I would like some opinions on this camera?

Question

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=3716101&Sku=O83-1104

I'm an amateur....but I do know a few things. I'm upgrading to an SLR. I'll be using it mainly for landscapes, macro, and action shots. Is this an appropriate camera for what I want to do? If not, can you recommend one in the same price range? Thanks so much!

Answer 1

One problem with the camera is its lack of in-camera Image Stabilization (IS). Both Sony and Pentax use a sensor-shift IS that works with every lens used.

Another problem with the Olympus is its use of th 4/3 system. There aren't a lot of lenses or accessories for it. To use the older Olympus lenses (from the OM series of 35mm film cameras) requires an adapter.

You might want to look at the Sony A300 which has Live View that works with the AF as well as in-camera IS. Sony uses the Minolta Maxxum A-mount which means you can use every legacy Maxxum AF lens made since 1985 as well as lenses for the Konica-Minolta D5 & D7 DSLR camers.

Answer 2

Olympus makes good stuff. Check out http://www.dpreview.com for reviews and user reports on it. I chose the Nikon D40 about a year ago, after about six months of research. 6.1mp is plenty of resolution for what I need. 10mp, like with the D40/D60 is too much info to stuff onto the sensor (unless it was full-frame). That sounds like a decent camera, though.

Answer 3

First let me say I am a little biased because I shoot a Canon 30D but I will be as objective as possible.

First things first, I am going to reiterate what others have already said, I would go with something where you have more lens choices. The Olympus cameras do not have the variety or the quantity of lenses that Nikon and Canon do. Now this could be for many reasons, but the kicker for me is the aftermarket lens makers, i.e. tokina, tamarack, tamron, sigma, ect..... do not make alot  for this brand. They concentrate more on Nikon and Canon. So "if" you chose to purchase this camera you will end up spending more on what little lenses are available because you will most likely end up purchasing proprietary lenses. And trust me themoree you get into it the more lens options you will want.... we all start small and as we grow with our "hobby" our "hobby" also grows with us.... Funny tho our bank accounts always seem to shrink...... Hmmmm wonder why that is.... lol anyway....

Next, while many people shoot and love olympus their are probably 5 times the numbers who shoot either canon or nikon. See what your friends are shooting and see what they have for lens options... I have a friend that I can "borrow/rent" a lens from if I want something different... I also can go to my instructor and borrow from him if I need to (not sure if your taking college classes or not..)

For "ME" when i buy something I want to know whats available for me after I get it hoe and play with it.... what gadgets will I want or need down the road? Upgrades (lens, flashes, shutter cable s, ect) always need to be considered because if I have to go out and buy a whole new "thing-a-ma-gig" to get the upgrade I want I will look  for something wher I can keep on using what I have or get frustrated and go out and "Upgrade" my whole system , so while it may be cheaper on the front side look to the flip side and see what it will cost down the road... Or at least as much as possible.... Yes I own a canon 30D and ove it and yes I "want" to upgrade to a 1d Mark III or the 1Ds Mark III but am I just yet...no will I (if you knew me this is the part where you would say DUH!!! of course he will he is just that silly)

What would I recommend in that price range..... EASY go with a Canon Rebel Xti  every review I have seen has been exteremly positive.  It is "upgradeable" (lots of lens choices and extras ect....) But like I said I am a little biased... anyway thats my 2 cents worth hope it helps!!!

Have fun and keep shooting!

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/...  

Answer 4

Its ok....but I would choose the nikon line, due to the number of lenses available.

Answer 5

http://www.circuitcity.com/rpsm/cat/-169... ...

Check out this link from Consumer Reports and Circuit City.

FUJIFILM - FinePix 10.0-Megapixel Digital Camera - Black    

This camera  is available at Walmart and Best Buy for $249.  This should be all the camera you will ever need.  

The second link will help you learn to clean the camera and battery contacts on any camera you buy. Digital Cameras require lots of power. If the contacts are not really good it can cause lots of problems even if the battery is full charged.

Answer 6

I've only heard great things from all the reviews I've read about it. I own a bridge Olympus camera and have to say they make solid and reliable cameras. Olympus' optical quality is legendary, so you'll be pleased with the kit lens.

I think you'll appreciate the small size of the Olympus E-420 because it is built upon the 4/3 system. This means that the all digital platform allows lens and camera body to be smaller and lighter. When you carry around a camera for an entire day, it's gonna feel like a burden if you are carrying something heavy.