Gene....

I agree that the TZ3 is a great camera in it's class, but the OP said "I don't need a long zoom, or movie clip ability" both of which are the OUTSTANDING features of the TZ3..

In fact, if he needed those two features, then there isn't any other camera he should get. But if the OP takes a lot of indoor or low light photos, then the Fuji F30 would probably be a better choice..

There really isn't any simple answer to the "what should I buy" question, because it always depends on what you want a camera for..

I thinkMartyPanasonic FZ20,Panasonic FZ7,Olympus C7000,Leica M3..

Seems the OP wants about 8X or more zoom..

Gene..

Marty4650 wrote:.

There really isn't any simple answer to the "what should I buy"question, because it always depends on what you want a camera for..

You are absolutely right. It would be nice to have more information if shutter lag is an issue, that can steer you towards one model (I haven't checked but if the TZ3 shutter lag is anywhere near what it is on my TZ1, that would be a mark against it if one is looking for any kind of action photos) while longer zooms or available light lead to another direction..

Also "about $250" is probably undercutting the TZ3 and most bridge cameras. Though in six months, probably not..

'Nice pen, bet you write good stories with it.'..

"3+, 8-" means more than 3 and LESS than 8, not more..

Could the original poster please give his intended uses. For example, low light, sunny days, landscapes, birding, sports ? This would help us identify a suitable camera..

StephenG.

Fuji S9600Fuji S5200Fuji F30Fuji E900Canon A710ISPCLinuxOS..

I would mainly be using the camera too take pictures of people, as I am going to college, and will want to document parties I go to. So the camera should be able to take high quality indoor and outdoor pictures, regardless of lighting...

Dpbugmenot wrote:.

I would mainly be using the camera too take pictures of people, as Iam going to college, and will want to document parties I go to. Sothe camera should be able to take high quality indoor and outdoorpictures, regardless of lighting..

Then a Fuji F series will be your best choice, It probably doesn't matter much which one. I have an F20 & like it a lot. I use it more than I use my Pany FZ30 or Canon Rebel. It is usually in my pocket wherever I go..

The reason I say it'll be your best choice is that you are probably mobile enough to adjust your distance to a variety of subjects & be ok with the 3X zoom range, but you'll be in MANY situations where the lighting is too dim for any but the fuji (in classrooms for instance - even "well lit" classrooms.) The Fuji will probably even take reasonable pictures of projected lecture materials...