New Camera Suggestions

[losfeevez]

I apologize if this topic is getting old, but I am in the market for a new digital camera and I am looking for suggestions. What I am looking for is a camera around $200 that takes great scenery and outdoors photos and isn't a point and shoot, more of an SLR style, but still somewhat compact. I am going to be traveling to Europe and I want something to capture the great scenery. I would like an excellent optical zoom and stabilizing functionality. I am new to photography and I would like to dabble in more manual control and settings. Also, a bonus would be the ability to add on lenses and/or flashes.

I know this is a lot to ask for $200, but I thought it was worth a shot to see what is out there. Thanks a lot for the help.

[faint545]

Only thing I can think of is this: Fujifilm S700. It's a compact digital camera with an SLR body. It's right under your budget. It has 10x optical zoom, and includes picture stabilization mode. If you want an actual SLR, you're going to have to spend much more.

[byjamesderuvoDHQ]

Don't forget the Fuji F1000sD. There's also the Kodak Z1285. Both are rather mid range point and shoots, that are "SLR" esque in that price range. Outside of that, you'd need to spend a little more to get what's called a "super zoom" like the Canon S5IS or the Olympus SP570UZ.

[losfeevez]

Cool, I have been looking at the Fujifilm S700. One thing that it lacks from what I can tell is a true image stabilizer. I guess it uses a faster shutter speed(?) Does anyone know how well that works and do any of the ones mentioned above stand out above the rest?