Paul Furman wrote:
Dave wrote:
Following my questions about where to buy a D3, I now have another
issue - at the other end of the camera spectrum.

I'd like to buy my wife, who is retired, a point and shoot camera, but
she is not at all technical and has a strong dislike of gadgets.
Ideally I'd like something that flashes when it needs to without her
having to make a decision if it needs flash.

I'm looking for something with the least buttons, knobs or other
controls, so she has less chance of getting into a mess with it. I
want something quite compact too, but simplicity is more important
than size or picture quality.

Suggestions?

If she won't be insulted by the idea, look at children's cameras.
Seriously. They are specifically designed for simplicity. I've seen this
question before regarding elderly parents and that was the best answer
that came out of the discussion. All other cameras are designed &
marketed to have the maximum number of neat tricks, that's what sells &
looks impressive in the marketing.



Thank you for that. I'd never thought of that option, but it is one
worth pursuing. My only concern is children seem better at these sorts
of things than most adults!

I like Tony's idea too - tape the controls.

I've often thought there was some millage in having electronic devices
where functionality can be restricted. My Dad has a TV with a remote
control which fits in a shroud. The remote has about 50 buttons on one
side, and about 12 on the other. Depending on what side is fitted into
the shroud, either the 50 or 12 can be seen.

I consider myself reasonably technically savvy. I have a degree in
electronics, and a PhD in a science subject. Yet I find some of the
gadgets now too complex. I think I'm the wrong side of 25!

I've just bought a D3, and that is complex, but I do have a desire to
learn to use that. When it comes to a TV or similar, I don't really feel
I want to know such intricate details, but its almost impossible to
escape these days.

dave