Need Suggestions for a Nice Camera

[Pea-n-Me]

You don't have to change them all the time, but inorder to get the most out of a DSLR you have to some times.

Entry Level DSLRS
Canon Rebel Line
Nikon d40 and d60
Sony Alpha (I don't know the current Model)
Pentax K200 (pretty sure might be off)
Oympus (dont' know model anymore)

All of these companies make good cameras, each has pro's and con's. Your best bet is to go to a store that has them and play with each, see which one feels better in your hand and is most intuitive to use.

On your list the only thing that I tripod will not help is the electric parade, a tripod will not help much with moving subjects, with the rest, I would say your going to be hard pressed to get a good shot without a tripod or other stablizing device.

Also check DPreview for reviews of each of the cameras as well it will list pros and cons of each.

Ah, it is nice to have you back, Gregg.

On most reommendation threads these days, Olympus has been relegated to an "etc" after the other four are named.

There are actually quite a few E Series Olympus entry level dSLR models now.

The the E-510 has evolved into the E-620 (with the 520 in between).

The E-410 has evolved into the E-420 (and yes, can fit in a pocket!)

There is also the E-30 now.

These are in addition to the professional model, the E3.

Thanks for your comments.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

The E-410 has evolved into the E-420 (and yes, can fit in a pocket!)

Yes - but with a lens it could cause a bruise or two - even with a pancake. Ouch! LOL

If you do look at DSLR's the Sony Alpha cameras that would fit in your budget are the A200 ($499 w/kit lens), the A300 ($599 w/kit lens) or the A350 ($699 w/kit). The main difference between the A200 and A300 is that the A300 has live view with an articulating screen. The A350 has the same live view as the A300 but is 14.2 megapixels and the other two are 10.2 megapixels.

It really is good to try and check out all the brands and see if any are more comfortable to hold - that can help a lot in picking out or eliminating a camera.

 

[brunette8706]

Thank you Kathy! Great suggestions.