Phoneography to photography- wanting to step up from an iPhone 5 camera

[stioc]

Hoping to get some advice. I'm not a photographer at all - I couldn't tell the aperture from ISO but I use my iPhone as a super convenient point and shoot all the time. My gf on the other hand enjoys taking pics, sets up the subject/scene, lighting etc so she's a step or two above me. Her choice until recently was a Cannon (or a Nikon?) P&S but she now mostly uses her iPhone 5 too. The issue, for her, with the iPhone is no control over the shutter speed, exposure etc and the low lighting pics (especially camping pics at night) are just not possible. Since xmas is near I'm trying to find something for my gf as a present that's a step up from a basic P&S and will allow her to take evening and night time camping shots, perhaps even a 12-20x optical zoom and manual-ish mode - but not a DSLR. Something that's sub $250. Is there such a thing?

Here're what I've found based on my research:

1. Canon PowerShot SX160 IS - has manual mode
2. Nikon Coolpix L820
3. Fujifilm FinePix S4200 Digital Camera
4. Cannon PowerShot S95 - not sure about this but someone I know is selling it, only used a couple of times

 

[haven]

How about the canon SX 280 SX? This model has a 20x lens, and the same sensor and processor as the more expensive Canon G16, yet costs about $200 (B&HPhotovideo.com).

The SX280 has built in WiFi and GPS. The SX270 leaves these features out, but costs about the same because it's not as popular.

 

[mtnbike28]

In the P&S world, Canon is the best. I have made that recommendation 100s of times and no one has been disappointed. The S95 is a good camera. I always suggest the G series, great controls and auto settings. I have not read about the SX280, but sounds like a S95 replacement - if you get a deal on the SX270, I doubt I would use a WiFi or GPS... what about a refurb camera? T4i or T5i?
http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/c...8Brand Paid Search-_-refurbished canon rebel#

 

[stioc]

Thanks guys. Well after seeing the reviews on Amazon as well as the customer uploaded pics I ended up with the S95, it was also a convenient purchase. It's in like new condition from someone I trust - $150. The guy I bought it from actually suggested getting a DSLR because he said they're just fun to shoot with. So that'll probably be the next step if she enjoys the S95 and starts to play with the manual settings etc. I'm thinking of getting her a book to go with it, may be the Dummies series as they're pretty good at starting you off.

 

[Applejack]

Good choice, I have the S110 which is just the upgraded version of the s95. The zoom isn't too great but overall I love it. I got it for those times when I do not want to lug my DSLR and kit around. Lots of manual controls, and my favorite part is that it shoots RAW.

 

[nwoods]

Canon G series is the way to go.

 

[Lost Canadian]

S95 is a very good camera, I used to own one and IQ was very good. You'll be very happy with it. As far as point and shoots go though Canon hasn't done anything new in years and has fallen behind, IMO. The crème de la crème of pocket point and shoots right now is the RX100 II,...pocketable, full control, great video, 1" sensor, zeiss lens, honestly nothing really comes close to it, of course it will cost you though. Fuji has some compelling cameras in this segment as well.

 

[BretEdge]

You'll be very pleased with the Canon S95. I've had one for a few years and love it. I've even got a print in my gallery of an image I made with the S95 (see below). If I may offer a little advice to help you maximize the full potential of the camera - learn how to use it on Aperture Priority or Shutter Priority Mode, depending on how you intend to use it. Landscapes/Nature = AV mode. Action/Wildlife/Sports = SV mode. Getting out of Auto mode allows you so much more in the way of creative opportunities. The S95 (and most point & shoots) excels at macro photography. Learn how to properly use fill flash and how to adjust your flash exposure independently of the shutter speed. These are small things but they can make HUGE differences in the quality of photos you produce. Most of all - HAVE FUN!

 

[stioc]

Awesome tips and feedback guys, thanks. I'm really glad to hear that while the S95 is not a top of the line point and shoot it's actually a pretty good camera. I shouldn't be too surprised really because the guy I bought it from is a camera geek. Bret, awesome shot, I will certainly pass along the tips! What I really want to capture is a camping shot under a starry sky.

 

[BretEdge]

Starry night skies are difficult, but not impossible, with point and shoots. You'll need to use it on Manual Mode and use a wireless remote for it, if one is available for the S95. Good luck and have fun!