A-Level Camera

[L17]

Hi I have just gone into 6th form and my art teachers recommend we all get our own camera to carry round all the time for are primary research for are portfolio. I am trying to find a camera that can take detailed photos while being able to zoom in (eg flower bud) without losing any image quality. The camera also need to be compacted and a low price I have being having trouble finding the right camera as I don't know what all the technical bits mean. Anyone who could me would be much appreciated or any recommendations of cameras. Thanks

[R0B]

Compactness + image quality = sony NEX-3/5. end of (the thing is tiny!)

Technical shtuff:
http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/for...=3408#post3408

[L17]

Its looks like a good camera but a but to pricey for my budget thank for the post