I love photography, but I'm not quite ready to step into the DSLR world. So I'm thinking about coping this guy, http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9051018&type=product&id=1218012518349 . I'm waiting and hoping for it to go on sale (it's $499).

the folks at Best Buy say it's a great camera and totally worth the money, but they probably don't have my best interest at heart. So let me know what you guys think and if you would buy it.

thats a dslr?

no, Sam. did you catch the slow bus today? lol

i'm not ready to step into the DSLR world yet, so i'd like to get this camera as i figure that when i'm ready it'll be an easier transition.

um actually u can do the same thing u can with a DSLR. It's just more compact.

Definitely worth the money. Get it. Heck buy me one while ur at it.

no, Sam. did you catch the slow bus today? lol

yes i did,

the lens isn't changeable though. one of the reasons i'm considering it is b/c i won't have to pick and choose which lens to get--i.e. another very expensive hobby.

and ummm, elijah i asked my checkbook and it said i was pricey enough. lmao

I would make the move to DSLR.
It's eventually going to pay off.

So what if it takes you time to get used to it.
You won't have to worry about loosing money when you decide to sell this one.

http://scionlife.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

true. but i think it would be good to always have both, a point and shoot and DSLR. does that make sense or is it a waste of money to get both?

Eh, the inability to change lenses or add filters kinda kills it for me.
I bought a Canon super zoom last year with the same intentions and I got rid of it.

You can get a Nikon D40 for 50 bucks less than the G10 and while it's only a 6MP vs a 14 (which is really only a marketing thing) It's more flexible. I love mine.

Besides, the lens is more important than number of megapixels in my experience.

i know the MP isn't what makes the shot, but after doing the research i really want to stay in the Canon family. the only thing that would change my mind on that note is a sweet, sweet deal on a D40.
as far as changing filters and lens, this wouldn't be my car photo shoot camera. i don't think i'd like having to lug the DSLR equipment everywhere; like if i go to the zoo or a bday party for my nieces or cousins.

This is worth a read: http://kenrockwell.com/canon/g10.htm

just get it. I want a point and shoot myself. Nice to be able to shove a camera in ur pocket when taking a huge DSLR just isn't possible.

"The best camera is the one u have with u." Chase Jarvis...

You can find cheap D40s on craigslist all the time. :)

get the g10. Work on composition and stuff like that with it and then move up to a DSLR when ur ready to have interchangeable lenses.

Any camera can take an awesome photo. U just have to practice and learn techniques. Heck i've seen some iPhone photos that blow away any of the photos that are posted on this site. so that tells u how much specs matter.

I wanna see some of those iPhone photos!

...but after doing the research i really want to stay in the Canon family.
and what "research" is this??? im just curious why you are limiting your options here and assuming that your interpretation of this research you've done is correct that you should limit yourself to canon equipment minus a "good deal" on another brand.

i've said it once and ill say it again... what you get for what you pay (especially if you can score a good deal on a used one) the nikon d40 is the best buy for a beginner DSLR. and with each new model nikon comes out with, d40x, d60, d5000, d3000... it just drives the price down more and more on the D40 which will take just as nice of photos. checkout ebay and you will be surprised at the deals you can find if you're a little bit patient and SMART with what auctions to buy from. nearly all of my equipment has been bought used in excellent condition from ebay. i've saved hundreds and hundreds of dollars.

it sounds like you are wanting to learn now. i would go with a DSLR now then and start practicing and learning the relationship between aperture, exposure, and iso, all the while practicing composition and different techniques. you will be glad in the long run rather than keep putting off "stepping into the DSLR world" till later. especially since price sounds like the main factor for you. you can score deals on the D40 for much lower than the G10. or if you are just tumultuously adament on sticking with canon find a good deal on a rebel.

pretty much, i've asked around and read others post about "which is best for me-canon vs nikon"; though i know some people opinions are bias towards whatever brand they have. i haven't ran into a nikon that i really like as of yet and the G10 isn't the only one that i'm considering, but it is the no.1 on my list.