Getting into photography

[DoubleK]

Believe it or not I got a great deal on a Canon dslr body after inquiring with a local photographer as to whether he scanned negatives which led me to this thread: (bump) Negative Scanner One thing led to another and I mentioned to him that possibly once I finished scanning my old negatives we could work a deal out on one of his old bodies. Another thing led to another and I ended up with a 7 megapixel for $275.00. Yes it has studio mileage but it has never seen dust

I agree with Steve however, digital is THE WAY to go. There are purists out there who are experts in the dark room that would argue 35mm or even medium way ot expensive format. You strike me as the type that would be much more accomplished in photoshop Ex.

[DoubleK]

Originally Posted by EXreaction

The camera does have a little to do with your photography. Our camera has horrible file saving options. It can only save a .jpeg with a lot of nasty artifacts and noise.

Yes I also have an older Sony 5.1 megapixel point and click that sucks. No other word to describe the crappy ccd that streaks not to mention the overall slow performance.

One could argue that if I used the manual settings of the camera and a tripod all would be well

[EXreaction]

If I were to get into film it would probably be medium format, and only then for if I were taking some shots on a long hike or something for some high quality nature shots. Perhaps revisiting the grand canyon or something. Medium format would be absolutely amazing for a good picture from there I think.

Even messing with the manual settings and using a tripod gets you nowhere with those junk sony cameras.

[J1mmy]

You're more or less in the same boat as me, I recently bought myself a Canon 400D after deciding I wanted to get into photography as well. It's an excellent camera to begin with and reviews highly among the entry level cameras. My other choice was a Sony A200.

Don't forget to consider the price and availability of accessories, particularly lenses. If you do go with the Nikon lenses shouldn't be a problem. Though a huge advantage Canon had over Sony when Iw as buying my camera was the fact that Sony had just started out, so the lenses were limited. Not only that, we all know how Sony prices it's products too.

Like you're mentioning yourself, your current digital camera doesn't cut it - and many don't. Owning an SLR is vital in many respects.

Further, whilst doing my research, I stumbled upon a website Visual Forgery - The Complete Beginners Photography Guide which is for the beginner and discusses the various other bits and pieces (as well as cameras) that you might be faced with when starting out. It might be of some use...

I also suggest you skim through my thread here with regards to cameras and photography Photography

If you haven't yet, I also highly recommend that you go and handle them too. I know some reviewers who have favoured a particular camera because the grip is better than it's rival.

[EXreaction]

That Sony A200 certainly looks good as well. I'll read up on that website and look into it more.

I was planning on going to best buy soon to try a few of them out. Maybe they even give some kind of trial time for cameras (doubt it). It would be awesome to be able to test the camera out for a few days.

[J1mmy]

Yes, the Sony is very well compared to the 400D, but it's the other things that'd tip the scale.

I would recommend a dedicated camera store, or even a large electronics store. They often have a member of staff who specializes in cameras and would be able to give you advice, but of course that's just his opinion. They won't give you a trial, but if you unsatisfied with the product you can always take it back. When you do go there, remember what you're looking for. Assess the grip, screen navigation, view finder, general layout etc..

Amazon UK have an option where you can return it back even 'if you don't want it anymore' (there's actually that option when returning) and they pay postage there, should be something similar with .com site too.

[EXreaction]

The nearest camera shop is probably in Milwaukee, which is over an hours drive from here.

The nearest large electronics store is probably somewhere on the west coast.

[DoubleK]

Living 30 minutes from you Ex I feel your pain.

The absolute authority Ex: B&H Photo Video | Digital Cameras, Camcorders

They have maintained the level of customer service which made NewEgg great.

B&H Photo-Video-Pro Audio Reviews, Ratings and Prices at ResellerRatings

I shaved $700 off of an intermediate level mini dv camcorder some years ago. I am not stretching the truth here! Talking compared to best buy in Madison and B&H threw in a 10x tele when I bought the wide angle, free bag and a decent enough tripod. Shipped $700 cheaper for the SAME camcorder.

[EXreaction]

Oh, where do you live?

Not bad, they have the D40 for $450 and the A200 for $500. But Amazon is just a hair cheaper for the D40 and the same price for the A200.

I'll watch that site though, maybe they'll have some deals.

[J1mmy]

Originally Posted by EXreaction

The nearest camera shop is probably in Milwaukee, which is over an hours drive from here.

The nearest large electronics store is probably somewhere on the west coast.

Well, I guess then the only way to get a hold of one is either to travel that far out, or order one from a website which allows you to return it back. Have you checked Amazon's return policy? Going to a shop and holding momentarily is one thing, getting it to know and use it in the comfort of your own home is another. I did both, having not done that, I would have spent money on the wrong camera.

Also, have you ultimately narrowed it down the D40 or the A200?