is this an OK camera?

retiredin2011

http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-camcorders/digital-cameras/bridge-cameras/fujifilm-finepix-s6800-bridge-camera-21270348-pdt.html




Thinking of getting this camera is it OK or is there something with better specs for about the same price?


The URL is for PC World but that doesn't mean I am going to buy it there.


Max top budget is £149.99.

retiredin2011

Anyone?




................

iSaving

What are you photographing? General day-to-day use? Or do you plan on going travelling or using it for a specific purpose.

For £150 you could get a decent used DSLR camera, which gives you the flexibility of changing lenses (and much better image quality) in the future if you're looking to advance your photography skills.

retiredin2011

What are you photographing?

Holiday snaps.

I already have a Kodak EasyShare C330 which eats through batteries, AA lithium are the "preferred" batteries but looking for something a bit more sophisticated and uses AA rechargeable batteries.

I was given the money as a present.

iSaving

Okay, if it's just for travelling and you're not looking into becoming an enthusiast (or pro) photographer, you could probably get away with a compact (non DSLR) camera.

I personally prefer cameras that use a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery though, and you can always keep a spare or two with you charged. The problem with AA rechargeable batteries is simply that they don't last very long, even the lithium ones. The charge trickles away slowly over time when not in use, meaning regular and often charging. Lithium-Ion batteries, though still prone to this, are generally more efficient.

That said, if you're looking for a Bridge type compact camera (like the one you posted in your original post) they're pretty much all going to be AA battery types, unless you push your budget up. If you're happy to use the Lithium AA batteries, then there are cameras in your budget from Canon, Nikon & Sony which would all be great purchases for your purpose. Check out the Nikon Coolpix L820 currently £130 on Amazon (due in stock on 7th Feb). For the money, this is one of the best value Bridge cameras I've seen.

Edit: Check out Snapsort to compare cameras and their features. This is the link to compare the Nikon I recommended with the Fuji you're looking at. If you click compare at the top, you can compare any 2 digicams and see how they stack up also.

Anne_Marie_2

What about this one for the same price?
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-camcorders/digital-cameras/compact-digital-cameras/panasonic-lumix-dmc-tz35-advanced-compact-digital-camera-black-21312106-pdt.html

It's not a bridge camera, but has a pretty good zoom, and a lot smaller to be carrying around on holiday. Am sure there are other makes but just giving an example, as I've got a couple of Panasonics myself, one of which is a bridge camera, but sometimes just too much of a bother to be carrying around.

ukcarper

Anne_Marie wrote: »

What about this one for the same price?
http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/cameras-camcorders/digital-cameras/compact-digital-cameras/panasonic-lumix-dmc-tz35-advanced-compact-digital-camera-black-21312106-pdt.html

It's not a bridge camera, but has a pretty good zoom, and a lot smaller to be carrying around on holiday. Am sure there are other makes but just giving an example, as I've got a couple of Panasonics myself, one of which is a bridge camera, but sometimes just too much of a bother to be carrying around.

The advantage some bridge cameras have is they have a viewfinder all be it electronic. I've got a Panasonic compact and there have been times when it's been aim camera in right direction and press shutter release as I couldn't see LCD screen.

iSaving

I'd be surprised if you found a Bridge camera with an electronic viewfinder for £150 or less. But you're right, they're a definite advantage.

The main advantage of a Bridge camera tends to be the optical zoom, sensor quality and the additional control you get, such as longer exposures (how long the camera lets light in for).

It really depends what you're photographing. If you're going on Safari, obviously a greater zoom with a good sensor camera is essential, as a fast shutter speed would be (catching moving animals with minimal blur). If you're looking to photograph scenery, or nighttime shooting. A good long exposure camera and sturdy tripod is essential.

One thing is for sure. Every recommendation in this thread so far will be a big step up from your Kodak currently

ukcarper

ukcarper wrote: »

The advantage some bridge cameras have is they have a viewfinder all be it electronic. I've got a Panasonic compact and there have been times when it's been aim camera in right direction and press shutter release as I couldn't see LCD screen.

Looking at a few cameras it looks like now the cheaper bridge cameras have no viewfinders.

ukcarper

iSaving wrote: »

I'd be surprised if you found a Bridge camera with an electronic viewfinder for £150 or less. But you're right, they're a definite advantage.

The main advantage of a Bridge camera tends to be the optical zoom, sensor quality and the additional control you get, such as longer exposures (how long the camera lets light in for).

It really depends what you're photographing. If you're going on Safari, obviously a greater zoom with a good sensor camera is essential, as a fast shutter speed would be (catching moving animals with minimal blur). If you're looking to photograph scenery, or nighttime shooting. A good long exposure camera and sturdy tripod is essential.

One thing is for sure. Every recommendation in this thread so far will be a big step up from your Kodak currently

Yes it looks like your right which is a shame really as there has been many a time I wish I had taken my dslr instead of compact.

SailorSam

Argos have got quite a few Bridge cameras in your price range.