Digital photography question...

[dank78]

Background: I'm going to Vegas in March for the first time myself (i've been there dozens of times but usually didn't have time for lots of pics) and want to take take a bunch of good quality pictures of various things.

Problem/Question: Many pictures I see of casinos (usually inside) are pretty crappy quality. Is this due to poor equipment, poor photographer, or digital cameras aren't that great with low light situations yet?

Anyone got any tips or tricks to help get nice crisp pictures inside a casino?

P.S. - I've got a Cannon Powershot A520 4.0 megapixel camera

[Quartz]

Does you camera have adjustable ISO settings? If so, set it as high as you can and still get decent quality photos. You might want to take a few test photos before your trip.

However, you might want to check with the casino to see if you are allowed to take pictures. Your flash will give you away and casinos can be pretty touchy when it comes to photography or any kind of recording device in the gaming areas.

[dank78]

Thanks. As for photography being allowed, I've found that it is hit or miss. Some places have no problem with it whatsoever as long as you're not shooting video or making obvious attempts at photographing specific people or security sensitive areas, while other places forbid any photography while on the gaming floor.
Heck, the Indian casino near me won't let people talk on cell phones while playing slot machines! Like if I was going to mess with the electronics of a slot machine I'd do it with a device out in the open.

[stlblues]

The only way is with a digital is use a DSLR. I get very good results with a Canon 30D and 20D, my 300D isn't as light sensitive though. I can get good shots in candlelight. the new 40D is suposed to be even better. Of couse you pay a price for low light photography with price and size. It boils down to sensor size, the larger, the more light sensative generally. P&S cameras have very small sensors.