DSLR Like Cameras? Panasonic Lumix FZ28 :) or :(

[atrac7GTS]

So I'm looking to get into some shooting here and there...and although i WOULD like to get a DSLR, i think i'll save some money and at least learn my way up and get one when i gain more knowledge on photography.

So far, i'm leaning HEAVILY on the Panasonic Lumix FZ28. It's got a boatload of features in it including 720P HD recording (while still be able to use optical zoom), and many more...of course, i'd primarily be using this for taking pictures, but it's a good feature to have.

Also, at 18X optical zoom with great image stability, there should be more than enough power for me to get in close to shots if i'd wish...in general, it got some of the best reviews for the "ultra zoom, DSLR like" category

Any opinions on the camera or other competitors...? As well as what else I should know as a beginner-intermediate level photo taker...?

Thanks guys

(Josh i know you frequent this forum so i better hear from you mothaf**ka :gap:)

http://www.letsgodigital.org/images/artikelen/38/lumix-fz28.jpg

http://ttbb.biz/DMC-FZ28/lumix-dmc-fz28.jpg

http://www.digitalreview.ca/pics/FZ28/Panasonic_FZ28_converter.jpg

[psycho_clown3]

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0807/08072104panasonicfz28.asp

I looked at the specs here
it looks pretty good, I started with one like this before, it was actually a Sony H9. But by the specs of it, it looks good the reason why sometimes I say its good to start out with this is because most of these up dates your cameras with what you are moving in your settings. So you know if your picture is going to come out too black or too white. Look on Flickr to see how the shots from that camera look like I dunno what else to say

[mrluilou]

how much does it cost? try getting the Nikon D5000 :gap:

[atrac7GTS]

how much does it cost? try getting the Nikon D5000 :gap:

For what you get, not that much at all man. Like 269 brand new, with all accessories like the flare hood and all that good stuff. Sometimes you can find deals like the silver version of it for 245 (i want black though haha)

I've looked at the nikon D5000 but the price isn't as flexible for a beginner like me (again, i want a beginner one so i don't overwhelm myself, as well as saving money at the same time...i plan on getting a true DSLR when i graduate next year). So far, the panasonic seems to have gotten GREAT reviews throughout the board, and its features are great...although i'm still wary if there could be BETTER alternatives..but i wouldn't mind getting opinions of this camera well :gap:...i'm almost 95 percent sure on it, but still open to ideas

[Kangaruu]

Try looking for one with CMOS sensor instead of CCD. I think CMOS sensors are supposed to have better noise reduction.

[psycho_clown3]

yeah look into Noise Removal on this camera or how bad or good it is on this camera. these cameras tend to have more noise than actual DSLR but some aren't so bad.

The specs look good from what I could tell just by seeing the numbers the fastest shut is 1/2000 but then again you cant ask to much from these cameras but if your getting a DSRL with in a year ill say just jump into the DSLR straight unless if your unsure if you like photography then get this one

[mrluilou]

^:werd:
Just get a D40 or a rebel xt and you would be set :shrugs:

[atrac7GTS]

I'll see how much i like the panasonic...if not i can always return it or sell it (resale on the good conditions one sell pretty good)....if i'm not satisfied with the shots, i'll consider upping to the DSLRS possibly

will be posting review shots at different levels and what not :gap:

[Blasian]

I have a camera for sale.