Want A New Point & Shoot

Okay, I've gone back through old posts to look at recommended cameras but nothing that is really specific to what I'm looking for. I'd like suggestions for a digi camera, that provides some degree of manual setting options, but also provides I nice crisp photos on the "factory" point and shoot settings.

Preferrably something under $300 if possible. I'm interested in getting to learn how to use manual settings and purchase a dslr down the road. Right now I'm just looking for a camera that can provide nice photos and I can carry on me without it being a pain is a$$.

I've started checking out dpreview as I did 4 years ago with my last camera, it's just very time consuming.

My uncle who knows a good amount about photography told me to go with Cannon. Any input is great appreciated. Thank you.

 

From what I've heard, the Canon Powershot S-series offers good manual controls.

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=144&modelid=15207

However, it looks pretty big for a non-SLR. Definitely not a pocket camera like the Elph series.

 

I bought an s5 is about a month ago for the same reasons you stated. I wanted a P&S but wanted to get a little into manual settings. I love it so far takes great pictures an a ton of options. It is to big to go into a pocket but its really easy to carry around. The macro, and super macro is great. I have a 2 GB card and at the best settings i get about 500 some pics so plenty. It also takes great videos with sound. a 12x zoom and the digital zoom up to 48x works great with a tripod or a really steady hand. I got mine for 340 but I wanted to get ti from a local store, they came be had online for less than 300.

Well I guess my recommendation is for the canon s5 IS, any questions about it feel free to ask.

 

Thanks for your input Blackwood and Asian. The S5 was one that I was told to look at. I just think it's too big for what I want. I'm suppose to be going on a snowboarding trip in March and wanted to be able to have it on me while I was out and out. That way it can slide in my jacket w/o much nusiance.

I'll just have to continue my research. Thanks again!

 

Bought a Canon SD1000 the day before yesterday. Cheap (sub 200), great quality, easy to use, and it looks great. I couldn't be happier.

That said, it doesn't have too much in the way of manual settings. No manual shutter or aperture settings, just ISO/ASA.

All the same, I'd recommend it or one like it!

 

Canon A720? or A700 or something is the absolute best Point and Shoot that fits in your pocket... unless you want to get a Leica.

 

If you are looking for a compact size check out the Panasonic DMC-TZ3 It's 7MP and has a nice 10x zoom, great buy for $250 .

http://www.jr.com/JRProductPage.process?Product=4160005

 

Thank yall for the opinions. I appreciate it.

Still looking and and weighing my options.

 

for under 300 it would be good to go with a Canon SD series camera, with IS