Shoppin' for my first camera

[Putty]

Hey guys, I'm considering switching my major to Digital Media, and would like to look for a new camera. Now.. I'm NOT looking for some crazy expensive high tech device. I'm willing to spend ~$200, only if it's some amazing deal.

Also, I don't really know what to look for when looking for one. I do know megapixels are the clarity of the picture, but what's standard these days? And what is above standard?

Any advice/suggestions are appreciated. Thanks guys.

 

[Jarrod_38]

Must likely you will be looking for a point and shoot camera. I own a Casio Exilim that has Youtube features and it gives off good pictures. For the price that I paid for it the camera works really good had never given me a problem yet. Now I'm not the world's best picture taker so my advice would be go to your local Best Buy or whatever that is near you and test out the cameras.
Here are sample pictures.

 

[Passerby]

ya it would be nice to know if you want a point and shoot or a SLR

and megepixels compare more to the size you can make the final image rather than the clarity of it like my Nikon D70 can take way better pictures than my little cannon powershot even know the cannon has twice the megapixels.

 

[Captain Canuck]

If you're looking for a point and shoot camera, I'd suggest the Canon Powershot line. I have an A570 and it takes some pretty nice photos for a point and shoot camera. If you are looking for a digital SLR, you will probably have to spend more than $200.

Also, don't forget about film! I still use an old 35mm Canon SLR from time to time. Digital cameras still can't achieve the same 'look and feel' as a chemical medium such as film.

 

[Putty]

I think I'm narrowing it down to a point and shoot. My friend recommended an Olympus 7010, which is just under $200.

 

[InkSix]

If you're accident prone....like me.....the Ryobi camera I got at Home Depot is amazing. It's 8 megapixel with video and mic and all that, and it's made to survive water, sand, and me when I drop that damn thing over and over. It's awesome!

 

[Putty]

Lol, if I pay a lot for something, I keep good care of it.

I think I may be going with the 7010.