Official Which Dslr Should I Buy Thread

[.minjoo]

About your thing on having to change to viewfinder mode to change shutter spd/aperture, you can do that in live view, lol, it's indicated at the bottom of the screen.

I was aware of that. rofl But due to the slightly crappy LCD screen, it's a bit hard to accurately adjust those settings as you can on the viewfinder mode. :]

btw the D5000 is made in Thailand. If you want made in Japan, you will want to buy a D3 or a D700, but hey, it feels pretty well built (it doesn't really matter where it's built xD).

I've said thAT wrongly, pardon me. Haha, instead of saying I was pro-made-in-Japan stuff. I meant, Nikon was a Japanese company. :] It's... nationalism bs. ROFL.

[Guest calv1124]

I was aware of that. rofl But due to the slightly crappy LCD screen, it's a bit hard to accurately adjust those settings as you can on the viewfinder mode. :]

I've said thAT wrongly, pardon me. Haha, instead of saying I was pro-made-in-Japan stuff. I meant, Nikon was a Japanese company. :] It's... nationalism bs. ROFL.

lolll, *playing with D5000 now

I can see the number bright and clear in LV.

But that said, I also switch to the normal mode to set aperture, but only before video, or if I want to preview the depth of field.

I found a workaround for the lack of DOF button, which is as I said, to set the aperture then enter live view, it works, but the actual function would be better....

I prefer viewfinder 1000000x more though, so yea, I agree with you when you say that you're more comfortable with the viewfinder mode.

Most camera manufacturers are Japanese or somewhere from Europe, so I hardly have problems with camera companies, I find that I can trust most of them, win-win situation when you're buying cameras, super hard decision.. they're all great!

[Guest Mochiin]

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): less than 700

Frequency of Usage: Most likely daily

Purpose (What, where, when?): For portraits, artistic shots, close up shots, random outdoor photography

Size/Weight: im not sure

Desired Functions: Uh, video would be a plus, but not a must. Some sort of continuous shooting

Preferred Brand:

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): not entirely sure

[Guest strawberry.llamas]

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): Preferably less than $1000

Frequency of Usage: all the time...most likely going to bring it with me everywhere unless I use my canon ftb-n (slr)

Purpose (What, where, when?): Whatever that I see fit. Macro shots, landscape shots, portrait shots, etc.

Size/Weight: Something portable and not too light but not too heavy. Want to be able to hang this on my shoulder and not kill people who are standing too closely.

Desired Functions: Easy/clean menu (canon) functions like a slr. Possibly with a fish eye and good vignettes. Adjustible aperture/shutter speed. and hopefully ISO (wait...isn't htat for all dslr cameras? Lol )

Bulb setting *important*

Preferred Brand: Canon :x...i tried to play around with the nikon ones...they were way too complicated.

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): not really sure. I just want one that I can use in general. And later on (when i have enough money) buy lenses.

I'm debating if i should just buy a canon point and shoot. I have a canon ftb-n slr, although the shots are amazinggg~, it's a little inconvenient to carry around everywhere (very heavy and bulky) and developing film and getting prints are expensive.

ugh i have no idea what to do :x. I was hoping i could get a body & lens kit for cheap on black friday...

To Point and Shoot? Or to function manually? That is the question.

For point and shoot: I'm leaning towards Powershot G10 or the Powershot SX1 IS

both have aperture settings that are equivalent to 35mm...

G10 does not have super macro.

I believe both have an adjustable shutter speed up to 15 secs (closest to what I'm getting of a "bulb" feature)

which one?

[Guest Muddie Murda]

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): Kit, something within the $700 range. Maybe...just maybe, I might be okay with $1000

Frequency of Usage: 2-3 times a week.

Purpose (What, where, when?): Night pictures, close ups, actions, portraits. Half of my pictures will be outdoors (mainly at night) while half would be of products (such as jewelry).

Size/Weight: Doesn't really matter

Desired Functions: Battery life is important. Video is definitely not needed. Metal body if at all possible.

Preferred Brand: Nikon ...

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): blehh ??

I had my eyes on the Canon Rebel xsi until my brother in law surprised me with his Nikon D700. We plan to share lens, which will save us thousands of moola. So I'll now invest in Nikons.

[Guest -HyuNi-]

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): less than 700

Frequency of Usage: Most likely daily

Purpose (What, where, when?): For portraits, artistic shots, close up shots, random outdoor photography

Size/Weight: im not sure

Desired Functions: Uh, video would be a plus, but not a must. Some sort of continuous shooting

Preferred Brand:

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): not entirely sure

With a budget of 700, your choices are limited... It would either be the Nikon D40/D60 or the Canon XTi or the XSi.

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): Preferably less than $1000

Frequency of Usage: all the time...most likely going to bring it with me everywhere unless I use my canon ftb-n (slr)

Purpose (What, where, when?): Whatever that I see fit. Macro shots, landscape shots, portrait shots, etc.

Size/Weight: Something portable and not too light but not too heavy. Want to be able to hang this on my shoulder and not kill people who are standing too closely.

Desired Functions: Easy/clean menu (canon) functions like a slr. Possibly with a fish eye and good vignettes. Adjustible aperture/shutter speed. and hopefully ISO (wait...isn't htat for all dslr cameras? Lol )

Bulb setting *important*

Preferred Brand: Canon :x...i tried to play around with the nikon ones...they were way too complicated.

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): not really sure. I just want one that I can use in general. And later on (when i have enough money) buy lenses.

I'm debating if i should just buy a canon point and shoot. I have a canon ftb-n slr, although the shots are amazinggg~, it's a little inconvenient to carry around everywhere (very heavy and bulky) and developing film and getting prints are expensive.

ugh i have no idea what to do :x. I was hoping i could get a body & lens kit for cheap on black friday...

To Point and Shoot? Or to function manually? That is the question.

For point and shoot: I'm leaning towards Powershot G10 or the Powershot SX1 IS

both have aperture settings that are equivalent to 35mm...

G10 does not have super macro.

I believe both have an adjustable shutter speed up to 15 secs (closest to what I'm getting of a "bulb" feature)

which one?

Hmm... if you think your film slr is too bulky, DSLR are going to be even larger and heavier. The G & SX serires are excellent point and shoots, and they offer a lot of flexibility, but the sensor size is still very small compared to DSLR's, that you won't get that pop, you get from DSLR's with their ability to have a narrow depth of field.

All the features and settings you described are readily available for almost every dslr. If your budget is under $1000, I'd either suggest the XSi/T1i or the 40D. Go to your local store and hold them in your hands. You'll find out which feels more comfortable in your hands.

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): Kit, something within the $700 range. Maybe...just maybe, I might be okay with $1000

Frequency of Usage: 2-3 times a week.

Purpose (What, where, when?): Night pictures, close ups, actions, portraits. Half of my pictures will be outdoors (mainly at night) while half would be of products (such as jewelry).

Size/Weight: Doesn't really matter

Desired Functions: Battery life is important. Video is definitely not needed. Metal body if at all possible.

Preferred Brand: Nikon ...

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): blehh ??

I had my eyes on the Canon Rebel xsi until my brother in law surprised me with his Nikon D700. We plan to share lens, which will save us thousands of moola. So I'll now invest in Nikons.

If your brother is into photography, maybe he can help you get a camera that suits you best. Good idea using the same body as your bro does. If you guys don't mind sharing equipment, you'll save quite a bit on lenses and other peripherals.

If your bro knows what he's doing, I'd suggest that you look for used bodies, either on Nikon buy/sell forums, craigslist, KEH, or B&H photo.com. You'll save a lot of money that way for essentially having the same camera new. You just need to know what to look for (no dust in sensor, shutter count, condition of body, etc) I think I've seen used D90's go for around $750ish. For that price, I'd say it's a great deal!

[dirtylittlesecret765]

I'm thinking of buying a DSLR camera soon buh I dunno which brand shud I buy. My cousin said dat its better to buy Nikon since its gud for beginners xP Can anyone recommeend me one & state your reason of why I shud buy it xD

[Guest calv1124]

I'm thinking of buying a DSLR camera soon buh I dunno which brand shud I buy. My cousin said dat its better to buy Nikon since its gud for beginners xP Can anyone recommeend me one & state your reason of why I shud buy it xD

It really depends on taste, I agree with your cousin though, I think Nikon has a more friendly interface, however Canon offer compelling entry DSLRs as well. Go and google the Nikon D40/D60/D3000/D5000 and also Canon 1000D/450D/500D.

They are all great cameras. I think that the D3000 is the most beginner friendly, and is also great for photography enthusiasts.

[Guest Muddie Murda]

If your brother is into photography, maybe he can help you get a camera that suits you best. Good idea using the same body as your bro does. If you guys don't mind sharing equipment, you'll save quite a bit on lenses and other peripherals.

If your bro knows what he's doing, I'd suggest that you look for used bodies, either on Nikon buy/sell forums, craigslist, KEH, or B&H photo.com. You'll save a lot of money that way for essentially having the same camera new. You just need to know what to look for (no dust in sensor, shutter count, condition of body, etc) I think I've seen used D90's go for around $750ish. For that price, I'd say it's a great deal!

Thanks for the reply. He only likes the best of the best lol he would only recommend pricey stuff that's above my budget, but I'm looking into the Nikon D90 Although I said video is not something I need or even want on my DSLR, I just saw a video made from it and it looks so professional minus the shaking camera. I shouldn't even base it on that, but it totally caught my attention. Thanks so much for the recommendation.

[Guest delightful]

Thanks for the reply. He only likes the best of the best lol he would only recommend pricey stuff that's above my budget, but I'm looking into the Nikon D90 Although I said video is not something I need or even want on my DSLR, I just saw a video made from it and it looks so professional minus the shaking camera. I shouldn't even base it on that, but it totally caught my attention. Thanks so much for the recommendation.

i'd recommend the canon eos 500d aka rebel t1i, but it looks like you've already made up your mind. i actually have never owned a dslr before and just bought the rebel t1i during black friday this year. so far i've done a lot of indoor shoots and it's turned out so wonderful. last night we had a christmas photo shoot and the photos came out so nice. even though only a couple of them could be categorized as christmas photo, the rest were 'modeling' attempts which didn't look so bad. but yeah, we worked with really bad lighting and after a few shots i was able to change the exposure and other things on the camera easily. i'm very happy i bought the camera and hopefully when i use it outdoors i'll have more to be happy about. so if you decide to check out a canon, remember to check out a rebel t1i.

[Thaowii]

So I've been interested in Photography, but I have been using just a regular point and shoot digital camera, and so for my Birthday + Christmas, I'm planning to spoil myself a little and get a DSLR.

I have two in mind:

Canon EOS Rebel XS

Nikon D3000

Which one do you think is easier to use, and is recommended more for beginners ?

[Guest -HyuNi-]

I think everyone should get rid of the idea of a 'beginner' DSLR.

ALL dslrs have the ability to adjust shutter speed, aperture, ISO, exposure compensation.

Nikon is not any more easier to learn with than a Canon and Canon is no more 'professional' than Nikon...

I'd ultimately suggest ANYONE whose interested in getting a DSLR to understand how much you are willing to spend for your initial DSLR purchase, find the ones that are in the price range by checking online at Amazon.com, Adorama.com, or B&H photo and then go to a local store and actually hold each one in your hands.

Find which one feels comfortable and then go back home and research the specific models (dppreview.com is very good) and make your decision.

[Guest calv1124]

I think everyone should get rid of the idea of a 'beginner' DSLR.

ALL dslrs have the ability to adjust shutter speed, aperture, ISO, exposure compensation.

Nikon is not any more easier to learn with than a Canon and Canon is no more 'professional' than Nikon...

I half agree with you there, most would buy a DSLR is for more control over their photography. But some cameras are easier to use than other and so will make it easier for people unfamiliar with DSLRs to have control over their photography. Some cameras will 'teach' users about the effects of changing a certain setting like aperture, ISO, shutter and all entry level DSLRs now come with presets tuned for optimal shooting in certain environments. Nikon came out with a Guide feature on their D3000 that steps you through setting aperture and shutter speed for certain shots, I can tell you now, as a person that has used this camera before, it is a lot easier to learn with a D3000 than a 400D! I was absolutely clueless when I first picked up a 400D, I changed the aperture to f/22 and shot with it for the whole day because I thought it had increased the quality (I should have stuck with the presets ^^. In this respect I think it's not wrong to say that Nikon have gone for a beginner friendly approach on their entry levels that other manufactures have not yet tried to follow, whilst Canon have decided to give users the convenience of reaching ISO and autofocus modes in one button press, which will benefit people that are already familiar with DSLRs. There are people that let their cameras gather dust in cupboards because they are to difficult to figure out, for all camera manufacturers, their main goal is to get as many people to buy and continue buying their brand, a good and bad entry level DSLRs can mean the difference between an extra pro behind Canon in 20 years or him/her being behind Nikon because Canons were to hard to use when they first started off. I absolutely hate comparing Canon and Nikon because the person behind the camera is what really matters, but I think the first camera is very very very very influential on whether a person continues their interest in photography or gives up.

Phew.

[Guest litto]

Hey guys... I was thinking of buying a new digital camera cause my old one is really crap. I was looking into buying a dslr mainly for the great quality photos, but I do have a fear of buying one, then having it just sit on my desk for months without being touched =\ My main concern is the size and weight for travelling (no where far, just around town and to friend's places) and the grip (cause I have small hands) cause I definitely do not want to drop it! My friend told me Canon's are smaller than Nikon's so they should be more comfortable for small girly hands. I'm actually not 100% sure about even getting a dslr, it just seems fun to use compared to a regular point and shoot. I have no photography experience either, but I generally learn technology related stuff fast when I get a chance to play with it.

Anyways, I recently came across this "Canon EOS Rebel XSi 12.2 MP Digital SLR Camera With 18-55 IS Lens Kit" on Bestbuy. There's an online deal for $699.95 Canadian, and the reviews seem to be great. I think the original is $749.99. I also have a $50 gift card for Bestbuy that I will never ever use, so this could be the only opportunity it'll get. There's only 8 left in stock... do you think I should take my chances?

[Guest delightful]

i'd say to go for it. my friend has the rebel xsi and she loves it! if it was on sale during black friday i would of had gotten it.

[Guest NO-1]

Anyone have opinions (or own) on the Panasonic Lumix G1? I'm really interested in it and it would be my first step up from a point and shoot. I've read reviews and specs on it, I'd just like personal opinions about it.

[Guest strawberry.llamas]

Hmm... if you think your film slr is too bulky, DSLR are going to be even larger and heavier. The G & SX serires are excellent point and shoots, and they offer a lot of flexibility, but the sensor size is still very small compared to DSLR's, that you won't get that pop, you get from DSLR's with their ability to have a narrow depth of field.

All the features and settings you described are readily available for almost every dslr. If your budget is under $1000, I'd either suggest the XSi/T1i or the 40D. Go to your local store and hold them in your hands. You'll find out which feels more comfortable in your hands.

thank you so much!

There are people that let their cameras gather dust in cupboards because they are to difficult to figure out, for all camera manufacturers, their main goal is to get as many people to buy and continue buying their brand, a good and bad entry level DSLRs can mean the difference between an extra pro behind Canon in 20 years or him/her being behind Nikon because Canons were to hard to use when they first started off. I absolutely hate comparing Canon and Nikon because the person behind the camera is what really matters, but I think the first camera is very very very very influential on whether a person continues their interest in photography or gives up.

i agree :]

photos can come out very differently if someone who has years of experience or at least some knowledge on the basic functions then a straight out no0b who uses the automatic function and does not take the time to learn how to use the camera. It's unfortunate seeing somefobs have nice and expensive DSLR, when they just use the auto function or don't even know what camera they possess...such a waste :[

But to OP, personally, I like canon though...It's just easier for me to use...When i tried playing around with a Nikon (forgot which model) at best buy i was just like what the? I'm confused

it's all based on your preference

[Guest kimkibum'sgirl]

Budget (Camera body only or including kit lens): everything ~$700 - max 1000 CND (less if in US)

Frequency of Usage: So-so ~ not much time

Purpose (What, where, when?): ~ general stuff? 1) Scenery 2) People 3) Figures

Size/Weight: Not too big not too heavy ~ I'm kind of weak ;p

Desired Functions: Able to focus nicely for close objects, nice nice colour and don't blur! (i hate blurry stuff) + if possible, night time scenes ;O

Preferred Brand: Canon but Nikon is okei too

Preferred lens (Fixed Focal, Wide Angle, Macro, Telephoto, Prime, or specific mm/f-stop etc): *I'm a noobie, unable to answer =(

Thanks =]

I'm hope I'll be able to take more photos with a DSLR instead of a digital (i hate my digital)

Looking for something that is easy in beginners and that I can learn from it and hopefully, it has a bit of auto setting but also allow me to change.

[Guest brianb032]

Hey guys... I was thinking of buying a new digital camera cause my old one is really crap. I was looking into buying a dslr mainly for the great quality photos, but I do have a fear of buying one, then having it just sit on my desk for months without being touched =\ My main concern is the size and weight for travelling (no where far, just around town and to friend's places) and the grip (cause I have small hands) cause I definitely do not want to drop it!

You should look into an E-P1 (or some other m4/3 camera) then if you're concerned about size and portability. I sold all my DSLR stuff after I bought one and I'm definitely not looking back. You can buy a E-P1 with the kit lens from BHPhoto for $599.99 refurbished now ($699.99 brand-new). Not bad. If you can live with the idea of no viewfinder and the fact that you probably won't be shooting action or sports with autofocus, a m43 camera is a really good choice.

[Guest insertnameHERE.]

not really which dslr i should buy, but what lens ...

so i HAVE been thinking for a few months now on what new lens i should get (i only have the 18-55),

and i did ask around about whether i should get a 30mm or 50mm prime in the DSLR thread .

so i decided on getting a 50mm ,

but now i don't know whether i should get the canon 50 1.8 (CHEAP CHEAP!) or save up and wait a bit more to buy a sigma 50 1.4 =X

any advice ?