Can I get the collective's advice on a relatively low-level digital camera?
I’m not a professional photographer, and have no need of a camera with removable lenses, and fancy stuff like that. On the other hand, I am looking for something that can take reasonable pictures but not fall apart after a half dozen uses.
Yes, I could use my phone, but I don’t wish to do so.
Are you aware of any digital cameras in the $150–300 range, reasonable # of megapixels, flash, (ideally but not required) optical zoom, that is made by some company I might have heard of? (Meaning: no-name Chinese knockoffs don’t qualify).
Advice will be appreciated.
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9 Answers
I had a couple of Olympus small digital cameras back in the day that I was very happy with.
You can find a reasonable camera on-line or other places. Get one with a screen on the back so you can view your pictures and delete the ones that you decide you don’t want. Something with a removable memory card (or similar) that can be removed and/or replaced so you can have your pictures printed at a photo copying store.
Honestly, a phone is still the way to go for what you’re asking. If I put pictures taken from a Google pixel up against one from a professional photographer, it would be unlikely you could see a difference. If you just want an inexpensive, reliable, well-made digital camera, thrift stores have bins full of name-brand ones right now.
I’m inclined to agree with @Blackwater_Park. The machine learning stuff that goes into photography on modern phones is nothing short of remarkable. A traditional digital camera will never be able to pull off that kind of smarts in real time. My advice is to reconsider your requirement of not using a phone.
FWIW I’m a photographer. Phones have their uses and the cameras are excellent for what they are. But they have limitations. For snapshots, there really is nothing better as I agree that the machine learning is excellent. But if I’m trying to do, say, wildlife photography, it doesn’t do nearly as well as a good camera. However, at the price range you’re asking, a good phone camera will probably be better.
Phone cameras are driving the market right now and causing massive improvements in CMOS and supporting technology.
Don’t underestimate the value of removable/switchable types of lenses when taking pictures! Those small, wide angle only cameras can’t do everything.
@kritiper They’re not going to get a removable/switchable lens at that price point unless it’s a very used camera.
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