consumerism

[alphacygni]

I'm contemplating buying a digital camera. I would say "a new digital camera", but it's been so long since I bought my first one (and a while since I lost it, too), that it feels like the first time.

After contemplation (and one rave review from a co-worker), I am eyeing the Canon Powershot SD 700 IS. After research on dpreview.com, I feel torn between it and the Fuji Finepix F30. Almost entirely because of dpreview's comparison pictures, and the Fuji's notably low-noise high ISO results. I'm still leaning towards the Canon, since I like having more optical zoom, the capabilities in macro mode seem to be better, and IS sounds lovely for a shaky-handed person like myself who often likes to take pictures through the windows of moving vehicles.

At this point, I'm seeking personal experiences with either camera that might inform my decision. Anyone? If you have some other model you must recommend over both of those, I'm open to hearing about it. Know that my level of photogeekery is very low, and simple and small are two of my biggest considerations. Use of SD is good (which is a strike against the Fuji).

Comments

[coffeebeanben.livejournal.com]

I'm looking for a new digital camera too, actually. And have been seriously considering the same Canon PowerShot SD700IS as well. I took it for a test-drive at the local best buy and was extremely impressed. I've had a Fuji FinePix S5000 for a few years and while it's generally a decent camera, it's friggin' huge and doesn't do low light pictures at all.

Canons generally have the phrase "legendary optics" associated with them. Though I will say that I've always preferred the UI/menu interfaces of Fuji cameras over any other brand. Definitely the easiest to use.

[coraline]

actually, i much prefer canon's UI to most of the others i've tried... it's really a very personal thing.
that's one thing i'd recommend: try to get a chance to play with one in a store and see if you find the UI intuitive or not.