Camera understanding help?

[justakarni]

Hello,

I am new to photography and I am looking to buy a camera for taking pictures of fish and more likely shrimp. I just dont know what to look for as far as features. Are there point and shoot cameras out there that are good for taking macro photos like this? Or are DSLRs a must and just get a macro lens? Any help in what to look for would be greatly appreaciated. I have read the stickies but it seems its all about slrs. I am not sure if that is because point and shoot type cameras are just no good or just a bais that people that are into the hobby will likely favor using an slr. Even examples would be great. I am looking to spend maybe 400, but if less thats a plus. Used doesnt bother me.

Thanks

 

[Lazy Photographer]

You can probably pick up a nice used DSLR that would do the trick, but a decent macro lens within your budget will be a challenge. There are some advanced point & shoots with relatively fast lenses, like the Panasonic LX3 or LX5, but they will not deliver what you want. I'm guessing you're going to want a shallow depth of field with nice bokeh and for that you need a fast lens, ideally a prime.

 

[sobolik]

Do you plan to go diving or through a tank?

 

[justakarni]

through a tank. Sorry i did not clarify. thanks for the input