What s a good cheap camera with an auto focus (for fashion photography)?

I take pictures of myself for my etsy vintage shop, a lot of the process requires running between the camera and my setup (usually just a blank white wall) and trusting my coolpix L120 to focus on me enough to have a good shot.

The pictures often come out dark, even with a modest lighting setup (cheapish but functional umbrella stands and what not). I try to use a program (picasa) to brighten them up, but then they look grainy.

I know a lot of it is not my cameras fault, but are there any cameras with a good auto focus that pick up light really well? Preferably under $500. And any other tips or tricks would be appreciated!

Thanks:)

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Difference between Telephoto Zoom and Macro lense?

So i'm trying to get a DSLR camera for my personal use. Its either a Canon EOS Rebel T5i or Nikon D5300. I know that the lenses that come with it is good for normal pictures and minimal extra uses. But I also want to get another lens that is better for one purpose. I like the idea of telephoto zoom, but I use macro heavily on my current digital camera (Nikon Coolpix L110). I use the camera mostly for zoomed in photos or close objects. I also use it for some portraits and landscapes. Which is better for my usage? And my price range for the lenses is 350 dollars max.

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