Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

General discussion

Help! Need point and shoot camera advice

Apr 27, 2005 10:11AM PDT

Hi Camera buffs,

I want to buy a point and shoot digital camera to celebrate the birth of my third child but I'm totally overwhelmed by all the options out there. Basically, all I'm looking for is an excellent quality automatic point and shoot digital with a great zoom lens that isn't too complicated. I'll be photographing my kids and want a camera that's easy to use so I don't want to fuss with manual options and such. I just want something that takes clear, great quality snapshots. Can I get some recommendations for cameras that are 4 megapixels or greater that fulfill my basic needs? I also prefer ones that have good stability control so I'm not necessarily looking for the most compact camera out there. I don't mind if it's a bit bulky... I tend to do better with slightly bigger frames that are less shake prone.

Thanks in advance!

Kim

Discussion is locked

- Collapse -
Point and Shoot with a image control great zoom lens.
Apr 27, 2005 12:05PM PDT

All such cameras come with manual controls.

However you do not have to use the manual controls, just put the camera in Auto and it thinks it is a point-and-shoot camera.

There are some cameras with 8 megapixels, but those will cost from $600 to $900.

Here are you choices:

Canon S2-IS (5meg - 12X zoom) Available in June
Konica Minolta Z3 (4 meg - 12X)
Konica Minolta Z5 (5 meg - 12X)
Panasonic FZ-4 (4 meg - 12X)
Panasonic FZ-5 and FZ20 (5 meg - 12X)
Sony H1 (5 meg - 12X) Announced but not available yet

...
..
.

- Collapse -
thanks for info
Apr 28, 2005 9:47AM PDT

Thanks for the info! I'll check them out. Do you know of any good cameras that are a lower price point? I was thinking more around the $400-$500 range.

Kim

- Collapse -
Prices
Apr 29, 2005 12:06AM PDT

Either of the Konica Minolta camera will be in the price bracket you mentioned.

The Canon S2 IS may be, but have not seen a firm price on it yet.

...
..
.

- Collapse -
Thanks
Apr 29, 2005 10:53AM PDT

Thanks again! This is extremely helpful!

Kim