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General discussion

PLEASE help with First Camera decisions!!!!

Dec 2, 2003 8:31PM PST

Which camera under $250 would anyone recommend buying for a beginner??? Need advice badly.

Discussion is locked

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Re:PLEASE help with First Camera decisions!!!!
Dec 2, 2003 10:05PM PST

I found a HP 812 refurb at compgeeks.com which was 4 megapixels, ran on AA batteries and does a 3X zoom. I like the size and weight of the camera and pictures at its 3 star (out of 4) setting are good for what I need them for. The camera was 227USD.

At 4 megapixel, the optics will begin to show an issue and in this one you see the trade-off from more lens to more pixels. But I am happy with the balance.

Look at http://www.dpreview.com for more reviews of what you are looking at.

Bob

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Re:PLEASE help with First Camera decisions!!!!
Dec 3, 2003 8:50AM PST

you also need to check the flash memory that the camera uses and make sure it is compatible with your system it can get expensive to buy added flash memory and pictures are pretty big files especiallly at 4 megapixels. many of the cameras come with a flash card big enough for just a few pictures so count on spending money there too.

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Fuji E500
Jul 27, 2006 11:53PM PDT

I am also an older person (52) who was once in your same situation. I decided on the Fujifilm E500 camera that was mentioned in an earlier reply to your post. It has a viewfinder and a larger image screen than most.I purchased it at tigerdirect.com about 2 years ago for about $250.00 along with a mini tripod for about $10.00. It has many extra features as well but no need to worry about those til you get use to your camera. Just set to auto mode and take pictures as you use too with your older camera. Also, you may want to consider one of the fine printers that have slots for your memory stick for easy photo uploading without the use of a pc. Most of the printers today have many features that allow you to edit them right on the printer. Much luck to ya in your search. Photography is suppose to be fun so relax and begin snapping.
Sincerely, Cathy G.