Digital Camera advice

[kellymoe]

My wife is buying me a digital camera and I am having a tough time trying to figure out which one to get. I want 10X optical zoom. I do alot of outdoor photography. I won't be enlarging anything over 8x10. I have been looking at Kodak and Canon. Any opinions?

[loykd]

Here's a few links to keep you busy:
http://www.dpreview.com/
http://www.steves-digicams.com/
http://www.imaging-resource.com/
http://www.digitalcamera-hq.com

I've heard good things about the Sony f828 and the Minolta Dimage, although I haven't used either myself.

[kellymoe]

Thanks Ken

[wicks]

Casio Exilim. About the same $ as a set of 6 tires. ;)

[Glenn_Guinto]

Canon Rebel EOS Digital looks pretty good. I know a few people that have it and they are very happy with it. I saw some in action at MAR too. Don't know how much optical zoom you get with it though.

[kellymoe]

Nice one Wicks. I said my wife was buying me the camera. Can't take pictures of the kids with tires. Anyone want to buy some nice tires off of Wicks? I would if I could.

[loykd]

Kevin, the Rebel doesn't have optical zoom. It uses SLR-type lenses. Also, I saw in the bookstore today two mags with digital camera reviews. Photographic, I think, and Consumer Reports.

[smenzel]

I know this isn't very technical advice but you might want to find one of whatever you're looking to buy at a local store to ensure that you like the 'feel and handling.' Be sure that the camera feels right in your hands and that you can easily negotiate the interface to find the settings you need.