I decided I wanted a dedicated camera instead of always "just using my phone". With the help of the LOA, (plus an early birthday gift) funds became immediately available. The decision was made to purchase a camera that would have a decent optical zoom, be easy to operate/carry and be great for taking pictures of birds and wildlife. My budget was $700. For the price, versatility and performance, the only choice IMO, was the Nikon P900, a 16MP 24-2000mm optical zoom "bridge camera".
It took some time to come to this decision but I'm really satisfied with my purchase. It cost about $600 from Amazon and does everything it says it will do (Including taking OKAY pictures of the Moon). Sure, there are plenty of limitations with a "beginner" type of camera but this thing is no joke when it comes to taking decent photos at insane distances. In a year or less I plan on starting my journey into the more professional (ie. Nikon D750) DSLR type of cameras and lenses. For now though, this "all in one" should do me just fine.
