Entry level DSLR camera

BOBS

I havent a clue about these but DD (13) is really into her photography and I know this is her dream present for Christmas (yes I know its early).
Have found this one with good reviews on Argos - what do you think - is the camera and lens enough to get her started or what else would she really need.
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/5593189/Trail/searchtext%3EDSLR.htm#pdpFullProductInformation

fwor

Seems a decent enough camera, but you might be able to save a bit by getting a similar manufacturer refurbed Canon from their store on eBay.

However... don't you think that a DSLR might be a bit heavy, unwieldy and complex for a 13 year old? There are plenty of good compact cameras that have a more versatile lens system than a DSLR with just one lens, with full manual control over all the functions - so she could still learn just as much about the technical aspects.

And you won't then be pestered to buy more lenses, ~plus~ it will be less of an issue if she drops it!

EchoLocation

If you're happy to pay the price - which actually is probably the cheapest DSLR you'll find - then go for it, although check as many reviews as possible; but if you're a bit twitchy about price why not consider a cheaper 'bridge' camera to start with?

withabix

Try and stretch to a D3100 instead - will last longer in terms of spec.

Much better and worth the extra £60 or so. (try Amazon etc)

The only other extras you will need are a bag (Amazon again, some Lowepro ones for about £20 on good reductions) and a 55-200 lens (eBay or Amazon, new or second hand)

BOBS

withabix - argos still working for me.

echolocation - What is a bridge camera - she has had a canon powershot for 3 years and has taken fab shots - thought DSLR next level ?
fwor - I am a bit worried about the size. She has dropped her powershot several times and it still works. The lens has jammed but with a slight tap on table it went into place again (was at the nothing to loose stage!!)

withabix

Working now...


Watch out going 'off-piste' with online sellers at low prices though - will not be European stock and you will have NO warranty.

Nikon know where your camera came from.

BOBS

Found this on Canon ebay site - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Canon-EOS-1000D-Digital-SLR-Camera-18-55-Refurbished-/390437775890?pt=UK_CamerasPhoto_DigitalCameras_DigitalCameras_JN&hash=item5ae7e7aa12#ht_1385wt_1139

withabix

Also, keep an eye out for Nikon rebate offers. None on at the moment and I would wait until after the summer holidays to buy.

The D3000 is too expensive for what it is now in my opinion. £60 more for a D3100 gets higher resolution, better 'learner' software in the camera and HD video recording as well.

I bought a pair of D3100 twin-lens setups last autumn - one for my daughter's photography A-level and one for the wife.

Supply of Nikon SLR cameras is better again now - their factory was flooded out last year in the Thailand flooding - making the cameras hard to get at good prices last Christmas.

withabix

BOBS wrote: »

Found this on Canon ebay site - http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Canon-EOS-1000D-Digital-SLR-Camera-18-55-Refurbished-/390437775890?pt=UK_CamerasPhoto_DigitalCameras_DigitalCameras_JN&hash=item5ae7e7aa12#ht_1385wt_1139

Good price with a 1 year warranty too.

Ebay is worth searching for official refurbs!!

EchoLocation

BOBS wrote: »

echolocation - What is a bridge camera - she has had a canon powershot for 3 years and has taken fab shots - thought DSLR next level ?

Bridge cameras essentially bridge the gap between the standard 'point and sheet' compact digitals and the more 'hands on' control of the DSLR's.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_camera
http://www.which.co.uk/technology/photography/reviews/bridge-cameras/page/faqs/

But as I said, if you don't mind paying - not only for the camera but possible additional lens's - then why not go for a DSLR, but whatever you buy... get her a strap and bag with it!

Pinkypants

I have have had this camera for about 18 months now and love it.

Yes it's not the best DSLR on the market but as an entry level model I find it fantastic. But DSLR are all the lenses and how you use the camera. DSLR is defiantly the way to good for full control of the aperture and exposure.

But DSLR's are all about the lenses, I picked up the cheap 50mm f1.8 for about £90 and it's a really good lens for the money.

Ask away with any questions about this camera and I'll do my best to answer them. But be warned photography can get very very expensive. Tripod, filters, off camera flash etc....

I'm trying to save towards a £500 lens, all because I can't save £1000 for the lens I really really want.

Also have a look on youtube for hints and tips on how to use the camera fully, there are loads of training videos.