What camera to get mom for X-mas??

[Jfaden23]

Hey guys and gals, looking to get my mom a decent camera for x-mas and I know next to nothing about them in terms of quality, performance, clarity etc. so I was hoping I could get some guidance. She takes anything from still shots of flowers to the kids doing back flips on wakeboards. She was telling me the other day she has a nice zoom lense already, maybe I would have to get you guys the model number for that because it would be nice to get a compatible camera, so if need be please let me know and I'll attempt to inconspicuously ask her about it.

She's not a professional by any means, but would just really enjoy a decent camera without blurs with fast motion and a crisp picture (are cameras measured in 720i, 720p, 1080i etc.? I have no idea). Budget could be anywhere from $200-$400ish, if there is a big difference from a 400 camera to a 500 that makes it worth the extra 100 or so for twice the camera (or a larger price to quality ratio). Appreciate all the soon to be responses, will check this daily for responses.

Thanks a bunch!

 

[scorpion_tyr]

Just post the exact model of lens and if possible a picture and someone on here will be able to tell you what cameras it's compatible with. I'm going to guess you're looking to get her a DSLR to fit her lens. If you don't know what to look for I would stay away from buying used, but the cheapest DSLR will probably run you $500. The good news is that any of the models they're selling new right now are great cameras. Even the cheapest ones will beat the heck out of most of the models made 5-10 years ago, and will definitely offer more capabilities than most film cameras ever did.

 

[Jfaden23]

Buying used is just a risk for a faulty camera I'm assuming? Couldn't simply "test drive" it, take shots in all different modes and publish them to see quality? Was considering buying used for a steal of a deal.

 

[Rick58]

Buying used is just a risk for a faulty camera I'm assuming? Couldn't simply "test drive" it, take shots in all different modes and publish them to see quality? Was considering buying used for a steal of a deal.

You'll find that many of us have purchased a good deal of used equipment. My list of used is much longer then my list of new.

 

[Jfaden23]

Had my little sis do recon...she says its a Canon Zoom Lense EF 75-300mm 1:4-5.6. Any good cameras to look at compatible with that lense?

 

[brunerww]

Jfaden - the Canon T4i is on sale right now for $499. It is compatible with your Mom's lens and is the top-of-the-line entry level Canon camera. The T4i is at the top of your price range, but it is worth it.

Here are the kind of pictures photographers are shooting with this camera: Flickr: The Canon T4i / Kiss X6 / 650D Pool

Hope that is helpful - and best of the holidays!

Bill

 

[Jfaden23]

Wow, it can take some great shots That looks like it's perfect, as long as it's the best bang for the buck I think she'd be tickled pink. She may also have to get a different lens for different situations such as sport shots due to the Canon being "body only". Looking at some reviews on the one she has it's bulky and has some auto focus issues.