What takes the best macros for my price range?

[cschweitzer]

I'm looking into getting a new camera but really have no clue. I used to use an Olympus C-60 6.1 MP that had a supermacro mode on it. It was a very decent camera and I had good use on it, but alas it is time to upgrade as technology continues its progression.

My main desire is obviously to capture my corals, but I do also enjoy taking fish shots, which require less of a delicate touch and more of an speedy capture. I want a generally all-purpose camera that takes movies(just decent is okay), has a rechargable battery(one of my favorite features and selling points of my Olympus), and can take beautiful close-ups. Also, if it could be relatively on the smaller side. Basically, I'm looking for a fairly easy to use camera that takes great pictures. I am a gadget geek, so I do know how to fiddle with settings, so that is not a major issue.

I am looking to spend between $200-500, preferably closer to the $200-300, but willing to spend a little more for the right camera. Anyone have any suggestions and/or examples? Thanks in advance for any of your help.

 

[bureau13]

I've seen a lot of people raving about the Canon A640, but they weren't necessarily talking about macro shots...I'd look into it though, its a 10mp camera with good optics and its pretty cheap. It doesn't support raw mode, but I believe there is a "hack" available that does.

jds

 

[chk4tix]

I would like to hear more opinions on this as well. I am also in the market for a new camera.

 

[wh1te]

I would also like to here choices in this range.

As of I right now I am leaning towards the FZ18 which seems to be a fairly good camera for this price range with a macro focus range of 1cm and the ability to shoot raw I think it might be my choice. But I am always open to suggestion.

 

[reefman23]

I would say the FZ18 is a great choice due to it's 1cm macro mode... not to mention it takes amazing shots and 30 fps video for about $350 or less.

Jesse