pocket digital suggestions

[GORDONCHICK]

Okay, in digital cameras I have a super zoom Canon S1-IS and then the Nikon D60 as a DSLR. My DH thinks the Canon is now his (yea, right!), though he doesn't use it. I would like to get a pretty good pocket dig that will easily fit into my purse, but I would like a decent amount of optical zoom for a pocket camera. I also know I want image stabilization and good macro capabilities. Price range is around $200 or so. Suggestions????

[oceanbums]

I bought the Panasonic Lumix TZ5 for those exact reasons; it fits in my pocket and has 10x zoom. I travel light and didn't want anything bulky. I miss the optical lens at times, and there is a slight shutter lag, but other than that, this camera fits my needs for vacaton and everyday use. Here's a few recent pictures. (I am still learning so a more experienced photographer may get more from this camera).

[oceanbums]

...I noticed these pictures I just posted don't look very clear, maybe because they are small. When I print them, they come out nice and detailed.

[Kane]

I also got a new TZ5 and am quite happy with it.

 

Here are the first 2 photos I took to test the zoom.

 

 

The photos were taken in flat light from > 100 yds and are at zero and 10x. I was quite startled by the detail that was provided ... could even see the texture of the concrete.

 

My goal is to take a frame-filling shot of the Sphinx's face next month.

[compulady]

While it's not pocketable there is a new Olympus SP-590UZ coming out in March that has a 26x zoom.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/08/technology/personaltech/08zoom.html?_r=1

[GORDONCHICK]

Any thoughts on this one:

 

The Canon PowerShot A1000?

[TransplantedOkies]

I have the canon powershot SD1000 and I love it for carrying in my purse. It goes everywhere with me and I have taken some good shots.

[Essiesmom]

According to http://www.dpreview.com, Canon is introducing some new point and shoot cameras, one 12.1 MP with 28-336 zoom. I am glad to see more manufacturers starting the zoom at 28mm. EM

[GORDONCHICK]

According to www.dpreview.com, Canon is introducing some new point and shoot cameras, one 12.1 MP with 28-336 zoom. I am glad to see more manufacturers starting the zoom at 28mm. EM

 

Looks good, but outta my price range for a little pocket thing!

[compulady]

Costco has the Panasonic Lumix TZ5 for $199 with coupon now. Pretty good buy for long range zoom and also decent wide angle.

[oceanbums]

I bought my TZ5 from Adorama about 4 months ago, came with a 4g card, carrying case, 2 battery packs and charger, cleaning kit, and a small tripod for $260; couldn't pass it up.

[Kane]

I also got a new TZ5 and am quite happy with it.

 

...clip...

 

My goal is to take a frame-filling shot of the Sphinx's face next month.

 

I was quite pleased with the performance of the TZ5. Here are the results from our recent trip: (Photos were not edited other than to re-size to fit on these boards.)

 

The Sphinx - this was not at max zoom.

 

 

I was also quite pleased with the wide-angle capability (28mm equiv).

 

Those who have been to the Treasury in Petra will appreciate that it is difficult to get a horizontal shot in the available distance of the canyon where it is located.