Looking for a SLR camera - any suggestions?

[12stones]

First, what are your intentions with the camera? That will help to suggest a camera. If you're going pro then I'd suggest something like a D300, but if it's just for pics of the kids, then a D40 is plenty of camera. So, let's start with that...

I shoot Nikon after switching from Canon, but both are great and will do what's necessary.

I will suggest a book though: Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. It's a great learning resource.

[kgoings]

also you can do side by side reviews of the cameras your looking at here

dpreview.com

here is a direct link to the side by side review section

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sidebyside.asp

[Mr.Maduro]

Originally Posted by Blueface

Patrick,
I have the Nikon D80 and love it.
I primarily use one lens (28mm to 105mm).
For flash, I use the SB800 with a Gary Fong diffuser (about $50 and well worth it).

I strongly recommend you look at the new D90.
It incorporates all the features of the D80, with yet more megapixels and in addition, it adds HD video. How neat is that?

There are a whole lot of fans of the Canons. I considered one prior to my D80 but for the money, a got a better bang out of the Nikon, specially with the better lens that I got. There are some great ones to be had there too. I have owned them all in my life. From Canons, to Nikons to Mamiya, to Hasselblad. The key is not the brand but instead, the quality of the lens. That should be your first consideration.

I hav looked at the D90. Someone at the camera place I went to said they are not going to make the D80 anymore. Its really nice but may be more than I need. Hopefully I don't pass on it and then regret it. I like the HD video idea, but I have a Sony HD camcorder.

Originally Posted by kgoings

also you can do side by side reviews of the cameras your looking at here

dpreview.com

here is a direct link to the side by side review section

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sidebyside.asp

Another great link. Thanks.

[12stones]

Originally Posted by Mr.Maduro

I hav looked at the D90. Someone at the camera place I went to said they are not going to make the D80 anymore. Its really nice but may be more than I need. Hopefully I don't pass on it and then regret it. I like the HD video idea, but I have a Sony HD camcorder.



Another great link. Thanks.

If you're just looking for an all-around camera, then I'd just buy the Nikon D40 and put the rest of the money in some good lenses.

[acruce]

Originally Posted by 12stones

If you're just looking for an all-around camera, then I'd just buy the Nikon D40 and put the rest of the money in some good lenses.

This is what use and it's perfect.

[Blueface]

Originally Posted by 12stones

If you're just looking for an all-around camera, then I'd just buy the Nikon D40 and put the rest of the money in some good lenses.

Originally Posted by acruce

This is what use and it's perfect.

No doubt about the D40.
However, with the drop in prices lately, I would go for the 80.
Side by side, big differences.
The 80 also offers an included protective cover for the screen that comes in very handy. That is not available with the 40 and can haunt you if careless in handling.
The 80 also offers a greater array of options and is closer to a professional model.
The way I look at it is that if you have the tendency to get anal about things and learn as much as you can, go bigger. If you are not looking for that, the D40 is an incredible camera and a great buy.

[Blueface]

Patrick,
I haven't laughed so hard as when just talking to the guy that answers the phone at the number you left me.

[Blueface]

Originally Posted by Mr.Maduro

II like the HD video idea, but I have a Sony HD camcorder.

Yeah, but you can put it away and use only one item for all things.

BTW,
Screw this camera stuff.
Wife needs info.
What is my step-niece wearing size wise?

[Mr.Maduro]

Originally Posted by Blueface

Yeah, but you can put it away and use only one item for all things.

BTW,
Screw this camera stuff.
Wife needs info.
What is my step-niece wearing size wise?

Telephone call incoming. Tell Clara not to bother. Alana was very well taken care of yesterday!

[Mr.Maduro]

Originally Posted by kgoings

On that note, I suggest the Nikon D40, or the Canon 40D.

also check out kenrockwell.com

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/recommended-cameras.htm

That guy is awesome!

Great link. That guy makes an excellent case for the D40...definately has me leaning that way! Thanks.

Originally Posted by 12stones

First, what are your intentions with the camera? That will help to suggest a camera. If you're going pro then I'd suggest something like a D300, but if it's just for pics of the kids, then a D40 is plenty of camera. So, let's start with that...

I shoot Nikon after switching from Canon, but both are great and will do what's necessary.

I will suggest a book though: Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. It's a great learning resource.

Not going pro, just want to take great shots of everything... black and white also!