Camera New

Can someone give advice to help me choose a new digital camera to buy?

I have a Kodak EasyShare DX7630 and have been happy with the results. I am looking to get a better digital camera that I can "play" with more. I like to take pictures of my family. I'm considering purchasing a SLR camera, possibly the Canon Rebel XTi or just go to the more advance Kodak EasyShare Z812 IS. Any suggestions or comments?

Public Comments

1. Well when you look at the two cameras, you will find that not only there is a difference in pixel counts, but in sensor size as well. DSLR's have by far a much larger sensor. DSLR's use interchangeable lenses. Playing is more a function of learning how to use you camera under different lighting situations, the use of different lenses and knowing how to get the image on your memory card, every-time, in focus and properly exposed.
2. As fhotoace says, the sensor size is all important in image quality. Believe it or not, your current camera (DX7630) has the LARGER sensor found in point and shoot cameras and the Z812 IS has the SMALLER sensor. You might actually be taking a step backwards in image quality if you "upgrade" to this super-zoom camera. As long as you have it on the table, I would say that the more sensible upgrade for you is the Canon Rebel XTi. Yes, there is a lot to learn, but you can start out on "AUTO" and move to "P" and take it from there.
3. I love my Sony alpha 100 which has been rated as an excellent camera for it's price and I agree with that. It has a lot of features you get on the more expensive DSLR's I did a lot of research and was torn beteen the canon Rebel and nikon d40 until i met this camera. Mind you , if I was buying now I would probably upgrade to the A700 if it was in my price point. But I do love the camera I have and feel it's features are great.