I bought a Sony A500 DSLR because the Minolta Maxxum lenses I had from the 1980s fit and work perfectly. I am so pleased with the A500 and Maxxum lenses, that I have also bought an A58 SLT body and a half dozen other Maxxum lenses, and all for less than a new Canon or Nikon kit from Costco (not that I didn't find them tempting, though).

Compared to film cameras and processing in the 1970s and 80s, today's digital camers are pretty much magic.

Jackson

Yes, it's a coupe, not a roadster. Nice shot.

Works excellent for me as well.

I think that's an excellent choice. It has plenty of automatic modes so you can take good shots right away, and manual capabilities so you can learn as you go. As other folks have said, digital cameras are great because you can see right away if you like the photo, and try again right away if you don't. And that 50x zoom means you'll never "run out of lens" (not have a lens of an appropriate focal lenth for the shot you want). I have a much older version, an SX10is (in addition to a couple of Sony DSLRs) and love it, simple to grab and shoot. Small and light, I can carry it anywhere. I think you'll find quite a few useful videos on Youtube to get you started.

BTW, I started 50 years ago with film cameras, enjoyed taking photos for 20 years. Then life got in the way for 30 years. Earlier this year, I found myself with some time to again play around with photography. Although I had 20 years prior experience with film, I too found the new digital gear, with all their buttons, dials and modes, to be somewhat overwhelming, at least at first. Taking photos, looking at them, reading articles and forums (including this one) , and watching Youtube videos got me started in the right direction.

I might suggest that at first you try using the various automatic modes, rather than trying to master manual settings. Your camera can take some wonderful shots in it's various automatic modes. Once you have a number of photos to look at, you may find you like some better than others. Then you can analyze why you prefer some over others, and begin your "voyage of discovery."

Good luck, and HAVE FUN!

Only prime lenses from the film era seem to have much value today. I ended up donating my bodies, zoom lenses, slide projectors and darkroom equipment to the local hospice thrift store. Cost me hundreds in the 70s and 80s. I guess toys are not a good investment. 🙄

Good luck.

Jackson

$189 used on Amazon, very good condition. "Acceptable" condition for $99. In my experience, Amazon is generaly a little higher than KEH, but they are out of stock with this model.

I'd say it's held it's value very well. But of course, the price is what someone is willing to pay...

Jackson

You might consider GIMP. It is quite powerful, completely free and open source, and runs on Windoze, Mac or Linux. It may be harder to learn than Photoshop/Lightroom, but you can't beat the price.

Jackson

Thanks,

Jackson

I may interested in this lens. (Don't need it, but want it anyhow.)

Looking forward to pix.

Thanks,

Jackson