What's a good digital SLR, for a beginning photographer?

Answer 1

I would also suggest a film camera first before you went digital. You'll learn a lot with a film camera instead of getting spoiled with the benefit of a digital camera (I know I do lol)

A Nikon FM10 or a Rebel film camera would be perfect for the job.

However if you insist on a DSLR... a Nikon D40 should be good enough for you to learn things out - or if you want a Canon... a Canon Rebel XT/350D.

Photography class would be highly recommended.

Answer 2

The Canon Rebel XTi is a great choice for a beginning photographer. By going digital you have the added advantage of being able to shoot a multitude of images at no extra cost. This allows you to experiment much more creatively. With film, each roll will cost and a person on a budget might not shoot as much.

The Canon Rebel XTi is a small, portable camera that has the option of using Canon's professional L-series lenses as well. In the current market for photography, your investment now is in your lenses. Camera bodies will need to be upgraded every few years. Also, Canon has one of the best and definitely the most extensive selection of professional lenses for 35mm. I would look around and see if you can find a used one as beginners are often selling them to upgrade to 5ds. Good luck!

Answer 3

I agree with those above who recommend starting with a film camera. For the same money you'd pay for an entry-level digital SLR, you could buy a legendary film SLR in good condition on the used market, a good *glass* lens (not plastic), 20 rolls of film and a community college class that will teach you the same basics. You might even have enough money left over for a nice frame for the first image you're really proud of.

Answer 4

I agree with fhotoace as Nikon & Canon have a great systems that you can grow into, as well as the largest support among independent lens makers.

Both the Nikon D40 and the Canon Rebel XTi have easy to use automatic settings, but are also flexible for the more advanced users.

I'm a Nikon user and fan, but you need to handle each camera and make your own decision. Check the size, controls, and ease of use. It's an individual decsion.

I hope this is helpful for you.

Answer 5

Nikon D40 of D40x. Nikon has more room to grow with the system these days, I'm sure there canon shooters who recomended that you start with canon didn't get the news about the Nikon D3. As to the Canon 1Ds Mk III, 21mp on a 35mm is a joke. No lens can resolve 18mp much less 21. The 1Ds Mk III is for rich amatures, pros that really need high res will shoot medium and large format film and medium format with a 45mp phase 3 digital back.

Answer 6

Canon Rebel Xti
Nikon D40x

Both are about $700 USD from amazon.com with kit lens.

If I were just starting out, I would go with the Canon.

I would not buy a film camera. For the extra money, get a better lens than the kit lens, then you can upgrade to a better body as you need it and your lens will be good too.

Answer 7

I use an Olympus evolt - 500 and I find it very easy to use. It's got "user-friendly" modes, easy to set, a large range of stops...and I could go on and on...I bought it last year for $699 at circuit city, and it came with two lenses..