Entry level DSLR camera recommendation.

[eliza61]

Very much looking forward to 2011 as I have a number of trips planned. So I finally decided to upgrade to a nice DSLR camera.

Anyone have some recommendations: Here's a little more information about me.

I'm not a total novice around cameras, I took a community college class last summer and I'll whip out a camera on a normal day. Generally though I keep it on the auto setting and don't use the full range of capabilities on my camera.

Right now I have a 5 year Nikon digital camera (can't remember the model number off hand)

I'd like some thing that takes nice night or low lightshots so I guess imagine stabilization would be important. I've got a trip to Paris and Greece and would like to take pictures after sunset.
Not intending to use the recording feature a lot so that feature is not high on priority.

Any suggestions?

 

[zackiedawg]

Easy answer - any and all DSLRs will be a huge step up in ability over your P&S camera, but are also heavier, bigger, and more control-intensive devices, that can be used in Auto modes but usually get the most out of them when some user control is applied and settings changed. Limiting factors with any DSLR are going to be the photographer and the lens.

I'd personally recommend considering all available brands...others disagree and often like to endorse only the brand they shoot with, or like to promote the one or two largest companies...but the basic fact is that Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Pentax are all making very good DSLRs, at good prices, and decent entry-level cameras, or very nice advanced entry-level cameras. If you can afford it, I'd recommend looking to the advanced entry-level versions as opposed to the very lowest entry level, not because you need some specific feature, but mostly because a few of the companies' entry models shave out even some basic features, or the sensors aren't quite up to things like low light focus and high ISO work. But if the cheapest entries are where your budget is, even the lowest DSLR will be significantly better than a P&S.

With regards to stabilization: Canon and Nikon DSLRs get their stabilization through the lenses chosen - so you have the option to shop for non-stabilized or stabilized versions of certain lenses...if you want stabilization, shop for lenses which have it. If you go with Sony or Pentax, their stabilization is built into the camera body, so any lens used with those cameras will be stabilized. For your after-sunset shots, stabilization could be useful, but also important (or moreso) is the camera's high ISO performance capability - this is one area that the advanced entry-level cameras will do better than the lowest entry-level cameras as they can usually shoot cleanly at higher ISO settings.

 

[NateNLogansDad]

Things I'd think about.......

I'd stay with the top four already mentioned. Nikon, Canon, Sony Pentax.

I'd want a camera body with the auto-focus motor built into the camera body so I wouldn't need the more expensive lenses that have the motor in them.

Go to a store that sells camera's and hold them. Maybe let the camera find you From each brand, write down the model # of the camera that feels the best and do an online comparison.

In the Philly area, it seems way more people use Canon than Nikon or Pentax on Craigslist so the availability of quality used lenses is lower most of the time. (Just a fun shot a canon )

Check compatibility with older lenses. You never know what steals you'll find at a flea market as long as they still fit the camera you just bought.

 

[zackiedawg]

Good point - the motor in the body (if available) is a good thing to have, as it does allow for compatibility with older lenses that can still autofocus. Canon's DSLRs all use lens-based motors, and all Canon EOS lenses have lens motors, so not really an issue with them...Pentax and Sony both use body focus motors on all of their current DSLRs, so again, no problem going to older lenses. Nikon's entry-level cameras do not have in-body focus motors, so are compatible only with the lenses that have their own focus motors - a large selection indeed...however stepping up to their advanced entry or mid models will add a focus motor in the body so you can also use older screw-driven Nikon lenses.

Also note when shopping used lenses - For Canon, stick to 'EOS' lenses in order to have autofocus capable lenses...for Nikon and Pentax, any of their 'autofocus' capable lenses will be fine, assuming you have one of the Nikon cameras with the focus motor in the body...for Sony, they took over Minolta's DSLR business, so when shopping for used lenses for Sony cameras, just look for any Minolta A-mount or Maxxum used lenses, which are Minolta's autofocus capable lenses, all of which work perfectly on Sony cameras. And remember third-party lens makers too - Sigma, Tokina, Tamron, and others make many fine lenses in each of the main camera mounts, and can offer a cheaper-than-brand quality lens.

 

[3prettyprincesses]

I posed this question several months ago myself, looking for an entry level dslr. I *thought* I wanted a Nikon D3000 but I went to several stores (Best Buy, Ritz Camera and others) and I just didn't like the feel of it (or the Canon Rebel for that matter). So, others here on the disboards recommended the Pentax cameras. I found a store that carried them and tried out several, the K-X being my favorite. It just felt easier to manage in my hands, the controls were intuitively placed IMO and boy does it take nice pics! In the several months since I've had it, it has exceeded my expectations. Takes great shots on auto but I'm learning that I like having control over the settings so the aperature and shutter priority have been getting a lot of use! There isn't really anything I dislike about the K-X. It's affordable, lightweight and takes beautiful pics. So I guess my best advice (that I received here on the disboards) is to go to a store and start picking them to see what you like or dislike. Good luck!

 

[ChiSoxKeith]

I posed this question several months ago myself, looking for an entry level dslr. I *thought* I wanted a Nikon D3000 but I went to several stores (Best Buy, Ritz Camera and others) and I just didn't like the feel of it (or the Canon Rebel for that matter). So, others here on the disboards recommended the Pentax cameras. I found a store that carried them and tried out several, the K-X being my favorite. It just felt easier to manage in my hands, the controls were intuitively placed IMO and boy does it take nice pics! In the several months since I've had it, it has exceeded my expectations. Takes great shots on auto but I'm learning that I like having control over the settings so the aperature and shutter priority have been getting a lot of use! There isn't really anything I dislike about the K-X. It's affordable, lightweight and takes beautiful pics. So I guess my best advice (that I received here on the disboards) is to go to a store and start picking them to see what you like or dislike. Good luck!

I agree whole-heartedly. Get the camera that feels right in your hands. If possible, find a good camera store that will let you shoot the lens without it being tethered down (like they do at Best Buy). If there is a Calumet Photo near you, they will let you shoot with any of the Canon / Nikon bodies that they carry.

 

[AlbertZeroK]

First, put the camera in your hands, see if it's comfortable to use.

Second, use the menus, make sure navigation of the menus and function buttons work for you.

Third, it's like ford and chevy, both get you there.

I prefer the sony A55, it's new translucent mirror technology really rocks and I love the articulating (movable) lcd screen. I think it's also got some of the best live view (viewing your picture via the lcd screen on the rear of the camera) than any other DSLR I've used from Canon or Nikon.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

There are a number of Olympus options out there as well. You'd be selling yourself short if you didn't at least look to see what they offer, because they offer a lot (in body IS, advanced Live View, tilt screen, auto sensor dust reduction, designed for digital lenses, etc). Many of them are smaller dSLRs. They also have a mirrorless camera that is similar to a dSLR but is much smaller and more portable. Lenses from the two systems (four thirds and micro four thirds) can be interchanged with an adaptor and will still autofocus so if you want, you can have a dSLR system as well as an in-the-pocket portable system quite easily. The newer four thirds models and micro four thirds cameras share the same sensor. It's a bit smaller than most dSLRs (which helped enable them to keep the cameras smaller back when all dSLRs were enormous) but hugely bigger than a point and shoot. This particular sensor, IMO and experience, performs better than those on the older Olympus models. Check out the Olympus E620 to start, it's the best beginner model right now, very similar to the mid level E30 (which I have, and ). Look at pics on their website and on Flickr taken with the camera to see if they're pleasing to you. Olympus colors are one of their strong points. Do your research into ALL of your choices and hold them in your hands to check their ergonomics. Remember that people get very opinionated about the brands they've chosen so do your own research and get what feels good to you. You have to enjoy it if you're going to learn how to use it.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

Very much looking forward to 2011 as I have a number of trips planned. So I finally decided to upgrade to a nice DSLR camera.

Anyone have some recommendations: Here's a little more information about me.

I'm not a total novice around cameras, I took a community college class last summer and I'll whip out a camera on a normal day. Generally though I keep it on the auto setting and don't use the full range of capabilities on my camera.

Right now I have a 5 year Nikon digital camera (can't remember the model number off hand)

I'd like some thing that takes nice night or low lightshots so I guess imagine stabilization would be important. I've got a trip to Paris and Greece and would like to take pictures after sunset.
Not intending to use the recording feature a lot so that feature is not high on priority.

Any suggestions?

I would ask, what is your budget? Each of the camera manufacturers have different levels of cameras. Each with better features than the last. Also do you have some preference of the type lens(es) you think you would need? You stated in your original post that you wanted to upgrade to a "nice DSLR" with low light. That would entail a combination of a high usable ISO body and a fast lens. Your budget will determine how "nice" you can go. All the manufacturers have good options that are probably better than what you are currently using. Depending on your current kit, you would need to include memory cards, extra batteries, bag, tripod (?)etc.

 

[eliza61]

I would ask, what is your budget? Each of the camera manufacturers have different levels of cameras. Each with better features than the last. Also do you have some preference of the type lens(es) you think you would need? You stated in your original post that you wanted to upgrade to a "nice DSLR" with low light. That would entail a combination of a high usable ISO body and a fast lens. Your budget will determine how "nice" you can go. All the manufacturers have good options that are probably better than what you are currently using. Depending on your current kit, you would need to include memory cards, extra batteries, bag, tripod (?)etc.

Thank you guys for all the great information

I'd like to stay in the mid 700 dollar range. which seems to be doable. I just don't want to fall into the "bigger is better" trap. Where a novice user walks into a camera shop and gets the biggest camera they've got.

 

[zackiedawg]

You should be able to find something viable from all 4 major DSLR makers in the $700ish range...and you can step up from the very bottom entry-level cameras from Nikon and Sony, to compare to Canon and Pentax's offerings - all 4 should be virtual dead-heats in image quality, high ISO, and overall performance, with any differences so minor as to be near-indetectable...so it mostly comes down to what you're comfortable with, or any key features you really want that others may not have. Shop the Canon T2, the Nikon D3100 or D5000, the Pentax KR, and the Sony A580, A33 & A55. All fine cameras, all slightly different in feel, and a few features...and all should be within your budget range. And all are solid high ISO performers. And if you can shop around for some closeouts, you can probably find some solid deals on a few recently replaced or older but still excellent models such as the Nikon D90, Sony A500/550, and Pentax KX.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

For Eliza, or anyone else who's interested, Sears has the E620 w/two digital lens bundle on sale right now for $699. http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_SPM1670740001P?prdNo=21&blockNo=21&blockType=L21

Reviews

 

[DVC Mike]

I'd go with either the Nikon D3100 or the Canon T2i.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

I'd agree with the recommendations to take a look at all the lines of camera's and see if any feel more comfortable and intuitive for you to use. All the manufacturer's make very good options.

Being most familiar with Sony if you want to look at something in your price range I'd suggest the A33 ($699 with lens with current rebate) or since you aren't concerned with video the just replaced A550 ($599 with lens from B&H) is a very good buy now. I've used the A550 for several months now and have been very happy with it.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

After you have looked at all the cameras, Pentax has two entry level cameras that are in or close to your stated budget. There is the Kx (black) w/ 18-55 and 50-200 lenses for $579; and the just released Kr with the same two lenses for $739 (B & H prices). Both are very good usable high ISO cameras. One plus is, if you are not into black, the both come in colors. Both are listed as Pentax' entry level with the Kr having more enhancements. There is also another kit for a few dollars more that has the 18-55 and the 55-300, which some say is better optically than the 50-200. I have the 50-200 and am very satisfied with it.

 

[Groucho]

Also note when shopping used lenses - For Canon, stick to 'EOS' lenses in order to have autofocus capable lenses...for Nikon and Pentax, any of their 'autofocus' capable lenses will be fine, assuming you have one of the Nikon cameras with the focus motor in the body...

Just to note here, Nikon and Pentax both can mount any of their old lenses, autofocus or not. With Nikon, some won't meter automatically on the entry-level bodies, and with Pentax, any lens without an "A" setting on the aperture ring won't meter automatically. Very, very old Pentax lenses were screw-mount; you can buy a $30 adapter from Pentax to use these - and those will meter automatically in aperture-priority mode, but you will be looking through a dimmer viewfinder if you stop down. You can also mount old (and some new) Nikon lenses directly on Pentaxes too, but of course there's no autofocus when you do it that way.

eliza61 - definitely check out the Pentax K-r, it is pretty comfortably the best-specced camera in your price range and has the best high ISO performance. The K-x can be had for slightly cheaper and is very similar, the big differences being a smaller LCD on the back and that the focus points don't light up in the viewfinder. They're not sold in as many brick&mortar stores but have been selling very well on the internet and making a tidy profit for the company.

 

[nigelp]

I'd go with either the Nikon D3100 or the Canon T2i.

Any reason for naming these two?

 

[DVC Mike]

Any reason for naming these two?

Nikon and Canon together own 80% of the SLR market, they have the best two camera systems (IMO), and they are around the price point mentioned by the OP.

If they wanted to spend more, I'd look at the Canon 60D or Nikon D7000.

Sony and Pentax also make great cameras.

 

[zackiedawg]

Just to note here, Nikon and Pentax both can mount any of their old lenses, autofocus or not. With Nikon, some won't meter automatically on the entry-level bodies, and with Pentax, any lens without an "A" setting on the aperture ring won't meter automatically.

Indeed - I figured on keeping it simple for most beginners who aren't ready to go deep into the old manual focus/manual aperture lenses just yet - I only meant to imply that as far as 'autofocus' goes, even older lenses from most manufacturers are compatible, so they needn't only look at brand-new current release lenses. Good info though for those not aware. Sony/Minolta works the same way, BTW - old manual lenses won't meter automatically - you just set the camera to A or M mode, wide open, and use the ring.

 

[Groucho]

Sony/Minolta works the same way, BTW - old manual lenses won't meter automatically - you just set the camera to A or M mode, wide open, and use the ring.

Well, that's not completely true (about them working the same way) - Minolta changed their mount in 1985 and Sony certainly doesn't officially support mounting such lenses on their DSLRs. They're more like Canon - they would like you to forget using the old manual focus lenses on your DSLR.

Yes, not a big deal to most entry-level buyers, but important to know if you're going to start watching the local Craigslist or whatnot for old lenses for your camera system.