Wingpilot Loc: Wasilla. Ak

Another good choice is the Panasonic Lumix ZS70 or ZS80. Both are very similar to the Sony HX99, but slightly larger, yet still pocketable. Both zoom out to 720mm and take very nice images. For ease of use, simply put the camera in iA, or intelligent Auto mode, and all you have to do is point, compose, and shoot. These cameras do a great job at assessing the scene and making the necessary adjustments for you. As you learn the camera and use it more and more, you will become more familiar with it and can learn to use it’s different shooting modes. At least this way you won’t have to spend a great deal of time trying to learn the camera’s various modes, features and functions in the short time before your trip.

dick ranez

How much does it cost to build a three bedroom house? Use your cell phone and enjoy the trip.

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

Go to a store and find one (and Lenses) that work for you. DO IT NOW SO--you can feel comfortable when shooting. The trip is too late to learn the camera.

regularguy55

Go to Best Buy and try out (hold and handle) a few different point & shoot (p&s) models and have the clerk review very basic functions and how to shoot Auto mode. Take home and practice a few days to familiarize yourself. Not knowing more about you, etc. if not already able to use a DSLR-type you are only going be frustrated trying to learn. With the P&S you will have a capable, small camera for travel and you can still enjoy your trip. Try the Canon G7X MK II, G9X MK II, Sony RX100, Sony HX 80, and Panasonic LUMIX ZS 100 to name a few. You don’t have to change lens and most have a fast lens good for low light shooting and often not needing a flash.

charles tabb Loc: Richmond VA.

I would look into a Sony RX-10 IV
If you don't have the time to learn the features put it in Auto and let the camera do the adjusting for you.
Once you learn the other things you can do with adjustments you can get into taking more involved pictures.
You will love the Zoom that you will be able to use and the advantage of a Zeiss lens.
I think in the future you will find it was a great place to start.

fehutch Loc: gulfport, ms

My final camera after years of photo. Fuji X-E3. Bought with 24mm f:2 prime. $1,000. There a nice zoom in the 55-200 range. Add $700. Range finder (Leica style) design. On full auto it doesn’t miss a thing. I like the prime for interiors and low light.

I also own the Sony RX-10. Little bit bigger but nice zoom f:2.8 all the way. Might be a better travel camera, come to think of it. Great pix and no extras lenses to fool with. This would be my trip choice. Enjoy your trip.

PHRubin Loc: Nashville TN USA

I suggest a pocketable camera. You can use it in "Auto" until you learn enough to use other modes. You should keep it as a handy portable if you ever decide to go to a bigger, better camera. I have one in addition to my DSLR. I suggest either of these 2 models:

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100 ($498 new) Better bigger sensor, medium range zoom
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70 ($298 new) More zoom range, smaller sensor

While the Sony model (RX100) has similar specs, it is much more expensive and Sony's menus are less intuitive.

nadelewitz Loc: Ithaca NY

Go to B&H Photo or Adorama or any other dealer and buy every camera you see. Can't be too careful.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

There are many easy-to-use cameras available. Some allow more advanced uses, if you wish to do so later.

First decide if you want a compact camera with a non-interchangeable lens.... or if you would prefer something a little larger that uses interchangeable lenses, is more versatile for future "growth" and quite possibly has higher image quality potential.

Next decide how much you want to spend.

Speaking for myself, I'd choose an interchangeable lens camera (ILC). I'd want the option to add more lenses and be able to adapt the camera for different purposes. Also, most ILC use larger sensors that make for better image quality.

There are two major types of ILCs: DSLRs ("digital single lens reflex") and so-called "mirrorless" (MILC). Each of them have their advantages and disadvantages. DSLRs have been around for a while now... about 20 years... plus they are "descended" from 35mm film SLRs which had seen a half century of popularity, so are pretty thoroughly developed. Mirrorless were the "next new thing" around 6 or 7 years ago and have been quite popular... but so far there have been fewer lenses and accessories developed for them, and due to their popularity, their prices haven't seen much discounting. Mirrorless can be smaller and lighter, but often use smaller batteries and draw more power (with electronic viewfinders or constant use of an LCD screen), so get far fewer shots per charge. You'll likely need more spare batteries with a mirrorless camera. I recently took over 6000 shots at an event with two DSLRs, each of which is fitted with a grip that accommodates two batteries. I did almost the whole shoot with one set of batteries (four total), so I got about 1500 shots per battery. Many mirrorless only get 300 to 600 shots per battery.

I shoot with Canon gear and am most familiar with it, so will give you some examples based upon my own experiences. You can probably find similar in other brands.

Non-interchangeble lens cameras:

Canon offers several high quality non-interchangeable lens, compact "point n shoot" cameras with their Powershot G_X-series models. Some of these use a 1" size sensor that's fairly large for this type of camera, although it's smaller than most DSLRs use (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?setIPP=48&ci=8612&fct=fct_brand_name%7ccanon%2bfct_sensor-size_3087%7c1in&srtclk=itemspp&ipp=48&N=4288586279&). They even offer premium "G1X" models that use larger so-called "APS-C" sensors, the same size found in many DSLRs and mirrorless (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?setIPP=48&ci=8612&fct=fct_brand_name%7ccanon%2bfct_sensor-size_3087%7c1in&srtclk=itemspp&ipp=48&N=4288586279&).

The larger the sensor, the better overall image quality is likely to be, especially when shooting in lower light conditions. But, the larger the sensor, the larger the camera and the less wide ranging the zoom lens will be. Canon also offers a number of of "ELPH" and "SX-series" Powershot "point n shoot" cameras that use a much smaller 1/2.3" sensor, which allows them to be more compact and/or to have wider ranging zoom lenses. The ELPH series are particularly compact... even "pocketable". Some of these are also quite affordable.

Interchangeable lens cameras:

DSLRs are Canon's forte (though they are rapidly expanding the mirrorless they offer). Their well established DSLR "system" includes roughly 90 available lenses and they offer some 13 or 14 different models currently. We'll quickly narrow those down, though. First, for travel and general purpose, I'd recommend the APS-C sensor models. There are 6 of those to choose among.

The most entry-level, least expensive is the EOS 1500D, which is called the Rebel T7 in N. America. You can buy it with two lenses for around $500 US. HOWEVER, this camera is very basic, lacks some nice features that can be found on slightly more expensive models. The two lenses sold "in kit" with it are also "entry level". The EF-S 18-55mm IS "II" is somewhat plasticky and has slower, noisier autofocus... but can make decent images and has image stabilization. The EF 75-300mm "III" is the cheapest telephoto zoom Canon makes... and the worst. It uses slower, noisier autofocus drive, lacks image stabilization (which is arguably more important on telephotos), and doesn't have particularly good image quality.

For $200 US more (current sale price: $700 US), the Canon EOS 250D/Rebel SL3, is a MUCH better camera paired up with two MUCH better lenses. (The previous model 200D/SL2 isn't all that old, might be available for a little less, and is very similar. The 250D/SL3 primarily has some changes related to video.) The 1500D/T7 and 250D/SL3 share the same relatively simple 9-point AF system and both use the same 24MP sensor.... But that's about all they share. The 250D/SL3 has many features omitted from the more entry-level model. Some of them are very important... Such as a self-cleaning sensor, which the 250D/SL3 has, but the 1500D/T7 lacks. In Live View and Video mode, the 250D/SL3 has Dual Pixel AF which is much faster and better tracking movement than the old contrast detection focus method the 1500D/T7 uses. In fact, the entry-level model (and another even more entry-level model sold primarily outside the US) is the ONLY Canon DSLR lacking these features.

The EF-S 18-55mm IS lens bundled with the 250D/SL3 is the "STM" model that has faster, quieter autofocus. And the telephoto zoom typically bundled with the camera is the EF-S 55-250mm IS STM, which is better than the EF 75-300mm in every imaginable way. It's faster, quieter focusing.... it has image stabilization... it focus closer... and it has noticeably better image quality.

Possibly best of all for travel.. the 250D/SL3 is the smallest and lightest DSLR offered by anyone. In fact, it's only a few grams different from and slightly larger than many mirrorless cameras with viewfinders and using similar size sensor. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?ci=6222&fct=fct_brand_name%7ccanon%2bfct_camera-model_4015%7ccanon-rebel-sl3%2bfct_camera-model_4015%7ccanon-rebel-t7&N=4288586280&

Canon also offers four M-series mirrorless cameras. They can be nice travel companions, too, thanks to small size and light weight. But, as already mentioned, they will be more expensive than a DSLR kit... and since mirrorless are fairly "young" and still being developed, there are fewer native EF-M lenses available (but, with a simple adapter they CAN use all 90 EF and EF-S lenses made for the DSLRs). For example, the Canon M50 in kit with EF-M 15-45mm IS STM and EF-M 55-200mm IS STM lenses is currently on sale for $879 US. The M50 has an electronic viewfinder. The M100 model does not, and it's available in kit with the same two lenses for $599. (You need to use the rear LCD screen to compose images with the models that don't have a viewfinder.)

Both these mirrorless use essentially the same 24MP APS-C sensor that's in the 250D/SL3 and 1500D/T7 (as well as a number of other Canon cameras). https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?ci=16158&N=4288586281&&fct=fct_brand_name%7ccanon%2bfct_camera-model_4022%7ccanon-eos-m100%2bfct_camera-model_4022%7ccanon-eos-m50%2b

ALL the above Canon cameras.... point n shoot models, DSLRs and mirrorless... have an "Auto" setting, where basically all you need to do is press the shutter release button. The camera does virtually everything else for you. With all but the simplest point n shoot (ELPH models), if you wish, you can take control of more things in the future, as you learn how to use the camera. In many models there's built-in assistance for beginners, such as a "Creative Auto wizard" that describes how different camera settings effect images. There also is a lot of support in the form of third party "how to" books and downloadable user manuals on PDFs, free from Canon websites.

As I said, you can probably find a lot of the same things in other brands. I'm giving Canon examples because those are what I'm most familiar with (and because it's good stuff! ) Nikon offers a selection of DSLRs, lenses and accessories similar to Canon's. They also offer a lot of choices of point n shoot cameras, but Nikon doesn't have any APS-C mirrorless like the Canon M-series. Pentax also offers some excellent DSLRs and lenses, though not as many to choose among as Canon and Nikon. They don't have mirrorless. Fujifilm, Sony, Olympus and Panasonic all offer a variety of mirrorless cameras and fairly large systems of lenses and accessories to use with them (though nowhere near what Canon & Nikon offer for their DLSRs). I really don't know much about point n shoot models from Pentax, Fuji, Sony, Oly and Panasonic.

Hope this helps! Have fun shopping.

RPaul3rd Loc: Arlington VA and Sarasota FL

I enjoyed two weeks in Israel and Jordan (Petra) and here's what I took: A canon sl2 full featured DSLR with a Tokina 18 to 260 mm zoom lens. The pictures were nice and sharp but the camera is what convinced me. It's relatively light weight about two thirds the weight of a D70 and about half the weight of my pro grade Canon D5 Mark III.

RPaul3rd Loc: Arlington VA and Sarasota FL

I enjoyed two weeks in Israel and Jordan (Petra) and here's what I took: A canon sl2 full featured DSLR with a Tokina 18 to 260 mm zoom lens. The pictures were nice and sharp but the camera is what convinced me. It's relatively light weight about two thirds the weight of a D70 and about half the weight of my pro grade Canon D5 Mark III. And don't forget an extra battery and charger. One battery is good but you'll be taking a lot of photos and you don't want to be caught with a dead battery. The SL2 has wireless transfer capability to an IPhone 8 so you can post to you hearts content with pro looking photos. Of course, the IPhone 8 is very good too.

RichardSM Loc: Back in Texas

I don’t know how about 4X5 camera? Just kidding we need more information on what you like to shoot please.

11bravo

I'd recommend a bridge camera. Have used a Panasonic FZ1000v1 for several years, extensive foreign travel. Won't fit in your pocket, but Lowepro Apex140 bag works great.

My travel companion uses a Panasonic FZ300, longer zoom, weatherized; her first camera, and she gets great shots with it. Same Lowepro bag (highly recommend Lowepro bags, have used them for decades).

Buy several extra batteries. Recommend GXCH2 Green Extreme universal dual charger. Buy it with the removable plates to fit your battery; can buy separate plates for other camera batteries.

Pocket camera: Olympus tough series, currently TG-5.

https://www.apotelyt.com/compare-camera/panasonic-fz1000-vs-panasonic-fz300

Dossile

My $0.02. You don’t have much time. In Israel, you will likely shoot indoor and out. You will shoot people, objects and scenery. And lastly, you are a novice and are currently dependent on your camera to make decisions. You do not need a big zoom lens needed to shoot wildlife, but a modest zoom lens would be nice. A camera that has low light capabilities for inside buildings and ruins is nice.

Go to B&H Photo or Adorama online and order tomorrow (Friday) morning. You need to decide what you want to spend.

$1000. Sony DSC-RX100 VI
$750. Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III
$500 Panasonic DMC-FZ1000
$360 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100
$300 Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80
Below that, your phone or a Canon Elph

Buy:
Extra battery
Three 64 MB San-disc SD cards
Leica lens cleaning towelettes
A Nikon lens/brush cleaning pen
An SD card reader for your computer
A small Lowepro camera bag

Once you get the camera, go on a few walks with it and take photos of everything. Look at them on your computer. Learn from them. Erase the photos off your cards. Learn, read a few articles etc.

Have a wonderful time.

Dean37 Loc: Fresno, CA

One very good idea is be sure you can use your cell phone camera very well, and do not forget it or leave it somewhere. That may really be your best choice. After that it is really up to you. Many people have offered up excellent advice here for you, but you have to know what you want to do, especially after your return. If you have a big budget, and have a burning desire to become a photographer, then the best equipment is what you should get.

If you are like most of us when we started out in photography, then it is difficult to decide what you may do. In that case the suggestion for a camera that has a lens built in, with the longest range capability, say 35mm equivalent of 18-750mm or something like that. You don't have to worry about carrying extra lenses, and most are small enough to carry easily. This would give you as an inexperienced photographer a very good point and shoot camera. The smaller the low number is, the wider angle it is, and the larger number enables you to reach out further like a telescope.

As has been said no camera will take the best photo, it is the photographer who takes the photo. I keep trying, but, . . . This type of camera shouldn't break the bank, and would be desirable to others if you decide your cell phone is good enough, yet be good enough to train yourself to become a photographer. Still it might be all you ever wanted in a camera. A good photographer will take very good photos with any camera they might pick up, from a Brownie Hawkeye, to the latest and greatest DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras.

One thing you will notice, is many people on this forum are so pleased with their choice of camera, that they do their best to convince you that that brand is what you should buy. Yes, I have my favorite brand, but I am open minded enough to see advantages and disadvantages of my choice as well as other choices. You are the one putting your money on the line, and you should make the best choice for you, not because someone else likes a specific camera.

At the same time, I will say many of the cameras offered up of all types are phenomenal cameras that anyone should be proud to own.

Enjoy your trip!