Best Digital Camera?

Question

I'm getting into photography.I was wondering what digital camera would be best.I don't like the sleek little cameras I like ones that look more old school and have changleable lenses.

Answer 1

depends on your budget range. I'd recommend the sony cybershot dsc-w series. they have 6.1 MP and up, video capabilities, and that feeling of quality only sony can give. they range from 150 on up, but make sure that whichever you pick it has a rechargeable battery - the sony exclusive one lasts like 400 shots, its very good. and also, look at cascio and canons.. they use pic cards as opposed to sony only accepting sticks which are by far the most expensive. the cards u can get a 1 gig one for like 25 which is a good deal, as opposed to sticks u can get a 1 gig for like 35. look at target.com, they have a good selection and prices, also try sony.com.

Answer 2

Well, Digital SLRs are definitely the way to go, not just for the ability to change lenses, but to eliminate the 1-3 second delay between the time you press the shutter and the picture is taken- that happens with ALL non-SLR models, even the expensive compact cameras costing $1000 (more than entry-level DSLRs).

As to which model is best, that really depends upon your price range and intended usage. For example, the Nikon D200 is probably the best all-around digital SLR available, but it costs $2000. If money is no object, there you are.

If you're looking for something in the $600-700 price range, the best deal is probably the Nikon D50 (lowest priced DSLR) or Canon Digital Rebel XT (8MP instead of 6). These cameras have comparable image quality to models costing hundreds more, but simply lack a few features that pros use more frequently. Other times the difference between models isn't really in the features, but the difference in durability/construction between consumer & pro designs.

Checking out dpreview.com, you can find and compare almost every camera on the market.

Answer 3

Here are a couple of links to reviews. See what matches your budget.

http://www.dcresource.com/buyersguide/
http://www.steves-digicams.com/best_cameras.html

Get a Nikon D50 and a good lens and use it in "Auto" or "P" mode while you learn more about photography. It has a few "consumer friendly" automatic modes, but still offers total photographic control when you are ready to take charge. Get a "decent" lens, such as their Nikkor AF-S 18-70 f/3.5-4.5G ED DX lens and not the "kit" lens. This pair will cost you less than $1,000 and you will be very happy with it. If you want more lenses for the same money, you can get this camera with two "kit" lenses that are decent, but not as good for the long haul as the one I mentioned. When you are ready to add lenses, the sky is the limit with Nikon. Get a 1 GB memory card, such as the Sandisk "Ultra" for decent write speed. You can get these in the $30 range. An "Extreme" is faster, but I doubt anyone would notice the difference except a pro.

Someone else wil undoubtedly recommend a similar Canon camera and I will not dispute that choice. I know Nikons and someone else knows Canons. Both are excellent cameras and you will never outgrow their system offerings.

Answer 4

There is no "best" camera. Get one that feels comfortable for you. Go to camera stores and ask lots of questions. If your budget is modest, their are plenty of really great point-and-shoot cameras that can take excellent photos. You don't need a big camera with expensive lenses to take good pictures. A good photo-editing program can make your photos look awesome.

Be warned that the expensive digital cameras are for those that already have a good working knowledge of that kind of equipment. Start off with a camera that is not quite as complicated. If you like the results, THEN move up to something more expensive.

Answer 5

If you're just getting into photography, I suggest you borrow a camera from a friend and/or go look at several recent issues of Popular Photography magazine at the library. They do objective camera evaluations, like Consumer Reports for photographers. I like and highly recommend my Nikon D200, but it may be too pricey for a starter camera. We don't know what your budget is like, either. Canon also makes some excellent digitals, and Fuji makes one that takes Nikon lenses. The Nikon D50 or D70 don't cost as much as the D200, but they also have smaller file sizes, thought that may not matter to you at this point. Once you've done your homework, do try shopping on eBay for a used camera. Just be sure it's a reliable seller. Good luck!

Answer 6

You've received some great answers. The one thing I remind my clients who are looking for a camera is "What happens when it breaks during warranty and what happens when it's out of warranty?" Where to you have to ship it? Can you take it locally somewhere for repair? What is the manufacturers labor rate to fix and their rate for an estimate. If you have a Sony authorized camera repair center in your town and you choose a Canon how far away is that service center? Many manufacturers require you ship it back to their service center (not an authorized independent service center) and it could be Florida or New jersey or California. Keep in mind about repairs and is it "up-grade-able" to newer technology.

I personally have a Canon Rebel with all the bells and whistles and interchangeable lenses. It takes great pictures.

There are web sites that offer comparisons of different brands (same product) and recommendations from people who actually bought the product and their comments about it.
I hope this helps you make a wise choice when buying. :)

Answer 7

I have a Olympus E 500 myself. You can buy a E 300 for about $300 more but if you're just starting out, I wouldn't. The 300 has two features on it that most people can surely do without. Be looking to spend $600 to $700 on one though. I bought mine with an extra lens kit, it was a really good deal through Sams Club. Has interchangeable lenses and the whole works.

Answer 8

You have some good answers. If you are serious and want to pursue this as a career,go the best you can afford. I'd be real careful with E-bay. I bought a Canon Digital EOS and got ripped off. Ask a lot of questions if it's used.

If it's just something you want to try out and not sure, go a smaller less expensive camera as suggested by one of your answers.

Research, ask a lot of questions from experienced photographers or students.

Good luck.

Answer 9

Nikon just came out with Nikon N80 that is worth looking into. It is a great camera and reasonably priced.
You said you didn't want a slim point and shoot, but at least look at this one:Canon has a full array of cameras, camcorders and printers on display. But the one that blew me away was a new slim, shirt-pocket model called the SD800 IS. (The IS stands for image-stabilized, meaning fewer blurry shots.) Good luck.

Answer 10

As you know Cameras are:
1- Compact Camera : these cameras are usually small and you can use it as a family camera

2- SLR like Camera : These cameras are one level higher than compacts and most of them have non-changable lens

3- SLR Camera: These cameras are known as professional cameras. The lens is changable and you will have more options.

I Suggest you to buy EOS 400 D Canon