Good DSLR cameras to use in school and recreationally?

I own the Rebel XS too and recommend it too. Also you can buy the cheap EF 50mm f/1.8 Mark II, it allows you taking portraitures with amazing blurred backgrounds.

There are a number of good brands so don’t be sold on the idea one brand is better than another. I would keep your costs down. I would get a DSLR with a short zoom (like a 18-55mm) to start. No reason to spend more than $ 425 to $ 550. Either a 10MP or 12MP will do just fine.

Below, I listed some links, the first link listed below is to a web page that lists the 3 DSLR cameras I am recommending. This list will let you compare features and specs, also it has links to reviews of the cameras, the reviews include sample images from the cameras. Also I included some links to some dealers so that you can try and get the best price. Some dealers have some nice extras, free shipping is very common, and sometimes they are offering a free memory card and/or camera bag. Sometimes you have to click in the “add to cart” button to see the actual price.

Here are some models that I think are well worth researching including estimated price range:

Nikon D3000 10MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens – $ 460 to $ 480
EOS Rebel XS (1000D) 10MP DSLR Digital Camera Kit w/18-55mm IS Lens – $ 499 to $ 525
Pentax K-x 12MP DSLR with 18-55mm Zoom (has HD Video also) – $ 485 to $ 525

Pick a price range, some features you know you want, and even consider which camera feels good in your hand as a factor. Plenty of great cameras, get one you like and start learning the principles of photography and you will be on your way to making some great images.

Most people go with Nikon or Canon but, I think the Pentax could be of special interest, since it can do HD video and has excellent quality at higher ISO settings which can be useful in low light places and helping get the picture. These features, especially the HD video, on a Nikon or Canon will cost you $ 100 to $ 200 more.

If you have any questions and if you think I can be of help then please do contact me.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

Mark

marksablow.com
There are a number of good brands so don’t be sold on the idea one brand is better than another. I would keep your costs down. I would get a DSLR with a short zoom (like a 18-55mm) to start. No reason to spend more than $ 425 to $ 550. Either a 10MP or 12MP will do just fine.

Below, I listed some links, the first link listed below is to a web page that lists the 3 DSLR cameras I am recommending. This list will let you compare features and specs, also it has links to reviews of the cameras, the reviews include sample images from the cameras. Also I included some links to some dealers so that you can try and get the best price. Some dealers have some nice extras, free shipping is very common, and sometimes they are offering a free memory card and/or camera bag. Sometimes you have to click in the “add to cart” button to see the actual price.

Here are some models that I think are well worth researching including estimated price range:

Nikon D3000 10MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens – $ 460 to $ 480
EOS Rebel XS (1000D) 10MP DSLR Digital Camera Kit w/18-55mm IS Lens – $ 499 to $ 525
Pentax K-x 12MP DSLR with 18-55mm Zoom (has HD Video also) – $ 485 to $ 525

Pick a price range, some features you know you want, and even consider which camera feels good in your hand as a factor. Plenty of great cameras, get one you like and start learning the principles of photography and you will be on your way to making some great images.

Most people go with Nikon or Canon but, I think the Pentax could be of special interest, since it can do HD video and has excellent quality at higher ISO settings which can be useful in low light places and helping get the picture. These features, especially the HD video, on a Nikon or Canon will cost you $ 100 to $ 200 more.

If you have any questions and if you think I can be of help then please do contact me.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

Mark

marksablow.com

The Nikon d3000 is one of the cheapest entry-level D-SLRs, and produces great images. Although it’s a great D-SLR, it aims for beginners and if you’re going to be using it a lot, you’ll probably grow out of its capabilities very easily.

So, if you’re not interested in the d3000, I highly recommend you check out the Pentax K-X D-SLR. It produces excellent photo quality for it’s class and has very good features, compared to models like the Canon 1000d. It’s also one of the only entry-level D-SLRs with HD Movie. I have it, and I absolutely love it.

If you want a wider choice of great entry-level D-SLRs, be sure to check out CNET’s Best Entry-Level D-SLRs: http://reviews.cnet.com/best-prosumer-dslr-cameras/