Best Camera Choice?

That depends. Define "totally screw over your wallet".

A lot of photographers here use DSLR cameras, which can be priiiiiicey (I believe the least expensive one I saw at Target was about $500 on sale) and that's not counting extra lenses, should you want to acquire something like a macro lens (very useful). I have a Canon point-and-shoot; an Elph 300 IS. Little bit older model, works fine for me, but I'm not a heavy-duty photographer. I picked it up on a screaming deal for about $100, but it was originally a $250 camera. I personally swear by Canon, that's all I've ever owned. You'll find people who equally swear by Nikon, or Olympus, or whomever.

It really just depends on what your budget is and what you really want. I think there's a thread in the Photography subforum about what cameras people use.

 

It's not really true how people think, "the better the camera, the better the photos". Having a basic understanding of Photography can get anyone far and take a wonderful photo; even if it is from a point-and-shoot.
I have a Nikon1 and it does everything I'd wish and more. It has a normal lens, and a macro lens; for when I want close up shots. It can be a bit pricey, but it's a really wonderful piece of technology.

I hope you figure everything out!
Welcome to DoA by the by!

 

Hi Daniasel,

I've moved your thread over to the Photography subforum ^u^ Hopefully our experienced crowd can answer you more quickly here.

Best,
Laelen

 

I personally swear by SLR, any SLR as long as combined with the right lens takes beautiful pictures. Bought mine 2 years ago and never looked back.

The photos below show the difference between a Kodak P&S and a Nikon DSLR:

Kodak P&S




Nikon DSLR with 50/F1.4​

Photos were taken a month apart, so no improved photographing skill, gear updrade made the real difference here.

 

It is not too difficult to find an Olympus or Panasonic Micro Four Thirds system camera with kit lens for about $300, given a bit of patience watching Amazon. Any of which would generally be more competent than almost any compact camera you could get for that price.

 

You can find many good cameras today (not just DSLRs), when I was first looking in purchasing a camera I always checked the digital ones. Since our technology has improved so much I find a digital can take just as nice photos as a DSLR!
If you are looking for that cheaper option (with quality of course) try looking at your local BestBuy, usually you can try out the camera at the shop plus then you will know fer sure if it's the one for you (always try the micro setting!).
Hopefully you find the camera you are looking for soon!!