Alright. I am starting to really get into photography. I have an olympus right now. It is 12 megapixels and has 10X optical zoom, 5X digital zoom. I really love it and don't get me wrong - it takes amazing pictures for how compact it is. I am wanting to make it my "purse camera".
The new one I want to find is something I can use more as a starter camera for serious photography. This is where I need your help. I am hoping to find something that is not too expensive and is user friendly. How does the zoom work on SLR cameras? Is it manual or automatic or is it just preferance? Can you get them with the digital screen or do they all use the viewfinder? I want something that has at least 14 megapixels, and great zoom. I found one that I like, opinions please?
What are all the different lenses for? Are there ones I should really have other than the one that comes with it?
Finally, what should I look for in a camera so its a step up from the one I have and an all around good camera? What do you look for in your camera, and do you prefer a certain brand?
Here is a link to the camera I think I want next: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Canon+-+EOS+Digital+Rebel+T1i+15.1-Megapixel+Digital+SLR+Camera+-+Black/9318954.p?id=1218084392413&skuId=9318954
Here is a link to the camera I have now: http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&rlz=1R2ADFA_enUS359&q=olympus+stylus+9000&um=1&ie=UTF-8&cid=3912488604220734939&ei=ab3zS4OJK4HMsgPnz-jHAw&sa=X&oi=product_catalog_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCQQ8wIwAA&os=tech-specs
JaxPhotoCat2010-05-19T08:21:11Z
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I teach photography and I think the first link (to the Canon - EOS Digital Rebel T1i) is a good camera to start with because it is a DSLR camera. DSLR cameras have the larger sensor so you get a higher quality images. You can change lenses which can be valuable, by allowing to adjust to different needs.
There are a number of good brands so don't be sold on the idea one brand is better than another. I would keep your costs down. I would get a DSLR with a short zoom (like a 18-55mm) to start. No reason to spend more than $425 to $550. Either a 10MP or 12MP will do just fine.
Below, I listed some links, the first link listed below is to a web page that lists the 3 DSLR cameras I am recommending. This list will let you compare features and specs, also it has links to reviews of the cameras, the reviews include sample images from the cameras. Also I included some links to some dealers so that you can try and get the best price. Some dealers have some nice extras, free shipping is very common, and sometimes they are offering a free memory card and/or camera bag. Sometimes you have to click in the “add to cart” button to see the actual price.
Here are some models that I think are well worth researching including estimated price range:
Nikon D3000 10MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens - $460 to $480 Canon Rebel XS (1000D) 10MP DSLR Digital Camera Kit w/18-55mm IS Lens - $499 to $525 Pentax K-x 12MP DSLR with 18-55mm Zoom (has HD Video also) - $485 to $525
Pick a price range, some features you know you want, and even consider which camera feels good in your hand as a factor. Plenty of great cameras, get one you like and start learning the principles of photography and you will be on your way to making some great images.
Most people go with Nikon or Canon but, I think the Pentax could be of special interest, since it can do HD video and has excellent quality at higher ISO settings which can be useful in low light places and helping get the picture. These features, especially the HD video, on a Nikon or Canon will cost you $100 to $200 more.
If you have any questions and if you think I can be of help then please do contact me.
The camera I own and recommend is the Rebel XS at about $500 right now with a kit lens. An excellent choice because the camera does amazing work, like this. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jimsphotostuff/4615829643/sizes/l/
Zoom: Manual - no motors. It's all in the twist of your wrist.
All SLR cameras have a screen but if you're serious about the camera and photography you'll use the viewfinder because it shows you exactly what you're getting. Besides "live view" as they call it is a gimmick.
14mp. Don't be fooled by the mega-pixel myth. More doesn't necessarily mean better. A 6mp SLR will shoot rings around a 14mp compact all day long for several reasons, all technical, which are too long to go into here.
Lenses: You can own several for different applications. For me I prefer not to change lenses all the time because if you do you risk getting dust and dirt inside the camera body - not a good thing. I have a Canon 28-200 because is so versatile. It's wide but has a pretty good reach so I don't need to change lenses to "get that shot".
Brand: I'm a Canon / Fuji guy so I'll recommend what I have, the XS.
But don't forget regardless of the quality of the camera without excellent optics you won't get the kinds of photos you see advertised. By that I mean you'll need a good lens to go with it. So, with what I've suggested - the Rebel XS and the Canon 28-200 Lens count on about $800 to $1,000 total investment.
Right relies on price range quite, and whether or not you must keep amateurs within the forseeable long term. Sony a-two hundred is a well digital camera for amateurs so long as you are all set to stick that method. Though Sony have damaged into the prosumer marketplace good with a well set of package, its nonetheless now not as effortless to shop for package as it's for Canon/Nikon. But in case you have now not goal to transport as much as semi/professional phases then a-two hundred is the nice access stage available in the market. If you cross down the Nikon direction I would not advise both the D40/x or D60 because neither have AF motor and each have confined capabilities. I heard D70 is well, I've used the D90 and I determined that smoother than my Canons. Rebel XS (or 1000D right here in Europe) is a good digital camera, however another time is a little bit missing in a few capabilities you would desire you had, additionally the smaller Rebels do not suppose as secure in hand because the older ones, brain you neither do the Sony alphas in my view. Best option regardless that (I in no way concept I've ever say this) is the Sony, with one proviso that you do not intend to head professional...and while you do you'll have enough money to change approaches to Canon-Nikon.