possible new camera suggestions/input... ?

[RailsandTrucks]

Hey all,

Wanted to know if I can get some input in a possible direction as far as cameras are concerned-for the first time in a while I'm having a hard time even in terms of camera categories, let alone actual models, so I figured I'd get some opinions/input on here to get some other angles on things..

Right now, I've got a kodak Z712IS-an older "superzoom" 7 mega pixel digi cam-basic specs are 36mm-423 mm zoom (rough) and F2.8-4.8 aperture range, shutter speed is 1/2sec-1/1000, I've also got an older Canon film Rebel XS/G with the kit lens (35-80mm) and an additional "kit" EF 75-300 mm lens

As for my pictures-although I'd say about half my photography is still trains by volume of pics (maybe a little less) I'm doing more and more landscape/city scene stuff, and basically whatever catches my eye-lately night/lower light stuff has really caught my eye and that’s something I’d like to improve on.. I’m not a serious amateur, and my pics are for my enjoyment/memories more than anything, if others like them or find them cool, that’s great-but obviously I’m trying to become more adept at using my equipment.

The Kodak has been a solid little camera and has made me happy and helped me learn-I spend more and more time on the Aper and Shutter priority modes-although I've been noticing more and more the pics don't seem to "pop" like they should, which I think is sharpness-and therefore may be a limitation of the camera as much as a limitation of my own skill. I know megapixels aren’t everything, and that sensor size and other factors (glass) plays a part too-although the Kodak has a Schneider lens, which seems nice..

So with that being said, my first question is-compact, super zoom, dslr, or even micro 4/3?

Compacts are appealing because lately in my travels I've found myself wanting something pocketable-which the Z712 is, but BARELY, and something that I could have an easier time getting into concerts or travel with a little less conspicuously would be cool-specifically compacts that have caught my eye are the mid-higher range ones like the Canon G11/12, panasonic LX5, and samsung TL500 those are about the upper end of what i'm looking to spend, but they seem to be a good compromise and so far, they seem to be at the top of my mind right now.

Super zooms are appealing because of the do-it all nature-I’ve wanted one of the Canon SX20/30s for a while, but I’ve read reviews about the pictures being accused of being “soft” which, obviously sharpness is a bit of a concern of mine right now. Also, with the size of the superzooms now, I’m wondering if I wouldn’t just be better jumping up to a DSLR. However, the capabilities of having one camera that does a decent job at everything is appealing..

DSLR’s are tempting, and I’d be leaning toward canon for the sole reason of already having a pair of canon lenses even if they aren’t that great-I could probably get a used body in my price range. Again though, portability bugs me-when I’m out railfanning its fine or out specifically photographing, but if I’m combining that hobby with others (like mountain biking, or even just being out and about with friends) it would come more into play. Realistically, I’m only going out on “photo only” trips these days a couple times a year if that…

Micro 4/3s are really tempting-seem to be a good compromise with what I’m looking for-and I love the size and heft which with the camera body’s themselves is about exactly what I’m looking for, but with a lens, “pocketability” is still an issue (and I’m talking jean pocket-not a smaller shirt pocket), which would mean I’d have to get another smaller camera (probably a cheapie) for “other uses”, but right now, I’m on a budget, so I’m shying away from the “two camera system” option.

So far, I’m really liking the mid-higher end compacts-but again, I’m interested in ya’lls opinions. Image quality/sharpness are concerns of mine which therefore the smaller sensor size gives a little cause for concern. I’m thinking that zoom, at least lately for me, is a bit over-rated, and I could always carry the Kodak when I need the extra length (really only when shooting into yards from public property) seems to come in handy. But I know for quality all in all a DSLR can’t be beat and if not now, eventually I may end up going that route again.
I have no preference in terms of camera brands-though I’ve always held Canon and Nikon in high regard, but the Panasonic and Samsung offerings both seem pretty sweet.

Sorry for this novel of a post, but again, really interested in your all input, I know I’m going to have to make a compromise somewhere-Open to all/any suggestions-many thanks!

[conrailmike]

One question.... How much do you want to spend?

In my opinion, you should go the DSLR route especially if you are starting to expand your photography to more than just railroads. There are a lot of compacts/p&s models out that you would be happy with and they would do a good job, but in the end the DSLR will give you MUCH more flexibility due to the amount of lenses and accessories available. Also, the nice thing about going the DSLR route is there are places like LensRentals.com where you can rent and try out lenses, flashes, etc. before you buy.

If you're not looking to spend a lot of money, don't be afraid of the used market. A lot really nice DSLR bodies can be had on the used market for a good price. There's a lot of people who sell their camera bodies as soon as they find out a new model is on the market, apparently they think they're not as good unless they buy the new model

Before you buy one, if you can, head to the store and hold them in your hands. You don't want to end up buying one that doesn't feel good when you pick it up.

As for portability, now there are tons of different types of camera bags out there for every activity.

[Crow T Robot]

Might consider the Sony a33 or a55 they are compact to a point and have alot of good features.

[RailsandTrucks]

Thank you both for your responses-sorry its taken so long to jump back on here.. still havent made a decision yet, although a visit to woodward camera is still having me lean toward a nicer P & S like the LX5, G12, or S95.

Looking to spend around $400-$500.... but the lesser the better, and as much as I enjoy small businesses, the no interest best buy card my laptop is on may come in handy for this as well... But going used is so tempting as well-seems a better way to get more camera for the buck.

DSLR's, what with the holiday sales especially, have gotten really tempting-the Sony's Crow mentioned seem pretty sweet-I'm going to have to take a look at them on my next trip to the store. I did take a long look at Sony's NXT ? that small mirroless interchangeable lens camera they just came out with, and thats awesoem size wise as far as the camera body, but with lens its just a bit too big to pocketable, and at that point an SLR would be a better route.

Thanks for the info on the lensrentals, I never knew about that-and I really like the idea especially with stuff like flashes as well that I may just want to try out to play with the effects... makes it ever more tempting to just jump now on a dslr.. although the LX5 and G12 both have hotshoe's....

I appreciate the help and advice-more to think about! I'm going to have to take a couple more trips and play with the display models a bit to really get a feel for what will work better.

Thanks so much for the help!

[GLC 392]

If you are looking for something in the 400-500 range i would go with something like this. Canon SX30IS http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/7 ... gital.html
I had the Canon S3IS and SX10IS before i upgraded to a SLR and the Canon P&S's are pretty durable cameras i put my two through living hell. I also suggest using B&H photo to buy a camera i have bought a good amount of stuff through them recently and was very happy with the service. There is also this Rebel XS with a kit lens 18-55mm http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/5 ... S_SLR.html

[conrailmike]

+1 for B&H. I've bought quite a bit from them and their prices and service are great.

[PAT.C]

HEY, LET'S GET THIS THREAD GOING.

I WANT TO SEE A CANON / NIKON WAR HERE.

COME ON PEOPLE---LET'S FIGHT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


I'VE DONE THE ANTAGONIZING NOW SOMEONE THROW THE FIRST PUNCH.

[conrailmike]

Don't you start!!

Canon and Nikon both make excellent cameras, lenses, and flashes....don't believe the hype.

[mlmphotography]

Canon and Nikon both suck.

Hasselblad is where it's at.


Loyd L.

[SD80MAC]

Obviously everyone is going to tell you to get whatever they have. That being said, you can't go wrong with anything from canon or nikon.

[TrainWatcher]

Canon SX130. $225. Simple and Easy P&S, 720P HD Video.

Just got mine and LOVE IT!!!

[RailsandTrucks]

Yeah I've always held Canon and Nikon in high regard-although some of the smaller lower end nikon point and shoots, when on auto mode, seemed to produce funny results with the yellows and skin tones from what i've seen from testing in the stores.. but all in all they both make VERY solid camera's (and other products-the canon printer and scanner I have are both pretty nice). My sister took a nikon to Europe for a week and got some amazing results..

As for the SX130-very nice camera-I liked the older versions of it (and Steven I remember you showing me your SX10IS one day in durand-when you and Dane showed my friend's dad and I that bridge west of the city) But again, pocketability is a bit of a concern of mine at this point so I may yet go something smaller, or make the jump to a DSLR..

Funny you should mention Hasselblad-as I really think the idea of medium format and larger camera's is awesome, but the fact that they probably cost more then my car when it was brand new kinda steers me a way from them...

Definitely appreciate all the advice and input and input.. although I may yet trump both canon and nikon and get a panasonic-pat C is do you approve this message

[conrailmike]

Funny you should mention Hasselblad-as I really think the idea of medium format and larger camera's is awesome, but the fact that they probably cost more then my car when it was brand new kinda steers me a way from them...

Come on now.....a Hasselblad H4D-50 (50MP) with an 80mm lens is only $30,995.00

[MagnumForce]

What do your friends have? If they shoot Nikons get a Nikon, in they shoot Canons get a Canon. The ability to "borrow" lenses is a great selling point IMO.

That being said...buy an Olympus E Series