A photographer’s advice: which camera is a better choice?
Hello, I am currently looking for a new digital camera. My budget is $300 and I have my choices narrowed down to two choices.
One is the Canon S2-IS and the other is the Fujifilm FinePix S5200. I’m a full-time student so buying a digital SLR right now is out of the question. I’m looking for something more than a simple point and shoot. I’m interested in taking pictures of birds while I’m hiking or on trips so a good optical zoom is important to me.
I understand there exist websites with reviews, and please believe me when I say I’ve read them. I’m asking for opinions of these cameras or comparable SLR-like camera suggestions with my uses for it in mind.
Here are two quick links to the camera specs:
Fujifilm FinePix S5200:
http://www.megapixel.net/reviews/fuji-s5200/s5200-specs.php
Canon S2-IS:
http://www.megapixel.net/reviews/canon-s2is/s2-specs.php
Thanks in advance for all serious responses. 
I’d go for Canon anytime. Fuji build nice cameras, but Canon tend to be superior in consistent image quality in all or any circumstances. Both are stabilised, but the Canon has a 12x zoom lens vs. just 10x for the Fuji.
The Canon will also probably retain its value longer (for the day you want to resell).
You are aware I’m sure that both have successor models that came out earlier this year (but I understand you are constrained by your budget, right?).
An alternative, and one that actually did receive better reviews than either of those two at the time when superzooms were at 5mp (vs 6mp or 7mp today), is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ5. It is just as good, faster in operation, very good image stabilisation, excellent lens (Leica). And nice small details such as a supplied rechargeable battery pack, rather than the batteries wou need for the Canon (or else you need to buy rechargeable batteries, which adds to the bill).
best site for reviews is www.dpreview.com
Hopes this helps.
a
Fujifilm S5200 review & sale
