I have the Sony DSC-F707. While it takes great pictures, it's no where near as good as my regular film SLR and scanning the negatives with a film scanner. The 707 is bulkier than most digital cameras, but the picture quality is very good for it's class. I think you will be happy with the 717.

 

If you're unsure whether you need the expense of a true digital SLR (and they are expensive), there are several 'prosumer' point and shoot digitals that support add-on lenses and manual settings. Perhaps something like that would fill the gap between a basic camera and a full-blown SLR. I use an Olympus C4040 and with a simple lens adaptor, it can use filters, telephoto lenses, fisheyes, etc. Of course its not going to be the quality of a real SLR, but it's a decent compromise for the money. Several Nikkon models are also known to be very lens-friendly, that's a brand I would highly recommend, probably even better than the Olympus. I bought the Olympus primarily for the f1.8 lens, it can take pictures in almost any lighting without a flash, which was the deciding feature to me.

 

I have a Cannon G2 and a Nikon D100 (DSLR), I do think that the DSLR IS that much better AND worth the extra $1000 or so.

Keep in mind though, you still need a len(es) a flash, memory cards, etc. The entire setup can cost around $3500 - $5000 (easily). The result is you can make photographs instead of taking snapshots. For those that aren't sure about the difference between a snapshot and and photograph, stick with an inexpensive point and shoot digital!

Cheers -

 

woohoo!

i just got my sony f717 this weekend and finally took it out on sunday to play with. man, there are so many features to this camera! the only downside to this is its weight, since it does have a huge lens. however, it's got 10x zoom, so i can't complain. i really like it. it's looks like a serious camera. i can't wait to learn to use more of its features and shoot better pics!

 

Congratulations! The 717 is a good rig and I'm sure you'll come up to speed in hurry. The technology is nothing short of amazing when you stop to think about it. Have fun!

A quick search on photoSig shows what you can expect with the camera.....of course the rest is up to you!

http://www.photosig.com/go/photos/browse?id=9351

 

man i should've saved a couple more bucks to get that

 

my wife has the DSC V1 on layaway right now.. I can't wait to get to play with it next month..