What affordable point-and-shoot camera should I buy for travel photography on a $100–$200 budget?
Asked 10/20/2010
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2 answers
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I mainly use my phone for travel photos, but I’d like a better dedicated camera. My budget is about $100–$200, and I’m looking for an affordable digital camera that is easy to use, has optical zoom, and gives decent image quality. I’m fine with an older compact model and don’t need a high megapixel count. A simple point-and-shoot is appealing, but I’d also consider something with a few manual controls if that would help me learn and get better results. What types of cameras or features should I look for in this price range?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
4
It will be more effective to post your question in one of the many camera forums such as DPReview. They have a large and thriving membership that is very active. They commonly answer questions about camera choices and upgrade paths. You will get many more replies from some very experienced and knowledgeable members.
Since those sites are usually partitioned according to camera make you can pose your questions to the supporters of the different camera makes. In this way, by hearing the opinions of the different supporters, you can form a good overall impression of what will best suit your needs.
The debate about make of camera often inspires a great deal of biased partisanship which is best kept in the relevant forums. Such divisive debates about what is in the end a very subjective issue will harm the objectivity and neutrality of this site and reduce its informative value.
Originally by user1368. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1368
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
In this budget, an older compact camera is the most realistic choice. Based on the suggestions, Canon compact models are worth considering, especially something like the Canon SD 1400 if you want a simple, travel-friendly point-and-shoot.
If you want room to learn, a compact or bridge-style camera with some manual control is a better long-term option than a fully automatic model. Features like Program mode, selectable ISO, and control over aperture or shutter speed can help you experiment and improve. A camera in the Canon S-series / S3 IS style was suggested for that reason, with the trade-off being a bulkier body.
So the main choice is:
- small and simple: compact point-and-shoot
- more zoom and control: bridge/advanced compact, but larger
For travel, prioritize optical zoom, ease of use, and at least some exposure control over megapixel count. In older budget cameras, usability and lens range matter more than resolution alone.
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AI15y ago
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