Camera question (older DSLR)

[ddstratton]

I have the opportunity to buy an older DSLR -- a Canon D30 with a Sigma 28-200mm lens. It also comes with the battery grip, two batteries and an external flash.

Problem is -- I know very little about DLSR cameras. Anyone think this would be a good entry-level camera? My current on is a glorified point and shoot -- a Canon Powershot SX10.

I'd love to hear anyone's comments of whether or not this is a fairly good camera for a beginner to DSLR's... Thanks in advance!!

 

[ukcatfan]

If it is actually a D30, then that is a dinosaur! I would say to stay away from it unless it is free. If it is 30D, then that is not so bad. It is still dated, but a decent camera still. I would check the going rates on the internet before making a decision. Considering that a brand new DSLR with a kit lens is only in the $500 range now, I would hope you are getting a really good price.

 

[photo_chick]

Any DSLR is a good camera for someone who wants to learn about photography. That said, I personally wouldn't pay more than $100 for that setup and then only if the camera has a low shutter actuation count, is in excellent condition and it's a Canon flash designed for DSLR's and not an old one for 35mm SLR's.

And you are talking the 3.25 MP D30 and not the 8.2 MP 30D, right?

 

[GrumpyGoat]

The previous posts are correct. There are two different cameras released at different times, the D30 in 2000 and the 30 in 2006. The D30 was Canon's first consumer-priced DSLR and is still capable of excellent results. As was said before, they are not worth much on the used market and you need to make sure the flash you are getting is one of the EX series units. Older flashes will work but only in a fully manual setting.

If you do buy a Canon DSLR, by all means check out the Photography-On-the.net forums. They are Canon oriented and international in scope. There are many experienced and knowledgeable people there that can answer any questions you might have.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/index.php

 

[ddstratton]

Yeah, it's definitely the older camera -- about 10 yrs old. I was kind of leaning toward not getting it, as it is so old. The flash is a 380EX flash. Not sure what that means, really Like I said, I am really very new to the whole DSLR thing... I think I just may hold on for a little while and get a new camera. Thanks for the advice!

 

[GrumpyGoat]

I suggest you head over to the forum I suggested and start reading. You might be able to get some ideas of what you might want. You certainly could register and start asking questions.