Camera for wife

[usayit]

I'll be the first to mention Panasonic. You should at least consider some Lumix cameras. I'm completely happy with the G1, LX3, and TZ5. Their compact P&S cameras have done really well in past comparisons by dpreview.com (although I haven't read anything recent). They've also been rated as a very reliable brand (also in 2008):

Panasonic Cameras Most Reliable, Survey Finds - Gadgetwise Blog - NYTimes.com

Three pet peeves of mine:
1) slow start up time
2) A push button on and off switch rather than a sliding switch. Tactile feedback on whether or not the camera is "on". I hate "holding" a button down and having to look at an LED light to see if it actually turned off.
3) slow shutter response

Some Lumix cameras have the ability to "lock" on a subject and track it.... works pretty well.. especially with kids who can't sit still. Both Olympus and Lumix have face recognition too.

My wife likes Olympus cameras because the menus are laid out simply and easy to understand. She also likes hers because it is both shock resistant and waterproof.

 

[usayit]

Josh,

Just FYI. If you have a old broken Canon camera (or able to get/buy one cheap) Canon has a loyalty program that you can trade in your old broken Canon camera for a Canon factory refurbished camera.

A old broken Canon SD400 can trade for Canon G11 for $249 (plus tax and shipping)

That's interesting and it seems not unique to Canon

http://olympus.eztradein.com/olympus/?logout=1

couldn't find anything from Panasonic.. bummer...

 

[Dao]

Josh,

Just FYI. If you have a old broken Canon camera (or able to get/buy one cheap) Canon has a loyalty program that you can trade in your old broken Canon camera for a Canon factory refurbished camera.

A old broken Canon SD400 can trade for Canon G11 for $249 (plus tax and shipping)

That's interesting and it seems not unique to Canon

http://olympus.eztradein.com/olympus/?logout=1

couldn't find anything from Panasonic.. bummer...

I think the refurbished G11 for $249 is pretty good price.
And people are starting to get quote for

T1I = $445.99 ($519.99 for kit)
40D= 520.00 (719.20 for kit)
50D= 710.20 (831.20 for kit)
7D= 1119.20
5D Mark II = $1679.20

I think the price for 50D with lens is pretty good since it is easier to sell the 50D kit lens for $200 (People stated that the condition of the cameras were great, and someone even commented that they cannot tell it is refurbished except the sticker.

Josh, you can call 866-443-8002 or 800-828-4040 to get started. If you have a broken Canon, just call them and see what they offer before you make the decision. (it is based on your existing camera). I had a broken EOS K2 camera, when I tried to get the G11, they told me the K2 film camera do not qualify for G11, but it quality for Digital EOS XS instead.

Maybe I should call and see if it qualify for 50D or better 5D??

 

[PerfectlyFlawed]

I know your a canon guy...not sure if you've looked into them or not, but most retail chains carry them on display...the Nikon CoolPix. I've got the S210, and they've updated it a couple times since 2 years ago...now have one that's touch screen if that's what you like..It take amazing pictures, lots of options and settings to choose from, video/sound...fits in a back pocket or purse ( and for the ladies--attractive colors lol) I carry mine in my purse cause I don't take the dslr every where. They take rechargable like batteries (not like tripple or dbl A) but like the type dslr's take...not sure what they're called lol quick to charge--lasts a LONG time...
Anyway, something to consider.

 

[Derrel]

I know your a canon guy...not sure if you've looked into them or not, but most retail chains carry them on display...the Nikon CoolPix. I've got the S210, and they've updated it a couple times since 2 years ago...now have one that's touch screen if that's what you like..It take amazing pictures, lots of options and settings to choose from, video/sound...fits in a back pocket or purse ( and for the ladies--attractive colors lol) I carry mine in my purse cause I don't take the dslr every where. They take rechargable like batteries (not like tripple or dbl A) but like the type dslr's take...not sure what they're called lol quick to charge--lasts a LONG time...
Anyway, something to consider.

PerfectlyFlawed, everybody knows Nikon's compact line sux!:lmao:

Even noted Nikon Fanboy, Joe Chia wants to switch to Canon! (hilarious ending--he says, "I think Canon better! Canon support! Yeeeeahhhh!" (fist-pump!))

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJsgRoTTe-s[/ame]

 

[DirtyDFeckers]

Despite the accessory issues with Sony, imo there isn't a better point and shoot on the market. I've owned 2 cybershots, and I can say that the image quality is good, and the cameras are built very solid and durable, perfect for traveling.

 

[Sw1tchFX]

We don't have a whole lot of selection in my store when it comes to brands, but my favorite for aboot 300-$350 is easily the Sony HX5V.

10x zoom, decent lens, GPS, Full HD 1080 video (and it mechanically zooms with video too!), backlit sensor, there really isn't a whole lot NOT to like about the camera.

I can tell you right now that we can't keep them in stock because people keep eating them up.