camera hunt, postgame
so, i decided to check out a local ritz camera store tonight, on the way to dinner. what i found was a really, really friendly manager who was willing to tell me the pros and cons, and recommendations regarding cameras. i would totally feel comfortable buying there, from him, because he spends time with the cameras, and explained benefits and flaws in each, and reasons why (for a beginner like me, at least) to not step into a $300 camera right off the bat.
he also explained the differences in some of the different model numbering systems in the Nikons, which I was curious about. after he showed me the P2, and why he liked it, and then showed me some of the flat Canons in contrast, and explained why (for different reasons) he liked them, too, then he explained the differences between the Nikon 7600 (which i just bought), and the Nikon P3/P4 series.
the man knew his cameras. he tested each. he printed photos from each to show the differences in quality between image sensors, lenses, etc. he could tell you which models sucked and why.
my next (new) digital camera buying experience will be better, thanks to him. but, i also feel better about my purchase. we'll see how good i feel once it arrives... it may go right back on ebay or craigslist, followed by my paying him another visit.