New Camera - need suggestions for type and models

[Clay Pigeon]

Been thinking about getting a new camera but not sure if I need a DSLR or not and even then which to get.

Points to consider. ..

• Take photos for the memories, not art, want quality but not too much hassle (although I don't mind having to do some learning)
  
• Travel and/or scene photos, I live near hills and trails and want to get some nice shots
  
• Money isn't overly an issue but don't want to spend more than I have to
  
• Don't mind lugging around a spare lense or two but reasonably compact would be nice
  
• Also wouldn't mind a smaller compact camera for everyday and party stuff, so feel free to suggest a second cheaper alternative
  
• A good local place to buy in Melbourne would also be nice
  
• Been doing some brief reading on SLT, SLR, etc. but kinda lost as to which I prefer

That is all I can think of for now. .. cheers in advance

[Mugsy]

Well, you don't need a DSLR for most of that stuff. I mainly shoot with a Sony HX5V these days but that's because it does geotagging and, for work, I need to know where a shot was taken. Does pretty much most things I need it to and it's compact.

I'll shoot with my DSLR if I need extra sharp shots for enlarging.

[Vitamin K]

If you're Aiming for a DSLR I strongly recommend the Canon 550D. I've had it myself for a few months now and it works perfectly. I picked mine up with a triple lens kit for under $1000 from topbuy.com.au

[Artful-dodgeR]

<insert Clay Pigeon shooting joke here>

[Mugsy]

If you're Aiming for a DSLR I strongly recommend the Canon 550D. I've had it myself for a few months now and it works perfectly. I picked mine up with a triple lens kit for under $1000 from topbuy.com.au

Not a bad price but I assume it was the 18-55, 55-250 and 50mm f1.8 lenses that came with the package. IMHO, the OP would benefit from something like a Nikon 3100 + 18-105 VR lens (or the 18-200 if that's within price range). It's a more versatile lens for snapping memories. Mate of mine picked up such a package from Teds for around the $1k mark.

Either way, most DSLR users I know stop using the 18-55 kit lens sooner or later. Those who keep with this range want f/2.8 but most want more reach. I myself switched to the 17-85 IS lens which is my main travel lens.