Questions about digital cameras

[trying2win]

People use their digital cameras and send me their photos. Unfortunately, I don't have a digital camera, so I can't reciprocate the favor right now. I'm a neophyte in this area, and would appreciate some help. I figure I better get with it and purchase one of these cameras.

So, can anyone recommend a good, low-priced digital camera for a beginner? What kind of things should I look for in the way of:

1. The recommended minimum number of megapixels in the camera's photos.

2. Other accessories you have to buy, in order to operate the camera and be able to hook it up to your computer to download the photos.

Thanks,

T2W

[DJofSD]

What experience do you have with regular film (35 mm) cameras?

DJofSD

[trying2win]

To DJofSD:

Yeah, I've used the old 35 mm camera in the past. Time for me to get a little more up-to-date in the digital camera era though.

T2W

[Dave Schwartz]

Costco $279

Konica-Minolta Z71
6MP
10x Optical zoom

Takes 2 shots per second, up to 12 shots

Great camera.

Memory extra.

[CapperLou]

Dave:

Is that one better than Cannon A95 etc for the money? Sounds like it--how much memory should one get with it--and about what would it cost? Is Costco as good as the chain and internet sellers?? IYO??
Thx.

All the best,

CapperLou

Heading to NV this month!!!

[trying2win]

Thanks Dave.

How is memory added to a digital camera? Is it contained within a little cylinder or card, which is then fitted into a slot in the camera?

T2W

[BillW]

T2W,

Memory comes in a card format a few cm square. The extra memory is used to extend the number of pictures the camera will hold. It also provides you with a removable storage medium. If you carry a laptop with you, it can also be used to download pictures to and keep the camera memory empty and reduce the need for extra memory.

Here are a few sites to look for deals:

http://www.techdeals.net/

http://www.fatwallet.com/

An online opinion site:

http://www.epinions.com/

and Tiger Direct usually has an inventory of factory refurbs at reduced price:

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/Category/category_tlc.asp?CatId=7

Bill

[Dave Schwartz]

We bought this camera as an early graduation present for our son last month. He loved it and it runs circles around my wife's HP (6mp, 8optical zoom.)

Next time my wife's camera fails (and it will fail; the all do with enough use) we will return it to Costco (where we bought it), get a full refund and buy the Minolta.

Anyway, 1 Gb memory stick was about $80.


Dave

[trying2win]

Bill and Dave,

Thanks for the info.

T2W