What type of Camera should i get?

Question

Hey guys I am an amature photographer and am looking to get my first "real" camera. One with special features, adjustable lense and all the other gadgets that help shape an early photographer. I am still learning all the details and lingo that go along with the, in my case "hobby". Any advice on what to look into and maybe a great photography info web site?

Answer 1

dpreview.com

compare cameras there.

you cant go wrong with canon or nikon.

both make dslr cameras in the 500-1000 dollar range that can get you started and grow with you as you learn. forget about megapixels. image sensor size and quality is much more important. also remember that youre buying into a lens system as well because they are generally not interchangable from brand to brand.

Answer 2

You're looking for a digital SLR (DSLR) I assume. Most of the entry DSLRs are very capable and produce excellent image quality. If money wasn't an issue, then I'd skip the kit lens and go buy one good quality lens. The kit lens are usually not as sharp, produce average image quality, and are slower in low light. To get the best out of your camera you need a daily prime lens (50mm), or a high quality zoom lens with large maximum aperture, like F2.8.

The most useful gadget for the starting photographer is a flash unit or a tripod, depending on your photographic uses and tastes. I find the tripod better for the landscape and sports photographer, whereas the flash unit is better for the portrait and fashion photographer.

Check out these website for more info, reviews, image examples, and message boards:

http://www.dpreview.com

http://www.imaging-resource.com

http://www.steves-digicams.com

http://www.pbase.com