Best camera for an entry level photographer?

Question

I am taking a photography class next year and I like to take pictures, but what camera to buy!?...not too much money but certainly not a cheap one!

Answer 1

Ask your teacher to find out if you need a digital or film camera. And what kind he or she recommends.

Answer 2

The Canon Rebel XT or the Nikon D40 are both excellent entry level digital DSLRs. For a hundred bucks more you can step up to a Rebel XTi or D40x. These cameras will run you anywhere from $550.00 to $700.00 (retail) with a kit lens My advice is to check both cameras out at Best Buy or Circuitcity and see which one "feels" the best to you. Then, go to Adorama.com on the internet and buy your camera and whatever else you need for less. They even offer refurbished equipment if you would like to go that route. They are very reputable. DO NOT get caught up in the "Nikon vs Canon" debate. There is no winner. Both companies produce great equipment. If at all possible, spend any extra money on a decent lens to go with your camera. The kit lens will produce okay pictures, but a better lens will produce great pictures with practice.

You can go to http://photographyreview.webphotoschool.com/ and read all about these cameras and more.

Good luck

Answer 3

Any Nikon outfit or Nikon body and the Nikkor lens of your choice. I recommend Nikon because their cameras use the "F" mount lens system, which means you can build a lens system up and always get a different Nikon camera body and still use the Nikkor lenses on the camera. Nikon only ever came out with a few "specialty" cameras that had their lens system. Other Nikon accessories can also be used between Nikon camera systems, like their Speedlights ( flash units ). I recommend checking with a "local" Nikon Camera dealer for instructions and assistance after the sale! You'll spend just a bit more than if you buy online or a "big box" store, but sometimes the tips and help with a problem is "priceless!" Don't be afraid of any Nikon "used" equipment from a dealer to get started. With a $600 budget, you can possibly get a better starting outfit for the money than if you buy new. Good luck!

Answer 4

Alot of time schools have deals with one brand or another. So first check what type of camera your school would reccomend and see if you can order through them. My school is Nikon but I know plenty who are canon, just ask your teacher. If they say its up to you then I would reccomend taking a look at Nikon. If your class is Film (which intro's usually are) then look at a Nikon N55. This is what I had and its a great camera. Simple to use yet powerful. If its Digital your going to want an DSLR. Take a look at either the Nikon D40 or D40x. They are essentially the same camera the D40x just has a few more megapixels. Below are some links that may be helpful. Good Luck, it's gunna be fun!

http://www.stunningnikon.com/picturetown/

http://www.cameralabs.com/reviews/NikonD40/

http://www.nikonusa.com/template.php?cat=1&grp=6&productNr=1718

Answer 5

I'd go with either a Canon or Nikon... you can get a decent entry level DSLR for under 700 dollars.... if your class requires a film camera.. you can pick up a used film body for a song on ebay which will take the Canon or Nikon lenses... you'll be able to add lenses as you grow, as a photographer.

Go to www.dpreview.com and check out the entry level dslrs, side by side. to see which features they have.. then go to a camera store (not best buy or walmart) and try the different cameras, in the store... talk to the salesperson, and see which one fits you best..

good luck with your class :)

Answer 6

Depends on what kind of camera you need...film or digital? I'm assuming digital so I would definitely recommend the Canon PowerShot G9. It's got alot of megapixles, is great for beginners and aspiring armature's, allows lots of creative control, and is more than reasonably priced for how much camera you get. I've been a photographer for 6 years now and my first digital camera was a G4 and I loved it. Go to http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/canon_g9.asp for an in depth review. If you want something different I'd recommend browsing the site, they have a review for practically every model made.

Answer 7

HAS to be digital
Has to be the best that you can afford.
The mistake that I made early in my enthusiasm was to buy a cheap and cheerful. I soon realised that I needed to buy a better one but THEN try selling a cheap and cheerful ...
It really depends upon where you intend to go with photography. If you are serious about a long-term interest or even a career, the equipment must be of a certain minimum. If budget is your only concern right now, you know that budget ceiling ... go to that.

Answer 8

You have the general idea. I expect you are going film and not digital? Check EBay and other second hand web shops. Many photographers switch to digital and you can buy a nice body for peanuts.

Answer 9

my learning camera was a kodak p880..it has some awesome features but of course its limited because it is not an slr ...i assume we are talking digital....slr wise the nikon d40 or d40 x is a GREAT bargain for the price...remember great portraits can be taken with a cheapo camera and awful portraits can be taken with a great camera..the main thing is have fun...read the reviews with a grain of salt...and never ..never ask an experts opinion of your portraits... the real expert is your client or portrait subject and your own eye good luck