BRIDGE CAMERA ADVICE?
Hi, I currently have a Samsung PL100, but are wanting to upgrade to a bridge camera. I have looked at Argos, and other places and the main brand that comes up is Fuji. However, I can't tell the difference between them all. Argos also have a Nikon L120 which is half price. The camera needs to versatile and be able to take shots with ease, but also have extra features and modes.
My price range can't stretch more than £150 as I'm still only 14. Are there any cameras, sites, or shops you would recommend?
I own two Fuji models, among others, and can tell you they make excellent bridge cameras… In fact that's the only kind of camera this company makes any longer - the model will have to be up to you.
here's a good place to do research on specs, etc.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...video.com/
The S2900, S3200 and S3300 series are similar to Nikon L120 in specification.
Other alternative models are Olympus SP-610/620UZ, SZ-12/14
You might also want to try some of those older models like FujiFilm S1800 series.
Visit a camera store and check them out to see which model you like more and fit within your price range.
Also, don't overlook the Used Department, you might find some real bargain there too.
Have you looked at the Fuji cameras? I have a fuji S8000fd and the S9500 and they are superb cameras. There's a new one out to which is the FinePix HS20EXR which is just over the £300 mark. I got my Fuji S9500 off eBay for £50 and you can get the even better S9600 for not much more but the prices do seem to be getting higher as people realise what good cameras they are.
Avoid the Nikon L120.It's NOT a bridge camera at all, because it doesn't have manual controls (aperture/shutter priority modes).So, it's just a point and shoot with a telephoto zoom lens.
A decent bridge/superzoom camera will you cost more than £150…
http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/advice/501485/what-is-the-best-bridge-camera-2011-our-top-5-superzooms-of-the-year.html
I have a list of all the best bridge cameras in under 150 pounds:
http://www.amazon.com/...zon.com/s/
Among these i suggest you go for Fujifilm FinePix S1800 12.2 MP Digital Camera with 18x Wide Angle Optical Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 3-Inch LCD. As you are a beginner this camera will be perfect for you. Camera's features are:
12.2-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD for photo-quality poster-sized prints
Fujinon 18x wide-angle optical zoom lens (28mm wide-angle to 504mm telephoto); Dual Image Stabilization
Capture movies in HD quality 720p resolution
3.0-inch high-contrast LCD and Electronic View Finder
Track a moving subject automatically for still picture capture
Amazon has great prices:
http://www.amazon.com/...0035JD0DW/
Read this review to make you decision: