dSLR package

Duckys54

I'm looking for a Digital SLR. Now I know that may seem like a very broad statement, but I've researched it some and have narrowed down on seem key conepts:

-The camera should have frontal quick acces to certain functions like ISO/Shutter/etc stuff rather than going thorugh menus
-how well does it function with software
-are a lot of accessories compatible

Now, in pricing and all that jazz, I've found some nice packages on ebay for $1,000. That's a general area of what I would like to spend on a camera + a few other things. I would like it to be at least 6.5 megapixels, preferably.I've found some cameras but I don't know what's good and what's not.

What do you recommend?

Bob Bell

Duckys54 wrote:

I'm looking for a Digital SLR. Now I know that may seem like a very broad statement, but I've researched it some and have narrowed down on seem key conepts:

-The camera should have frontal quick acces to certain functions like ISO/Shutter/etc stuff rather than going thorugh menus
-how well does it function with software
-are a lot of accessories compatible

Now, in pricing and all that jazz, I've found some nice packages on ebay for $1,000. That's a general area of what I would like to spend on a camera + a few other things. I would like it to be at least 6.5 megapixels, preferably.I've found some cameras but I don't know what's good and what's not.

What do you recommend?

A grand is basically nothing in the world of DSLR's. Not to be mean just being blunt and honest. A used D60/ grip is 4-500. I keep mine around just cause I like the layout and its a good camera. That leaves you with $500 for a lens and flash. Maybe a 430 and a tamron 28-75 or so other options.

What are you trying to accomplish with a DSLR?

Duckys54

Bob Bell wrote:

A grand is basically nothing in the world of DSLR's. Not to be mean just being blunt and honest. A used D60/ grip is 4-500. I keep mine around just cause I like the layout and its a good camera. That leaves you with $500 for a lens and flash. Maybe a 430 and a tamron 28-75 or so other options.

What are you trying to accomplish with a DSLR?

A possible future. I've done shooting with your standard point and shoot digitals and old school SLRs. I've decided I'd like to take it up a step and show that I got what it takes to be a professional photographer, not just spare time amatuer.

cmason

Duckys54 wrote:

A possible future. I've done shooting with your standard point and shoot digitals and old school SLRs. I've decided I'd like to take it up a step and show that I got what it takes to be a professional photographer, not just spare time amatuer.

Well you can easily get the Canon Rebel XT or Nikon D50 or 70s with kit lens for $1000. Also, the Olympus e-500/300 get good reviews. These are essentially equivalent in terms of features etc.

From there, you should really hold them in your hand and take a few pics to see how you like the way it feels, how the controls are laid out, etc. This is important, because that is really what matters: you have to like the rig and use it, since they are so similar in features and functions.

The nice thing about these "starter" dSLRs is that they are really very capable, just fine for pro photos (perhaps not pro photo shoots). More importantly, investments in accessories, such as flashes, lenses, etc can be carried over to higher end more professional bodies. (well except the Olympus, which I don't believe have higher-end)

Duckys54

cmason wrote:

Well you can easily get the Canon Rebel XT or Nikon D50 or 70s with kit lens for $1000. Also, the Olympus e-500/300 get good reviews. These are essentially equivalent in terms of features etc.

From there, you should really hold them in your hand and take a few pics to see how you like the way it feels, how the controls are laid out, etc. This is important, because that is really what matters: you have to like the rig and use it, since they are so similar in features and functions.

True. I saw those Nikons and fromt he reviews it said that the d50 was alright for point and shooters but for more professionals that it's a hassle because of sifting through menus. I'll check into the reb and olympus cameras, thanks bud.

Duckys54

Also, is there a way I can just type html instead of using the given stuff?
like <img src="
instead of clicking the picture and putting the url?

Owen

Consider it an investment for your future and go for a better model.

Mike Lane

Duckys54 wrote:

Also, is there a way I can just type html instead of using the given stuff?
like <img src="
instead of clicking the picture and putting the url?

BBCode.

Bob Bell

Duckys54 wrote:

A possible future. I've done shooting with your standard point and shoot digitals and old school SLRs. I've decided I'd like to take it up a step and show that I got what it takes to be a professional photographer, not just spare time amatuer.

I wish you luck with your dream. There is a lot more to being a professional than being able to take a good picture or what equipment you have.

wxwax

Ducky, is there any reason you can't go to a camera store and run through the cameras yourself, get a feel for the layout? That's easily the best way to do it.

As for buying a body + lens, I'll keep repeating myself here. You can buy a generation behind, get good gear used for a good price, by faithfully scanning the ads at www.fredmiranda.com.

swintonphoto

You can get the Olympus E-500 with a 14-45 lens, and a 40-150 lens for $800 online, or $900 in stores. In my opinion this is the best camera for the best deal under $1000. It offers a huge range of features, it is well built, and is 8 megapixels.
I recommend this because I have one, and I have never second guessed my decision. This camera is the best DSLR for under $1000 on the market.

Bob Bell

wxwax wrote:

Ducky, is there any reason you can't go to a camera store and run through the cameras yourself, get a feel for the layout? That's easily the best way to do it.

As for buying a body + lens, I'll keep repeating myself here. You can buy a generation behind, get good gear used for a good price, by faithfully scanning the ads at www.fredmiranda.com.

Sid, thats really great advice. I usually buy lenses used in great shape and save 10-20% and bodies are even a better deal.

Duckys54

Thnaks for all the help you guys

Duckys54

Also, you said there would a lot of work. I realize this, but what sort of stuff what have to know / do specifically?

Stef

swintonphoto wrote:

You can get the Olympus E-500 with a 14-45 lens, and a 40-150 lens for $800 online, or $900 in stores. In my opinion this is the best camera for the best deal under $1000. It offers a huge range of features, it is well built, and is 8 megapixels.
I recommend this because I have one, and I have never second guessed my decision. This camera is the best DSLR for under $1000 on the market.

The E500 with the 2 lens kit would be a good choice. I really like the quality of images that my husband is getting out of his.

wxwax

Duckys54 wrote:

Also, you said there would a lot of work. I realize this, but what sort of stuff what have to know / do specifically?

You're going to need to work a lot to maintain a very expensive habit.

You're going to have to work to understand the fundamentals of exposing an image.

And you're going to have to work to fully understand your camera once you buy it.

Bob Bell

wxwax wrote:

You're going to need to work a lot to maintain a very expensive habit.

You're going to have to work to understand the fundamentals of exposing an image.

And you're going to have to work to fully understand your camera once you buy it.

I'll add a few things to what SID said.

A great work ethic will open doors for ya.

When you create a book. No soft images, no missed exposure images, its should be great quality and on point as much as possible. This is your marketing tool, this is what shows clients you know how to create an image.

The other thing is, your client is an open door, they can get you more work, they can refer you, they offer you a lot. Deliver the best work possible on time and how they want it. TIFF's, CMYK, 8 bit vs 16 bit, etc.... The little things count. Learn how to make contact sheets.

EFOTOS

Hi there,

Here's my two cents...

I was in the same situation 18months ago and bought the Olympus evolt-300 2 lens kit. It was a great camera, really intuitive to use and had the direct access to ISO etc. This model is discontinued and on ebay for about$650-$700 for the 2 lens kit. Not sure on the differences but it has been replaced by the evolt - 500 which is around $750-$850 online for the 2 lens kit, a little less if you buy from one of the unknown (at least to me) vendors online. I also know Costco had good deals on them.

That said, there is a lack of accessories and ability of keeping your lenses and moving up to a better model later because there isn't really something to move up to. You just don't have the options you do with Canon. So as soon as I could afford it (and the prices went down) I bought a 20D which i LOVE LOVE LOVE.

If you are looking at this as a possible career and want as many options as possible my recommendation is to wait a bit, if you can, and buy a 20D. As soon as the 30D comes out and is widely available a ton of places and people will be looking to unload their 20Ds and the prices will go down a bit. Otherwise you'll probably regret spending the money on a basic camera that you'll just need to unload later.

Hope this helps and good luck!!

Duckys54 wrote:

I'm looking for a Digital SLR. Now I know that may seem like a very broad statement, but I've researched it some and have narrowed down on seem key conepts:

-The camera should have frontal quick acces to certain functions like ISO/Shutter/etc stuff rather than going thorugh menus
-how well does it function with software
-are a lot of accessories compatible

Now, in pricing and all that jazz, I've found some nice packages on ebay for $1,000. That's a general area of what I would like to spend on a camera + a few other things. I would like it to be at least 6.5 megapixels, preferably.I've found some cameras but I don't know what's good and what's not.

What do you recommend?

Duckys54

EFOTOS wrote:

Hi there,

Here's my two cents...

I was in the same situation 18months ago and bought the Olympus evolt-300 2 lens kit. It was a great camera, really intuitive to use and had the direct access to ISO etc. This model is discontinued and on ebay for about$650-$700 for the 2 lens kit. Not sure on the differences but it has been replaced by the evolt - 500 which is around $750-$850 online for the 2 lens kit, a little less if you buy from one of the unknown (at least to me) vendors online. I also know Costco had good deals on them.

That said, there is a lack of accessories and ability of keeping your lenses and moving up to a better model later because there isn't really something to move up to. You just don't have the options you do with Canon. So as soon as I could afford it (and the prices went down) I bought a 20D which i LOVE LOVE LOVE.

If you are looking at this as a possible career and want as many options as possible my recommendation is to wait a bit, if you can, and buy a 20D. As soon as the 30D comes out and is widely available a ton of places and people will be looking to unload their 20Ds and the prices will go down a bit. Otherwise you'll probably regret spending the money on a basic camera that you'll just need to unload later.

Hope this helps and good luck!!

So as I look it, and it seems like it is pretty good, but the one thing I am noticing is that there are no buttons for directly going a certain aspect to change it. For example, look at this:

See on the back how you can hit one button and be brought right to that setting? Well from what I've seen of the 20d is that you have to go through menus to do so. SO i'm a little skeptical about purchasing it.

Andy

wxwax wrote:

As for buying a body + lens, I'll keep repeating myself here. You can buy a generation behind, get good gear used for a good price, by faithfully scanning the ads at www.fredmiranda.com.

Or um, gee - maybe look right here at Dgrin.com first?

gus

Duckys54 wrote:

So as I look it, and it seems like it is pretty good, but the one thing I am noticing is that there are no buttons for directly going a certain aspect to change it. For example, look at this:

See on the back how you can hit one button and be brought right to that setting? Well from what I've seen of the 20d is that you have to go through menus to do so. SO i'm a little skeptical about purchasing it.

From where i sit you are missing the entire essence of what we do. What i make of your posts you want a DSLR that works similar to a point & shoot.Hell yes , they will all sit on auto.

I have a 20D & can walk around in front of a crowded room of punks slam dancing as i shoot the band & change settings as i go without taking my eyes of the subject...how do i do this ? well its this easy, i handle the camera every single day & have shot up to 600 photos/day. I can feel for the iso change & aperture as i walk.

Seriously im not having a go at you here.. but i have to ask ...are you familiar with ISO/Aperture/shutter etc & their relationships with each other ? Have you ever shot with a film SLR ?

Duckys54

Humungus wrote:

From where i sit you are missing the entire essence of what we do. What i make of your posts you want a DSLR that works similar to a point & shoot.Hell yes , they will all sit on auto.

I have a 20D & can walk around in front of a crowded room of punks slam dancing as i shoot the band & change settings as i go without taking my eyes of the subject...how do i do this ? well its this easy, i handle the camera every single day & have shot up to 600 photos/day. I can feel for the iso change & aperture as i walk.

Seriously im not having a go at you here.. but i have to ask ...are you familiar with ISO/Aperture/shutter etc & their relationships with each other ? Have you ever shot with a film SLR ?

Hahaha yes. I'm familiar with the relationship between aperture and shutter. ISO I'm still learning about a long with a lot of other things. That's why I posted this topic. So I could figure out what kind of things to look for in an SLR and learn about why I need them and what makes them important and etc. And yes I've shot a film SLR.

cmason

Duckys54 wrote:

See on the back how you can hit one button and be brought right to that setting? Well from what I've seen of the 20d is that you have to go through menus to do so. SO i'm a little skeptical about purchasing it.

Well, I will admit that going from a manual film SLR to an auto SLR was a hell of a switch...20 yrs ago. I really like what Panasonic has done there, it looks like revisiting some of the best things about a manual SLR.

Anyway, I have the Canon Rebel XT. Yes there are plenty of menus. But, it has (the 20D more I believe) custom settings that you can turn on to suite what is more important to you. For example I can change WB and ISO with one button, I can also change the focus pt without taking my eye off the viewfinder. Perfect? no. But dang good for a ~$700 8MP body.

Duckys54

cmason wrote:

Well, I will admit that going from a manual film SLR to an auto SLR was a hell of a switch...20 yrs ago. I really like what Panasonic has done there, it looks like revisiting some of the best things about a manual SLR.

Anyway, I have the Canon Rebel XT. Yes there are plenty of menus. But, it has (the 20D more I believe) custom settings that you can turn on to suite what is more important to you. For example I can change WB and ISO with one button, I can also change the focus pt without taking my eye off the viewfinder. Perfect? no. But dang good for a ~$700 8MP body.

Ahh mkay. That's good.

Red Bull

What do you mean menus? All you have to do to change ISO is hit one button and rotate the wheel one was or the other (depending on if you want to go higher or lower)

With Aperture and shutter speed all you have to do is scroll a wheel. I don't get all this stuff about menus.

juliejules

By the way, you can go to dpreview and get the complete lo-down on how everything on the camera works. Here's the indepth review for the 20D. Sorry if you know this already.

Duckys54

juliejules wrote:

By the way, you can go to dpreview and get the complete lo-down on how everything on the camera works. Here's the indepth review for the 20D. Sorry if you know this already.

Thanks for the site. I haven't heard seen of it before. Thanks very much :]

EDIT: AHHH
Information overload

Forehead

Olympus Evolt 330
Say, ANYONE!

What's your take on the new Olympus Evolt 330? The 7.5MP isn't the real eye-catcher here, but the HINGED live-preview monitor looks NEW for a DSLR. And does ultrasonic wave cleaning of sensors REALLY work?

I had been considering the Sony Cybershot DSC-R1 (called by a fellow D-grinner as a "crazy point-and-shoot"), but was advised that it's better to spend a grand on something you can change lenses on. I've since balked at buying the R1 for other reasons as well.

But yeah: that Oly' 330: any assenting votes out there? If not, why not?

Not everyone can afford a Nikon D2X (like ANDY)!

cmason

Forehead wrote:

But yeah: that Oly' 330: any assenting votes out there? If not, why not?

Not everyone can afford a Nikon D2X (like ANDY)!

My view on the Olympus 330:

Preview: The live preview is not that interesting to me. It brings limitations that I don't want for the ability to look at a screen. i prefer to use the viewfinder. I find the viewfinder better for composition, and it also helps stabilize the camera, ensuring that I get the composition I want and reduce camera shake. Holding the camera at arms length is less stable, and if I try to change a setting, like apeture or speed, it will cause the camera to reposition.

Sensor: I am not sold on the 4/3 image sensor. Not a fan of the aspect ratio, after spending years on 3/2. It is smaller as well, and I think real estate on sensors helps keep things less noisy. Not that an Canon XT sensor is that much bigger, but it is where it matters.

System: available accessories, lens, flash, etc etc is far larger for Canon/Nikon. Olympus has some new third party support from Sigma, and the 4/3 standard holds promise, but it isnt there.

Design: I hear the Olympus gets good ergonomics marks, but I dont care for the shape or the 'look'. I would go for the E-500 over the 330.

Size: These are small, if you care. The Olympus models are identical to the Canon XT in dimensions, though they are smaller than the Nikon D50/70.

So, while I grew up on Olympus gear, it makes lots of what I think are compromises, adds design features I am not interested in, and isn't as common as others. I don't want to spend time looking for things compatible with my camera. Whereever I go, to whatever camera dealer, they have stuff for my Canon. Olympus is rarer.

TylerW

cmason wrote:

My view on the Olympus 330:
I don't want to spend time looking for things compatible with my camera. Whereever I go, to whatever camera dealer, they have stuff for my Canon. Olympus is rarer.

Word. When I just picked up my 10d secondhand a few months ago, Panasonic had just announced their dSLR, for the same price I paid - only theirs was brand-spankin' new. I stewed thinking I'd made the wrong choice, but now I know I didn't. I only have a little experience with panasonic, but its all been good, but I love the versatility of my Canon and all the support that goes along with it.

Ducky - you might consider the 10d. If you don't mind buying second hand, they're great value for money. And I've heard it said before, I don't think there's any photographer I've ever heard of that put down the idea of saving bucks on a body so yo have more to spend on lenses. Its easy to upgrade a body, but you get to keep all the same glass. Nice deal, that.

Anyhow, best of luck to you. Sounds like you were on the same path I was - learned on an old AE-1, went digital, got everything I could out of point&shoots, and came back to big cameras with expensive lenses and big chunky controls.