Update: DH said I could get a camera for Christmas...so...which one?

[Tinker Bell Fan]

Let me first say that I have loved viewing EVERYONE's photos here on the DIS - you all are awesome!

Now on to my question...which camera should I choose?

Background: I've had a few point-n-shoot cameras - nothing fancy (Panasonic, Kodak...etc.). I'm looking to "upgrade". I like the ease of point-n-shoots only because I don't know the difference between, say ISO 1600 and ISO 3200, heck I'm not sure what ISO actually means. All I know is I love taking pictures! And I'm interested in learning how to take really good (great) pictures.

I mostly take pictures of scenery and our pets (and family at the holidays). At Disney I usually take pictures of EVERYTHING. And I really want something to take pictures of fireworks and other night shots.

So...what would you suggest for a "newbie" in regards to a DSLR?

DH says I can spend up to $500 (maybe $600).

Thanks much for your suggestions!!

 

[disneyfaninaz]

There are a lot of good entry level DSLR cameras out there. I am only familiar with the Nikon and could recommend either the 3100 or 5100 as cameras that are easy to use and learn on.

 

[photo_chick]

Any entry level DSLR is going to be a good camera. You just have to decide if there are any features you really want and use that to narrow them down. Then go to the store and play to see which one fits good in your hands. Make sure the button layout and grip are good for you.

 

[wbeem]

Background: I've had a few point-n-shoot cameras - nothing fancy (Panasonic, Kodak...etc.). I'm looking to "upgrade". I like the ease of point-n-shoots only because I don't know the difference between, say ISO 1600 and ISO 3200, heck I'm not sure what ISO actually means. All I know is I love taking pictures! And I'm interested in learning how to take really good (great) pictures.

I mostly take pictures of scenery and our pets (and family at the holidays). At Disney I usually take pictures of EVERYTHING. And I really want something to take pictures of fireworks and other night shots.

So...what would you suggest for a "newbie" in regards to a DSLR?

DH says I can spend up to $500 (maybe $600).

Thanks much for your suggestions!!

ISO means International Standards Organization. Exciting, huh? These are the people who get together and agree that a certain amount of this or length of that actually equals the measurement name given to it. In photography terms, ISO 100 is a given amount of light. ISO 200 is double ISO 100 (obviously).

The nice thing is that it give you something consistent, since ISO 100 is the same for Nikon, Canon, Pentax, etc. When you hear people talk about f-stops, it's the same thing. The change from ISO 100 to ISO 200 doubles the amount of sensitivity to light, which gives you a one-stop improvement when you make the change. On the way down. It's a 50% reduction. If you went from ISO 200 to ISO 50, that would be two stops, or 75% reduction.

Enough of that boring stuff. There are some really nice advantages to getting a DSLR compared to a Point & Shoot. No more shutter lag. When you press the shutter button, it fires. Also, you have control over your exposure with ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed.

That's going to be important when you want to shoot fireworks. In order to capture those bursts, your shutter needs to be open and on a stable platform (tripod). Having a DSLR means you can control that shutter speed and (just as important), open the shutter when you want without the lag of a P&S.

Honestly, you probably picked a great time to buy a camera. Black Friday deals are coming up. Although I'm a Nikon fan, it's hard to go wrong with most DSLRs these days. You can get some very good quality shots from modern cameras.

With that in mind, buying a DSLR is your first step into a world of accessories. Canon is the biggest and Nikon is also popular. There's nothing wrong with Sony, Pentax or others, but look at your opportunities to add lenses to your camera. One of the reasons that Canon & Nikon are so popular is because of the availability of lenses (both from those manufacturers and 3rd party providers).

When I switched from film to digital, I knew I wanted either Canon or Nikon because they provided the most choice. I made my decision to go with Nikon because I liked the way it felt in my hand better than the Canon. It seems like a simple thing, but it's important. Since then, I've found other reasons why I'm glad I went with Nikon.

However, they can all take great photos. The camera is just a tool. There's no button that says "Press here to take great photos." It's all up to the person who uses it.

After all, it's not like Hemingway wrote nice stories because he had a great typewriter.

 

[jillgunter]

I am on my secound Canon. I had a entry level to start and upgraded recently to the 60D. I believe the T3 may be the current entry level. Its important to go to a camera shop and try them out. Canons and Nikons feel really different. I didnt like the Nikon. Have fun with what ever you choose

Shop around on price, I have found the b and h photo online had the best. Free shipping, no tax(unless you are in New York) and I got my camera in two days.

 

[chrisney]

First, congratulations on taking the step from point and shoot to a DSLR. You will be amazed at how much fun it can be. Both Canon and Nikon make excellent entry level cameras. I'm a Canon shooter, and have been since the 10D (now have a 5dMII), and before that shot with Sony Mavicas. I'm such an old timer that I had the Mavica that you inserted a disk into. Not even a megapixel. And it got me hooked.
Now for some reality comments. You have to bear in mind that a DSLR comes as the camera BODY ONLY. No lens, not even one. There are "kits" but the kit lenses are usually starter lenses. Amazon has a Nikon D3100 with an 18-55 lens for 549. Canon has the Rebel T3 with an 18-55 for 484 or with both the 18-55 and a 75-300 for 599. That would give you more range to develop your skills, but remember that these are all entry level pieces of equipment. A good photographer can make a good image no matter the equipment, but you'll also find that a good photographer eventually wants/needs equipment that will allow more. You'll find that you swap out camera bodies fairly frequently because of technology advances. If you buy lenses that are really good, you will keep them much, much longer.

 

[theduck619]

Congrats . We decided to step into the DSLR adventure this year and cost was a factor. We tried both Nikkon and Canon. We went with the Canon T3, because we wanted something entry level that we could easily work with and learn from. I agree with a previous poster that you need to touch and try and them so you get an idea of what features you want to start with. Good luck, and this DIS section is a wealth of info from experienced people.

 

[ukcatfan]

As mentioned, Canon and Nikon have the most accessories available, but for the average consumer that does not come into play too often. It applies to items that usually cost in the multiple thousands of dollars. Every entry level type of lens, flash, etc. is available on every system. I personally believe that the Pentax K-r is one of the best deals going right now. Pentax and Sony typically offer a little more bang for the buck than Canon and Nikon. Also, if you are going to stick with the standard kit lens for a while, then the Pentax has another advantage over others. Their kit lens is probably the best 18-55mm kit around. After four years, I am still using mine. One last thing about it that I like is that it is available in multiple colors! My K-x is red.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

Looking at your price range and the four manufacturers at the top of the list, Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony, I have listed the current prices from B & H for the entry level cameras.

NOTE: I DO NOT RECOMMEND PURCHASING A CAMERA ON PRICE ALONE. Each of these cameras are different designs with advantages and disadvantages. I would recommend that you do a comparison at a website like dpreview.com and then try to handle each camera. Pentax and Sony both have in-body stabilization which means that every lens is stabilized. You will pay extra for a stabilized lens in the Nikon and Canon lines. As stated earlier, you should make a list of what features are important to you and compare. Remember also that there are two major third party lens manufacturers, Tamron and Sigma, that make lenses for all the brands. All of the below cameras are priced with an 18-55 lens.

Canon T3 (not T3i) $488.99
Nikon D3100 $546.95
Pentax Kr $579.95
Sony A390 $499.99

 

[disneyfaninaz]

ISO means International Standards Organization. Exciting, huh? These are the people who get together and agree that a certain amount of this or length of that actually equals the measurement name given to it. In photography terms, ISO 100 is a given amount of light. ISO 200 is double ISO 100 (obviously).

The nice thing is that it give you something consistent, since ISO 100 is the same for Nikon, Canon, Pentax, etc. When you hear people talk about f-stops, it's the same thing. The change from ISO 100 to ISO 200 doubles the amount of sensitivity to light, which gives you a one-stop improvement when you make the change. On the way down. It's a 50% reduction. If you went from ISO 200 to ISO 50, that would be two stops, or 75% reduction.

Enough of that boring stuff. There are some really nice advantages to getting a DSLR compared to a Point & Shoot. No more shutter lag. When you press the shutter button, it fires. Also, you have control over your exposure with ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed.

That's going to be important when you want to shoot fireworks. In order to capture those bursts, your shutter needs to be open and on a stable platform (tripod). Having a DSLR means you can control that shutter speed and (just as important), open the shutter when you want without the lag of a P&S.

Honestly, you probably picked a great time to buy a camera. Black Friday deals are coming up. Although I'm a Nikon fan, it's hard to go wrong with most DSLRs these days. You can get some very good quality shots from modern cameras.

With that in mind, buying a DSLR is your first step into a world of accessories. Canon is the biggest and Nikon is also popular. There's nothing wrong with Sony, Pentax or others, but look at your opportunities to add lenses to your camera. One of the reasons that Canon & Nikon are so popular is because of the availability of lenses (both from those manufacturers and 3rd party providers).

When I switched from film to digital, I knew I wanted either Canon or Nikon because they provided the most choice. I made my decision to go with Nikon because I liked the way it felt in my hand better than the Canon. It seems like a simple thing, but it's important. Since then, I've found other reasons why I'm glad I went with Nikon.

However, they can all take great photos. The camera is just a tool. There's no button that says "Press here to take great photos." It's all up to the person who uses it.

After all, it's not like Hemingway wrote nice stories because he had a great typewriter.

What a great explanation! That is probabaly one of the easiest I've read that I've understood in a long time. Thanks! I love your saying about Hemingway too. What a great way to look at it.

 

[Tinker Bell Fan]

Thank you all for your comments. And thank you wbeem - your explanation really helped.

I definitely plan on going to the stores and checking out what they have so I can get a feel for the camera - as you've all recommended.

Thanks again and I'll let you know what we get once we've purchased it. I can't wait!

 

[jakoky]

I just upgraded my advanced point and shoot and got what is pretty much my dream camera. I have always wanted an slr for the picture quality, but never wanted the size. While I was researching a Nikon slr for my dad, I ran into the Sony nex 5N....this little camera has the same size sensor as many mid range (so u get the excellent pic quality and great low light capability), but is tiny in size by comparison. It is smaller than my point and shoot was. I did a lot of reading and the reviews are great on this camera, if size is an issue at all, I would Definately check it out....happy shopping

 

[Tinker Bell Fan]

Well, DH & I went shopping and we checked out the different models on display at various stores and purchased the Canon T3i. By the time we were done (bag, card, tripod, camera & lens) it was way more than DH had told me we would spend.

The sales clerk was really good and knowledgeable and after playing with the Nikons and Canons they had on display (mostly), we decided on the T3i. It felt more natural in my hand. We also got the lens that goes up to 250mm. Not sure why we got a camera bag (since we have a few at home, but DH insisted). The tripod is heavy, but luckily when we go traveling around Disney DH has a scooter so I'll be securing it to his scooter so I don't have to carry it.

I can't wait to start using the camera! Thank you all for your comments and suggestions - the DIS Photography Board is my favorite! You guys are awesome!

 

[theduck619]

Well, DH & I went shopping and we checked out the different models on display at various stores and purchased the Canon T3i. By the time we were done (bag, card, tripod, camera & lens) it was way more than DH had told me we would spend.

The sales clerk was really good and knowledgeable and after playing with the Nikons and Canons they had on display (mostly), we decided on the T3i. It felt more natural in my hand. We also got the lens that goes up to 250mm. Not sure why we got a camera bag (since we have a few at home, but DH insisted). The tripod is heavy, but luckily when we go traveling around Disney DH has a scooter so I'll be securing it to his scooter so I don't have to carry it.

I can't wait to start using the camera! Thank you all for your comments and suggestions - the DIS Photography Board is my favorite! You guys are awesome!

Congrats and enjoy

 

[krb2g]

Well, DH & I went shopping and we checked out the different models on display at various stores and purchased the Canon T3i. By the time we were done (bag, card, tripod, camera & lens) it was way more than DH had told me we would spend.

The sales clerk was really good and knowledgeable and after playing with the Nikons and Canons they had on display (mostly), we decided on the T3i. It felt more natural in my hand. We also got the lens that goes up to 250mm. Not sure why we got a camera bag (since we have a few at home, but DH insisted). The tripod is heavy, but luckily when we go traveling around Disney DH has a scooter so I'll be securing it to his scooter so I don't have to carry it.

I can't wait to start using the camera! Thank you all for your comments and suggestions - the DIS Photography Board is my favorite! You guys are awesome!

First, congratulations on your purchase(s)! I'm sure you don't want to spend more money now, but since you have the tripod, I really would recommend getting a remote shutter release (I have a Nikon and I think mine was $15 for the on-brand model, off-brand are even cheaper)--it lets you put yourself in group pictures, and it allows you to take a long exposure without touching the camera (so if you're doing any night photography or fireworks shots, you won't have blur from camera shake).

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

Well, DH & I went shopping and we checked out the different models on display at various stores and purchased the Canon T3i. By the time we were done (bag, card, tripod, camera & lens) it was way more than DH had told me we would spend.

The sales clerk was really good and knowledgeable and after playing with the Nikons and Canons they had on display (mostly), we decided on the T3i. It felt more natural in my hand. We also got the lens that goes up to 250mm. Not sure why we got a camera bag (since we have a few at home, but DH insisted). The tripod is heavy, but luckily when we go traveling around Disney DH has a scooter so I'll be securing it to his scooter so I don't have to carry it.

I can't wait to start using the camera! Thank you all for your comments and suggestions - the DIS Photography Board is my favorite! You guys are awesome!

Congratulations on the new equipment! I think you will be very happy with the upgrade over the entry level. It will allow you growth. Now the work begins to get the most out of the camera. Have fun!

 

[wbeem]

Well, DH & I went shopping and we checked out the different models on display at various stores and purchased the Canon T3i. By the time we were done (bag, card, tripod, camera & lens) it was way more than DH had told me we would spend.

It's definitely easy to spend money in photography. Even for things that seem to make the slightest difference. For example, compare prices between f/1.8 & f/1.4 prime lenses. It seems outrageous, but then...you start to see the difference and want that f/1.4. It's insidious!

No need to worry about that now, though. Get comfortable with your new camera and gear before your trip. Enjoy it and share some pics when you get a chance.