Just about every manufacturer makes a super zoom camera, with anywhere from an 18x to 36x zoom lens, and that is optical zoom alone. None of them however, will use any bigger a sensor than your current camera. Because of that limitation, and because of the limitations of the lens (not the focal length, but the amount of light they can let in via their aperture), they do not work well indoors on subjects that are moving. Another limitation is the method by which small cameras acquire focus; they work well in good light, but indoors they are slower. Outdoors these cameras will (usually) give good results. Probably the current best of the breed is the Canon SX30 IS.
If you want a camera that works better in low light, you would need to make a sacrifice in size, zoom range, and/or price.
Thanks in advance to anyone who can help me. I am so confused and really a novice as far as picking out cameras is concerned.
I currently have a fujifilm cool pix that is around 5 years old. It was just a temporary one to start with and now it is definitely time to move on.
I am looking for a camera that has a upgraded or larger sensor , good lens, fairly high optical zoom to take photos of my kids at sporting events or the playground or around the house, etc. I need a camera that is relatively easy to use, relatively fast shutter speed. If it took good vieos, that would also be a plus.
I does not have to be a trendy camera, and am looking for one to last at least 3-5 years. I initially wanted to get a 30x zoom camera with 16 mp because I thought that would take the best shots up close and get a good zoom in picture but the digital zoom I have found out is different from the optical zoom so I am not sure if I need to go up that high in digital zoom. If the camera could also help with capturing and sensing faces, so I don't have blurry or blinking eyes that would also be great.
I am concerned about blurry pictures by holding outr my arms for any lenght of time to capture pictures(I heard this happens with the compact cameras) but does that really matter if I take a picutre quickly as there are so many smaller ones on the market.
In any case, I am open to most any type of camera and my budget is around 475 or less if at all possible.
Thank you again to anyone who is able to help me decide. I just can't do it without more imput!

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