Anyone know about dslr cameras?

[ajj1001]

I know a very little bit about them. In the hunt to find more hobbies that I can do to fill the pootling about time I have, I was wondering about getting one. If anyone can recommend an entry level set up (I do have a tripod but no suitable lenses). Thank you in advance!

[scduggan]

Dear Alison,
I think you and I might be twins separated at birth! We are the same age.....!! I had your same line of thinking. I have always been interested in photography but never done anything about it. I have always had simple, point and shoot cameras. This past Christmas my husband and I bought a nice DSLR camera as our gift to one another. We bought the Canon Rebel T1i. This was kind of expensive and I think it is because it also has video capability. If you do an internet search on "how to choose a DSLR" you will find some really good info. I also read a lot of reviews on different makes and models before purchasing mine. Alison, I LOVE MY NEW CAMERA!!! It kind of keeps me hanging on when I feel like I might have to lay around and recuperate the rest of my life....just kidding. I got mine at Best Buy. It was Christmas time so I watched the sale sheets each week and got a pretty good deal. Canon makes a few models under the Rebel name. The lower priced ones do not have as many bells and whistles. They are most likely JUST AS GOOD! Another thing that has been a big help is a book I bought. It is Idiot's Guide: Photography Essentials. It has taught me quite a lot because I was starting at zero. It is my hope that I can take a class or two soon.....not quite ready for long spells of sitting yet. I remember seeing good reviews on other makes as well. The pictures I have been able to take have been so good. :thumpup: Good luck with your search!!! Now you will have to go back to Scotland if you get a new camera!!!! I wish I could meet you there.
CD

[ajj1001]

Wow thats top of my of my list of wanted camera's! Did you upgrade from the kit lens? I'm trying to keep costs down but it seems a bit pointless getting a good body and rubbish god glass on it. However my purse thinks otherwise! Good to hear that its ok for entry level.

[Katie]

I wanted the Nikon D40 but by the time I saved enough for a DSLR, it was out of production and I ended up with the D60. Now that one is obsolete! But it is more than enough camera for me. Hubby bought me a 200 lens for Christmas and I use it a lot, but don't find it as good as the ones we used to have with the old regular SLRs.

I haven't gotten around to reading the book yet, so most of my shots are experimental or on auto One of these days, I'll get around to reading the instructions....

The Nikon do not have the ability to have video like the Canon do though. My daughter got one of the Rebels too, but we haven't compared the pros and cons of them yet. The new baby pictures may be the proof in the pudding

[ajj1001]

Strangely enough I was thinking that whatever I get now would still be in use 5 - 8 years time when I hope our first grandchild will be on the way (nothing like optimism when not one of the daughters has a ring on her finger!). I love doing landscapes but the ability to swap lenses would make dslr adaptable.

There are quite a few D40's around second hand, it was meant to have been a very good camera and reviews say its still a good buy used.

[Carmen]

I know a very little bit about them. In the hunt to find more hobbies that I can do to fill the pootling about time I have, I was wondering about getting one. If anyone can recommend an entry level set up (I do have a tripod but no suitable lenses). Thank you in advance!

Google has a good site to go to that explains all about the camera. It seems like they are pushing the canon. I also have a canon. Good luck, Carmen

[scduggan]

I pretty much keep my mode setting on auto also! There is a class here in Nashville for photography with DSLRs that lasts a whole weekend. They take you out in the community to experiment with the different modes. Then everyone returns to the classroom where everyone uploads their photos to their computers. The instructors walk around and help everyone with advice/suggestions. This sounds so fun. It seems like it will be a long time before I can do a whole weekend of activity.....keeping my fingers crossed it will be sooner rather than later.

Alison, I did not get to upgrade the lens. I need to start saving because I would love to get the zoom lens Katie mentioned. It is pretty steep at $300. Even with my little bit of knowledge, I can see I will need that extra zoom capability.

CD

[ajj1001]

Everywhere I have read says that the lens is as important as the camera, maybe thats why they are so expensive! I agree on doing the courses, I'm pretty limited as I can do stuff between 11am and 3 pm and a whole day doing something is too much.
It'll be reading up on it in books and on the internet. I'm going to the library next week to see if they've got a good basics book.

I'm looking at some used canon bodies as well as the new 550D and trying to get the best for my budget.

[ajj1001]

BOUGHT ONE!!!, been sensible though and bought a package of ALL the things I need secondhand (body, two lenses, bag, memory card) so I can see if I enjoy it. I not I can pass on to one of the kids, if I completely love it then I can shell out the big bucks and get the canon of my dreams.

[Night Butterfly]

Good for you! And in all truthfulness you don't need it brand new. I have never gotten a camera brand new. I have been a photographer for years and I do weddings on the side for a bit of extra cash. I prefer the Nikons to the Cannons but in all honesty they are one in the same. However once you pick one it is really hard to switch to the other. The buttons and settings are arranged differently. Just make sure you read the manual and you should be okay. Any questions let me know. I was born with a camera in my hands, and grew up in a dark room. Good luck and have fun!