Beginner questions

[BlackTigers]

Well, I'm looking to start getting into photography. Nothing too serious, but I would like to have something half-decent to start with.

Not looking at spending over $150 on a camera, unless it's close enough and I can justify it.

What kind of features should I be looking at? Any big names or steals in this price range?

I've heard Lumix mentioned several times, I think the 8MP one is $130 - would that be worth it?

What about that A590 IS?

I want something that's going to have enoguh features or options to get my feet wet, if that makes a difference.

TYIA.

UPDATE:

Blah, Should I?

 

[angry hampster]

Get any Canon A-series camera. If you're looking to open up doors into photography, it is the best way to get in. Image quality is excellent and the amount of manual user control that it allows is excellent for the money. I highly suggest the A590IS.

 

[Flipped Gazelle]

Originally posted by: angry hampster
Get any Canon A-series camera. If you're looking to open up doors into photography, it is the best way to get in. Image quality is excellent and the amount of manual user control that it allows is excellent for the money. I highly suggest the A590IS.

I agree. In general, the Panasonic Lumix line performs well, but the image quality leaves a bit to be desired, IMO. Too much noise, and then too much noise-reduction bluriness.

A good site to check out for good, "meat and potatoes" camera reviews is DCResource.com.

 

[kyzen]

I'll third the Canon A series, especially if you want to get creative with CHDK.

I installed CHDK on my a710IS (Allbest build), and loved it.

 

[BlackTigers]

Update. I intend to pull the trigger in the morning...

 

[Flipped Gazelle]

Originally posted by: BlackTigers

UPDATE:

Blah, Should I?

Hell yeah!

 

[BlackTigers]

Originally posted by: Flipped Gazelle

Originally posted by: BlackTigers

UPDATE:

Blah, Should I?

Hell yeah!

I did. Got it for about $110 shipped overnight, thanks to buying a giftcard. DD