DSLR recommendations?

[Colleen27]

This forum has me inspired! I've always been so rushed at Disney that I didn't slow down enough to get pics beyond the usual snapshots of the kids having fun, but our upcoming trip is going to be twice as long as any of our past trips, and we're planning a much slower pace. Since my hubby convinced me to go mod instead of deluxe because of our need for two rooms, I think I'm gonna spend some of the savings on a new camera for the trip.

I have an Olympus C400 Zoom, 4mp, older and a little on the bulky side for everyday, a Sony CyberShot DSC-W50, 6mp and pocket-sized, that I picked up at Christmas for everyday because it is small but still has decent features, and an ooooooollllllddd (like late 70s/early 80s) hand-me-down SLR that was the camera that started my photography hobby. I rarely use my film SLR these days because of the convenience of digital. I've been eyeing the digital Rebel and other digital SLRs for well over a year, and a new trip sounds like as good an excuse as any to finally get it.

There are so many beautiful pics on this board that I figured this might be a good place to start getting advice on choosing a dSLR. What do y'all use and why?

 

[Jeanne B]

If you haven't already you might want to read through the "Pentax vs Nikon shopping cart" thread, there's a lot of good information in that one that may help you in your decision process (and there's mention of Canon). And after you read it, believe it or not, everyone on this board REALLY does get along!!

I became new to the SLR world in September when I purchased the Pentax K100D. I did a lot of research but ultimately it came down to me walking into the store and handling both the Rebel XT and the Nikon D50. The Canon was small for my hands and seemed kind of "cheap" looking and the D50 was too large. I couldn't find a K100 in stores anywhere but based on dimensions I knew it was between the size of the other two, which was exactly what I was looking for. The price couldn't be beat IMO, I really liked the idea of the IS in the body vs having to buy a very expensive Canon or Nikon lens with IS, it took AA batteries (minor point, I know), used SD cards (which I already had a bunch of) and the reviews were very positive so I took a chance buying it online sight unseen and I've been extremely happy with my choice.

I know there's a lot of debate about the fact that Pentax doesn't have a "pro" line of dSLR's but this is strictly a hobby for me, I'll never need anything more than what the K100 already offers (which is a lot considering the price) and I've seen some very professional looking pictures taken with Pentax dSLR's by photographers much more skilled than I am. What I love about Pentax is that it has enabled a lot of casual photo shooters who would typically never be able to justify buying more than a p&s the ability to buy a very nice dSLR with great features at a great price. The K100 w/ 18-55 kit lens is currently only $35 more than what the Canon S3 p&s was when first released, and if you buy the body bundled with the 50-200mm lens there's $150 rebate available. Granted, the decision shouldn't be made based only on the cost but IMO the K100 is a heck of a competitor with the D50 and XT.

Ok, Canon and Nikon owners....Next!!

 

[YEKCIM]

The good news is that there is a plethora of really good dslr cameras and lenses. The bad news is that there is a plethora of really good dslr cameras and lenses. What I mean is that there is a lot of competition, which has resulted in a good range of cameras, at competitive prices. The downside is that there are so many choices, that it's very easy to over-research your options. Believe me, I know this from experience.

All other things being equal, the best bang for the buck camera on the market at the moment would probably be the Pentax K100D, given its low cost to own and in-body image stabilization. However, all things are not always equal, and other features offered by other makes/models may change the equation. For example, Nikon's wireless TTL flash is a compelling feature for some people. For others, certain lenses offered by one manufacturer or another may sway toward one brand over another.

For me, personally, Nikon was my default choice, due to compatibility with existing equipment. Had that not been the case, I would have looked at other brands. As it is, I'm pleased with my D50's and the lens lineup I have. In particular, the 18-135mm zoom lens will, I believe, be a very useful, all-around lens. I'll let you know for sure, after our WDW trip in July.

Bottom line is that, IMO, you can hardly go wrong with any dslr on the market today. All will give you very satisfactory results. How far you intend to go in the hobby might suggest one brand/model over another, but those are decisions you alone will grapple with.

I suggest, for starters, simply reading reviews on dslr models from several manufacturers, on www.dpreview.com, www.steves-digicams.com, and other online review sites. I suggest you pay particular attention to samples made with each, and take the time to download the full res files and print and compare 8X10's from the models you are considering. Pay particular attention, too, to high-ISO performance (ISO 800 and above).

Good luck!

~YEKCIM

 

[KrazyPete]

I keep seeing Pentax and Sony owners touting the in-camera image stabilization. There are very good reasons why Nikon and Canon build that feature into the lenses. In your research you might want to read this:

Nikon Imaging : Technology : VR

I abandoned my Canon 35mm for a Nikon D80 in November. I'm absolutely loving it.

 

[ukcatfan]

I have an Olympus C400 Zoom, 4mp, older and a little on the bulky side for everyday, a Sony CyberShot DSC-W50, 6mp and pocket-sized, that I picked up at Christmas for everyday because it is small but still has decent features, and an ooooooollllllddd (like late 70s/early 80s) hand-me-down SLR that was the camera that started my photography hobby.

What brand SLR do you have? The lenses could still be compatible with DSLRs. The Pentax lenses going way back are still OK on DSLRs. You also have another vote for the K100D. If you do not need IS, the K110D is also available for less $$$. That is the only difference.

Kevin

 

[MarkBarbieri]

I'd start by reading the reviews on the Canon Rebel XTi, the Nikon D50, and whatever the equivalent Pentax is. The sites http://www.dpreview.com and http://www.steves-digicams.com/. I would also recommend going to a store to try holding each of the cameras. Everyone has a different sense for what is too big, too small, too heavy, too light, etc.

Since you already have an SLR, you probably have a step up chosing the same brand because your accessories probably still work with the digital version. That could save you money on lenses, flashes etc. You may also be more comfortable with how your brand works.

If you were shooting with a Minolta camera, be aware that they are gone. Sony purchased their assets and has released a Minolta compatible camera.

Another thing to consider, if you have any friends that are into photography, is the benefit of using the same type of equipment that they have. That allows you to share knowledge, lenses, and accessories.

If you ask people here, you'll find strong supporters for almost every brand of DSLR. The important thing is for you to find the camera and brand that you are most comfortable with. Buying into a camera brand can, for people that get serious about photography, be a long term investment. You'll steadily accumulate equipment that can only be used with your brand of camera, so you start to get locked in. If you think your photography habit will grow over time, make sure that you start with a brand that you'll be comfortable with in the long run.

Each of the three major brands has devoted groups of followers. Canon has the largest share of the market and is heavily favored by sports photographers. Nikon is a close second to Canon and is popular amongst landscape photographers. Wildlife and bird photographers seem to be split between the two brands. Pentax is well represented on these boards, although I haven't seen many in the field. That may be because they are relatively new to the DSLR arena. Sony and Olympus don't appear to have much of a following at all.

 

[boBQuincy]

Almost all the current dSLRs are good, and they all have their quirks too. One point for Canon and Nikon is it may be easier to rent/borrow lenses, if only because of the relative popularity of these two brands.

I prefer brands that have been into cameras all along, instead of brands that have been into electronics and only got into cameras when digital came along.
For the record, I used to use Minolta and now use Canon, but would probably have gone with Nikon if they had an affordable dSLR before Canon did (D30).

 

[ukcatfan]

I keep seeing Pentax and Sony owners touting the in-camera image stabilization. There are very good reason why Nikon and Canon build that feature into the lenses. In your research you might want to read this:

Nikon Imaging : Technology : VR

I abandoned my Canon 35mm for a Nikon D80 in November. I'm absolutely loving it.

I am going to have to add to this. There are a number of experts out there that say the in lens IS is better when using telephoto lenses and the in body IS is better for wide angle to the start of the tele range. I can tell you that in practice, I get around two stops out of my K100D at all ranges, but possibly a little more at wide angle. Also, there is nothing preventing the in body companies from adding in lens IS to lenses of the future. It is going to take a lot to get C&N to add in body IS. One last thing, do not forget the price difference. You typically pay at least a $300 premium per lens for IS from C&N. So with them for three IS lenses, you have spent around $1K for it where with in body you paid $100 total for anywhere from 1 to every single lens you buy. I could care less if that C&N premium gives me an extra 0.5-1 stop at telephoto. To me the $$$ is just not worth it.

Kevin

P.S. Giving us a Nikon created story about how their technology is better is like giving us a story from Bill Gates telling us how reliable Windows is.

 

[photo_chick]

I usea Rebel XT. I wanted that one because I already had a 35mm Rebel G that I was comfortable with. It is a great camera and I love it, though I am still getting used to going from film to digital. So many more options and things to worry about!

 

[Colleen27]

What brand SLR do you have? The lenses could still be compatible with DSLRs. The Pentax lenses going way back are still OK on DSLRs. You also have another vote for the K100D. If you do not need IS, the K110D is also available for less $$$. That is the only difference.

My SLR is a Minolta. I'd have to check to see the lens type, but from what I've been reading, the lenses might actually be compatible with the Sony Alpha, which is something I didn't expect. If they are, that and the fact that all of my larger media cards are also compatible with the Sony would probably be a big nudge in that direction, assuming the feel of the camera is comfortable.

Off to Ritz tomorrow, I suppose.

 

[ukcatfan]

I think I need to apologize to the OP. I never really told why I chose the K100D. First, my budget was limited. I had the K100D, K110D, D50, and XT to chose from. I did not consider the Olympus b/c I do not like the aspect ratio of 4x3. I prefer the APS-C ratio of 4x6 b/c that is my most common print size. I went in to my decision thinking I wanted the XT b/c I am a fan of Canon p&s cameras. After I held the XT, I felt like it was nothing much better than an upgraded S3, and had to start over. I also saw a 30D, and that makes the XT look like a child's toy. I then played with the D50 and *ist DL. Based on handling, it was really a tie, but the D50 had a slight edge in features, usability, etc. Then I learned about the K100D. I never got to handle one, but it is almost exactly the same as the *ist models in form factor. I went with it over the K110D b/c I wanted the IS and it was worth the $75 I paid for it. One last thing, the kit lens of Pentx is generally thought of as better than the C&N kit lenses. Keep in mind that I wanted to stay cheap and the kit lens is used a lot by me.

Kevin

 

[KrazyPete]

Also, there is nothing preventing the in body companies from adding in lens IS to lenses of the future. It is going to take a lot to get C&N to add in body IS.

Where are the Pentax VR/IS lenses? Are we arguing hypotheticals?

You typically pay at least a $300 premium per lens for IS from C&N.

If "cheap" is what you are going for then at least know that VR is coming down all the time. Nikon has a 55-200 VR for $250.

Giving us a Nikon created story about how their technology is better is like giving us a story from Bill Gates telling us how reliable Windows is. :rotfl2

I could cut and paste the company line into a post like some other people or I can link you to the source. I went the more honest route. Look, I do like my camera. I made the right choice for me. I'm not a zealot though. I don't get anything out of it when someone buys a Nikon. I was just trying to point the OP to some information that I thought might be useful to them.

 

[ukcatfan]

My SLR is a Minolta. I'd have to check to see the lens type, but from what I've been reading, the lenses might actually be compatible with the Sony Alpha, which is something I didn't expect. If they are, that and the fact that all of my larger media cards are also compatible with the Sony would probably be a big nudge in that direction, assuming the feel of the camera is comfortable.

Off to Ritz tomorrow, I suppose.

I know nothing about it b/c it was too expensive for me, but I have not heard anything bad about it. It has in body IS, which is a plus IMO.

Kevin

 

[ukcatfan]

Where are the Pentax VR/IS lenses? Are we arguing hypotheticals?



If "cheap" is what you are going for then at least know that VR is coming down all the time. Nikon has a 55-200 VR for $250.



I could cut and paste the company line into a post like some other people or I can link you to the source. I went the more honest route. Look, I do like my camera. I made the right choice for me. I'm not a zealot though. I don't get anything out of it when someone buys a Nikon. I was just trying to point the OP to some information that I thought might be useful to them.

I will not get into an argument with you b/c that is not what this board is all about. If you want that, go to DPReview. We may debate on this board, but we are never short and sarcastically rude. I will point out why I feel you are acting this way. If I say that they could add IS to the lens in the future, then that is so obviously hypothetical, that I feel that you are just trying to pick a fight and I will refrain from responding to you on this. BTW, information coming from a company selling something can never be considered non-biased. None of the regulars I know on this board quotes company websites. I offered personal experience, but that was obviously not good enough for you. I will try to remember not to reply to your messages in the future.

Kevin

 

[DVC Jen]

I purchased my first DSLR (first SLR ever as a matter of fact) in December. I chose the Canon XTi and I love it. I got a "special" from Wolf camera that included a second lens 70-300MM.

Why did I choose Canon - I'm really not sure. I guess it came down to the fact that it was a brand name that I was comfortable with. I had done some research on different cameras, but to be honest - when I bought it I had no clue what I was doing. I basically bought blind and have learned so much (with the help of some good books and the amazing people here) since then.

I really think I probably would have been just as happy with a Nikon. Didn't even really consider a pentax because at the time I hadn't heard much if anything about them.

Now 4 months later I am glad I did go with a larger brand because I do want to really grow with this new hobby. I love the fact that there are many upgrades for me to pick from when I decide to upgrade to a new body.

At the time - the Canon just sounded like the right one for me - and the price was right as well. As far as the size issue some people talk about - yes it is smaller, yes it is lighter. I personally like that. I have small hands so it fits me perfectly - and I can't imagine the neck and or shoulder pain I would have if I were carrying something larger around my neck all day. This may not be an issue for most people - but I am already very prone to headaches and after a few hours of having the XTi hanging around my neck or off my shoulder it feels GREAT to put it down.

 

[Groucho]

Hey look, a Pentax vs C/N debate and I'm not even part of it!

I'm not going to repeat what I wrote in the Pentax/Nikon shopping cart thread (all of the Disboard photo regulars breath a sigh of relief!) Suffice to say, I think Pentax easily offers the best bang for the buck (both in entry-level and mid-range models), and if you're concerned about upgrading, they have confirmed that they are working on a "pro" level camera to compete with the top-line C/N models.

That being said, it's very unlikely that you'll be unhappy with your choice, no matter what you purchase. They're all great and they are probably all better cameras than we are photographers.

As for IS, I believe that the reason that C/N are touting it being in the lens is that they have to. They're built lenses that way for a while and when Sony put IS in the body, they had to say why their system is better. I do believe that C/N will put IS in the body sooner or later themselves. "Real world" tests seem to indicate that there isn't much of a practical difference between the two, they both give about 2-3 stops improvement, and IS in the body offers the advantages of having IS with every lens and having a lighter setup (IS lenses seem a bit extra heavy). There may also be reliability improvements - IS in the lens adds quite a bit of complexity to the lens, and that always increases the chances of problems. Then there's the cost... Adding IS to a body costs about $100 if we are to take the difference in price between the K110D and K100D as reference, but adding it to a lens seems to cost at least $200, and you have to pay that every time you want to pick up a new IS lens.

The trick for C/N is how to add IS to the body without going back on all the things they've claimed about the superiority of in-lens IS. I suspect they'll add it to the entry-level DSLRs first, that way they can claim it's for "amateurs" and let the pros stick to the IS lenses, but eventually it'll make its way into the high-end bodies as well.

 

[Goofy4Disney!]

My SLR is a Minolta. I'd have to check to see the lens type, but from what I've been reading, the lenses might actually be compatible with the Sony Alpha, which is something I didn't expect. If they are, that and the fact that all of my larger media cards are also compatible with the Sony would probably be a big nudge in that direction, assuming the feel of the camera is comfortable.

Off to Ritz tomorrow, I suppose.

I have old Minolta stuff laying around, (Maxxum 9000 or something like that) that I found after my husband died. Lenses and an old (SLR I'm thinking) 35mm camera and flash and whatever other stuff it has lol...(I'm not good at this photography stuff yet, still learning).....does Minolta make a DSLR? I don't think they ever made that leap....did they? If they did....at least I'd already have the lenses. Looks like ebay here we come.

 

[Tron[ADS]]

I very recently entered the world of DSLR and purchased a Canon EOS350D. I deliberated for some time between this and a Nikon D40, and the lads at work brought theirs in which I had a try of. I prefered the feel of the Nikon to the Canon, but a couple of things swayed me towards Canon....firstly a good offer came up on it at a national camera store, and a couple of features the Nikon didnt do also helped my decision (namely the extra 2 megapixels, and the depth of field preview).
I am completely new to SLR's, and a move to Canon was new to me as well, as Ive always bought Fuji compacts (I have an F31fd), but Im really happy with it, and have since bought a 70-300 lens and UV filter for it.

 

[Master Mason]

I bought canon when I went to a dSLR, because I have always liked canons, it was the brand my father finally settled on after trying most all of them in the film world, so by using his, I was comfortable with it.

the XT was the intro level camera, and it had been 15-20 years since I had used my SLR which was a pentax K1000 my father bought for me. So based on that, I bought, I really didn't shop around much. If I had, I think I would have ended up with Nikon as Pentax only had the one dSLR, and the Nikon was a beefier camera.

I love my XT though, and when it is time I will upgrade I really love the idea of the 5d with a full frame sensor, but don't love the price, so most likely it will be the 40D or perhaps 50D..... Or who nows, by then they might have a full frame that is in my affordable range. Only time will tell.

Having said all that, they are all good, you really can't go wrong, play with them all and buy the one that you like the best and don't look back.

 

[YEKCIM]

Goofy4Disney:

If your Minolta equipment is Maxxum autofocus (the 9000 indicates that it is), then you may have an "upgrade path", namely the Sony Alpha A100, which incorporates the old Maxxum lens mount. Minolta, to make a long story short, no longer exists, but Sony acquired Minolta's camera technology, including the lens mount, so existing Maxxum lenses *should* work on the new Alpha camera, and presumably, whatever dslr cameras Sony comes up with. Be aware, though, of the 1.5X sensor "crop factor". For example, if you have a 50mm Maxxum lens, while it will work on a Sony Alpha camera, it has the equivalent field of view of a 75mm (50 X 1.5 = 75) lens. This is great on the telephoto end since, for example, a 200mm lens "becomes" a 300mm lens on an dSLR with an APS sized sensor, which is smaller than a 35mm film frame. This is bad news, however, for wide angle, since a 28mm lens has a field of view, on an APS sized sensor dSLR, of 42mm, which is no longer wide angle.

Anyway, if you have a ton of Maxxum glass, the Sony may be an option for you. I have two 7000i bodies and about a half dozen Maxxum lenses, but just chose to start over, and bought all new Nikon stuff.

Hope this helps.

~YEKCIM