Camera's? Lenses? Help!

Question

I'm 14, and I love photography with a passion. At the moment, I have a Canon PowerShot A530. Here's a picture: http://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/vanns/495249276?$medium_item$

I fer sure need a new camera, anyway.. but before I go out looking, I need some input from all of you who are reading this. Me and my friend really want to attend the Ontario College of Art & Design. I know that i'm only going into high school in September, but.. I want to be prepared. So... what will I need? (Detailed response, please)

Answer 1

Why do you think you need a new camera? Is your 530 broken?

From DP Review's assessment of the sister A520:

"It would be hard to find a more suitable first digital camera for the novice digital photographer than the PowerShot A520. No matter what the situation, the A520 turns out perfectly exposed and focused results shot after shot. And the fact that as well as idiot-proof 'point and shoot' modes and scene modes you get a full array of manual options means it's a camera that you can grow with as your skills develop."

It sounds like a pretty good camera to me. As with all point-and-shoots, it is not suitable for low light or action shots. If you want a camera for this, get an entry-level SLR, like the new Canon Rebel XS/1000D

Answer 2

You are only 14 and by the time you enter the art and design college, your camera, if you buy a better one now, will be so out of date that they will need old me to show you how to use it right.  Keep the one that you have.  

Answer 3

I would suggest a medium priced SLR camera. Being only 14, you don't want anything too complicated or too expensive. The lenses you'll need for it will depend on what kind of photography you're into. Your best bet would be to find an SLR camera that comes with a kit lense.

For brands...I would suggest Canon or Nikon. I've only owned Canons, and I've never had any problem with them. I've never owned a Nikon but I've only heard good things about Nikons.

It wouldn't hurt to start saving up now for a better camera. Since you're in high school, you could get on the yearbook staff...and you'll want a better camera for that. And it's never too early to start doing photoshoots. Hope that helps :-)