Affordable DSLR camera

AmongTheLiving

I've gone through all the answers and I don't mean to add to the confusion (the original poster probably has more recommendations than she can handle right now), but I'm surprised nobody has mentioned this little fella, the Nikon P7000:

(the system won't let me post links until I'm not a "new user" anymore, but just look it up on Amazon, it's not rocket science )

It's a bit bulkier than a regular compact, but it's still way more manageable than a DSLR, it has a very practical zoom range, the sensor is a bit larger than the ones found in compact cameras, which makes for less picture noise and better performance in low light, and it's just below the £300 mark. Oh, and it has a full-manual mode too if you want to tinker with aperture, ISO, shutter speed and so on.

Yes, it's a bit overpriced considering that you can get an entry-level DSLR for pretty much the same amount, but if portability and not having to mess around with different lenses are priorities, I can't think of a better option... Well, maybe the Canon G12 which is almost identical, but it's almost £100 dearer. As the saying goes, you pays yer money, you makes yer choice!

gwyne

I had a compact camera for ages (Canon Ixus II) before it broke and I decided I liked photography enough to move to entry level DSLR (Canon 400D with kit lens) - this was a good move and got some great pics from it. However I still missed the compact-ness of a compact so also supplemented with a Canon S90.
DSLR = Complete manual settings, fun with lenses (you don't have to get expensive lenses to have fun you can get some fun shots with cheaper lenses & adaptor rings). Only use when you're in the mood for a 'proper' photog session.
Compact = Subtle, always with you so it's fantastic. Some of the best photos are from 'spur of the moment' events, and unless you're wandering around with your SLR at that time (on a photog session) this will be missed!

Piggo_2

I've just recently upgraded from a Panasonic superzoom camer to a DSLR. After much deliberating because of the cost we decided to go for a Canon EOS 550D. I bought the camera and standard body, then in the end went for the 55-250mm lens - the zoom lens to 300mm didn't have very good reviews seemed to be too cheap a lens for such a zoom lens.

I've been really pleased with the camera, but agree with an earlier post. It took me some time to find one that felt comfortable in my hand. I tried an equivalent Nikon and that didn't sit right at all, that's what swayed me to this Canon in the end. Saying that my hubby preferred the Nikon - he has bigger hands! So it is important to get one that's right for the person taking the photos.

The speed you're able to take photos and the quality of them is brilliant. I got a bag, the zoom lens and a few accessories as presents which worked out well as it just meant I had to buy the body.

Good luck with choosing one!

Dave_C_2

gwyne wrote: »

<snip>
Some of the best photos are from 'spur of the moment' events, and unless you're wandering around with your SLR at that time (on a photog session) this will be missed!

That reminded me, as a DSLR user on holiday, I've been asked to take photos with other folks' compact cameras. Not a problem. But it was very noticeable that on some cameras you press the button and half an hour later (a few seconds really) the picture was taken. This is shutter lag.

Totally unsuitable for spur of the moment shots. Look out for short switch-on and shutter lag times, or better still try it in the shop.

Dave

[Deleted User]

It's funny, because my least used dSLR lens is my 150mm zoom. I fail to see the point of long zooms, since I don't do sports or animal photography.

However, when I do need to do such things, I've got my f5.6 300mm Steinheil manual focus prime. Not bad for £30!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kirwilliam/3455218878/in/photostream/

Old lenses + mounts + dSLRs are great, but i've found quite useless for photos of my toddler, who moves way too fast for me to focus with my trusty f1.8 50mm. It's a shame, because the 'automatic' lens would cost as much as my camera body did; i'm way too tight to buy that.

itsadoozy

Hi,

Just wanted to share the output of my research.

I have been on the lookout for a consumer/amateur DSLR, and have decided to go with the latest Panasonic GF3 Micro 4/3rds (MFT) with twin lens kit.

Having searched high and low I have managed to find Simply Electronics the cheapest plus you can use the £15 off code SAVOO15 at checkout. This gives you a great camera with two interchangable lenese for £494.95. I haven't been able to find such a deal cheaper, and thought I'd share this. They have items in stock with free delivery.

I have bought from them before, so trust the company to deliver.

Another great bargain might be possible for the Panasonic GF2 which is still a great fully featured camera, but is bound to drop in price with the GF3 released. I will primarily be using my GF3 for Full HD movies, and quality photos.

Dave

itsadoozy

Just had an update that the DF3 price has dropped to £494.95 with the coupon code above, so if you are in the market for such a device, might be worth a look. Seems that the prices fluctuate quite a lot, and that website uses supply & demand to lower popular items.

ukcarper

itsadoozy wrote: »

Just had an update that the DF3 price has dropped to £494.95 with the coupon code above, so if you are in the market for such a device, might be worth a look. Seems that the prices fluctuate quite a lot, and that website uses supply & demand to lower popular items.

What would put me off is no viewfinder.

RoxyK

I have an Olympus E420 which is fabulous size for small female hands - Nikon, Cannon etc DSLRs were all too big and uncomfortable. I rarely take extra lenses with me as the standard lens is the one I use the most.

I also have a more portable camera, an Olympus Pen micro four thirds which is fabulous too. I'd rather use my E420 but the pen is easier to just whip out. My E420 I got as a birthday present - there was a great twin lense kit deal and how could DH resist. With the Pen I have the standard lens and TBH have never found the need for another lens.

So you don't always have to lug around loads of kit with a DSLR - only if you want to


The Pen, an EP-1 was an utter bargain! Would I use a compact again, no way. I've always gone for the best compact cameras but when I first tried a DSLR I was smitten - ooh how I loved the responsiveness and knew it was what I had been looking for.

usignuolo

I have a Canon G12, bit more than your price range but you should be able to find one close. It is a hybrid between DSLR and automatic (you can set it in either mode.) I have been very happy with it.