DSLR Camera?
Posted by Admin in Digital Photography Question and Answer on 03 9th, 2010 | 4 responses
*Stephers* asked:
I was just wondering if anyone could tell me what brand/model of DSLR cameras are the easiest to use, in your opinion? Right now I just have a point and shoot (kodak), and I want to upgrade to a DSLR, but don’t want to deal with a complicated camera (a ton of buttons and hard to follow menus). I have searched brands and models before but I just can’t tell by what the websites say.
I was just wondering if anyone could tell me what brand/model of DSLR cameras are the easiest to use, in your opinion? Right now I just have a point and shoot (kodak), and I want to upgrade to a DSLR, but don’t want to deal with a complicated camera (a ton of buttons and hard to follow menus). I have searched brands and models before but I just can’t tell by what the websites say.
Any suggestions?
dslr camera
dslr camera
Personally, Canons are easier to use. Even without reading the manual, I’m pretty sure you can figure it out on your own. Models available are the entry-level 350D, 400D and 450D. Mid-level enthusiast models are the 30D and 40D.
Lenses are easier to find and a lot cheaper as well.
dslr camera
If you have been using a 35mm SLR for a few years, the time to learn the special differences in a digital camera may only take you a few more months. You have to remember to keep your eye on the lighting so you can change the ISO and white balance as necessary.
Right now there are a few Nikon D40’s with 18-55mm lens (under $470) and Canon 400D’s with 18-55mm lens (under $550) to start your shooting career.
Pick out a couple and then actually go into a store and hold both of them in your hands and see which one feels the best to you and your shooting style
Guide to Digital SLR Photography
The latest issue of Consumer Reports just hit the newsstand. It reviews digital SLR’s. You might pick up a copy before spending $500 – 1000.
dslr camera
IMO, you should take a few photography classes before even considering a DSLR. You need to learn about f-stops and shutter speeds and ISO and light and composition.
Any DSLR is more complicated than a point & shoot so the learning curve is much steeper. To get the full benefit of your DSLR you need to know every setting and feature and when, why and how to use them. This requires that you really READ & STUDY the Owner’s Manual for the camera. Failure to do so will prove as frustrating as trying to thread a needle blindfolded while wearing gloves.
If classes simply aren’t possible, buy your new camera from a professional camera shop (one that just sells cameras, not 10,001 other things and cameras). Most professional camera stores offer an hour or two of actual hands-on instruction to get you started. Plus you’ll have a friendly face to answer questions, help solve problems and offer advice.
IMO you should not limit yourself to just one or two brands when making your selection. Contrary to popular opinion, Sony, Pentax, Fuji, Olympus and Sigma all offer excellent DSLR cameras. Sony and Pentax have their versions of Image Stabilization (IS) in the camera body so every lens used will have that benefit instead of just a select few. Plus, you don’t have to pay for IS with every lens.
Good luck and welcome to the fascinating, frustrating world of advanced photography.