Camera questions

[JBougie]

For all of you camera people, I am looking for a good beginner SLR camera.

I currently have a Kodak M340 and want to get into the whole realm of taking really good pictures. I want something that is super easy to learn how to use, and something that won't make me want to file Bankruptcy after purchasing it :)

I need suggestions! I don't want to spend more than $600 on my first camera, I really hope that isn't too little - I guess I'd be willing to go a little higher on that and top out at like $700 after tax ... but I need help!

[yarisugi]

Don't know much about Digital SLRs but seems to me that both Canon and Nikon are good entry-level SLRs for $600-$700 (maybe a bit more).

Here is a CNET review link (http://reviews.cnet.com/best-prosumer-dslr-cameras/) - you could read more about it. On the left column, there is more info on other SLRs as well.

[808_Yaris]

the canon t1i is pretty reasonable, good starter camera.

[SailDesign]

Nikon D40 would be my choice, just because I'm a Nikon person, and it's a great little camera. Should be able to find one in the 450-500 region.

[DevilGirl]

I have the Nikon D3000. Nice entry-level Nikon. Purchased as a packaged deal from Adorama through Amazon with a second lens for about $550.

It's not too hard to learn how to use. I was taking really good pics on Auto mode prior to taking a 7-week photography class through the local community college. Now I take even better pics. It's all a matter of knowing how to balance the exposure through use of ISO, aperture, and shutter speed.

[eTiMaGo]

I have an entry-level Nikon D60, and it does all that I really need... :smile:

[Goose]

Another vote for a D40 (or something like it). Don't get hung up on pixel count and useless features. Concentrate on quality and your ability to control the camera.

Remember - it's about the pictures not the camera.

[derickveliz2]

Another Nikon user here.

Go to a store, ask to let you hold different cameras, as they are all good, but weight and ergonomics are different, then decide!

These are photos taken with my Nikon D50 (NOTE: not the aerial photos) at a Yaris Meet last year!



D50 PHOTOS LINK (http://www.tabblo.com/studio/stories/view/1736298/)




Good luck, Digital SLR are Awesome!

D.

.

[tomato]

+ 1 on don't get hung up on the pixel count. I got a 12 MP Canon and hardly ever shoot at full resolution.

I don't have a DSLR but I use a Canon G9 which is an in=between point and shoot and DSLR. Cheaper, less bulky, does everything I need. I think they have the G10 or G11 out now, with wide angle capabiliity, and 14 MP. Wide Angle is great, and sorely missing on mine, but I couldn't care less about the 14 MP.

This one looks great

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-PowerShot-G11-Stabilized-articulating/dp/B002LITT56/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1271693642&sr=8-2

Otherwise, wait for the usual Costco package sale on the Nikon entry levels DSLR's (they might have them around father's day, I know they have them around Xmas). They give you the carrying bag, 2 lenses and the camera body for $700 or $800. Kaotic Lasagna has one, I think, and his pics are fantastic.

good luck with your decision. Choosing which camera to get is a bit of a pain in the @ss and once you get it a new one is out that does more and for cheaper (kind of like buying a smartphone ;) I'm still really happy with my G9 and haven't yet found the need to upgrade.

[JBougie]

Thank you guys! I have SO much to look at!! I am going to write down all the suggestions and then head to the camera store :) I am going to see which ones "feel" right and kinda see what I can feel out :)

You guys are awesome!

[Stove]

For camera reviews, you should check out the Digital Camera Resource site.
http://www.dcresource.com/reviews/cameraList.php

They also have a great forum with a ton of good info:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/

[SailDesign]

And this one. Great for reviews and general info on each one you're looking at.
www.bhphotovideo.com

Also a good place to buy from. Their catalog is beautiful....

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Here's an awesome deal for the D40, which is what I use.

http://dealnews.com/Nikon-D40-6.1-MP-Digital-SLR-Camera-with-18-55-mm-lens-for-400-free-shipping/360165.html