Please help - SLR too complicated

[oldhag]

I need help - I want a new camera that can really zoom in but I think an SLR is WAY BEYOND my photo capabilities (was thinking about a Nikon D60 but don't think I can handle it). Can anyone suggest a good auto digital? PLEASE help me. Thanks you.

 

[ghost1000]

Well the one Point and shoot that I keep hearing about on photography podcasts is the Canon Powershot G9. It has a lot of the features of a SLR without being one - so it would be a good intermediate camera if you aren't sure about making the jump. It has a 6x optical zoom. Another to consider would be the S5 IS which has a 12x zoom.

That said most entry level SLRs have auto modes that make them as easy to use as point and shoots so you could just leave it on that mode and it would be basically the same, but you would have the growth potential if you want to take it to the next level.

Hope this helps!

 

[mabas9395]

Have you seen how many dummies are using SLR cameras now? If I can do it, so can anyone.

 

[Groucho]

There's really not much you need to know. A couple things are different but the things that are different are all better, IMHO.

First: you use the viewfinder instead of the LCD screen. If you ever used a film camera, this concept should be familiar.

Second: you zoom by turning a ring instead of pressing a button or turning a level. The zoom ring is faster and more accurate.

Other than that, basic operation is the same. Insert memory card, turn camera on, point it, and press the button.

To get the best results, you'll need to know a little more, but you should generally be able to easily produce better quality shots with the DSLR right off the bat.

 

[bob100]

There's really not much you need to know. A couple things are different but the things that are different are all better, IMHO.
First: you use the viewfinder instead of the LCD screen. If you ever used a film camera, this concept should be familiar.
Second: you zoom by turning a ring instead of pressing a button or turning a level. The zoom ring is faster and more accurate.
Other than that, basic operation is the same. Insert memory card, turn camera on, point it, and press the button.

To get the best results, you'll need to know a little more, but you should generally be able to easily produce better quality shots with the DSLR right off the bat.

I agree with that but there is the argument that you can get 90% of the same quality shots at less price, plus have great video, expanded Zoom, etc. by not going down the expensive dSLR route. Like buying a panasonic or canon S5 or the mentioned G9.

 

[Steve's Girl]

I think it really comes down to what you want to do with the camera. Many that buy DSLRs purchase them to get those 10% of the shots that a P&S simply cannot get. If those type of shots do not matter to you, buy a good P&S. I think you will be happy with those mentioned.

 

[Groucho]

IMHO, I haven't heard the "90%" argument but even if it were true, it would only apply for bright, sunny, outdoor photos. Once it gets even a little bit dim or you need to use the flash, the difference is a lot greater than that.

I'm not saying PnSs are worthless, there is certainly merit to the big zoom in a small package and ability to take video, but image quality is certainly not the area they can generally compete in.

 

[Michele]

DSLR's don't have to be complicated. I had mine for 3 years before I took it out of Auto mode.

The great thing is you can use it like a PnS (auto mode) but if you ever want to venture out and learn more, that is available too. And like Groucho said, even in auto mode you will have a higher rate of successful photos than with a PnS.

 

[pxlbarrel]

Consider a few things before buying a DSLR. Consider the size, weight, lens you need to buy separate from the body, and cost. Consider whether you want to carry all that around with you.

If all you really want in a new camera is a better zoom, then you may want to stay with a p&s like the Canon G9 or the S5.

I went from a pocket sized power shot to a G5 to a Rebel to a 40D. I first wanted portability (Digital Elph). Then I wanted manual control with a hotshoe and some portability (G5). Then i wanted to be able to do night shots, exposure shots, experimental etc (Rebel) and then I wanted to do portraits, more experiments, larger prints (40D). From a piddling size to a camera in which I sometimes wonder how I'm going to carry it all day in a park.

Natural progression. LOL So... what do you want your camera to do and you'll know whether you want a very good P&S with a good optical zoom or if you want to get a dSLR with a telephoto/zoom lens on it.

 

[jann1033]

Consider a few things before buying a DSLR. Consider the size, weight, lens you need to buy separate from the body, and cost. Consider whether you want to carry all that around with you.

If all you really want in a new camera is a better zoom, then you may want to stay with a p&s like the Canon G9 or the S5.

I went from a pocket sized power shot to a G5 to a Rebel to a 40D. I first wanted portability (Digital Elph). Then I wanted manual control with a hotshoe and some portability (G5). Then i wanted to be able to do night shots, exposure shots, experimental etc (Rebel) and then I wanted to do portraits, more experiments, larger prints (40D). From a piddling size to a camera in which I sometimes wonder how I'm going to carry it all day in a park.

Natural progression. LOL So... what do you want your camera to do and you'll know whether you want a very good P&S with a good optical zoom or if you want to get a dSLR with a telephoto/zoom lens on it.

i agree with this... dslrs are not for everyone. decide what is most important to you .. the "bridge" cameras( ie s5 mentioned) would allow you the portability, zoom and even the ability to play with the "creative side" to learn aperture etc without spending a thousand (and then some) once you get the body add lenses etc. then when you are comfortable( if that is your desire) you can move up to a dslr...some people don't want to mess with it and get perfectly decent photos in most cases with a point and shoot...remember many of us on here are raving fanatics about cameras( me included), not the real normal consumer any dslr = more to lug around and if it would make you think twice about taking your camera you would be much better off getting something else. me, i have a pack horse husband...he probably wishes i had a nice tiny p&s lol