Yet another request for a beginner camera...

ThomGault

TPF Noob!
Joined
Apr 20, 2017
Messages
5
Reaction score
0
I apologize in advance for my stupid questions. I tried to google search the forum's history for a good response, but didn't find anything that was exactly what I need.
First, I have no skills or experience. Using a basic point and shoot is all I've ever done. At some point in the future, I DO want to learn everything about photography, but my problem is that I'm going on a tour of France and the UK in a couple of weeks, and I simply don't have the time to learn anything more than basics. Therefore, a nice camera is intimidating right now, and I'd like to not spend much on a camera that will do what I need for my current trip; under $250. I've been using a Samsung S5 camera phone for a few years, but it seems to have problems focusing, so I want to try something new.
During my trip, I'll mostly photograph outdoor monuments, indoor museums, and hopefully some pictures of the night sky. Due to my lack of experience, probably a fixed lens is best. I've watched some of the intro-to-photography youtube videos linked from this site, so I have a VERY rudimentary knowledge of aperture, iso, etc, but not enough to understand more than a basic camera.
 
Considering you aren't going to spend the time to lean and your budget is so low I recommend sticking with a cellphone.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
Many of thr 'entry level' dslr's and mirrorless cameras come with an 'auto' setting, so for your trip, and while you're learning, you can just use it in auto mode.

I'd recommend you look at the Panasonic Lumix interchangeable lens cameras, and get the size and style that feels right in your hands. The 'last years model's can be found at a discount, and this should keep in your budget.

Also look at Sony, Fuji, Olympus systems. A good zoom lens compact may also suit your needs, but make sure it has at least a 1 inch sensor or preferably bigger, or image quality may not be a big step up compared to your phone.
 
Thanks for the suggestions! Light guru,
I'm having problems with my camera phone focusing correctly, so this seems like a time to go beyond camera phone. Do you have any suggestions?

Frankinfuji, do you have a specific Lumix model you'd suggest?

Designer, I've looked at lots of 'best' camera for X' lists, but I always wondered about the breadth of knowledge of the reviewers. Thanks for sharing some trusted sources!
 
Last edited:
.. I always wondered about the breadth of knowledge of the reviewers.
This will probably never be easy knowledge, but one method I use is to read several sources and when three or more reviewers arrive at the same conclusions, then I give those reviews more credence. And then take my best guess.
 
For your ideal budget you may need to look at older models that are still in stock, or a used one. The Lumix GF6 can be found at a good discount, or perhaps the GX7 which has a viewfinder.

I found a new, but old model. Fuji X-M1 with two zoom lenses that was within your budget. I bought it as an everyday camera, and really like it.
 
Are *older* models able to compete with recent offerings? A neighbor has offered to give me his Canon powershot g7 (from ~2006.) I can see the differences in the spec sheets, but is a true beginner likely to achieve very different results with newer tech?
 
.. is a true beginner likely to achieve very different results with newer tech?
In my opinion, no. You will be lucky to get a few keepers on your trip. Which camera you use won't make much difference.
 
Many of thr 'entry level' dslr's and mirrorless cameras come with an 'auto' setting, so for your trip, and while you're learning, you can just use it in auto mode.

I'd recommend you look at the Panasonic Lumix interchangeable lens cameras, and get the size and style that feels right in your hands. The 'last years model's can be found at a discount, and this should keep in your budget.

Also look at Sony, Fuji, Olympus systems. A good zoom lens compact may also suit your needs, but make sure it has at least a 1 inch sensor or preferably bigger, or image quality may not be a big step up compared to your phone.

None of those things are going to be within the OPs $250 budget
 
Thanks for the suggestions! Light guru,
I'm having problems with my camera phone focusing correctly, so this seems like a time to go beyond camera phone. Do you have any suggestions?

A new cell phone! You should have a working camera on your cell phone anyway. You can also get lenses to go with your phone. But dont get the cheep plastic ones they destroy the image quality. I have a set of Moment Lenses for my iPhone and love them.
 
People who review cameras for a living usually have an intimate knowledge of what the offerings and specs are....I would definitely consult some of those people and their lists.
 
Fujifilm FinePix XP120
 

Most reactions

New Topics

Back
Top