Bridge Camera Recommendation

[hmca]

A friend would like to move from his phone camera to a "real" camera.   Wondering if anyone has a bridge camera that they would recommend?
He would like to find something in the $500. range.   I have been "Googling" for recommendations but would be interested if any of our members have
a camera that they would recommend?

[Peterj]

I've been using a Panasonic fz 300 for 4 years and am totally satisfied.

Highlights important to my style of photography:

    * good glass - Leica lens 25-600 mm zoom (35 mm eqv) with f/2.8 throughout the range

    * fully automatic and manual modes available

    * remote shutter release available
    * decent video capabilities
    * electronic view finder

    * fully articulated LCD touch sensitivity

    * jpg + raw

    * wifi control

images >>> peterpfeiffer.smugmug.com/

Points to consider:

    camera is 2015 model

    12 megapixel

    not pocketable

[hmca]

Thanks, Pete. I'm passing your recommendation on to him. Helpful to see your smugmug pictures, too. Thanks for adding them.