recommend me a digital camera

[radfringe]

my boss just left my cubicle.

I'm being directed to find a digital camera for work use. when I asked about price range, he shrugged and said "we get what we need"

what we need is: high resolution so pics can be used for posters, brouchures, webpages, powerpoints etc.

we will be taking pics of very large machines in both "off the production line" mode and "in-action" mode. (video capability a plus). also need to be able to do close ups of machine parts/features

your recommendations please.....

[LSK]

1. I purchased the Canon A630 last spring

Goes for about $200. 8 Megapixels, 4x Zoom, takes AA batteries.


http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/A630/A630A.HTM

[kwassa]

2. You need a high-end camera for that stuff,

something you can shoot very large files with for high resolution.

Nikons and Canons are best. Probably in the $1000 range.

[TreasonousBastard]

3. Here's yer choices...

from the very good to the incredible:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/shop/6222/Digital_Cameras_SLR_Digital_Cameras.html

I'd go with the Nikon D40x with the two lens kit from 16 to 200mm. Canon has a couple of Digital Rebel XT models in the same price range, too. All else is ridiculously expensive for what you want, or of unknown quality.

Do NOT get talked into one of the cheapie models with that tiny lens, even from Canon or Nikon-- you need serious, professional results, and you can't go any lower than a DX40, or Canon equivalent. These are classed as "advanced amateur" cameras, but they're good enough for light pro use. These can often be seen in Office Max, Best Buy, Staples, and Target. The more expensive ones are considered pro equipment, and often have a different distribution channel.

If you end up buying something online, I've dealt with the B & H store in NYC, and can vouch for them.

[Omphaloskepsis]

6. I will second his recommendation..

I would go with a Nikon D40 or D40x. The cost is reasonable. About 500$ for the D40 and 600$ for the D40x. (prices from Amazon, both include lenses)

[Squatch]

4. Olympus 720 SW

I've deployed with this on numerous occasions and it looks and performs as if it's brand new. Absolutely wonderful camera.

[evlbstrd]

5. I have a Nikon D40X.

Perfect for your needs.
Except for the video.

[Inchworm]

7. Here is a link to compare I got from Photography Group

http://www.steves-digicams.com/default.htm

from

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=280

Good luck and have fun :)

:hi:

[Pied Piper]

8. I highly recommend the 1st website listed above

I used Steve's website to help me to define what I was looking for and how much I wanted to spend. I ended up with a Canon PowerShot A700, and I just love it. Seriously, check out the website; it's really most helpful.

Pied Piper

[Bennyboy]

9. KODAK Z812.....

Does close-ups (macro)
12X zoom lens.
8.1 MP
Fully manual or auto control.

Feels like a camera

Video

200-225 bucks http://www.everyprice.com/item.asp?item_Id=174479&partner=g123&keyword=kodak_z812&gclid=CNPrht2muJACFSdZiAodUQnoFQ

[radfringe]

10. thanks all - you've been very helpful

I'll check out all of the recommendations...

[mojowork_n]

13. Whichever camra you get,

you should get Photoshop -- the real thing, not 'Elements' -- to add light (production floors are notoriously dim and gloomy), erase odds and ends, copy and paste stuff... If your boss doesn't want to spend any money, get an older version of the program.

But getting back to the cameras, I'd check out whatever Olympus makes, that's in your size and price range.

[Blue Fire]

11. Late response.....but check out Canon's Rebel XTi.

About $700 with an 18-55 kit lens, 10.1MP, and a huge selection of accessories..... lenses, flashes, etc.

[gmoney]

12. Word is the Canon G9 is amazing, in a small package

I would get a separate video camera as well...

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

14. WWMHCB?

What would MissHoneyChurch buy? Her pictures are great. From panoramas to ultra-close-ups of flower parts.

I think she got a high-end Canon, IIRC, but memory is not what it used to be.

:hi: