Benefits of S3 over an A85?

I'm new to the forum, and I have to say that this is a great place for tips and good information.

I currently own an A85 that I've had for a couple years. I really like it, and until recently, have primarily used it for quick P&S shots on Auto mode. I still use auto mode for everyday candid shots, but have more recently gotten into photography and have switched to use the Manual, Av, and Tv modes.
I have been looking into telephono and macro add-on lenses for the A85, but before I do this, I was just wondering if it's worth it.

An S3 can be had for the low $300's, for considering the cost of the adapter tube and a couple add-on lenses for my 4MP camera, is it just a better idea to buy the S3? I know that it essentally would fix my need for the telephoto lens, and has a super-macro mode, which hopefully would be some improvement over the A85's macro mode. Plus, it's a 6MP camera.

Are there other benefits of the S3 over the A85 that would make it a better purchase than lenses for my current camera?

I had the A95 before I bought my S2. I loved my A95, but the S2 opened up a whole new range of possibilities with its focal reach.

Sounds like you would really benefit by upgrading to the S3, I say go for it!

I believe I would get the S3 ratherr than spend money on the A85. The S3 is a fine camera.

Thanks for the info. Maybe I'll do some more research for the S3.

Do either of you know how the super macro mode compares to the A-series regular macro mode?

drocpsu wrote in post #2908338
Thanks for the info. Maybe I'll do some more research for the S3.

Do either of you know how the super macro mode compares to the A-series regular macro mode?

The supermacro mode on the S2 and S3 allows the AF to work with the lens very close to the subject. Where as with regular macro mode on both the A series and the S2/3, you have to be a little ways away before the AF will give you a green square...

I think a lot of people here are biased on the S3 but for good reason. The extra zoom is addictive once you've used it.

mishnogram wrote in post #2910061
I think a lot of people here are biased on the S3 but for good reason. The extra zoom is addictive once you've used it.

I agree. After so many years of carrying huge, heavy SLR lenses that didn't go beyond 300MM, I just can't believe the zoom I have on my S2, and in such a small , light package too. And when I attach the 1.5 teleconverter, look out!

The S3 is a very good camera.
Start by setting it in 'P' mode with ISO100 and used it as a point 'n shoot. Change to Av aperture priority mode and be a little more creative. Add the 500D close-up lens and shoot bugs and butterflies. Add Just Shootin's teleconverter, up the shutter speed and snap birds.
A word about the super macro mode, is that it is super useless. True you can get 1/2" away and still focus, but when shooting flying bugs for instance, they're not going to tolerate that and will fly away. The camera will also most likely cast a shadow because it is so close. Better to add the 500D close up lens and shoot at the telephoto end of the zoom range from 18" away, with the added benefit that you can use the flash without the camera's lens getting in the way.

Thens zoom range on the S2/S3 is awesome! I own $2000 worth of glass for my Rebel XTi and I still don't have the range that the S2/S3 have. It's quite a little camera.