Compact Camera users - Recommendations...

[NickB]

I have a friend who has expressed an interest in butterfly photography. Having used my D300 for a couple of hours, he was enthusiastic to get a half-decent camera. His OH drew the line at a DSLR, and a Compact, with Macro/super-macro (and/or supplementary lens options) seems the best bet. Any ideas what might fit the bill?
Ta
N

[Vince Massimo]

Nick,

I have the Canon PowerShot G10 which was recommended to me by Pete, who uses a G9 as a back-up. This has since been superseded by the G11. It is a great camera, but a bit pricey and, at times fiddly. If I did not have it, I would definately buy a Panasonic Lumix FZ38, based upon the great results other illustrious users are getting.

Vince

[NickB]

Oh, that was my first thought too - FZ38.....no question.
But is not "Compact" enough.....more of the "Bridge" size. Something that just fits in the shirt-pocket, that maybe needs a "close-up" lens attached for macro....and that his wife can also use as a point-and-click.
Thanks; I do know of the Canon Powershot range...endorsements are always helpful
Any more recommendations...?
N

[55bloke]

Canon Poweshot SX10IS. Fantastic camera!

[JohnR]

Canon Poweshot SX10IS. Fantastic camera!

I am using a Canon SX20IS and whilst it is a good camera I can't wait until 'er indoors says I can get a DSLR. With the compact I can't seem to get the focusing spot on.

[55bloke]

I know what you mean, it does sometimes take a few goes to get the focus right. I deliberately decided against a DSLR, in order to avoid having to have a bag full of lenses and other gear to carry around, not to mention the cost of all the lenses. With a 20 x optical zoom and super macro, the Powershot does it all in one package. I know the sensor is smaller than a DSLR, so the images aren't QUITE as crisp, but for 99.9% of what I do, it's perfectly adequate. Having said that, I do occasionally look at some of the images on here and think.... Hmmmmm, perhaps I should get a DSLR!!!

[JohnR]

I do occasionally look at some of the images on here and think.... Hmmmmm, perhaps I should get a DSLR!!!

You have hit the nail on the head. If it weren't for the professional pictures here I would be quite happy with my Powershot, and I would be tempted by the forthcoming 30x zoom model, but then these DSLR guys would still produce better pictures. If you can't beat them, join them

[NickB]

I do occasionally look at some of the images on here and think.... Hmmmmm, perhaps I should get a DSLR!!!

You have hit the nail on the head. If it weren't for the professional pictures here I would be quite happy with my Powershot, and I would be tempted by the forthcoming 30x zoom model, but then these DSLR guys would still produce better pictures. If you can't beat them, join them

...ah, that way lies madness..... just look at Gary....
(and great expense....)
I started with a Bridge, got a better one and then finally got a DSLR.....
....now my camera and lenses end up costing more than I paid for my car (ask Jack what my car's like )

Thanks for the recommendations - he got an FZ38 in the end; just like a woman - buying the first one she saw (but only after she's looked at everything else in town as well....)
(Sorry, Aki )
N