What SLR camera to get?

Marty_J

Fifer wrote: »

An SLR is a camera which uses a mirror and a penatprism or pentamirror. Sensor size and shape doesn't come into it.

The clue is in the name really.

sam1970

hi guys..i was just searching through the dslr threads and found this one and i wonder if you could advise me!! i have an old SLR (non digital) minolta and i would like to upgrade to dSLR..my question is will i be able to use the minolta lens (and the additional sigma lens i have) on the dslr? and on which brand?

ormus

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B000KIX65S/ref=s9sdps_c4_23_img1-rfc_g1-frt_g1-3102_g3?pf_rd_m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0Q1FD49W84VJ7T4ZA355&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=222506491&pf_rd_i=468294

220 quid. very good price for a very good camera.
im very tempted myself, for that price.

frugallass

I'm saving up for a Canon EOS450D - Jessops have some great deals on at the moment, I just hope they're still on in January/February next year !

sam1970

i was also considering the canon eos450d but i have just noticed that the eos 1000d is cheaper!! looking at the model number it sounds like it is superior to the 450d!!is that true? what is the difference apart from 2MP less resolution?

Sput2001

sam1970 wrote: »

hi guys..i was just searching through the dslr threads and found this one and i wonder if you could advise me!! i have an old SLR (non digital) minolta and i would like to upgrade to dSLR..my question is will i be able to use the minolta lens (and the additional sigma lens i have) on the dslr? and on which brand?

Sony bought the digital camera arm of Minolta/Konica as a means of getting into the DSLR market, so if your lenses are going to work on any camera, it'll be the Sony. It's anything but guaranteed, though.

Your best bet would probably be to go to a specialist shop and get advice there...

frugallass

sam1970 wrote: »

i was also considering the canon eos450d but i have just noticed that the eos 1000d is cheaper!! looking at the model number it sounds like it is superior to the 450d!!is that true? what is the difference apart from 2MP less resolution?

I've been on the Canon website and did a comparison of the two - there are a few subtle differences between the two (such as LCD monitor size, size and weight) but tbh nothing that obviously sets one apart from the other. I've just joined a photographic club and will also see what others recommened and will have a look at both models at the shop.

save-a-lot

Not DSLR, but bridge camera: I have a Canon G9 and this is a fantastic camera if you are tempted to buy something a little more compact. Definately one to at least consider. There is also the newly launched G10, worth a look at.

isofa

frugallass wrote: »

I'm saving up for a Canon EOS450D - Jessops have some great deals on at the moment, I just hope they're still on in January/February next year !

Why not try looking for prices at https://www.camerapricebuster.co.uk you'll normally be able to beat Jessops.

Also agree with save-a-lot, although I'm firmly in the DSLR camp, having used them for years, the G9 is an excellent camera.

sam1970 wrote: »

i was also considering the canon eos450d but i have just noticed that the eos 1000d is cheaper!! looking at the model number it sounds like it is superior to the 450d!!is that true? what is the difference apart from 2MP less resolution?

As per Nick's advice, you'll have to check the fit, they may be specific to Minolta, or the 4/3 (four-thirds) cameras, so go to a local camera shop to ensure you narrow down to the DSLRs which will take these lenses, Sony cameras are likely too, but you need to be sure, because if they are very old lenses, they may not support the modern focusing systems and connections from lens to camera.

It also depends how much you have spent on the lenses, you might be better off selling (or trading in) the lot for a new DSLR with one good lens, and then later on get another lens, etc.

The Canon and Nikon DSLRs have different fit lenses are both different to your Minolta ones too.

isofa

frugallass wrote: »

I've been on the Canon website and did a comparison of the two - there are a few subtle differences between the two (such as LCD monitor size, size and weight) but tbh nothing that obviously sets one apart from the other. I've just joined a photographic club and will also see what others recommened and will have a look at both models at the shop.

The 450D is the better of the two for a starter "DSLR", but there is very little in it. There is a good comparison table between the 1000D, 400D and 450D (plus excellent reviews) here at DP-Review.

Essentially the main differences other than size and weight: 1000D isn't quite as fast, it has 2 less auto-focus points, no spot metering and a lower resolution than the 450D.

The best current price of the 450D + kit lens is from Amazon at £442.

The best price for the 1000D + kit lens is £335 from Mifsuds.
(Prices from www.camerapricebuster.co.uk)