What's a nice SLR digital camera to buy?

Question

All my cameras are 35mm and I feel it's about time to upgrade and move into the digital world. However, I am completely lost when it comes to choosing the right SLR. I love Nikon for 35mm, but I've heard Canon is great for digital.

Answer 1

i totally recommend the nikon d50, ebay has some good deals on them.  

Answer 2

First, you should determine if the lenses you currently own are compatible with any of the available DSLR cameras.

If you have Pentax K-mount lenses then you can use them on the Pentax DSLR cameras - K100D, K10D, K200D, K20D.

If you have Minolta Maxxum lenses you can use them on the Sony DSLR cameras - A100, A200, A300, A350, A700.

If you have the older Minolta MC/MD mount lenses (think SRT-202, XE-7, X-700 cameras) then you'll need an adapter to use them on the Sony DSLR cameras. However, there are also adapters to use them on the Canon DSLR and Olympus DSLR cameras.

If you have Canon FD mount lenses (FTb, etc.) then you'll need an adapter to use them on the current Canon DSLR cameras. If you have the EOS series of auto focus Canon 35mm film cameras then your EOS mount lenses are compatible with current Canon DSLR cameras.

If you have any Nikon lenses made after 1959 or so then they are compatible with the current Nikon DSLR cameras.

If you have the older Olympus OM series of 35mm cameras you will need an adapter to use them on the current Olympus DSLR cameras.

Answer 3

Both Nikon and Canon make excellent DSLRs.  Nikon's D80 is superb, though D40 is cheaper and a perfect beginner DSLR. In the middle sits the D60, check it out.

Canon's 40D is a great camera, but if you want to save a few bucks google the XSi (IMO it's the best entry level DSLR). Both Canons have a live view option.

You might also consider the Pentax K200D. Very good camera.

(bonus: image stabilization in the body).

Answer 4

i have a canon rebel xti....it is a great camera, and they just came out with the new xsi.....it a 12 megapixle camera, and has some really great features....the rebel line is definately a great starter camera option

Answer 5

Canon

Answer 6

Go for the Canon Rebel XTi or the new XSi.  They are really user friendly and take amazing shots.  

I have the older model (XT) and I absolutely love it but I'm already planning on upgrading soon for the new XSi.

Answer 7

Nikon d40 is your best bet

take it from a photographer

who shoots at a dirttrack

d40 is the way to go

great easy lightweight camera

2.5 frames per second and the kit $499.99

comes with a 18-55 mm lens

Answer 8

Yes it is time.  If you are a Nikon person and have some Nikon lens.  You should stick with them.  The D40 and D60 are good starter DSLR.  I just moved to the DSLR from my old 35-mm SLR.  The DSLR have SO many options and settings. Totally different but very similar in the basics.

Some of the older lens will still work on the newer Nikon DSLR.  So that's something to think about.

Answer 9

Nikon is better that Canon ( haha, in my opinion )

the image quality is about the same regardless.

when it comes to a nice digital camera you should get a nikon d40 or a rebel xt to learn the ropes one ( based on a 450$ budget ) if you can go up to one thousand dollars, you should consider the Nikon d80 or the Canon eos 40d. They are all nice cameras, it justs depends on how much you can afford on cameras. Also, remember you have to consider the price of filters, lenses, tripods, etc.

this is what i can personally get with the d40 BTW:

http://flickr.com/photos/27145979@N02/