Expert: John Oliverio - 1/16/2004

Question
John,

My wife likes to take photos, and likes using a variety of lenses, but has had a string of bad luck with cameras.  I've gotten her a couple of used SLRs (Olympus something, and a Nikon FE) to keep it economical.  Both, however, ended up with chronic shutter sticking problems that repair shops couldn't fix.

We have a big trip coming up in May.  I want to get her a camera for that.  Durable, simple, reliable, reasonably priced, with extra lenses available, not digital.

Any suggestions?

Mark in Portland Oregon

Answer
Mark,

Hello. Thanks for the question.

Well, I'm personally rather fond of Nikons.  I don't know what you would consider "reasonably priced", so I will give you two cameras to consider:  The Nikon N75 and N80.  Both cameras are reliable and both are a good deal right now.  You can get them packaged with both the 28-80 and 70-300 lens.  If you buy it that way, you will the long lens for about $100 off.  

I don't usually do this, but since you are from Oregon (so am I) I'm even going to suggest a place to shop.  Check out "The Shutterbug".  There is one at Washington Square, and one in Downtown Portland.  

Hope this helps.

John