<p>FOr cost savings in case he wants to continue- I would suggest pawn shops- we have found nice SLRs ( not digital) that way, especially in fancy neighborhoods.
;)</p>
<p>mom60, it is very difficult to recommend a digital camera without knowing situation it will be used. </p>
<p>Unlike a film camera, a digital camera does not really take a photo. It takes in information that the processor could process. A raw file contains a lot more information so one has more “bit” to work with a software such as photoshop. I am not aware any point and shot DC takes raw. Even if one does, the small size of ccd does not offer too much resolution. </p>
<p>Also, while some high end DC offer manual operations such as setting of aperture or speed etc, the lens simply does not allow too much manipulation of depth of field and the bokeh is typically not very good. </p>
<p>So, to get any decent raw file, you will need a DSLR. Within your budget, you probaly has to stay away from the full frame ones. In my personal opinion, the lens is way more important than the body. So, I would recommend a Nikon D80 + a 50 mm F1.8. You should be able to find a used body for around $500 and the lens for about $90. I would not recommed a D40 because it requires lens with a motor and it is normally too small for a male.</p>
<p>Since your son is a graphic design major, am I right in assuming he is taking a class on photoshop or similar program? If so, the specifics of the camera don’t matter so much in learning how to use photoshop, especially for a graphic designer whose work will most likely be online rather than in print. Of course, your son may love the photography aspect of it, in which case he would probably grow out of the basic digital SLR camera pretty quickly. Another good reason to buy used or to borrow until he knows more about his focus. (and I agree with Dad II that compact cameras don’t generally allow for much depth of field which is the one thing I miss.)</p>
<p>TY edad and thanks for the heads up on the lenses cost. Hopefully she will get back to illustration which is cheaper.</p>