In buying an SLR, what are the important factors to consider? ISO, zoom... what else?

Answer 1

Most top SLR manufacturers have more or less share the same characteristics on SLRs. Auto/Manual capability, Shutter speeds up to 4000th of a seconds, Bulb settings, ISO range from 32 to 1800, self timer. The zoom is on the lens which is an entirely separate operation from the camera. If you are talking about a point and shoot 35mm camera then the zoom capabilty of the lens is integrated with the camera.
Do not be confuse between a Digital SLR, 35mm SLR and point-and-shoot 35mm or digital cameras.
Bottom line is how practical can you be or how much can you afford on these cameras.

Answer 2

Manufacturer is the most important feature. Reiability, lens quality, tech support and the intangibles are important. Buy a CANON first or nikon second. zoom range is a lens youre going to replace anyways. All cameras have HUGE iso ranges, all have adjustable shutter etc.

Answer 3

Find a Camera Shop in your area and buy a older SLR first. One that makes you focus using a rangefinder or slip screen. This way you will HAVE to learn the true nature of photography:Field of view,film speed,aperature,focal length,shutter speed and composition to name a few. Once you do this you can then pick the perfect automated camera for your needs.

Answer 4

size & weight of unit & lenses
weathersealing
who makes the lenses
noise levels at the ISO you will be using
capacity to shoot RAW and JPG efficiently
slave flash radio control
size of sensor (Canon 5D is full size)
battery life
optional vertical hold battery pack
type of memory cards
superiority of focus system
quality of photographs per true colors
common controls easy to use
customizable button or buttons
some form of GPS option
time lapse photography ability
the feel of the camera in your hand(s)
how rapidly the unit turns on
how fast you can take photos
exposure bracketing
remote control
easy DOV preview
clear viewing screen, hoefully in the sunlight
full view through the finder (prism)
long battery life
maybe IS
maybe cleaning

check out www.dpreview.com

Answer 5

An ability to operate fully manually, a depth of field preview, self-timer, and quality lens availability. Zoom lenses are handy, but they usually are much slower than a quality, wide open fixed focus lens.

Answer 6

In addition to the items listed by everyone above:

Cost
Your level of experience
How it feels in your own hands and not someone else's

Answer 7

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