What features do I look for in an entry level digital SLR camera?
I’m just wondering what are the really important things to look out for in a digital SLR camera and which ones of the many other features is best for a novice not to worry too much about? Also, any recommendations on which models are good would be nice. Thanks.
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Posted: December 28th, 2008 under Digital Photography.
Tags: digital camera;, Digital Slr Camera, Models, Novice, Reccomendations
Comments
Comment from Jags
Time January 1, 2009 at 1:29 pm
Basic Features to look for:
8.2 million pixel photos (final image dimensions are identical to the EOS-1D Mark II on its highest resolution setting)
5 fps shooting rate (for anywhere from 20-44 consecutive frames in our testing when the camera is set to Large Fine JPEG)
65 millisecond shutter lag specification, 115 millisecond mirror blackout time and 0.2 second camera startup time
New 9-point AF system designed to offer more precise focusing of static subjects as well as improved tracking of moving subjects
A top shutter speed of 1/8000; a standard top flash sync of 1/250
E-TTL II flash exposure control
Canon EOS 10D and EOS 20D are good. For more details:
Comment from suvari7c
Time January 4, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Features will depend on what you are going to use the camera for. The EOS-1D Mark II is expensive, and absolutely NOT an entry level D-SLR camera.
4 basic questions to ask yourself when considering a digital camera:
1. What are you going to use it for and how often? General use, going out, parties, indoor, outdoor, the list is endless. This will determine what kind of camera to buy. Large, compact, detachable lenses, flash requirements, etc.
2. What are you planning to do with the images you take?
print them for a photo album? Email them? Enlarge them for framing? The answer to this question will determine what Mega-pixel size is best for your needs. This is important since prices vary depending on the pixels the camera forks out.
3. What is your level of camera know-how. Do you know much about the basic functions of a camera, ie; f-stops, white balance, shutter speed, etc. Unless you know how to use manual functions, your best bet is to buy a camera with auto functions. They will take the guess work out of the sometimes confusing camera settings, and will assist you in getting the best image possible.
4. How much are you willing to spend for it? Camera quality is much determined by the manufactuer, functions, pixel count, and price. Sony makes quite a few user friendly digitals. Both small and medium format. Canon is another manufactuer with quality cameras. A large format camera with 12MP or larger images render high end images, but can run you into the thousands of dollars.
Have these answers ready for a customer rep at your local store and he/she can help you find a camera that suits your needs.
1MP great for webcasting.
2MP or less- great for 3×5 prints and email, some web.
4MP great for printed photos 5×8 (too large for email)
5MP great for printed photos 8×10
8MP or larger, great for larger printed images.
If you plan edit your images using photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop CS2, consider purchasing a camera that shoots in .RAW mode. Most cameras shoot in .JPG and .TIFF, but RAW allows for the highest quality image.
Just food for thought.
Comment from syk
Time January 8, 2009 at 2:57 am
For an entry level camera, I think the most important things are:
- resolution (8MP would probably allow you to use it for a few years without feeling you have to upgrade)
- price (~$800 so you can invest in a couple of lenses & maybe even a flash)
- fully automatic and manual modes (so it’s easy to use but you can also practice taking creative shots)
- There are better camera bodies available (so when you are ready to move to the next level you would still be able to use all the lenses you purchased).
I personally have a Canon Digital Rebel XT and I think it’s a great entry level camera.
Comment from Foxey
Time January 9, 2009 at 10:58 pm
Nikon D70 or better still the new D200
Comment from isabow27
Time December 30, 2008 at 1:18 am
Ik heb echt niet overgestapt op digitale fotografie nog als een serieuze hobby. Ik ben nog steeds gebruik maken van een Minolta X700 SLR die mij geweldig resultaat.