstream like DSLR camera, still use the compact flash. So, it's quite relevant that the flash memory will not be soon obsolete in a the next few years. WHich camera to choose , in my perspective, is very broad question. The camera budget and acceptable picture quality are what most people considered. If we'd get into more details, the conversation could have been pages. But, I do suggest that you spend less for the technology now. Why spend more for some trivial features ? Buy for what you will definitely use. Get to the nearby store and test which camera satisfies you. Output test is a must, I suggest. Don't just look at the picture quaility on the computer screen. Good luck .

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Re: first purchase of digital camera
Aug 30, 2004 2:32AM PDT

I purchased a 4 megapixel Kodak DX6490 a few months ago and have found it to be better than C-Net reviewers rate it.
Price - $418, including docking station (somewhat cheaper now). 38-380 zoom (not a big deal, since most of my photos are macro or normal range), but image quality is exceptional, due to a German Schneider-Kreuznach Variogon lens.
Don't drive yourself crazy on price; decide what you want to do with the camera, check out prices online, then dive in. Every camera has weaknesses and strengths; I would love to have spent for an 8 megapixel camera but am highly pleased with this 4 megapixel I got. Read the reviews of other people who have bought the digital camera you may be considering; users are the most knowledgeable about strengths and weaknesses.

Good luck!