Best first DSLR............

[Redhawk]

I would recommend something really entry level (350D) & save up for good glass, in your case maybe a 100mm Macro (+/- 5K) & maybe a 50mm 1.8 (+/- 1K). The macro can also be used as a general purpose lens.

I was at a similar point recently ,but with less of a budget constraint, needing to buy a camera for my wife. My choice was between getting a new Pro body for myself & giving my wife my 20D or geting her a cheaper body & spending the difference on glass. I opted for the second route, got some great glass & can really see the difference.

I know of some pro's who are using lenses that are 20 years of age, motto, good glass delivers the goods & lasts, you can always upgrade the body in a few years once you feel you've outgrown the old one.

[Kirst]

Well it looks like I just might settle for a canon it seems to be priced really well. It also seems to be popular here so they must be good. I am looking for something that hopefully I won't necessarily have to upgrade, for at least a few years.

Would it be better to go for a 8MP or 10MP, I don't think I should go lower. I'll probably only get one lens, so which would be the best? Don't worry I am still taking photos and researching the different brands just would like to get advice from those in the field.

[HiltonP]

Don't sweat over 8mp -vs- 10mp, no major difference, and not a deal breaker. Also don't lock on to one brand just yet, both Nikon and Canon are offering interesting combinations.

Depending on your savings !! . . .

If you want to treat yourself . . . the Nikon D80 + 18-135mm lens, or Canon 30D + 17-85mm lens.

If you haven't saved enough (!) . . . Nikon D40X + kit lens, or Canon 400D + kit lens.

If the bucks are tight but you want to jump . . . Canon 350D + kit lens and/or 50mm f1.8.

[GavinvdM]

The 350D or 400D with the kit lens is awesome for someone who is used to a point and shoot. Believe me I know I had the experience. I would say if you have the money go for the 400D if money is tight get the 350D it is still an amazing camera that will knock the socks of any pro-sumer or P&S on the market.

[Leo Theron]

Don't sweat over 8mp -vs- 10mp, no major difference, and not a deal breaker. Also don't lock on to one brand just yet, both Nikon and Canon are offering interesting combinations.

Depending on your savings !! . . .

If you want to treat yourself . . . the Nikon D80 + 18-135mm lens, or Canon 30D + 17-85mm lens.

If you haven't saved enough (!) . . . Nikon D40X + kit lens, or Canon 400D + kit lens.

If the bucks are tight but you want to jump . . . Canon 350D + kit lens and/or 50mm f1.8.

And if you are afraid of landing in the water... but still want a DSLR:

- Nikon D40 with kit lens.

Was less than R4999 a while ago. Played with one in a shop overseas - was really amazed at the price/feature point offered.

Only 6 MP?

- 6MP with the right lens will beat 8MP with a mediocre lens...

- 6MP can be starter camera that can become a back-up when you buy a D200 / 40D

- It will beat the pants of any (r) any P&S, Bridge camera.


Decisions, decisions, decisions...

[Kirst]

It has been recommended that I get canon 350D, if got it would I need to upgrade or would it do the job for a few years. I hope to see a special like they have at ODP shop in September because at that price could quite possibility get another lens.

[bomtek]

run by a guy named Hedrus - go visit him and have a look around his shop (including his assistants ) and find out everything you want to know.

So its worth visiting ODP just to "tr-OGL-odiet" the assistants then??????

[Kirst]

There is has been a some discussion on another another thread about the canon 20d. What are the benefits of getting that one second hand? Where would I be able to get hold of one but im still in two minds about buying second hand.

[HiltonP]

Kirst . . . there are at least two in the ODP Classifieds.

The one benefit is that the 20D is a more capable and stronger camera. The other benefit is that 2nd-hand 20D's are currently selling for prices similar to a new 400D, and slightly more than a new 350D. Simple as that.

Kirst, beware of analysis paralysis! There are hundreds of folks out there pouring over brochures, spec sheets, Internet review websites, etc, etc . . . all searching for the Holy Grail . . . and none of them are taking any photographs. With current camera development life cycles even Canon's very latest 1D Mk3 flagship will be out of date in a year. Canon have produced more than 80 new models in the last 10 years, other brands are little different. No matter what you buy it will be out-of-date in a year. Rather "focus" on what you wish to photograph, and then pick a camera to suit that purpose. If you've done that bit of homework right it will not matter whether you buy a Canon, or Nikon, or Pentax, or A N Other. All of them can deliver the goods for you, and you can begin enjoying taking photos!

[Kirst]

Update on my final choice for my first DSLR.. I have decided on the canon 350D. I am happy with what I have read about it the review and what not. It is also in my price range. I love the feel and look of the camera and hopefully will be getting it in plus minus three weeks, I am very excited. So anyone with the same camera I would love to know how you have found the usage of the camera and quality of pictures.

[BigAl]

Update on my final choice for my first DSLR.. I have decided on the canon 350D. I am happy with what I have read about it the review and what not. It is also in my price range. I love the feel and look of the camera and hopefully will be getting it in plus minus three weeks, I am very excited. So anyone with the same camera I would love to know how you have found the usage of the camera and quality of pictures.

I have two of them, and can find no real reason to change at the mo.

Well done on finally making a choice, I doubt very much whether you will be unhappy with it!

[GavinvdM]

Great camera Kirst I have the 400D but have a few friends with a 350D and it is really an amazing cam that you will love to bits! The first week it going to feel weird not having a little P&S but it feels really good. You'll also be amazed by how much better your photo's look! Great news to hear you getting one. ENJOY IT!!!!

[Kobus2]

i have 2 350s too. Great camera. Enjoy!

[Creeper]

I played around with a Nikon D80. A bit more expensive, but it works as a beginner and intermediate level camera. This allow you to have a tool that will satisfy your expectations as you grow in your skill. the 18-135mm VR is also a great start lens as it covers enough range for 90% of shots required.

[troglodiet]

...the 18-135mm VR...

The 18-135mm that comes as 'kit lens' with the D80 is not a VR lens.

It is a very sharp lens though, tad slowish but nice all-rounder. All of my landscapes were done with this lens.

[Creeper]

The 18-135mm that comes as 'kit lens' with the D80 is not a VR lens.

It is a very sharp lens though, tad slowish but nice all-rounder. All of my landscapes were done with this lens.

Oops. Sorry, my mistake. still a nice all rounder.

[Kirst]

Does anyone know anything about the canon 350D bundle special? I was so close to get the right amount and I was going to hopefully get it next week but now I can't found it. Now I am sad.

[C.J.]

Does anyone know anything about the canon 350D bundle special? I was so close to get the right amount and I was going to hopefully get it next week but now I can't found it. Now I am sad.

Did you check with Hedrus?

[Kirst]

Waiting for him to get back to me.

[Kirst]

Hi all

I have decided to rather get the canon 400d instead of the 350D. So if anyone knows where i can get i really good deal for the 400D (second or new). Please let me know.