What is the best camera I can get for macro photography without having to go to SLR?

Question

I have been looking on Flickr for photos that were taken with the cameras I have looked at at Future Shop and honestly haven't been impressed with what I have seen yet. Sor far I have looked at the SonySony Cybershot line, the Cannon Powershot line and the Fuji Finepix line. The camera I have now is a cannon powershot A95 and if I wanted only good macro shots of flowers (which I seem to be seeing most of amongst the cameras I have checked out so far) I would stick with it, but I would like to get closer to smaller objects -say insects.

In order to get really close up, quality macro photos do I have to spend $1000+ on an slr and additional lens?

Answer 1

Just about all digital cameras let you focus close to do macro photography however, if you are looking to do critical macro photography, 1to1 reproduction, then you need a DSLR with a true macro lens which will set you back at least $500.00

Answer 2

Do not shop online for a camera, you can be ripped off or disappointed with your purchase. However, it IS OK to buy online after a hands on marathon at several electronics/camera stores. This is the only way to see which camera will appeal to you in regards to price, zoom, features, durability, warranty, effects, video/audio quality, etc...Happy shooting!

Answer 3

You don't need an SLR with an expensive lens to get quality macro shots today. The camer you have is a very good camera, but it lacks a macro shooting mode. Some point and shoot digicams have a macro mode that allows you to get the good macro shots. Check out cameras with a macro mode and look at the reviews. It could be the alternative you are looking for.

Answer 4

Look at Fuji S9000 series. It got manual Zoom and you get very nice macro shots.

Answer 5

Look at the Sony PSCH50. I have it and have been very impressed with the macro I have been able to get.

You can also add a close up filter from Sony. Very high quality.

I think any of the super zooms would do a good job.

Answer 6

The PowerShot S5 does very well out of the box for macro photography.  It can focus on objects even when they are touching the lens.  It has both a macro and supermacro mode, depending on your distance from the subject.  You can also purchase a lens adapter and a macro lens (I've seen some good stuff taken with the Raynox DCR-250) if you want even more magnification.