Looking for a digicam with a good zoom

[timswim78]

I am looking to buy a new digital camera in the $400 - $500 range. I prefer something that has at least 10x zoom, at least 6MP, and is of good quality.

Right now, I have a Canon PowerShot S50, and I am happy with everything about it, except for its zoom. My father has a Dimage, and I like most things about it, except for its poor macro-focusing.

I'll be using this mostly for snapshots. My fiance and I like to canoe, take photos of places we visit, and stuff like that.

So far, my first candidate is the Canon PowerShot S3-IS. It has received great reviews. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16830120043

Any other suggestions?

 

[gekko513]

I was going to suggest the S3 IS, but I see that you've already found it. I have it and I like it a lot.

 

[timswim78]

I was going to suggest the S3 IS, but I see that you've already found it. I have it and I like it a lot.

That's encouraging. My fiance wants to get me a new camera as a wedding gift, and I am 90% sure that I would like an S3-IS. Just wanted to get a few opinions before the purchase.

 

[PaulinMaryland]

Have you checked dpreview?

At dpreview, you'll find all you need to know about the cameras that meet your criteria. Read the S3 review. You can filter your search by criteria. Or search the forums (by brand) to find opinions and experiences.

Given your criteria, the S3 definitely belongs on your short list. You probably already know its competitors: Panasonic FZ7, Sony DSC-H2 or -H5, and a few other usual suspects.

 

[yankeefan24]

Given your criteria, the S3 definitely belongs on your short list. You probably already know its competitors: Panasonic FZ7, Sony DSC-H2 or -H5, and a few other usual suspects.

I have the DSC-H5 and I love it! best camera I have ever owned. 3 inch display, 7.2 MP, 12x zoom, etc.

 

[puckhead193]

i have a nikon 8800 its not on the website, but i'm sure u can find it still. Its pretty good, 8 MP, 10X zoom, it takes really great pictures (but not action )if you want PM with your email and i'll be happy to send you a shot of my own to compare

 

[timswim78]

The Sony dsc-h5 looks interesting. Thanks YankeesFan24. The only thing I do not like is that it looks like its screen does not p[ivot, like the Canons and Nikons.

The coolpix 8800 also looks nice, but it is a little byond what I wish to spend.


Anyone have any experience with the Panasonic Lumix FZ7? It's specs look OK, but I cannot find my through reviews, by uers of it.