Shutterbug Strasse

A photographer's haven for the lastest in digital or traditional film cameras.

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Very experienced photog Switching to digital... but CLUELESS

Posted by Impoverished Audiophile on May 2, 2004 at 21:08:30:
Hi Guys,
Sorry, but this will be a relatively long post.
I have been working until recently for 30 years as a board-certified Medical Photographer. Prior to that I did aerial photography for the Department of National Defence. I have formal training (CDN Armed Forces) in Photography. So, I think you will agree, I AM an experienced photographer.
However, I'm now retired, and unable to print my own enlargements, and totally dissatisfied with the way a number of commercial labs are cropping my prints, irrespective of my instructions.
I think it's time to switch to digital, but I'm fairly clueless, and somewhat PC challenged.
I would like a digital still camera of about 6-8 megapixels, I think, as I seldom enlarge greater than 12 X 18.
I would like an 8 or 10 X optical zoom. (I do know that "digital zoom" is to be avoided like the plague.
I would like the camera to be physically small, as I travel a lot, and, frankly I'm tired of schlepping the weight of Nikons and Hassleblads. Large digital SLR's are out.
I would like software to enable me to crop, and somewhat manipulate the images, although manipulate might be too strong a word.
I would REALLY like to be able to print my own 12 X 18's, as I've always maintained that TAKING the shot is only half the challenge, MAKING it is the other!!
What should I buy: camera, software, and printer??
I recently stopped using all my old equipment for travelling, and use an Olympus Stylus (fixed lens), and a second with a zoom to 140 mm. Considering the price, light weight, and end-results, I'm pleased with these remarkable little cameras.
What can you fellow inmates recommend for my short list?
Thanks in advance.
Impoverished Audiophile (tube gear, but that's another story).