Opinions on the FujiFilm HS30EXR

[extraT]

.... please

I've just stumbled across this camera- what does the PH collective think of it?

http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/s...

I'm looking for a Camera, and while I would like an DSLR I dont think I would be able to take full advantage of everything a DSLR has to offer and for this reason I do not want to spend upwards of £500 if I can help it. I know the picture quality will come down to how much I learn about the camera/photography, but having never owned such a camera this appeals.

Seemingly this camera seems to offer what I want- affordable, functionality and looks good (yeah, superficial, I know!). The extra long lens is an added bonus too.

Perhaps someone more educated than I can offer an opinion?!

Thanks PH

Edited by extraT on Friday 9th November 18:12

[Ultuous]

What kind of pictures do you want to take?...

Superzooms often get seen as 'neither here nor there'... I bought one a couple of years ago and have no regrets - I've learned a lot using it, and it does just what I want for taking holiday pictures (i.e. usually in 'sunny' locations - where there is plenty of light), and the big zoom range comes in handy for walking around and spotting opportunities without having to faff about too much.

That said, I'd like to get more 'creative' and do feel like I've reached the limits of what it will do - looking at DSLRs these days, there's a hell of a lot of camera out there for very little money!

[extraT]

The pics will be mostly scenery and my Mrs is pregnant, so him/her when it's born.

What camera did you buy?

[Ultuous]

I went for the Panasonic FZ38, as it seemed to get the best reviews at the time... It's stuff like portraits where I really yearn for shallower depth of field, better ability in low light etc. but it really does depend on what you want and how much you're prepared to spend - just be aware that entry-level DSLRs are available for not much more these days and will offer far more (potentially wallet eating!) flexibility...

I'm really, seriously tempted by a 600D given the deals that are around now the 650 is out, but I'm not sure I'm at the right time in my life to use it much apart from on holiday etc, so will probably stick with what I've got for another year or two!

[extraT]

Ultuous said:

I went for the Panasonic FZ38, as it seemed to get the best reviews at the time... It's stuff like portraits where I really yearn for shallower depth of field, better ability in low light etc. but it really does depend on what you want and how much you're prepared to spend - just be aware that entry-level DSLRs are available for not much more these days and will offer far more (potentially wallet eating!) flexibility...

I'm really, seriously tempted by a 600D given the deals that are around now the 650 is out, but I'm not sure I'm at the right time in my life to use it much apart from on holiday etc, so will probably stick with what I've got for another year or two!

Ive seen the great reviews of the Panasonic- but for us, we are going to be photographing the bambino, scenery etc... I dont want to faff around with lenses etc... and I also figure (from the sample images I have seen on the Fuji website and elsewhere) there is only so much one can do to get a sharp image.

Thanks fella!