Looking4point&shoot

[d-maz]

I'm looking for a decent point and shoot. I want to stay around $300. What do you suggest? It seems like the Panasonic luminex is ranked high on many reviews.

 

[IslandCrow]

I have the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5, and I really like this camera. I paid more than $300, but that was a couple years ago. If you're thinking about possibly getting an SLR someday, it's a really nice lead-in. The controls are very similar to an SLR, and it allows you to shoot in raw format. It also uses Leica glass, which was a nice bonus, because it's less than half the price of the equivalent Leica camera with nearly identical image quality. Additionally, you have a hot-shoe mount, so you can use hotshoe or external strobes. Panasonic also has some nice removable lens mirrorless cameras with APS-C sized sensors, but those are going to get a little pricey, especially when you factor in the cost of the lens(es). My next choice would probably be a Canon G-series camera. You're probably looking at closer to $400 to start, but you could probably pick up a used older model for $300. For used equipment, I like shopping through a reputable dealer like Adorama or B&H Photo. You're going to pay more than Ebay or some online forum, but it's easier to get a refund if it's defective, and I'm a bit more confident on the condition of the equipment I'm getting.

 

[d-maz]

Thanks for the reply. I'll look into it.

 

[spoon671]

Looking4point&shoot

I've had the last three Canon G-Series offerings. I've been satisfied with performance and image quality. Shooting in RAW is a plus for these higher end point and shoot you've been thinking about. If you have any particular questions about the Canon G-Series I will be happy to answer them.

 

[IslandCrow]

One other thought. If this is primarily for aquarium photography (and possibly even if it isn't), you may want to look at one of the waterproof P&S cameras. One of the biggest challenges in aquarium photography is shooting through glass. With a waterproof camera, you can eliminate that variable. You can accomplish basically the same thing with a lookdown box as well. I've never looked into how well these waterproof cameras compare to their non-waterproof brethren as far as image quality, though.

 

[spoon671]

Lockdown box! That's what they're called! I need to get one of those

 

[HelenOster]

......For used equipment, I like shopping through a reputable dealer like Adorama or B&H Photo. You're going to pay more than Ebay or some online forum, but it's easier to get a refund if it's defective, and I'm a bit more confident on the condition of the equipment I'm getting.

Good to hear - thanks!:fun2: