http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/ Engadget Comments for http://www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:08PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:25PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:32PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
Also, I don't trust Ken Rockwell. He's kind of a fanboy that just rants about opinions with little reason. He's said a lot of false stuff in the past.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:36PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
Considering how cheap you can get those, it is by far the best entry level dslr.

Get a nice collection of lenses for this and when your ready, you have an arsenal ready for a pro-sumer level.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:55PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/He simply writes for money and isn't ashamed of putting links to products on his site which give him incentives everytime someone clicks on the link
I recommend reading Thom Hogan's reviews @ bythom.com. His reviews are pretty comprehensive...]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:58PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:39PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 11:38PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
1 year on and I'm finally saving for a new camera, not because it will necessarily "take better pictures", but because I would like a bit more flexibility in what I can do with it, but like I said before: when starting out, less is more, as it will leave you free to concentrate on the photography, and not the camera.

]]>Jul 31st 2009 3:09AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
Canon Pros: Biggest selection of lenses, latest, technology, moderately priced, and now with video, best image quality
Canon Cons: Plasticky build quality, older AF, incompatibility with any lens older than 20 years

Nikon Pros: Built like tanks, advanced AF, compatible with lenses dating back to the 60s
Nikon Cons: Lenses more expensive, image quality issues

Sony Pros: In-camera stabilization, compatibility with certain Minolta lenses, cheap entry-level
Sony Cons: Limited selection of recent lenses, entry level offerings lower in resolution than Canon, not as widely supported

Pentax Pros: In-camera stabilization, compatibility with most K-mount lenses, good IQ, reasonably-priced
Pentax Cons: Slow FPS, hard to find, not as many in the wild (smaller support community), don't make full-frame bodies

Olympus Pros: Smallest body size, in-camera stabilization, good pricing at the lower end
Olympus Cons: Very small noisy 4/3 sensor, smallest selection of lenses, 3-point AF, no full-frame offerings (ever)]]>Jul 31st 2009 4:44AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/With the D80/D90 series you can get full use of both AF-D lenses as well as AF-S. You don't get that with the D40/D60.
When you buy a DSLR you're also preparing yourself to buy some lenses, and don't be surprised to pay more for lenses than the camera.
So, with that said, which cameras offer the greatest selection of lenses?
Both and Nikon and Canon are top tiers. Nikon offers a better warranty on their glass, Canon's glass is really good, and generally costs less than Nikon.
If you buy either brand, just make sure you leave plenty of money on the side to factor in the expense of additional on-camera and off-camera accessories.
]]>Jul 31st 2009 7:15AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
Here are a few I have taken with my XSi.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryfter/3561799210/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryfter/3484278079/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ryfter/3631382860/

I really like the XSi. I want he T1i for the added low-light capabilities. Good dSLRs have VERY low shutter lag. So, I don't think any one you get, you have to worry about. I can turn mine ON, and start snapping FAST. I would definitely look at the low-light performance... AND... get a 50mm 1.8 lens. They go for about $100 and you can take pictures in VERY low light... perfect for newborns. ]]>Jul 31st 2009 12:25PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:09PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
You, my friend need a 1000 HP Bugatti Veyron. Sure you wont be licensed for 10 years, and you cant see over the steering wheel, but its the superior vehicle.


Seriously? That is not a starter camera. Even if she had that much money she'd be better off spending it on lenses.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:34PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:38PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/"Also, I'm not interested in video capabilities"]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:44PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:34PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 11:26PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
I'll forgive you though E, I've seen you around Cinema 5D and I know you're just on a crusade to get 24p support! Hope you get it soon. ]]>Jul 31st 2009 12:37AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/ Glass > Lighting > Body.]]>Jul 31st 2009 1:32AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
I mean, nobody is attractive as Kwanzaa Bot, but you don't see me getting on my high horse about it...]]>Jul 31st 2009 2:23AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
However, I think whoever is deciding to buy a digital camera should take one for a spin before buying. Borrow a friend's. Go to a workshop.

Last year I got a Canon Rebel XSI... it was my first digital camera ever. I'd done a little bit of photography in high school (2 years), but had not touched digital. I spent two months with the XSi (stock lens + a 55-250 IS), and I realized that photography was going to become a lifetime hobby for me.

A couple months later I saved up and upgraded to the 5D Mark II. Luckily I sold the XSi for a decent price, but I'd highly recommend that anybody preparing to plunk down cash into a camera system to seriously consider how much they think they are going to integrate the hobby into their life. If you know you're going to be a casual user, then obviously don't spring for the better gear. If you're curious about it though, I think its a good idea to try a system out first and see whether or not you really have a passion for it -- it might save you more money in the long run to just get the better equipment if you discover a passion.

Since the 5D2 is a full-frame, I obviously couldn't use the lenses I bought for the XSi, and had to get all new equipment. The 5D2 and my Sigma 50mm 1.4 EX... best $3,200 I've ever spent. ]]>Jul 31st 2009 2:28AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:58PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:10PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:16PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:18PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:31PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
I had an XTi and learned on that. Great camera and I took some amazing pictures with it. Since I am a photography student now I decided to upgrade to the 40D, which is amazing as well. I plan on jumping to the 5D Mark II in a year when I graduate. But as for a starter camera, the XS or XSi is great.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:46PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:28PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:48PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:54PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 11:41PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/I originally went with the Rebel XT and have been more than happy. I made the original decision because I felt canon had better supplied the $300-$500 lens range (canon IS is pretty damned awesome). USM focusing of those lenses is much better nikon's motors--it is smoother, faster, quieter.
That said, however, I now use almost entirely Tamron Lenses for it (which you can get for any camera brand). the biggest catch in my mind being an old manual focus tamron adaptall 2 70-210mm macro lens. ($10 on ebay), and an adapter ($15 on ebay). It is manual focus-manual aperture, but it is also macro, so it isn't like you are doing anything on the fly. Seriously--best $25 I ever spent. ]]>Jul 31st 2009 8:33AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/I couldn't agree more. I just craigslist'd my XTi in one day, and picked up the T1i yesterday. I already had the 50mm 1.8 lens. The pictures are amazing with this camera. But the Video, with the narrow depth of field you get with the 50mm, is simply unreal. ]]>Jul 31st 2009 8:53AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:11PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:13PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 10:26PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:14PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
The other great thing about the D40 is that it can be used as a simple "point and shoot" camera that you can hand to a friend if needed. I cannot express how nice it is to be able to put the D40 on Auto, give it to someone who has no knowledge of (D)SLR's, and still get great photos.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:14PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
Great camera.]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:31PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:15PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:15PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:38PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 31st 2009 1:35AMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:16PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:18PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
None of us go: "Wow! They suggested a really awesome, expensive camera! They must be AWESOME!"]]>Jul 30th 2009 9:19PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/Jul 30th 2009 9:20PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
They do not do so well with noise reduction either, so I'd recommend turning it off and using a good editor or always staying at ISO 100/200.

I do love my A350 though, have a very nice lens collection too, all of them being the older all metal minolta ones except for 1 tamron and that POS kit lens (which is in the box it came in yet). 28-85, 35-70 (I use for macro), 70-210 F4, 100-200 (bought before I got the 70-210), 50 F1.7, and then I just got my Tamron 200-400 F5.6.]]>Jul 30th 2009 10:03PMhttp://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/ask-engadget-best-starter-dslr/
The new A330 is fantastic. the only negative part is the grip is so tiny! I'm now looking into it... it has live view too. if you want something cheaper the A230 would do. I think that one doesn't have live view though.

I'm used to the view finder but sometimes the live view function is just essential for weird angle shots (e.g. really low/high angle shots).]]>Jul 31st 2009 12:21AM