I contacted Topaz Support because my HP 8300 Small Frame was not able to run several of the Topaz programs. They walked me through how to get them a diagnostic list of my pc, and discovered I did not have a separate video card, but had 32mb of video capacity integrated inside the i5 chip. Minimum video requirements for Topaz are now 2gb. So after some trial and error to find a card that fit within the small pc, I bought a 1030 2gb one for $85 on Amazon. I was able to install it myself (I am not a techie) and now all the Topaz programs work well. FYI, I did not want to risk having to install a new power unit, so thats why I settled on the minimum card. Its a debate out there if a 1050 4 gb card will run on a low-end power supply. So I encourage you to try to upgrade your current pc first.

Sony RX10 IV would solve the weight problem and she'd have a wonderful Zeiss 24-600mm lens.

I love my Rx10 IV. I am not a professional photog, but I love to take travel pics. This is lightweight, easy, captures landscape and BIF, and I got rid of all other cameras except for Sony Rx100 for those times when a pocket camera only is needed. I love love love the Zeiss lens.

When you have the RX10 IV on the slide strap, and you want to have a versatile way to protect it, try wrapping it one of those slightly padded wrap squares that have velcro. Works while you have it on, or for storage in a larger bag. Quick and easy to put on, easy to take off and stuff in a pocket. But pulling apart the velcro makes noise, so there is no stealth.

I love my RX 10 IV. Sold my other cameras. I've been a budget camera person, bought used or entry level models (mostly Sony), and when a friend handed me her RX 10 iii, I decided then and there to save up and buy one. By that time, the RX IV arrived. as a 65-year-old woman, I really appreciate its lighter weight and utter ease for 600mm reach. I admit I still use auto mostly, and get good pics, but this camera has many many ways to customize. If you take the plunge and buy this, also invest in a book or two so you can learn and grow.

I love my RX10IV. Sold my other gear and very happy to have done so.

I have one and love it. This is a great deal! I am curious about the leather case, as I am looking for one. What type is yours, and where did you get it?

If Joshua Tree National Park is too far for a short visit, try Thousand Palms Oasis, which is a county park. Its about a 30 min drive out of the city of Palm Springs on Ramon Ave over the Hwy10 overpass. Easy stroll, usually lots of birds, and great up close views of what wonders the desert can do around a pond of water.

This was my attempt last night in Palm Springs, CA. Handheld, auto focus. Sony RX10 IV.

Torrey Pines.

I saved up for the Sony RX 10 IV, and its all I hoped it would be. Took some amazing pics from within helicopter on a cloudy day, of the Kauai Na Pali coastline and Waimea Canyon. The Zeiss lens IS the real deal. Image stabilization is excellent. Will take practice to learn the menu system, but I am excited to do so.

I did something similar, except I used ebay and lucked into a local seller. Got an HP 8300, 16 MB RAM, i5 quad processor, 500GB SSD drive, & 1TB hard drive, win 10 pro and WiFi plugin. Keyboard and mouse. All for $350. I was able to pick it up from seller. Got a dell monitor from FB marketplace, also from another local seller fir $60. I am set!

P.S. My first pc was in 1984, a 64k Morrow "portable" that weighed @ 25lbs. It was a cool piece of technology in the day.

Joshua Tree Natl Park pic with Samsung Galaxy S5.

I love love love Joshua Tree! Entering from either of the north entrances have many beautiful vistas of rounded rock hills, and a valley with a "forest" of joshua trees. In my imagination, I always expect to see a dinosauer there. Barker Dam trail has good variety. Towards the southern part of the park, the valleys widen and sights are less spectacular. But if the flowers are blooming, you will see meadows closer to Cottonwood. Then its time to look closer to the ground for flower shots.

If you have the time to take in Thousand Palms Oasis on your way back to Palm Springs, its an easy way to walk amongst giant old palms. Enjoy!

I broke down and bought Elements 2018 after the latest Win 10 upgrades rendered my Elements 11 editor useless. I tried everything to get E11 to work again, and decided $80 was worth the reduction in frustration. I also am learning Lightroom and Photoshop CC, but wanted to keep Elements just because. Redundant, but helpful as I plow thru learning curve.