S3 IS versus A550

So I was at target yesterday... and they have a S3 there, I checked it out and fell inlove. I want a DSLR but can't afford it, so I bought the A550. But the S3 is like a mix between a SLR and PnS camera, and I want it... I was wondering who thinks it's worth the extra cash. I would be returning the A550 to get it. It's 1 less Megapixel which I dont think would make any difference by upgrading to the S3. Let me know what you guys think and if you think its a good idea. I really want a camera that has full manual settings and will help me prepare for a SLR in the furture.

If you're willing to make the commitment in time and effort to learn to use the extra features, by all means. If the features are more important than the overall size, then it's definitely a better camera.

Mrselfdestruct wrote in post #2912603
I really want a camera that has full manual settings and will help me prepare for a SLR in the furture.

Then you better go get that S3!

Roger that. I've got my mind set on getting it. Gotta return my 550 hope they give cash so I dont have to wait for credit to go through. I played with it at the store and its "like butta" I love the size, I dont care about size, I want to take good pictures with it, not have it in my pocket all the time Thanks for your input guys. I'll letcha know if/when I get it!

Mrselfdestruct wrote in post #2913382
Roger that. I've got my mind set on getting it. Gotta return my 550 hope they give cash so I dont have to wait for credit to go through. I played with it at the store and its "like butta" I love the size, I dont care about size, I want to take good pictures with it, not have it in my pocket all the time Thanks for your input guys. I'll letcha know if/when I get it!

Have fun! I made the decision to upgrade from my A85 to an S3 today also! I'm really looking forward to getting it.

Its contagious. I cant wait to get it. I hope I can get it today.

You will really get into it.. the extra zoom and extra controls are great. I sold my A610 to get my S2 last year and haven't regretted it one bit.

Just be sure to do some of the things that people here are bringing up like using P mode instead of auto mode and in no time you'll be setting ISO, apperture and shutter speeds to get the effect you want.

Have fun.

I had an S2 IS and it was great. So much better than the typical P&S. You won't regret it at all!

Would you guys say this camera is almost as good as a DSLR. I'm thinking of paying off a DSLR, but I already own the S3. I just like the versatility with the S3 (video, LCD, PnS). How many different len's are available for the S3? Can someone link up some sites with S3 lens?

Mrselfdestruct wrote in post #2921308
Would you guys say this camera is almost as good as a DSLR. I'm thinking of paying off a DSLR, but I already own the S3. I just like the versatility with the S3 (video, LCD, PnS). How many different len's are available for the S3? Can someone link up some sites with S3 lens?

Not many lenses are available for the S3, as it's not an intercahgable lens camera. But then you already have a very wide range in your included zoom. However you can get a teleconverter, wide angle and a macro add-on lens for you S3 at the below sites. I only have the Canon teleconverter, and I can tell you, it works great! Below are a couple of sites to order from. I used B&H, but many order from lensmate.

Lensmate
http://www.lensmateonl​ine.com/

B&H
http://www.bhphotovide​o.com/

If you're looking to save some money and are planning on moving to SLR someday soon-ish....you might look into picking up a used S2 IS too...

They are almost the same camera for the most part, but you'll save some serious cash! The S3 does look nicer though...great camera. I used it as a stepping stone to SLR as well, very fun P&S!

check out www.canons3is.com for a good forum specifically for the S3