Oh the Camera to Choose

I’ve mentioned it before, but the time has truly come.  I need to figure out a camera to purchase.  I need something that will last a while and that will take great (NOT grainy) photos inside and out and allow me to zoom to my little heart’s content.

In the past I have focused on the Canon Rebel xsi since I’ve heard so many moms love this camera very much.  The only problem is that it is truly very expensive and I’ve been saving for it for a year.  Recently I noticed a line of what I call “in between” models of cameras that are intriguing.

These cameras are definitely nicer than the traditional point and shoot, but a step down from digital SLR cameras.   They are also about half the price of a digital SLR.  Getting a true idea of how a camera will work under my everday life conditions (which some may call extreme LOL) is not possible in a store.  I need to hear from real life moms who have used these cameras for themselves and know the pros and cons.

Here’s the most important features I need to know about any camera:

• Does it work inside and out without getting too grainy or blurry?
• When zoomed in, is the photo still clear?  Or does it get grainy/blurry?
• Ease of use?
• Portability?
• Quality of images?
• Amount of zoom?
• Ability to use in almost any situation…sports, indoor/low light and have similar quality results?

With 6 boys I tend to take a lot of action shots outside, but also love to take images inside as the moment strikes and the lighting in our house is terrible, even during the day.  Another thing is that I don’t take our boys in for professional photos.  I have found that taking pictures here once or twice per year is a lot better.  The kids are on their own turf and it costs me a lot less in time and money.  So that is why quality is so important.

So, throw the information at me!  Whether it’s your camera, your sister’s camera or your friends camera, what is the best camera you have had experience with and highly recommend????

THANK YOU!