Some assistance pls....

[yebocan]

Currently I am using Nikon COOLPIX L820 - to snap pics...Mostly, when out and about in the countryside, or the weekend aways that I get myself into...the odd sunset...or sunrise....day at the beach..that sort of thing.... I am looking to upgrade....just came across
http://www.takealot.com/nikon-d3100-14mp-twin-dx-lens-value-bundle-200mm/PLID32715783 ...bit of an overkill for the odd pic taker?

 

[garyc]

That Nikon D3100 is good value. It will give you decent pictures at the price of a lot of the compact cameras. You can also see if you can pick up a single lens bundle a bit cheaper - the type of photography you are describing probably does not need the telephoto zoom.

Now for the downside. "Day on the beach" and SLR do not tend to go together unless you know how to be really careful with it. If this location is important to you then it may be better to stick with a cheap compact that you can toss if it gets damaged or alternatively go for one of the water / sand / dust - proof type cameras.

 

[yebocan]

That Nikon D3100 is good value. It will give you decent pictures at the price of a lot of the compact cameras. You can also see if you can pick up a single lens bundle a bit cheaper - the type of photography you are describing probably does not need the telephoto zoom.

Now for the downside. "Day on the beach" and SLR do not tend to go together unless you know how to be really careful with it. If this location is important to you then it may be better to stick with a cheap compact that you can toss if it gets damaged or alternatively go for one of the water / sand / dust - proof type cameras.

Thanks...think will stick with cheap and compact.

 

[Nanfeishen]

You could go for the Pentax Optio WG 3 or the Nikon Coolpix AW110 , both waterproof , dustproof and shockproof.
(Page 2)
And then there are also the Fuji FinePic Xp60 and Xp 70 (Page 1)

all are in your current 16M pixel range.

http://www.cameraworld.co.za/Home/t...1/Default.aspx?SortField=UnitCost,ProductName

 

[AhComment]

Go to ORMS or Studio22 in CT , handle a entry level DSLR and try it out. You will be far better off with that than doing a easy internet purchase.

 

[garyc]

If you are thinking of the waterproof and rugged cameras then there is a good group review here: http://www.dpreview.com/articles/2491269399/2014-waterproof-camera-roundup?utm_campaign=internal-link&utm_source=features&utm_medium=sidebar-block-Homepage&ref=features

I have had good service out of the Nikon. A friend has been very happy with the Pentax.