A lot of times people ask me what digital point and shoot I recommend, and to be quite honest, I’m not well versed in the point and shoot world. At this point Canon, Nikon, and Sony make pretty equivalent models. Since most models are equivalent, my criteria for what makes a good camera is it’s carry ability, and my favorite function, Slow Shutter Syncro. Since most P&S’s good daylight metering and most of the new ones are over 10 mega pixels, it’s close to the same. What sets them apart is size, slow shutter syncro option, and exposure compensation. This is where you can control a point and shoot a little more to get what you want out of it. These options take a point and shoot a step above any camera phone.
My favorite P&S thus far is the Canon SD1400IS. It’s super slim and slides into your back pocket when going out. I don’t like to carry a man purse everywhere I go, especially when I go out at night which rules out the Canon G12 or anything bigger than the SD1400. Females who carry purses may be able to carry something a little robust, but on the flip side when you’re going out at night you don’t need much.
Pick up the Canon SD1400IS here: http://nonk.it/AM_CSD1400
That said, here’s a tip with a point and shoot camera to get more out of them, even just shooting around with friends:
Slow Shutter Syncro: This is my favorite feature for shooting at night. Slow shutter syncro basically keeps the shutter open longer to drag the ambient light into the camera, then pops the flash on the subjects. You get light trails, and it brings more dimension in with light if you’re shooting in more open indoor spaces at night. You can also play around with shooting your subjects and moving the camera around while the shutter is open. Get some fun light trails. Here are a few examples from some random nights out:
Fun with friends:
nice tip! and great shots from a P&S
you’re friends know how to party! Umm wow!!