Looking for a mid-range digital camera ($300-$500).

[TheBiles]

For the last 3 years I've been using a Kodak EasyShare Z885 (KODAK EASYSHARE Z885 Zoom Digital Camera). I take a TON of photos, but I don't consider myself a "professional" or anything of the sort. I do, however, want a camera that has some more features than just "point and click." I'm looking for something that has good optical zoom (at least 20x), performs well in low-light conditions, and can take rapid photos of in-motion subjects. I'm open to any brands, but I'd like to keep it well-known (no totally obscure manufacturers). I'd really prefer not to go over $500. I'm really trying to take that transition to the "next level" above random amateur photography, but I'd like easing into it. Any suggestions?

 

[Leftyplayer]

Canon Rebel XS with 18-55mm kit lens. It's a great camera.

 

[pbelarge]

$300-$500 is not a midrange digital camera price, it is a high end P&S camera or a low end dslr.

There are plenty of p&s cameras that offer the choice of camera setting, google Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Sony, etc...

 

[KmH]

The least expensive, new, entry-level dSLR including a basic kit zoom lens is about $500.

Mid-range dSLR's run from $1500 to $2500 without a lens and top-of-the-line pro dSLRs run $4500 to $7000 (no lens).

Then there are the medium format pro cameras, and they range up to $40,000 or so.

 

[DennyCrane]

Canon Rebel XS with 18-55mm kit lens. It's a great camera.

This.

It's a very good entry-level camera.

 

[Sw1tchFX]

Nikon D3000 with the 18-55 is $500.

 

[TheBiles]

Thanks for the suggestions and setting me straight, guys! I've heard a lot of good things about the Canon Rebel XS, so I will probably check that out. Is there any place that you can get particularly good deals on cameras? I notice that the Rebel is around $550 MSRP, but I've had people tell me I could find it for around $300! What's the secret?

 

[DennyCrane]

Google, shopping tab at the top, type in Canon XS

 

[KmH]

Thanks for the suggestions and setting me straight, guys! I've heard a lot of good things about the Canon Rebel XS, so I will probably check that out. Is there any place that you can get particularly good deals on cameras? I notice that the Rebel is around $550 MSRP, but I've had people tell me I could find it for around $300! What's the secret?

There is no secret. Only used ones can be gotten for $300, but some places offer refurbished units (Adorama) for a bit less than new pricing.

There are some really good, reputable online sellers like www.bhphotovideo.com (best on the planet), www.adorama.com, www.amazon.com (as long as amazon or a reputable seller fulfill the order), www.buydig.com (the online arm of Beach Camera).

You can check out online stores reputations at www.resellerratings.com.

 

[AlexL]

Get the Rebel!