So, as I pursue my photography hobby more and more, I want to make the switch from point & shoot to SLR. Since all of the good digital SLRs are a little pricey, I want to be sure I buy the best choice. I don't have any experience with SLRs, so I am wondering if I should just go with a film SLR to learn the ropes, and then upgrade later vs buying a beginner digital SLR. I take photos now for personal gain, but want to transition over to professional photography gradually. What would you recommend?
2007-03-30 17:11:34 · 5 answers · asked by jit bag 4 in Consumer Electronics ➔ Cameras
Once you have a decent printer and learn how to use some image editting software, you will find you can produce prints as nice as those you do in the darkroom. Once you get over the hump of the initial investment, you will also realize that you're done spending money. No more film, chemicals or processing fees. You are able to take all the pictures you want FOR FREE and this is the right way to learn photography.
The only question, then, is which way to go with the dSLR. You can get a nice entry level D40 (for instance) for under $600, with a lens and card, instead of going right for the gold and breaking the bank. By the time you "know the ropes," you would have spent hundreds of dollars in film and processing costs, so going another $200-300 for the D40 over a "student level" film camera is not such a bad idea.
2007-03-30 17:43:57 · answer #1 · answered by Picture Taker 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Buying a film SLR to learn the basics doesnt make more than a historical sense of retracing those before you. If you feel this is necessary, rent a film camera for the day and learn all there is to know. I could teach you my Minolta 101 in 4 hours, maybe 3.
Then tomorrow, go out a get a "full on" Nikon or Canon digital camera system and the real education will begin!!! Put the saved film SLR camera expense into the DSLR to get a better unit, forget the idea of a "beginner digital SLR". FInd the best one you can for your budget. Start with one very good lenses and get going. Learn the camera, learn the lens, and add on more equipment when you know you have to.
2007-03-30 21:09:31 · answer #2 · answered by Jim 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
If its learning an SLR that you are worried about rest easy. Digital and film bodies are very similar in function. The main difference being white balance which you can always leave on auto for now. Also, getting photos printed is pretty cheap at places like Walgreens until you can get a decent printer.
Enjoy.
2007-03-31 03:50:09 · answer #3 · answered by rsimons56 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Forget the digital SLR. They needs several lens to do the same that consumers or prosumers cameras does for much less money.
Buy a Panasonic Lumix LZ50 and use your money to buy umbrellas, soft lights, flashes, etc.
But, if you want a SLR, in any way, buy a Nikon D40!
2007-03-31 22:26:44 · answer #4 · answered by alberto 6 · 1⤊ 2⤋
I want to add something to Fhotoace answer if you get a Cannon camera with a FD mount (older manual focus) you will not be able to use those lens on their Digital camera.Not the case for Nikon.
2007-03-30 19:20:32 · answer #5 · answered by Brian Ramsey 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋