What's the best camera for a photographer just starting?

Question

I hear that the best kind of camera is an SLR but I am on a a serious budget (like $250 is my limit) and I hear that they are very exspensive. I want to have the best but right now my money is tight. Are they any good camera's out there for my budget?

Answer 1

All of the major brands are good. Choose a brand that appeals to you. Then you have to think about getting a spare battery, what size memory card, if you want an extended warranty, how much you can afford, what size zoom, if you want manual controls, the size of the camera, finding a reliable place to purchase it, and the list goes on and on and on.......

The first thing to realize is that almost any digital camera will take good pictures. If more people would read the manual more than once, they would be able to take better pictures. Usually, the person assumes it is the camera when it could be them not knowing exactly what to do. Just give yourself more photographic knowledge by doing more reading on the internet.

I really believe buying a camera is an individual choice.
The person needs to read alot of reviews on cameras so they can decide on the features that they really want and need.
Go to the store and hold them so you can see if they feel comfortable in your hands. If possible, take some pictures in the store to check the quality of the pictures.
I can only give a suggestion of what to look for in a new digital camera.
Good Luck

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

Answer 2

The reason an SLR is a good choice, is that you can add lenses, flash accessories and expand your system as you grow in experience as a photographer. The older Digital Rebel or Nikon equivalent could be found used for not much more than your budget, even with a lens. If you do go with a point and shoot, you can still take great images, since it is not the camera that creates an image, but the photographer.

Answer 3

IMO, you should first take a photography class at your local high school or community college. A good class will require you to use a 35mm film camera with all manual controls. You will learn about light, f-stops, composition, shutter speeds and ISO. You will learn to process your film and make prints.

While you're taking the classes you can continue to save for a digital camera. With the knowledge gained from your classes you'll have a better idea as to exactly what you want and need from your new camera.

Or you can just go to Best Buy or Circuit City or Wal-Mart, pick out a camera in your price range and buy it.

If you choose the second idea, please, please take time to read and study the Owner's Manual. That is the only way to get the most benefit from your camera.