DSLR for a Newbie!

[MissSixty]

When I say newbie, I mean extreme newbie! I am very interested in purchasing a DSLR. What do I need to know? I was thinking no more than $700. Can I make due with the lens that the camera might come with, usually a kit? I have heard people mention having lenses that zoom, is there zoom on the basic lenses? I know, I know nothing!
Thinking about the Rebel XT. Thanks!

 

[bob100]

When I say newbie, I mean extreme newbie! I am very interested in purchasing a DSLR. What do I need to know? I was thinking no more than $700. Can I make due with the lens that the camera might come with, usually a kit? I have heard people mention having lenses that zoom, is there zoom on the basic lenses? I know, I know nothing!
Thinking about the Rebel XT. Thanks!

I think the Canon XT is a good camera but if you're a self described
"extreme know-nothing newbie" why do you think you need a $700 DSLR?
There are other cameras, other models, with different features and they cost a lot less!

 

[luvthemouse71]

Maybe she wants something she can grow into, rather than buy a P&S and then want to replace it in a year.

There are DSLRs that are more entry level and don't cost $700. ...I am interested what others have to say about this, since I will be in the market for a DSLR in the near future.

OP, I had hears about several models..Nikon d40, d60 and there are several models that are considered "bridge" models..Canon S5 is and Canon s10is...I own the S5 and am happy with it..just that I'm looking to get into photography more, and would like to try a DSLR.

 

[boBQuincy]

Canon's Xs is designed for new SLR photographers, that's why it is an entry level SLR. The Xt is much older and not worth buying, even if it is a good deal.

The Xs is under $600 with the kit lens. The kit 18-55 is a good lens but does not have much low light capability nor a long zoom range. It is still a good lens to start out with.

Not to be brand-biased, Nikon has an equivalent setup for an equivalent price.

 

[kevrab]

Also check out the Nikon D40. Nice camera that comes with a short zoom for about $500. Canon or Nikon, either one you can't go wrong with.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

All the brands (Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax and Olympus) have nice entry level cameras. The best recommendation I ever had was to go and try them all out and see what felt comfortable in my hands. Then do a little more research on that camera and see what you think. Perhaps you already did this with the XT and decided that was best.

I'll also mention that Sony's entry camera, the A200 is $499 with the kit lens. For that you'll get in-camera stabilization rather than needing lenses with stabilization and it also auto-focuses with all compatible lenses. Just be aware that the Nikon D40 and D60 won't. Generally speaking the stabilization means that you'll be able to shoot at slower shutter speeds and not get blur. Canon and Nikon do not have in camera stabilization - you need to buy lenses that have it. Olympus, Pentax and Sony have in camera stabilization in most models.

I think that all of the entry level kits have zoom lenses. Many people are very happy with just the one lens. You'll find lots of people on this board that quickly got "addonitis" and now have several lenses. A lot will depend upon what you want to shoot and under what conditions (ie - sports, landscape, portrait etc. and daylight, nighttime, in home).

 

[GrumpyOne]

Definitely hold them if you can. A camera can have the best set of features ever and you won't enjoy using it if it's too heavy or uncomfortable.

Also realize that the entry-level Nikons (40s and 60) don't have auto focus in the body and need it in the lens (AF-S or AF-I designation) or you'll have to manually focus the lens. While I think all of their modern zooms have it, there's still a high-percentage of their prime lenses that don't.

Kit lenses are mostly pretty decent. I'd say start with an entry-level package, like the Canon XSi with kit lens, and add a quality lens as you can afford it. That way, when you upgrade in a few years, you'll still have a good lens to use.

 

[KCmike]

I got an XTI from Office Depot with the kit lens (IS too!) for $399 at Christmas time. They were on clearance.