75 replies to this topic

[Melonious Thunk]

A full sized, 8-10 megapixel camera with good lenses. So far I like the Canon EOS models. The new Sony SLR with built in image stabilization is attractive. The Canon Digital Rebel seems a good value, marked down from $1500 to $700.

Thoughts?

[Lippy]

I can't help with a dslr, but you may want to look at the reviews and user's comments, as well as the forums on d dpreview.

[omnivorette]

Why do you want a dslr?

[porkwah]

the canon and nikon models in that range are both very good. the biggest differentiator is ergonomics, imho, and that depends on what fits in your hand personally. (i.e. you should go to the store and see what feels right.)

[Melonious Thunk]

Why do you want a dslr?

For the same reason I used an SLR for 35 MM film. Picture quality. I have a very good tiny camera that serves its purpose, but I want to get more "serious" about taking pictures. The DSLR has interchangable lenses, image stability conrol, higher pixel counts, more user controls.

Actually, I need a new toy and that is at the top of my list.

[omnivorette]

How much to you want to spend?

Does that $700 sale price include a lens, or is it body only?

Okay, stupid me. The EOS Rebel body (K2 model) is $149 at Abe's of Maine. T2 model is $184.


Canon Rebel T2 Camera w/ Canon 28-105 4-5.6 Lens Kit = $300

Canon EOS Elan 7NE Camera w/ 28-105 4-5.6 Lens Kit = $455

EOS Elan 7NE Camera w/ Sigma 28-70 2.8-4.0 & 70-300 Bonus Lens Kit = $580

Etc. etc.

[Lippy]

Those are film cameras, Omni. MT wants a digital SLR.

[omnivorette]

Those are film cameras, Omni. MT wants a digital SLR.

Oy vey what a dingbat. I forgot to click on digital.

But the Abe's of Maine site is a good resource, nonetheless.

[Lippy]

Why do you want a dslr?

Actually, I need a new toy and that is at the top of my list.

A perfectly valid reason, but not one that will necessarily make you a better photographer.

I am amazed at the high quality of the photographs on dpreview taken by amateurs with all kinds of digital cameras. I think the advent of digital photography has raised the bar. It used to be said, only partly tongue in cheek, that the major difference between amateur and professional photographers was that professionals take more pictures. Now, amateurs have the means to waste just as many shots while trying to get the perfect one and it shows.

The one thing that I think is really superior on a dslr compared with a point and shoot (even one like the A6x0 with aperture and other controls) is the ease with which one can control depth of field. If you want a subject in focus and a blurry background, it's not the easiest thing to achieve without a dslr unless you are shooting in macro mode.

n.b. While the opinions of other people can suggest models to look it, there is no substitute for handling the camera yourself. No matter how good the pictures are, if the controls are awkward for you or the grip is uncomfortable, the camera will just sit in the drawer. My suggestion is to look at the specs on dpreview, pick three cameras that sound promising and go to B & H or J & R and handle them before buying anything.

[Melonious Thunk]

Why do you want a dslr?

Actually, I need a new toy and that is at the top of my list.

A perfectly valid reason, but not one that will necessarily make you a better photographer.

I am amazed at the high quality of the photographs on dpreview taken by amateurs with all kinds of digital cameras. I think the advent of digital photography has raised the bar. It used to be said, only partly tongue in cheek, that the major difference between amateur and professional photographers was that professionals take more pictures. Now, amateurs have the means to waste just as many shots while trying to get the perfect one and it shows.

The one thing that I think is really superior on a dslr compared with a point and shoot (even one like the A6x0 with aperture and other controls) is the ease with which one can control depth of field. If you want a subject in focus and a blurry background, it's not the easiest thing to achieve without a dslr unless you are shooting in macro mode.

n.b. While the opinions of other people can suggest models to look it, there is no substitute for handling the camera yourself. No matter how good the pictures are, if the controls are awkward for you or the grip is uncomfortable, the camera will just sit in the drawer. My suggestion is to look at the specs on dpreview, pick three cameras that sound promising and go to B & H or J & R and handle them before buying anything.

Good advice which I will take. Thanks. I am narrowing the search down to the Nikon D50 or 70 and the Canon EOS Digital Rebel, both with Image Stability Control in the lenses.

[g.johnson]

Does anyone know if the Canon digital SLRs take the same lenses as the film versions?

[Melonious Thunk]

Does anyone know if the Canon digital SLRs take the same lenses as the film versions?

I am assuming they do, but plan to ask .

[Stone]

Does anyone know if the Canon digital SLRs take the same lenses as the film versions?

They do.

[porkwah]

Does anyone know if the Canon digital SLRs take the same lenses as the film versions?

They do.

yes, but you can't use every film lens in existence with your new digital camera. some oldish lenses may not work. at least it's that way with nikons. check the manual.

[rockdoggydog]

All EF series lenses work on Canon digitals. The same cannot be said of all current generation Nikkor lenses. Canon also makes some digital specific lenses that will not work in film cameras. That said, I have a Rebel XT and I am very happy with it. Excellent burst mode, pretty intelligent processor, and it's very friendly for beginners to DSLR as well as offering most options that you would want for full on manual shooting. One of my few quibbles is anything above ISO 1600 gets pretty grainy when shooting full manual. Great battery life too.

Rocky