Compact Camera Advice

Milner_Ecology · #1 (**permalink**) 24-11-2011, 09:48 PM

I'm looking to buy a decent compact camera suitable for general snaps as well as some botanical macro shots.

I don't want the bulk of a bridge or DSLR as i doubt i would carry them around all the time and i find most of my shots whilst out working or walkin so i woud like something that will slip in my pocket but still produce pretty good shots.

Have had a look around several shops and had a play with several cameras and have come down to

Nikon P300

or

Panasonic TZ20

The P300 seems to have the better lens and i have had compact Nikons before and been very happy with them but the TZ20 has a huge zoom and i quite like the ability to use the touchscreen to focus on a specific point, just not sure if it will produce as good quality images.

this will be my first time using a proper camera with aperture/shutter priority etc (previous cameras have been simple point and shoot affairs) so I'm not totally au fait with what all the focal lengths and f numbers will actually translate to in terms of image quality.

Any advice much appreciated.

Cheers,

Ben

nightshade · #2 (**permalink**) 25-11-2011, 07:06 AM

Computer Shopper magazine, has a test of 15 ultra zoom lense cameras in its current (dated January 2012) issue. They don't cover the macro issue but it is very interesting, and surprising, reading.
I carry a Sony DSC-W50 which I use as a notebook camera, it takes very good photos and the macro is good.

Milner_Ecology · #3 (**permalink**) 25-11-2011, 08:06 AM

Cheers nightshade, I'll have a look.

Ben

loripo · #4 (**permalink**) 25-11-2011, 09:07 AM

The Canon SX150IS isn't too bulky and has a 1cm macro if you want close closeups

You might find an SX120is or SX130is slightly cheaper somewhere - they have the same macro setting.

The_Moaner · #5 (**permalink**) 28-11-2011, 02:30 AM

I don't like these point n shoots that you hold out in front of you, pet hate of mine. BUT! I must say this--I went along to a Panasonic night in Swansea and being demonstrated were the 3D TV's and the NEW Samsung cameras. The new one coming out in Feb or March was the one that took me eye as it also had a viewfinder. Look it up as names delude me after a day or two. their other new one is out now and takes 3D pics that look very very Good. (not my cup of tea though). Sorry I can't remember the name. It has an X in it though but not out until after xmas. We were the first to look and handle them before anyone else.
I might buy one meself, and that's saying something.
I'll ask at camera club tomorrow if anyone can remember the name of it.