This is my fist camera of this type, having had just little point & shoot before. I find it excellent, especially for a beginner. It is easy to use, and simple to pick up the basics. I was using it within 15 mins of opening the box & putting the batteries in and without reading the instruction! I am gradually learning the more technical bits but the beauty of this camera is that it can be used in automatic setting. I have some fantastic shots.I recommend this for professional and beginner alike.