Cameras/which entry level digital camera would you recommend???
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Question
I have narrowed my search for an entry level digital camera down to the following cameras. I would love to hear opinions on which is the way to go:
1.Finepix A330
2.Canon A400
Thanks for your time
Hi Peter,
I get similar questions to this all the time ("What digital camera do you recommend in the XXX price range...?"), but you obviously did a lot of your own research in advance. Since you did me the courtesy of learning some things on your own first, I took an extra day to go look at both cameras and come back with an even more informed opinion. Basically I reinforced my initial opinion from previous experience with most of the current digital models. Both cameras are excellent values for the money, both will give you years of pleasing results, both are fitted with superb optics, just the right amount of "bells and whistles" without being too complicated, and they come with reasonably good customer support. If there is an advantage to the Canon, it is that there are often some extremely good sales and dealer incentives on their gear, and therefore a strong possibility that you may find the A400 substantially cheaper than the Fuji/Fujica Finepix A330. On the other hand, something that ALWAYS seems to get overlooked in choosing a digital camera, Fujica has some of the simplest and most user friendly computer software I've ever seen. Practically idiot proof! What good is having a great camera if you can't get the images downloaded, uploaded, stored, or manipulated without having an advanced degree in computer sciences?! For this reason, I strongly recommend the Fujica Finepix A330. In all other ways the two cameras are equally fabulous, but the Fujica is MUCH easier to use when you eventaully need to move the images into your computer or other outlets. Have fun!
Best wishes,
David Silver
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David Silver
Expertise
I'm an expert on all types of antique, classic, and contemporary cameras, as well as the general history of photography. Everything from ancient box cameras to modern single-lens-reflex; from simple Kodaks to sophisticated Leica and Nikon; from glass plates and roll film to movie and 35mm. I can identify and appraise them, explain how they work, and offer insights on their restoration and care. I can also provide historical background on vintage cameras and equipment, and guidelines on their purchase and sale.
Experience
I've been a professional photographer and a student of the history of photography for nearly 30 years. During that time my collection of vintage cameras and photographic paraphernalia has grown beyond 2000 significant pieces. I've published nearly 70 articles in the field, including 16 in the popular "Buying Classic Cameras" series for PHOTO SHOPPER MAGAZINE from 1995 to 1997, I'm currently a contributing editor for CAMERA SHOPPER MAGAZINE and McKEOWN'S PRICE GUIDE TO ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC CAMERAS, and I've written numerous entries for WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Portions of my collection have been displayed in museums and special exhibits in the past two decades, and many of the items were photographed as illustrations for books. In 1985 I founded the International Photographic Historical Organization (InPHO), which eventually evolved into its intended purpose as the best first resource for information on the history of photography. I'm also a founding member of several e-mail forums dedicated to specialized areas of photography, and I'm the moderator of the Internet Directory of Camera Collectors (IDCC), which remains the largest and most successful such group in the world. For more information about the International Photographic Historical Organization and its many services, please visit its web pages at:
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