Step up from Nikon Coolpix S8200?

[Ffirecracker]

Hello,

I'm pretty green, looking to buy a new camera and need some recommendations please. My friend has a Nikon Coolpix S8200, and I've seen what it can do. So I would like to find a camera that has all the same features that the S8200 has, same level quality i.e. its macro is apparently excellent. But in addition I want the HDR capability. I would prefer at least 5-shot hdr vs the more common 3. I have spent hours researching but only ended up more confused Any recommendations? Thanks in advance

 

[Ffirecracker]

Helloo?? Anyone? Now my post has been moved to a category nobody seems to even look at , lol

 

[striving4mediocrity]

Hi! Maybe I can help. Are you looking for a camera around $250? The S8200 seems pretty limited from reviews that I've read (I admit that I've never used one) and I would recommend buying a cheap DSLR. I've bought a used d3100 for 300 dollars used and it far exceeds the S8200 and is pretty simple to use (it has a built in guide mode!). If you want quality HDR download a free software for your computer. It will turn out much better than any in-camera options.

If you really want a camera that you can throw in your pocket, perhaps look at a Canon Powershot G10 to a G15. They are excellent little cameras. Hopefully I have helped a little bit!

 

[goodguy]

If you really want a camera that you can throw in your pocket, perhaps look at a Canon Powershot G10 to a G15. They are excellent little cameras. Hopefully I have helped a little bit!

Yes to the Canon G15 but a BIG NO to the Canon G10, I had the G10 and its not a good camera, it sucks big time in low light.
My advise go with Canon G11 or G12 or G15 or G16
All these cameras are very good.

 

[Ffirecracker]

Thanks guys, much appreciated. I'll be checking those out. I'm surprised to hear that I would get better results with a software for HDR photography! Any partricular software you recommend?

 

[Derrel]

I gotta go with "low-priced d-slr" as well, over almost ANY inexpensive compact camera. The MUCH larger sensor, and larger pixels in a d-slr will give you better low-light images, and also just gather more light than the significantly smaller sensor in a P&S digital. The sensor in the d-slr will also almopst assuredly have a wider dynamic range, so on many scenes, a three-shgot HDR exposure bracket will be sufficient. I am gonna say, for the LOWEST price, a used Nikon D3100 would be the best deal on a "newish" d-slr.

I think even a used, older 10 megapixel Nikon, like a D60 for $125 with an 18-55 lens, would beat the S8200 in terms of HDR image making.

 

[jenny12014]

You can use camera D3100 about 300 dollars. I think D3100 carmera like S8200, having HDR capability. Have a good choice !