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Question about types of DSLR cameras
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May 23, 2012 07:32:54   #
Archy Loc: Lake Hamilton, Florida
 
Gerrymarie wrote:
Hello -
I have been showing a few photos and listening and viewing for quite a while now in this forum - so...now I am ready to move to a DSLR camera. Presently, I have a Kodak Z990 Max - which is just a point and shoot. However, I would like to start working more with low light and different lenses and such. The main reason - I was asked to take photos for my friends daughter this fall. They aren't doing anything fancy, they just want someone there to capture some memories. I thought this would be a good time to make the transition, that way I could practice with the new camera during the summer and be ready for fall. The problelm - I do not have any idea of which camera to purchase. Let me tell you what I am looking for, and hopefully someone will help me out. Here are the specifics:
Since this is my first DSLR, I don't want to pay too much...
I want the camera to be able to take GOOD indoor photos, such as a church, so I will need to be able to set the fstop so I can get more light.
I would like the burst option
And the ability to add different lenses as I get more money...
I think that is about all...
Oh - and it can't be difficult to learn to use - is that asking a lot?
I thought I would try this forum before I went to a store - because they would just tell me to buy the camera they sell!
Please help.
And thank you.
Gerry
Hello - br I have been showing a few photos and l... (show quote)


Now my two cents...Pentax Kr for $644.79 at Amazon.com or the new Pentax K-30 for $899.95 at Amazon.com...........

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May 23, 2012 07:40:36   #
charles brown Loc: Tennesse
 
Lots of good advise has already been given. I would also recommend DO NOT go to a big box store unless that is your only choice. Their sales people usually know nothing about photography and will try to sell you their latest big profit margin camera despite what you really need.

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May 23, 2012 07:45:42   #
James948
 
Sony has several very good cameras. The Sony anti shake is in the camera which helps to make lenses available that arent as costly. Either way you go you will have a great camera.

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May 23, 2012 08:02:37   #
cableguy Loc: Germantown Hills, IL
 
I have the Pentax K-5 and love it. Pentax has a new entry level K-30 that just came out, rugged and weather-resistant. The lens's are more important for future. With the Pentax you have the Image Stabilization built into the camera base so the lens's are less expensive (no need for IS). That was one of my consideration when purchasing Pentaz. As far as what else the camera will do, all are similar. Happy shopping.

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May 23, 2012 08:10:26   #
AnnieB Loc: UK
 
Hello there - I have just bought my first dslr. I bought the canon 550d (T2i) with kit lens (18-55mm) Am very pleased with it and have taken, what I consider to be great photos, very quickly.

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May 23, 2012 08:11:27   #
AnnieB Loc: UK
 
Hello there - I have just bought my first dslr. I bought the canon 550d (T2i) with kit lens (18-55mm which has image stablilisation IS) Am very pleased with it and have taken, what I consider to be great photos, very quickly.

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May 23, 2012 08:16:30   #
charles brown Loc: Tennesse
 
Given you have specific needs might think about buying body only, a good 2.8 zoom lens, and a dedicated flash that can be used wireless off camera. Would cost more up front but would be happier and would cost less in long run. A lot of kit lens are sitting on shelves after owners upgraded to better glass.

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May 23, 2012 08:27:43   #
sundancer2004 Loc: oak island, nc
 
This is what I love about this site. People willing to share expierence. All the info here is correct. A matter of taste, preference and perspective. Nikon and Cannon would be my first to reccomend, I prefer a Pentax and have two of them. Keep in mind as you go through the years and all lenses are not interchangeable with other cameras

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May 23, 2012 08:29:53   #
LeeAnn Loc: Columbus, OH
 
I am a Canon girl and have loved every minute. I have a 7D but started out with the Rebel line. Loved that line and would highly recommend.

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May 23, 2012 08:36:30   #
ricofoto Loc: Adelaide, Australia
 
I have used Pentax for the last 40 years, film and digital and never had any complaints or problems. They are very reliable, I can go out in the rain with mine no worry because of weather proofing, very important in my opinion and necessary with what I do. All brands are good now though so a lot depends on what feels right in your hand and your particular needs. Handle them first and look through the viewfinder. Is it easy to hold and can you see clearly, some have prisms and some use mirrors, see what suits your eyes. Check out the reviews on particular models before you buy which has already been suggested here. Good luck and happy hunting. Rico

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May 23, 2012 08:43:01   #
wilsondl2 Loc: Lincoln, Nebraska
 
Any of the dslrs will do what you want. The only thing is the low light capabilities you want in a Church etc. I would buy your camera then get a 50mm prime lens. The f/1.8 should be fine but if you have lots of extra money you could get the f/1.4. Dave

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May 23, 2012 08:49:43   #
bkyser Loc: Fly over country in Indiana
 
Gerrymarie wrote:
I would like NOT to spend more than $1000. Do you know if Nikon and/or Canon have the same anti shake feature that Sony does? How do you feel about Sony?


Nikon's "anti shake" is in the lens. "VR" stands for vibration reduction. I believe all brands have it in one form or another.

I'm a Nikon guy from head to toe, but like most here, suggest you find a brand that you like, and then stick with it, because lenses will follow you. Don't "settle" for a brand, hoping to move "up" to a Nikon or Cannon, or you'll have to buy lenses all over again.

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May 23, 2012 08:53:23   #
Indi Loc: L. I., NY, Palm Beach Cty when it's cold.
 
As Wilson suggested, any of the cameras suggested would be fine. There may be packages with just one "kit" lens, which would leave you with a few dollars for a "prime" lens. From what I have seen, lenses for Nikons and Canons run pretty much the same price. You can get the 35mm or 50mm f/1.8 for about $200 or less. A slightly better prime, 50mm f/1.4 will run between $450 and $500.
The lower the f-stop, the more light you can let in so you can take photos indoors with less light.
Sorry, I can't speak about availability and prices for Sony, Pentax, or others, but they should be similar, possibly less.

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May 23, 2012 09:16:15   #
Rollo62 Loc: Memphis, TN
 
I have both a Sony A100 (10 Meg) & a Canon t1i (15 Meg.)DSLR & both have served me well. I like the larger body on the Sony but I'm not sure that it will outlast my canon due to shutter life expect. My desire is for a canon 60D with an F-1.4 Lens & later a zoom w/ F-2.8. You can spend alot of money moving from one camera to the next. I like the Sony A580 as well & the nikon D7000, all are little over your price range but cameras that will serve you a life time & as someone has said that your best investment is your Lens. But go to best buy, etc. & get a feel for the different cameras. All the starter cameras listed here are great so long as you don't deside to move up later. Good Luck & God's speed.
Gerrymarie wrote:
I would like NOT to spend more than $1000. Do you know if Nikon and/or Canon have the same anti shake feature that Sony does? How do you feel about Sony?

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May 23, 2012 09:21:38   #
Photoboy Loc: Maryland Eastern Shore
 
Costco has been running specials on line on the Nikon D5100 with 18-55 and 55-300 lenses plus camera bag for $1200 or even less at times.

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