A few questions about phtography?

Question

So basicly I want to get into photography, and I have a few questions

First, I need a good camera, but one that's also below 350 USD.

Second, what is the difference between an SLR camera and a DSLR and which one do I want? I keep hearing both terms, but don't know what either of them mean.

And third, what's a good/reliable online dealer or a store where can I get said camera?

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Hi,

A good camera under $350 is probably the S3 IS by Canon which offers good image quality, a good lens and video thrown in just for fun.

If you're willing to dig in a little deeper you'll find that the best bang for your buck is in the DSLR market.

Single Lens Reflex cameras are the ones that have a mirror in front of the lens or film through which you can see exactly what your lens will record. The REFLECTed image on this mirror is what gives these cameras the "Reflex" name.

DSLR's typically have a larger sensor, accept interchangeable lenses and external flashes, which opens up a wide world in photographic experiences.

I would probably point you to Canon's Rebel XT (350D) as the best entry level DSLR available. I have learned photography with that camera and still use it.

Here's a link to my gallery, most photos there were shot with my XT:

http://www.photo.net/photos/ifeito

As far as the best and most reliable online dealer there's no question about it, go to B&H photo video (bhphotovideo.com) or amazon.

Hope this helps!

Ignacio

Answer 2

SLR is a type of camera where you view the image through the same lens that takes the picture, instead of a separate viewfinder. Thus the image you view is what you will capture on the film (or sensor) A dSLR is the same thing, but digital instead of film.
I doubt you will find a dSLR for $350. However, you can get set up with a killer film camera body for that amount. I am a Nikon gal, so I would look for a used F100, or maybe a N8008 or N90s body with the 50mm 1.8 lens to start with.

Reliable dealers, www.bhphoto.com, www.adorama, and calumet for new (they also carry some used) and for used equipment, www.keh.com.

Good luck!

Answer 3

SLR is film. Cost about $200

DSLR is digital. Cost about $600+

YOu can get a nice camera for $350 to 400 like a Sony H3 or Canon S3 or Kodak 712 or Kodak 612.

Cheapest DSLR is the Nikon D40 at $600 for the kit.

Nikon and Canon both make 35mm SLRs for $200

The DSLR has interchangable lesnes. 36 bit color (instead of 24 bit), the ability to save in RAW (although I think the Sony or Canon can do that in the $400 version) instead of compressed JPEG. You are also looking through the lense directly not through a TV image viewer.