A good camera?

Question

I'm just starting out in photography, but I love it. I'm thinking about getting a new camera, and I need help getting started on selecting one. I'm looking for one that's not TOO expensive, but I would like a good one, and one that's pretty universal, as I have not been drawn to a certain kind of photography yet. Please give some different choices, and brand names and explain why you think they're the best. Thank you.

Answer 1

Canon or Nikon usually lead the way with SLR cameras, which will give you greater flexibility than a fixed lens camera. I'm not sure how much you know, but with SLR's you can swap different lenses for different jobs and you have far more control with this type of camera. The downside is they are more expensive and the lenses can be expensive too.

If you don't want to spend that much, there are some good 'bridge camera's' which have a fixed lens, but still offer a lot of control over the picture taking process. Again, Canon do some good ones, the powershot range are very good and there are various models in the range at various prices. I'd suggest going for the best you can afford, you generally 'get what you pay for' with cameras. Go for one with image stabilisation and a good zoom lens, if you don't get an SLR.

It's worth reading 'what digital camera' (assuming you're going with digital, not film) they do loads of reviews and tests. Also try dpreviews.com, loads of reviews there too.

Good luck with it!

Answer 2

It all depends on what you are trying to accomplish with the camera. I used to be heavy into photography (in the old print film/manual SLR days) and I found that many simple cameras served most people well. But if you want to experiment with different types of photography, you might want to look at a camera that has lens flexibility (like a SLR) and both auto and manual settings.

I was always a Pentax user but I also have high regard for Nikon and Canon (my current digital camera is a Canon Powershot). I also have friends that are Olympus users and swear by them.

I would steer you toward an SLR if it's in your budget.

Answer 3

You want to buy an "essential/basic" DSLR system which
has an all-around affordable accessory lenses, then
consider the award winning Pentax KD series beginning
with the Pentax K100D 6.1 mp DSLR with "image
stabilization" built into the camera body. "Image
stabilization" is essential for allowing you to take
telephoto pictures at weddings, parties, while on the
go and you don't have to drag along a tripod to steady
your camera. Unfortunately, Canon and Nikon have
chosen to install their "vibration reduction" devices
into very expensive auxiliary lenses. But getting back
to the Pentax K100D which comes in a starter kit
consisting of two Pentax lenses: a 18-55 mm. normal
lens and a 50-200 mm. telephoto which sells for $650
at samys.com. Again, the Pentax K100D starter kit runs
circles around the D40 Nikon!

Good luck!

Answer 4

If you're looking for a rather inexpensive digital camera that's good for just about anything, try the Kodak EastShare V803. It's got video, tons of different modes, 8 megapixels, and other cool stuff. Plus, it takes great pictures. I love this camera, I'd never choose another one.

Answer 5

You should get the PENTAX Optio W30. It has TONS of features, VERY good picture quality, its sleek & stylish. And to add to all that, its waterproof! You can see the camera here: http://www.pentaximaging.com/products/product_details/digital_camera--Optio_W30/reqID--9587364/subsection--optio
I have had the PENTAX Optio W10 (a slighty older version) for a few years now and I absoloutly LOVE it!

Answer 6

i've been using Pentax 35mm SLR for years, and have just switched to their K100 digital version. Mine came from Jessops for £300. Hpe this helps.

Answer 7

try the canon powershot series I own the A530 and its an awesome camera for the kind you described.

http://shopping.yahoo.com/s:Digital%20Cameras:4168-Brand=Canon:4600-Product%20Line=PowerShot;_ylc=X3oDMTEwMzRwMnAxBF9TAzk2NjMyOTA3BHNlYwNmZWVkBHNsawNzc2VhcmNo