Camera Question

[VickieKay]

I have tried several cameras. I take pictures of my grandchildren that always look blurred. any suggestions; looking to spend around 300 or so.

Thanks Vickie

[byteme]

Vickie - sadly its not the cameras fault but the settings you are using.
If the room is even slightly dark you will probably need a tripod.
What are you using? Someone here (I am sure) will be able to guide you
Regards
John

[PPPhoto]

Welcome Vickie.

First off, where are you? I don't know if you are looking to spend $300 or 300£, and not knowing the conversion rate, I can't tell you how they compare either.

Blurring is usually caused either by subject motion or by camera motion. It's usually easy to tell by looking at the photos, but the easiest remedy that will help with both is a faster shutter speed, which often means using a higher ISO setting.

There are several cameras that should do a decent job for you. Right around, or even under, 300USD you can get one of the Canon ELPH models. These cameras are well built and have great image quality (for a pocket camera). Canon incorporates a Kids and Pets mode on their cameras, which is intended to help with faster moving subjects.

There is still an issue of shutter delay, although not nearly as bad as it was a few years ago. I remember some cameras that would take over a full second to take the shot after the shutter button had been pressed. The lower priced cameras usually have more delay, and the more you spend the better it is for you.

Depending on your level of experience, or your sense of adventure, you may also consider looking for a used SLR. You will eliminate virtually all shutter delay, and you will have they opportunity to set your exposures precisely as you see fit. These cameras can be intimidating at first, but they can be used in a variety of auto or semi-auto modes depending on your comfort level. They aren't pocket cameras, but the potential in terms of image quality, and more, is far above the point and shoot models.

I hope this helps a bit, and again, welcome to the Zo.

[Skippy]

Hi Vickie,

Welcome to the Zo. Hopefully we will see you here often. John and Craig are both correct. So before you go get another camera, try this.

If you are using the lcd screen on the back of your camera, brace your hand against a door frame, back of chair, railing anything that will keep that camera rock steady as you push the button. If your pictures are sharper all over, you will know it is camera shake. If you have a kid in there that is moving and he is blurry, but the background is sharp, it is slow shutter speed.

As I read your post, being a grandmother and shooting a lot of the kids, I am thinking that it is hard to hold that camera out there and keep it steady. If you are outside, the screen can be hard to see.

Should you decide to buy new, consider a camera with a view finder. Held against your eye is way easier to see what you want and keep it steady. There are several members here who use the Canon SX20x and love it. My grandson has an earlier version, no viewfinder, but this new on has one. It takes great pictures and you have the option of using settings or special modes.

Hope this helps,

Skippy