Z Analyzer, improvements in digital cameras are coming so rapidly, one can assume that the current 3 mpixel cameras will become obsolete in a year or so, or will become cheaper at least. Among the better quality cameras are Canon, Nikon Coolpix, and Olympus, with some good reviews also for Kodak. Olympus has high resolution cameras with SLR capabilities, which is something I miss on my Nikon Coolpix 950. Yet even though the 950 doesn't have 3 mp resolution, I think it does a terrrific job on prints up to 8 x 10, as long as one is willing to spend the time learning to use the tools available in software such as Adobe PhotoShop.
The right choice is always a balancing act. Do you want small size, or can you deal with a bulkier body as in the Olympus SLR? Do you want an articulated body, as in the Nikon 990, which makes overhead shots easy, or are you willing to go with the less expensive Nikon 880? Do you need all the manual controls available on the Nikon, or, if you are like me, will you end up using the automatic settings most of the time? If so, you don't need to pay the extra for all that manual control. Do you want macro capabilities, as in the Nikon, or are you satisfied with less ultra close-up shots? Do you want really good optics, as in Nikon and Olympus, or will a little less performance be okay?
And as far as cost goes, rest assured that what costs $1500 today will cost perhaps less than $1000 next year, but in the meantime, you'll miss a lot of good photo opportunities.
Art |
