What is the best digital SLR camera for a beginner?Right now the least expensive DSLR is the Nikon D40(x). Ironically it supports some of the best lenses in the world If you are a beginner do you think you want to go to a dslr? here is a second choice i will suggest. This camera has all the functions of a dslr but does not have the interchangable lens and it will cost you a whole heck less then dslr. Fujifilm finepix s9100, 9.0mp 10x zoom (28-300mm) has all the manual settings and takes video too. takes both xd and cf memory cards. I got this camera because i too wanted a dslr but i wanted to learn how to use a manual camera more and felt the dslr was just a little too exspensive at the time. this camera takes great pics...go to the following links i have included below and take a look... fhotoace's recommendation is sound, the D40/x is a great little dSLR that takes fantastic pictures. Until you really start learning the more advanced stuff, just set it to program mode and forget it.
But you know, another point could be raised, based on your budget. If you were to say 'under $800', I'd suggest the Nikon D40/x or one of the other brands at a similar price-point. If you were to say 'I've got $5000 to burn', I could just as accurately answer your question by recommending the Nikon D2X (Nikon's top of the line) or a 1D-series from Canon... reason being that all dSLRs have a basic functionality that even a beginner can understand and apply. The more complex features of the higher-end models can be learned as you go along.
What I'm trying to say is, *any* dSLR is good for a beginner (as much as even the cheapest dSLR can be good for a pro), the best choice should really be determined by how much money you want to spend. I'd like to give a thumbs-up to fphotoace's advice and add the D40x's little brother, the D40 as another choice. The D40x has 10mp resolution and the D40 has 6mp. But 6mp will give you excellent results for 4x6, 5x7, 8x10 or larger with the right ISO and settings. The difference might be found in the money you could invest in an SB400 flash or towards a 55-200mm lens (retail $249).
Personally I just bought my daughter a D50 (yes, they're still out there) as it takes a wider range of Nikon lenses.
I agree with your goal. You could buy a nice 'bridge' digital cameras and get many nice features. But if you get a DSLR and you won't outgrow your evolving skills and ambitions. Nikon Nikon Nikon, hey guys theres some more manufacturers out there.
First off you cant make a decision like this online. You need to go to a place that sells what you want and hold it in your hand. Feel it take a shot. You need to access the controls without having to refer to the manual. The camera is just a tool, and you need to be able to control it with some level of confidence. So try a couple of different brands out.
Secondly you need to look at the available lenses. Prevoius posters here have touched on it, but you need to keep in mind, your usually buying a system, not just one camera. The lens is just as important as the camera. Over time (for some its two years, others its ten years) you may want to upgrade. So far most have been able to take their lenses with them. So for most if you buy Nikon now, you will have those Nikon lenses when you buy the Nikon of the future. Its alot to think about when your just beginning but it has to be said.
As for my opinion on the best for beginners. Get one that has more than one fully automatic (full auto, portrait, landscape, night time, etc...)mode and has partial manual modes (shutter priority and aperature priority, and maybe program but I dont see much difference in that and full auto) and full manual mode. My Canon Rebel XTi has these, and I am certain that the Nikons mentioned above do as well. Any good DSLR will, even the ones made by other manufacturers. And you dont necessarily need 10 megapixell.
But I must stress that you need to feel the camera in your hand and try to work the controls. If you go to a camera shop and all the salesperson wants to do is sell you one brand, what ever brand that is, go to a different camera shop, and try at least a couple different brands.
Just my opinion as I am a beginner too. And dont listen to the guys saying you should learn on film or a point and shoot first. My experience with the DSLR has taught me 10 times more than my old film slr, my newer film slr, and my point and shoot put together. My vote is the Canon Xti if you have $1000 to spend on camera, lens, bag, UV filter, etc. But if you just want to go cheap and have a SLR just for the nice IQ then the D40x its cheap and afforable but of course there are a few draw backs but not nessiarly bad for comsumers. But if your a serious amutuer, then you might want ot consider the XTi or the D80. Both are great cameras, same IQ, the XTi is however cheaper. nikon D40x
my suggestion
go to yahoo shopping
digital cameras
digital camera GUIDE
be sure to check titles on the left side
the guide should answer your questions It depends on why you want a camers.I studied Photography at college, and passed, using a zenith slr, with real film and screw fit lenses, but it didnt matter, it was manual with nothing done for you, but the idea was to learn. The only advantage of single lens reflex cameras, is the option to change lenses or add filters for effects, and the good old wysiwyg, what you see is what you get, and no parrelax error on close up work. If you just want to take pictures, go to a photography dealers (camera shop) that sells second hand as well as new, as they will know the ones that are reliable |
