Source:www.cnet.com.au

The prime purchase times for digital cameras and camcorders are, as expected, the year end holiday season, and now, the summer, when people expect to take lots of vacation photos.

I already covered some new offerings in the compact size class here, and now it's time to check out the latest, upgraded entry level consumer DSL's for those who want more, and don't mind a little bulk.

The latest whiz kids for the common man and woman, from Olympus and nikon, boast 10 mega pixel sensors, advanced anti-shake technology, and plenty of other goodies, but at a price, at least compared to the compact cameras you may be used to.

However, don't be put off by the $1000.00+ dollar prices quoted in this article, because a quick search came up with a $662.00 price tag for the Nikon D40x, and I'm sure I could do better if were looking to buy one.

I expect that the Olympus would go for even less.

While I do encourage you to shop the Internet for digital cameras, be aware that there are many underhanded dealers out there who practice bait and switch tactics.

These creeps have always been around, and predate the Internet by many years when they pulled these stunts on people who ordered by phone or mail.

Don't let that discourage you though because there are plenty of honest dealers out there whose prices are just as low or lower. You just have to be careful and do some research before ordering.

My advice is to put the name of any dealer you are considering buying from on Google with the words, "complaints" or "newsgroups", and if people have been screwed by them you'll find out.

If by chance you do order from someone who later emails or calls you, and says the price was wrong, or a lens isn't included, or the battery is $300.00 extra along with a free lens cloth, don't give in. Insist that the order be cancelled, and that nothing is charged to your credit card, and then try again with someone else.

Take a camera with you whenever possible, and look around, you'll find a picture somewhere.