Digital cameras 101

[Thumper]

I'm all for the stitching!!!!!!

[ShutterbugGail]

Canon PowerShot S2 IS?

I am not objective because I own the Canon S2, but I just love it. I've owned seven digital cameras and am very impressed with the S2. Yes, think it would be a fine camera for your needs. It has a lot of advanced features, and there are auto and scene modes to use as you learn the features.

I have a blog about the S2 where you can read about the strong and weak points (which EVERY digital camera has!!!).

http://www.digicamhelp.com/canon-s2-blog/index.htm

If you want to spend less money on a similar camera the Canon S1 may still be available in stores. It is a bit slower, doesn't have an AutoFocus Assist Lamp and a few other features on it's big brother, the S2, but it is a good camera. Unlike the S2, itt has a 10X (not a 12X) zoom.

[Thumper]

sounds kool...i'll check out your blog......how is the macro mode on the canon though......welll maybe you'll have that on your blog

[ShutterbugGail]

sounds kool...i'll check out your blog......how is the macro mode on the canon though......welll maybe you'll have that on your blog

The macro mode is great. It also has an incredible super macro mode. What I like about it, and other cameras that gave this feature, is the tilt and twist LCD. You can move it and take shots from different angles and in difficult photo-taking situations.

[Thumper]

why is removing the media card awkward

[ShutterbugGail]

why is removing the media card awkward

It's not. Sorry, I really need to change those comments. It's only because I wasn't used to the size of a SD card...now I don't even think about it.

If you care to see some shots taken with the S2, here are some pix from my galleries:

http://www.pbase.com/gailb/s2

[Thumper]

pretty nice pictures there!

[ShutterbugGail]

pretty nice pictures there!

Thanks. Let us know what camera you decide to get. Hope you enjoy your photojournalism course. Photography is a wonderful hobby. Sometimes I'm sorry I didn't go into it professionally.

[Thumper]

will do.......i guess... lol

[Thumper]

"The only requirements are that the camera be digital and at least 5.0
megapixels. A good zoom lens will help. Anything else is up to you to enhance
your photos.

Welcome!"
That is what my teacher says, so basically i guess it's up to me to decide on the best camera?

[Deb]

Hi there, well it sounds like your instructor is leaving it pretty open. That's great!  

You might like to check out this site http://www.steves-digicams.com/best_cameras.html for a listing of "best" cameras in their class. He's got it broken down by megapixels and by class (pro, prosumer, consumer, etc.).

[ShutterbugGail]

Well by "good zoom lens" I'm certain she means that it be an optical zoom lens as I referenced above. You need to decide if you want a long zoom, which will run you in the $4-500 dollar range for a 5 mp camera, or a more standard 3-4X zoom, which will cost less. Even some of the lower cost cameras have advanced features.

Good luck in deciding. If we can help any further, let us know.

[Thumper]

i'm pretty sure i'm going to go with the Canon PowerShot S2 IS....does that sound ok? i mean i think it does but is there anything about it that i miight not like?

[ShutterbugGail]

i'm pretty sure i'm going to go with the Canon PowerShot S2 IS....does that sound ok? i mean i think it does but is there anything about it that i miight not like?

Thumper, that is a very difficult question for anyone to answer. Only you can tell, but do give it time no matter what digital camera you buy because there is a learning curve.

Keep in mind that the S2 is one of several new digital cameras that has received high ratings by a number of respected professional camera reviewers. After it came on the market, the S2 was often difficult to find in the stores during the first month or so because there was such a demand for it, so it is a very popular digital camera among users, if that means anything.

An important aspect of owning a digital camera is how it feels ergonomically in your hands. So hold it and see if you like the feel.

Finally, make sure whatever you buy can be returned if you don't like it. Within two weeks, you should be able to make that determination...but be fair to the camera...give it more than just a few days.