question about digital DSLRs?

Question

Okay, thanks for the tips about the differences between digital DSLR sand SLRs. It seems the SLRs are better for what I want. But here's the thing, I like my LCD screen sometimes when I'm taking pictures (instead of just viewing pictures that have already been taken) and I think I've gotten use to having manuel zoom. With this said, let me say that I am by no means looking to be a professional photographer. I'm just a regular person who loves to take pictures and I want to take pictures that are worth keeping. And most importatly, I want to take still shots from action scenes. Basically my question is... are there digitals DSLRs that can take upper quality action shots?? M price range is somewhere under $1,000ish. Don't be shy if it goes over, I'm flexible. Size isn't an issue either. Thanks.

Answer 1

I looked at your other question and didn't see anyone recommend SLR (film camera) over DSLR (digital). In my opinion, digital is the only way to go for non-professional use. There is no better way to learn. As far as action shots goes, I am very pleased with my Nikon D-70s. It has a very fast focus system. The pictures I've taken so far greatly surpass what I was getting with my Fugi 602z. It is a DSLR camera. To see what your picture will look like, you have to look through the viewfinder. There is no preview on the LCD. Do DSLR cameras even do this? I don't think they do but I might be wrong.

Checkout dpreview.com and you will find great advice there.

Answer 2

None of the Nikons have the live view feature, neither do the Canons (except if you want to spend 5 times your budget). The only one that I can think of is an Olympus, though there may be more. B&H is a good website for buying what you want, but it doesnt have as good a search feature in my opinion. At any rate heres what I would suggest you look at.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/488309-REG/Olympus_262072_Evolt_E_510_Digital_Camera.html

Buying a camera online is something I would suggest doing only after you know what you want. You should go to a store and hold whatever you are considering before buying. The controls need to feel right. You should be comfortable browsing the menus. And you should feel ok looking through the viewfinder. If you get a salesman that only wants to sell you one thing, walk away. They are probably getting a kickback or bonus.

By the way I have a Canon XTi and I think its great.

Answer 3

Taking "action shots" is more a product of shutter speed. Shutter speed is dependent on light, the ISO you set and the aperture (f-stop) of the lens. Here are examples - hypothetical of course - in bright sunlight.

ISO 200, f2.8 @ 1/1000

ISO 200, f4.0 @ 1/500

ISO 200, f5.6 @ 1/250

As you can readily see, as you "stop down" the lens it admits less light - and requires a longer shutter speed for correct exposure. If you double the ISO to 400, at the same f-stops shutter speed would double.

In some instances, completely stopping the action can result in a static or dull photo. Often, having some subject blur or background blur can greatly enhance the impression of speed or action.To do this, set your camera on a tripod and use a slower shutter speed to blur cars or bicycles going by while the background is in sharp focus. Another way is called "panning" and is a little more complicated. You have to pre-focus at a place directly in front of you. Then, turn your upper body in the direction your subject is coming from. Follow the subjecty until its in your pre-focus zone, release the shutter and keep following the subject. This requires a smooth motion and lots of practice. The results can be impressive.

Answer 4

Huh? You want to exchange an analog DSLR for a digital DSLR. What do you think a DSLR is? The D stands for 'digital'.

Answer 5

You can get a Nikon D40x with a 18-55mm lens for about $800, or just the body for about $650. Since you're willing to spend a bit more than that, you can use the rest of the money to get a really nice lens. Nikon D40x is a great DSLR beginner camera and the quality of the pictures it takes is just amazing.

Answer 6

I have a Nikon D50 with a high speed memory card that takes a pretty good action shot. The don't make the D50 anymore, but teh new D40 seems to be pretty decent.