Though I have an embarrassing amount of money invested in my Nikon gear, I have to admit that I agree with Charlie (no last name given) regarding Panasonic's Lumix line of superzoom point and shoots. Best bet in this category if it's ease of use you're looking for and best zoom for the money; there is also a 1.7 teleconverter available in the $150 range that can be added on, as well as other accessories, but I have not heard any reviews on these. Ed SchneiderDavidson Co. Subject: [TN-Bird] Re: camera From: cr4d@xxxxxxx Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2014 20:41:56 -0500 CC: tn-bird@xxxxxxxxxxxxx To: ablroyce@xxxxxxxxx I know this is not the brand everyone is going recommend to you because it is not a Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fuji, who do all the advertising.But this is a great camera. Please consider this camera. It has the fastest focus (which is important for birds), and 24 zoom.You don’t have to fool with changing lenses. The Panasonic FZ200 is my 5th Panasonic camera. I will continue to buy them as long as they come out with a new super zoom camera. http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonic-lumix-dmc-fz200 Amazon, B&H, online and sometimes Costco. CharlieHenderson KY On Apr 7, 2014, at 6:06 PM, Alice Beth & Lew <ablroyce@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:Any basic camera suggestions. Less than $500. Any thoughts?? Alice Beth RoyceBlount County