New camera

[slatr]

My vote because of the video capabilities.

Panasonic Lumix G Series DMC-G6KK about 498 now at Amazon with kit lens

http://www.eoshd.com/content/10824/panasonic-g6-review-the-gh2-redux

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/7802516432/mid-range-mirrorless-camera-roundup-2013/9

 

[NAC]

I think the first question is size. Does she mind having a fairly big and heavy camera if it means she may get better pictures?

The next question is how much do you think she wants to learn about photography. Do you think she wants to spend time to learn how photography works (as opposed to just pointing and shooting) ?

If the answer to both is yes, then IMO you can't go wrong with a Canon or Nikon DSLR as posted in links above.

If the answer to the size question is no, then you should consider how small does she want. If it is not "tiny", then I would go for an LX7 myself. It handles wonderfully, is priced well for what you get, and is pretty small but not tiny.

If the answer to both question is no, then I'm not sure what I'd recommend. Probably a DSLR will be more frustrating than other choices because of the focus options and extra buttons.

 

[bigi]

guide

This should help.

 

[sdifox]

guide

This should help.

mine, all mine!

 

[Sixguns]

Think I am going to get her the Nikon D3100

 

[ElFenix]

At that price point you really need to figure out what she'll use the most.

You are at the edge of entry level DSL-R and the kit lens. Obvious upgrade paths and excellent manual control. Or you are in the range of the psuedo DSL-R like the Sony NEX series. Or you can go with the micro-mights with point and shoot compact bodies but uber guts like the Sony RX100.

The RX100 is a interesting choice. The pictures you can pull out of out with the size it takes up are pretty incredible.

i find your use of hyphens amusing