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What kind of digital SLR camera should I buy?

Sunday, April 24th, 2011 at 3:31 am
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Question by baaark: What kind of digital SLR camera should I buy?
I have a Panasonic Lumix. It’s a great non-SLR (has a built in Leica lens with 12x zoom), but its missing some things. I want to shoot in raw mode, and also would like to get something with rear curtain flash, fill flash, interchangeable lenses, and stuff of that sort. In other words, I want a digital SLR, but I don’t know what kind.

So, would be a good idea to buy a brand new low end model, like an Olympus E-500 or Nikon D-40, or a last generation top of the line, like an old Nikon D1-H, or Fujifilm S1?

I am learning photography, but want to someday be very good at it (as in possibly even professionally good). I don’t want a camera that will hold me and my creativity back.

Also, I don’t think megapixels are a huge deal, as long as I can get at least 1600-1200 photos. I mostly do online stuff, and would only usually go for a 5×7 if I printed anything out. This would be for learning purposes only.

Thank you beforehand for all the great answers. 8*)
I would also like a camera that can shoot up to 1600 ISO…

Best answer:

Answer by chris k
nikon d80

Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
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5 Comments

manwithplan06 on April 24th, 2011, 3:33 am

Buy a used D-100 Nikon or, if you have the cash, buy a new D-80 Nikon. You won’t be disappointed with either of them, and you will get professional features and results.

George Y on April 24th, 2011, 3:52 am

A Nikon D40 would be a great start for you. The price difference between the D40 and the D40x or some competing cameras could buy you lenses to expand the possibilities. Then, you can use those lenses in the future, if/when you upgrade camera bodies!

A D1-H is good, but digital cameras have evolved so much in the last few years.

Here’s one trusted viewpoint for you.

http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm

nikonfotos100 on April 24th, 2011, 4:43 am

I would say go with Nikon since you have mentioned the D40 and I shoot on Nikons.

Look at the Nikon D40. This camera is only 6.1 mb but you can also get it with a 18-55mm lens for about $ 525. But if you really want to go better then look at the Nikon D40x which 10.2 mb but just for the body will run you about $ 650. The advantage of getting this one is you would not have to up-grade for many years.

You mentioned a couple of things that would indicate to me that you should consider the Nikon D40x (“you don’t want to be held back”).

Why would you only want a camera that would make just a size of 1600-1200 resolution, that means you would be limiting yourself again. You mentioned it would have to go to ISO 1600 is there a reason you require this? If you do the D40x has it. Also for you to do rear curtain flash you will have to buy the Nikon SB-26 Speed light and you have to buy it used since it is discontinued.

Take a look at these links for more info:

http://www.nikonusa.com/

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/47...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/48...

http://www.bhphotovideo.com

Have a look at these websites for some photography tips:

http://www.lexar.com/dp/index.html...

http://www.webphotoschool.com/

http://www.betterphotos.com/

http://www.photonhead.com/beginners/…...

http://www.shootsmarter.com/

I hope some of this information helps,
Kevin

antoni m on April 24th, 2011, 5:01 am

if its between the e500 and the nikon get the nikon, much better lens selection etc,

start with a new one like the D40 and later if you neede more speed or megapix then just get another body and or somemore lens……..it never stops

to start with till you know where your going invest in lens ahead of body

steven v on April 24th, 2011, 5:01 am

Canon EOS 20D, I have one and love it. I always shot Nikons and they are great cameras but once I got the 20D it changed my mind. It will be around the price range of the Nikons and shoot just as good a quality, its 8.2 MP but the menues are so much easier to navigate, its also one of the fastest focusing there is and has great battery life.

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