Going from film to digital!!

[superspur]

Hi there,
I have decided that it is time to ditch my film SLR camera and get all digital!! I have been using a little digital camera for ages, but now want to start taking much better photos. I have been looking at various digital SLR models, and basically, I do not know enough about them to make an informed decision.
I think I have convinced myself to get one of the new style cameras, that don't need me to change lenses. My budget is around the £300 mark, give or take, and at this time, I think I have decided on the Fujifilm Finepix HS10 which is about £330.
As you are all more experienced than me, do you think I will be happy with this camera? I like the sound of the big zoom ability. I will not be shooting much video, so I am not really worried about that side of things, performance wise. I just want a good camera that will help me take better photos.
Any advice or experiences will be appreciated.
Many thanks,
Andy

 

[cuthbert]

i think it depends on what you're shooting. if you've grown up with a SLR you might find a hybrid superzoom camera like the HS10 a compromise too far.

do any of your SLR lenses fit the current crop of digital bodies?

 

[mustanir]

Shame about that. Film is the hip thing these days.

On a more serious note, I think you'll be happy. If the shutter lag of your compact camera (compared to the near-instantaneousness of your SLR) never bothered you before you'll get along with the new camera just fine.

 

[andyred]

do any of your SLR lenses fit the current crop of digital bodies?

what was the film SLR you've had, this can help to sway you to a certain make -> Canon, Nikon, Sony/Minolta etc,

Given your budget, you can pick up a good 2nd hand DSLR and if you could stretch it a bit, poss a new entry level model ?

Sorry I've not used the Fuji camera, but do agree with above, are you going to find it limiting in the future, having grown up with an SLR.

Good luck with your search

 

[superspur]

Ahh, Trumpton, or was it Camberwick Green!! Such memories!

Cuthbert - It never occurred to me to use my lenses on the digital camera, I just presumed they would have different fittings. My zoom lens is a bit knackered though - just slides in and out by the force of gravity!!
Although I have used the SLR for many years, I wasn't really that good at it. I would try things, but by the time I got my photos back, I had forgotten what I was trying!! You will probably get the picture that I am a faddy type of photographer. I see photos that my mates take with their digital SLRs and just wish I could do likewise.
I am only after nature and family type photos really, and thought the new hybids would mean I wouldn't have so much to carry about.
My current camera is a minolta and I will probably sell it on Ebay, which might raise my budget by a few quid, or not!!
I have also considered the Samsung NX10, but that has removable lenses and is a bit more pricey.
Thanks for the input though - it is helping!
Andy