Help Buying A Camera

Hey, I was hoping some of you experts could help me choosing a camera.

Basically, i'm a graphics student that can only afford to spend $700 or less

(aussie dollars), and was hoping yall could point me in the right direction.

At 700, i realize i can probably only afford a high end digital camera, but

i'd like one that is close to slr as possible. Meaning, i'd like to be able to

take close up pictures without any blur that i tend to get with my Kodak

EasyShare DX7630. I believe this is called macro or something. I'd also like

to get an as accurate as possible image, i've noticed my kodak's photos look

nothing like the real life composite. (Dunno if there is a technical name for

this, i think it has something to do with lighting and what not). I live in

Melbourne Australia, but am not aware of the best place to buy a camera, they

only shop im aware of is Teds and unless someone advises elsewise, its

probable that i will buy from there. ( www.teds.com.au ). So basically, all

this condensed, i'd like a camera that gives an accurate replica of the

subject, and most def. must be able to take close-up, high quality images, and

digital input/output.

 

So if anyone out there can help me, it would be greatly appreciated.

The panasonic Lumix FZ-30 will get you close for macro, within 1 inch of the subject. It's got the Leica lens too, excellent lens, very sharp. There's a bit of noise in the sensor especially at high ISO and low light but the noise can be dealt with.

All you probably need is a tripod, not a new camera.

 

That and to spend some more time with the manual of the Kodak you already own.

I agree with Rob although I also agree that the FZ30 is a good versatile camera in your price range ... but the key thing to improving your results is your technique.

Try finding a used Minolta DiMage A1. Quality all the way around.

Check Andorama or B and H here in the states. I lived in Japan and stuff got to me in reasonable time. As far as camera goes, I am a full time advocate of Olympus. The C7070 or C8080 while not an SLR has tons of features and is easy to use for first timers. They do an awesome job of macro and you can look through the screen at what photo you are taking versus the viewfinder. they are fairly cheap. but its up to you, good luck...