Is this the thread to post questions about lower-end cameras too? I've been using a Canon PowerShot A540 for a couple of years and I'm pretty happy with it, but some things are beginning to bug me.
I'm using it for general vacation shots but I also spend a lot of time at home with an amateur lightbox setup, taking pictures from a tripod. There's some work I need to do to improve that, but I also feel an upgrade of the camera is in order. I figure I should be able to get something much better for around $150-$200.
What I want, aside from more resolution of course, is a better video mode so I can start actually using it for video instead of just capturing a little clip now and then. So I want something that works as a decent HD camera, even if it's not the main purpose. Better wide angle shot options would be nice, and also a closer minimum focus range for closeups. More zoom (4x now) could also be useful but I rarely use that much since I'm mostly doing closeup studio work or landscape pictures.
I'd prefer AA batteries since they're easy to replace but it's no big deal. Size doesn't matter much. Should I get one of the current Canon models or is there a better option currently?
Sample picture:
On that note, might as well ask: I like to take backlit shots with the sun filtering through. Is this killing my equipment or is it safe to do?