Getting a Pro Camera for the first time, any advise on what I should look out for?

Question

The price range is 300-600 $

What are pros and cons I should look out for.

-Like how many megapixels.

-how to know if it's a good lens

-good battery and

any additional details

and btw, what is ISO?

Thanks for any help =D

Answer 1

A digital cameras iso is a measurement of how sensitive the sensor is to light. Its similar to film speed. The higher the number the less light is needed but the more noise in the photo.

As to a camera in your price range I would suggest the Nikon D40/D60 or the Rebel Xti all are good cameras

Go to kenrockwell.com or dpreview.com and read up then go to play with them in the store to see which fits you better

Whatever you decide you want a DSLR with the ability to set it for manual operation, aperature priority, shutter speed priority. If you go with the D60;  the D60 give you a number of things you want. It has newer firmware and image processors, designed for the 10 mp sensor. It has an "Active Dust Reduction System with Airflow Control ". Nikon not putting a system on the D40 to deal with dust is one of the biggest drawbacks I see to the D40 ( though I think its still a great camera for the money) If you change lenses dust will get in and the camera needs a system to deal with it. With the D60 you get a VR lens. That will help with low light situations ( they may offer that now with the D40 but originally it was not) . The D60 has Adaptive Dynamic Range. Nikon calls it "Active D-Lighting," it lets you save some highlights that my otherwise be lost.

I have Nikon and it should be noted these are entry level DSLR. That is not to say they are not great cameras because they are. But if you want a true professional camera with a full frame sensor you need to plan on spending much much more

Answer 2

I'm  guessing you are looking for a DSLR?

They have interchangeable lenses, you choose them based on what you typically shoot.

I would look at the Canon XT Canon XTi Canon XS Canon XSi they are all entry level cameras.

Also, check out http://www.dpreview.com/ to get a summary of features and reviews.

Answer 3

If you want a pro camera, your going to have to add a zero to your price range. May I suggest the Nikon D40 which comes with an 18-55mm lens. it 6 mega pixels, enough for good size enlargements.The battery is excellent, over 300 pictures per charge and its under $500.00. ISO is the number indicating a digital camera sensors sensitivity to light. The higher the sensitivity, the less light is needed to make an exposure.

Answer 4

Canon and Nikon are good camera's. But don't forget Sony. I own the Sony Alpha -100. 10 megapixel and you can get the new A-200 for about $500 if you look around.You need to pick up and hold each camera one will fit your hands bettor and just feel right.The Alpha,Rebel xti and the D40 will all take very good pictures. But you are the one who has to use it! So go to the store and try them out

As for battery life many people will take a spare battery with them. My Alpha can take something like 600 pictures on one battery less if you use the flash a lot.