Camera For Close-Ups?

[Ocelot]

Hey guys, new to the forums ;). I was just wondering, what is the best digital camera I can get for taking clos-up pictures, like really close-up pics of small things, say like a flower or something. I only want a cheap one, but that has decent quality. Any ideas? Thanks.

[Photo-John]

Most compact digital cameras have a macro focus feature that allows you to get close to your subject. I don't know how much you have to spend or how small the things you want to photograph are, though. It should go without saying that the less you spend, the less you'll get. And one of the things that sets good cameras apart from cheap cameras is the lens. I don't have a specific camera to recommend. But whatever you buy, make sure it has a macro focus mode/function. There should be a button on the camera with a little flower icon. That's the universal macro/closeup icon.

Let us know if you have more questions. And give us some more information, if you can. You should probably take a look at the 3-megapixel camera reviews, too. That's where you'll get the most camera for your money: http://www.pcphotoreview.com/cat/dig...S_3098crx.aspx

Good luck. Hope this helps.

[Ocelot]

Well I want to take pictures of small things, but I want a decent camera aswell. If you've ever seen Warhammer figurines, that size.

When a camera specs says Macro distance 50mm, what does that mean? Is that the furthest Macro distance or closest distance?

I am willing to spend up to €100 on this camera, I am into photography, but just starting, so a basic camera will do.

[Photo-John]

I took this sample closeup for you with the Fujifilm FinePix Z1. The CompactFlash card is about one inch high. I think that's about the same size as your figurines. And I think most compact digitals will take a picture like this. I took this one with the lens zoomed to full telephoto, in the macro mode.

You asked what the macro spec was? It's the minimum focus distance. So in your example, 50mm would be the closest your lens could be to your subject and still be able to focus.

I'm not sure what the exchange rate is. But I think you're talking about the equivalent of $150-200 US. That's not much for a digital camera. Even if you are only getting started, I'd try to invest a bit more than that. If you really are serious a $200 camera might leave you wanting more, sooner than you expect. But as far as closeups go, I think most cameras will work for your subject. The worst thing that will happen is you'll need to crop a bit.

Hope that sorts it out for you.