I would like to buy a new camera, but since I am a full time student I have very limited funds. I need to stay in the $300 range. I would like to have a good zoom and I the old fashioned viewfinder if possible. Any recommendations?

Are you looking at a Digital SLR or point in shoot style?

300 dollars can get you a used Canon 20d and a kit lens if you find the right deal. I watch the Buy/sell area on www.fredmiranda.com and they pop up on there every couple weeks. I avoid Craigslist usually since people generally think their camera's are worth more then they are. Otherwise take a look for a canon Xt, canon Xti with a lens of some sort. I picked up a used Canon Xti for my daughter for 200 that also came with a kit lens and 4 batteries. She's only 4.5 and already knows her way around it. So most adults would have no problem.

~Ben

I agree, look for a used Canon. If you want a "good," zoom lens, stay away from the Powershot, and look into a Rebel or similar camera where you can change the lens. A good zoom lens can cost anywhere from $600 to in the thousands. With a camera with interchangeable lens, the camera will be able to adapt to your needs and your wallet.

quote jjjds1999: "I would like to buy a new camera, but since I am a full time student I have very limited funds. I need to stay in the $300 range. I would like to have a good zoom and I the old fashioned viewfinder if possible. Any recommendations?"

This fits your listed requirements (high $300's) I have no experience with this model but think you can't go wrong with any of the big 4 camera co.s, Olympus, Canon, Nikon, Pentax.

butthead