Looking to replace E550

[qlat]

I'm sick of the poor image quality of my E550. I'm looking for a replacement that has the following things:

-5MP or higher
-Everything has 3x optical zoom these days and not a big deal since I can just crop (right?)
-30fps video with sound
-AA batteries

These are the only things I'm really strict about.

Or...maybe you have some ideas of how to better the image quality of my E550? Macros and indoor lighting are fine, but outdoor shots are SO grainy.

[mtclimber]

qlat-

You might want to take a look at the Fuji F-10, or F-30, as well as the Canon A-620. All of the comply with your requirements. BTW I still have my E-550.

Here is a sample photo from the F-30.

MT

[swgod98]

qlat wrote:

I'm sick of the poor image quality of my E550.

The outdoor pics are grainy? I've owned an E550 for over a year (maybe 2) and have never had any questionable quality issues with it. I actually find the low light quality quite good, while the outdoor pics are even better.

How long have you had the camera? Did you check your ISO settings? I don't have my E550 with me at the moment, but I do have some pictures I can post. Take a look at them and let us know if the quality seems about the same.

This picture was taken at ISO200:
http://danshobbyshack.com/temp/e550/dscf0681.jpg

This picture was taken at ISO100:
http://danshobbyshack.com/temp/e550/dscf0794.jpg

Keep in mind, the E550 also has an ISO80 setting, which is even cleaner. I recommend you check your camera's ISO setting...and check any of the images you think are "grainy" for the ISO value in the Exif information.