Looking for a new camera!!

[wastickslinger]

Wife gave me the go ahead on a new digital camera. All I have ever had is just the compact point and shoot with 3X optical zoom type cameras. I would really like to start taking better pictures out at a little further distance. I am not looking to take pictures for a profession, just a hobby. Any suggestions on an entry level camera that is user friendly and easy on the pocket book. I know I am being pretty vague about what I want but just started looking and i thought I would see if any one had a suggestion where to start. Thanks.

[HuntingFanatic]

I was directed towards a panasonic fz-18. Boy am I happy with it. Lots of fun to play with.

[boneaddict]

If you have alot of money and want more professional stuff  D80, D200, and alot money D300 or the Canon 40D  you are looking at about $1200 for camera and then another grand for a good lens.  If you don't mind point and shoot with a little play, and very decent pictures for an affordable price, the FZ18 can't be beat with its lieca glass and 18 power digital zoom.  It's what I use.

[wastickslinger]

I have the panasonic DMC FX9 for family and work. I love the camera. I though about staying with panasonic. Leica lense is great.

Thanks for the start. I will have to check out the FZ 18. I didnt want to spend more than about $600 total. I know, I am a tight wad but it was like pulling teeth to get her to agree to that much. 

[wastickslinger]

Looks like the FZ 18 is around $350 before any extras. Does that sound right? And any suggestions as far as the best place to pick one up? And can any lenses be added to that or changes later?Thanks

[boneaddict]

Digitalmegastore.com

Its a good source for all your FZ18's needs.  I don't think so.  I thought I read you could add a mutiplier lens but I don't see how.  It comes pretty loaded for a little camera with the ability to take macro shots etc with that lens. 

[Wea300mag]

Another vote for the FZ-18 here. It would be great for those long distance Desert shots stickslinger.

[Antlershed]

I love my D80, but like was stated, it will cost you. I am also still trying to learn all the functions, so it is probably more than I need. You might be able to get away with something like the D40 even.

[searchnfor]

I just bought the FZ-18 a few weeks ago, I'm still learning it. I really like it, it takes great pictures for the money. I found it at vans.com for $328.00.

[jackelope]

i love my fz18 for what it is, and for the size and convenience of it, and it takes nice pictures. if i had to do it over again and had a $600 budget, i'd be leaning towards the nikon d40 or the canon digital rebel slr's. they take better pictures...flat out. for another couple hundy you can get a big lense for them too as a package deal.
the downfall for a hunter/fisherman/hiker is the size of them. the fz18 is awesome size-wise and there are 4-5 cameras in the 350-400 range that are all great for the money. another specific one to look at is the canon s5 i.s. it has a 12x optical zoom rather than a 18x, but it has other options that the fz18 doesn't have like a hot shoe for an add-on flash.

[Antlershed]

With my 18-200 lens I can still get my camera under my raincoat if it is raining, but once I slap the 80-400 on there, it doesnt fit under my coat too well.

[gramps]

Does the FZ-18 have the auto-bracket feature?

[wastickslinger]

I was doing some research on the FZ18 and I found that some packages include a wide angle lense and a 2X Telephoto lense. I dont see how it attaches. Im sure that if it comes in the package it will work but no one seems to think you can add those that I have talked to. Anyone know about this. It would be nice to have the doubler. Thanks

[searchnfor]

The FZ does have the auto bracket feature. I'm not sure on the other items.

[MuleySniper]

Get rid of that mangina of yours and go get whatever camera you want!! I wont tell your wife.
MS