Looking to buy a DSLR....?

Question

I may be going to the Galapagos Islands over Christmas Break, and I'll be taking a lot of pictures, obviously. I have a Sony A100 that I got for Christmas in 2006. It's been dropped a few times (on bricks..), and the autofocus/buttons don't work =/. So I will need to get a new DSLR before I go on my trip.

I was looking at the Nikon D80 and Canon Rebel XTi.

I liked the D80, but the sales guy said that they're coming out with the D90 sometime soon.. I wouldn't want to get the D80 now if it's going to be replaced with a better version soon.. Does anyone know when the D90 is coming out?

I really like the D300, but it's way too expensive.

Does anyone have any suggestions for a good camera?

Digital SLR cameras only.

Thank you.

Answer 1

my suggestion

go to yahoo shopping

digital cameras

digital camera GUIDE

be sure to check titles on the left side

the guide should answer your questions  

Answer 2

Go to a good camera store and try out these cameras.  See how easy they are to use.  You will know the right one for you when you handle it.  

I have the XTi and think it is a great camera.    

Answer 3

Normally I wouldn't suggest Sony but since you already have Sony lenses why not stay with them?

Also, just because the D90 may be coming out is no reason not to get the D80. People have been using it and taking fine pictures, it's not like the newer camera will change that. The one thing a new model will do is make the D80 cheaper.

You've already mentioned the XTi. I'd recommend it. Everyone I've talked to has been very happy with it.

Answer 4

Check the nikon site or try ebay or overstock

Answer 5

The only thing I can tell you is its rumored the D90 is comming out in the "fall" It will have newer features but that does not mean the D80 will not be a good camera. It does mean the D-80 will probably be cheaper. If you like the D300 and cannot afford it I can throw out another option. Look at places like Adorama or B&H for a gently used D200 in good condition. Remember these camers were rated for the mechanisms to last hundred of thousand activations. So you pick one up in good working order with 10K activations on it then its still got most of its useful life. Just a thought  

Answer 6

I own a D80 and I am happy. It has been around for some time and is proven. A new model will likely come with bugs and I dont think you want to live with them until they are ironed out by Nikon.

If you are an amateur photographer then D80 is quite right. I have no regrets. It even works with my old manual focus lenses.

Answer 7

I love my Olympus E410.  But the Nikon is a good choice. They have a great set up and are a good quality. I would rather have a Nikon over a Canon any day.  

You can find some great deals on Amazon.com.  I got mine refurbished for like 100 oe 200 less.  It looks new and works like a dream. I highly recommend Factory refurbished.  

Answer 8

It's not until christmas so there could be plenty of new bodies out there when the time comes to buy.

If you have a lot of Sony/Minolta glass why not stick with Sony? The A700 is not too far from the price of a D80 and is better than that Nikon in some aspects, just depends on what you need/want.

Skip the XTi, it's old. Look at the Canon XS/XSi, or better yet get the 40d. The 50d should be out by then, something to consider.

The d90 by nikon should be out by then. Just hang out.

Answer 9

The word is that it will be announce this Wednesday the 27. It definitely will be out in the stores by Christmas.

Answer 10

I just called Calumet Photo about the D90 and was told it should be shipping in the beginning to mid October.

Here's a comparison of the D80 and D90 as well as a comprehensive review of the D90:

http://www.dpreview.com/previews/nikond9...

I'd wait for the D90 - it takes HD video with audio!!