That is a sad thing to happen, especially before the Holidays. Let’s try a few things.
1st. If it has a removable lens, take the lens off and leaving it off switch the camera on.
After a few seconds turn the camera off and re move the batteries then switch it back on again and leave it on for about 30 seconds. This will hopefully purge the internal system memory of any left over error readings. Turn it off and reattach the lens and reinstall the batteries in that order. Now make sure the lens is very securely attached to the body and switch the camera on. If you still get an error message and you have another lens, try using it. If you still get and error message then there is internal damage that a repairman must look at. If you camera has a Fixed Lens(that means a lens that is permanently attached to the body) then remove the batteries and turn the camera on and leave it on for 30 seconds then turn it off and reinstall the batteries. If none of this helps than it must be sent in for repair. Hope one of these suggestions works for you and good luck.

That’s a good question with no easy answer. All brands have their loyal followers and all brands have different features that might better suit you shooting needs. If you looking for a Digital-SLR then Canon and Nikon are highly rated and generally considered as professionally preferred. If you are looking for a Compact Camera then all brands have similar features. Sony and Panasonic are some of the more durable. Lens quality is a strong factor to figure in also. Carl Zeiss (Sony) and Leica (Panasonic) are good choices.

Shooting smaller products or getting very close to your subject is called MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY. Most compact cameras have a setting in the scene area for macro shooting. When in this setting you can get much closer, usually less than a foot away, and achieve focus. Digital-SLR (D-SLR) cameras use different lenses to achieve this type of photography. The key to ANY good macro work is having proper and even lighting. If the camera wants to use the flash to get the shot then you need to add more light. If the flash goes off when your very close to your subject it will washout the photo (over expose). Just check the camera for Macro setting and you should be fine. If it is a D-SLR camera look for Macro Lenses or Macro Tube Extensions.

Short answer...YES. All Digital 8 camcorders will play back 8mm Standard (analog) tapes. The camera does the conversion so you can even edit with it on a computer. Hi 8 camcorders will also play regular 8mm. Check with you nearest BestBuy for availability.