What is a good camera for beginners of photography in high school?

Question

I am going to be a freshman next year, and I will be in a pre-ap photography class. The class hands out cameras but I want one for home and being with friends. Something a little advanced and not so compact. Please help me out. Thanks for your time.

Answer 1

If you are taking a class that requires a film camera then get a 35mm SLR that will allow for manual control of the aperture and shutter speed but if you need a digital camera then you should invest a DSLR camera. DSLR cameras have the larger sensor so you get a higher quality images. You can change lenses which can be valuable, by allowing to adjust to different needs.



There are a number of good brands so don't be sold on the idea one brand is better than another. I would keep your costs down. I would get a DSLR with a short zoom (like a 18-55mm) to start. No reason to spend more than $425 to $550. Either a 10MP or 12MP will do just fine.



Below, I listed some links, the first link listed below is to a web page that lists the 3 DSLR cameras I am recommending. This list will let you compare features and specs, also it has links to reviews of the cameras, the reviews include sample images from the cameras. Also I included some links to some dealers so that you can try and get the best price. Some dealers have some nice extras, free shipping is very common, and sometimes they are offering a free memory card and/or camera bag. Sometimes you have to click in the “add to cart” button to see the actual price.



Here are some models that I think are well worth researching including estimated price range:



Nikon D3000 10MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens - $460 to $480

EOS Rebel XS (1000D) 10MP DSLR Digital Camera Kit w/18-55mm IS Lens - $499 to $525

Pentax K-x 12MP DSLR with 18-55mm Zoom (has HD Video also) - $485 to $525



Pick a price range, some features you know you want, and even consider which camera feels good in your hand as a factor. Plenty of great cameras, get one you like and start learning the principles of photography and you will be on your way to making some great images.



Most people go with Nikon or Canon but, I think the Pentax could be of special interest, since it can do HD video and has excellent quality at higher ISO settings which can be useful in low light places and helping get the picture. These features, especially the HD video, on a Nikon or Canon will cost you $100 to $200 more.



If you have any questions and if you think I can be of help then please do contact me.



Hope this helps. Good luck.



Mark



marksablow.com

Answer 2

Wow. It's awful that they are taking your darkroom out, considering how amazing the film camera is, and the effects only it can do. We don't even have one though :( However digital photography is very fun too! A warning: a good dSLR is expensive If u are a completely newbie, go to your local best buy or camera store like Ritz Camera (camera stores are better). They should have people working who know what they are talking about. Tell them that you are beginning, need an dSLR, what type of pictures you will take, your price range etc. and they will help you. If it is an artsy photography class then I would pick up a tripod, cable release shutter, a good flash, and some lenses such as macro and telephoto (I don't care much for fish eye or colored gel, assuming you has photo shop they are pointless) you will defiently need a bag and a lense case, and make sure make sure make sure that the person you buy from shows you not only how to work the camera but how to properly change the lenses, flash, etc. an care for it. Otherwise it will break after a short life! Good luck!

Answer 3

First, If you want to use the camera for your class assignments you need to determine if the course will require a film cameras, a digital camera or both. Many courses still require film cameras because they are very useful for teaching fundamental concepts and, because they do not provide instant results, they help students learn to plan their shots and think about how various settings will affect the final result.



Having said that you can find many digital camera models that will be very flexible. Many people are suggesting DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras however, if you are getting a digital camera, I think you would be wise to consider a "Bridge" camera. This is a camera that has many features of a DSLR camera such as adjustable settings, manual operation and rapid response time. What these types DO NOT have are interchangeable lenses, the larger image sensors of most DSLR models and (usually) true optical viewfinders where you actually view directly through the lens. The big advantages of this type of camera are ~

* They will be much more compact

* They will have a much greater range of capabilities "out of the box" (You won't need to buy additional lenses for higher magnification, close up Macro Photography or other special functions that are associated with DSLR models)

* They will be much less expensive (Your budget will cover the cost of many available bridge models plus extras such as a memory card and/or spare batteries).



Here are some links to reviews of some good "Bridge" models to consider ~



http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/canon/powershot-sx20-is/steves-conclusion-16.html

http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/panasonic/lumix-dmc-fz35/steves-conclusion-51.html

http://www.steves-digicams.com/press-releases/consumer-digital-camera/olympus-announces-two-new-sp-series-models.html

http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/sony/dsc-hx1/steves-conclusion-40.html



If you will need a film camera there are many used 35mm models available. Contact me (email) if you need help selecting a film camera or have any questions about selecting a digital camera.



HTH. Good luck

Answer 4

I just started experimenting in photography as well. I got a Nikon D5000 and it an ace! My Dad got it for my so I'm not sure how much it costs. But if thats out of your budget you should look at other Nikon SLRs. I have also used the Canon EOS 300D it's good and would probably be cheaper but I would recommend the Nikon pretty much everyone has!

Answer 5

I would go for a Canon Point and Shoot\

The Canon Powershot SX200IS

is an excellent camera, I've had Canons in my family for a long time, they have excellent lens and even though it's a point and shoot, it takes incredible pictures and 12 Megapixels is excellent. It's not basic at all, but you'll probably need a manual to figure it out if you want something beyond "auto" settings. It's a great, easy to use camera. It's about $300 I think Amazon has it on sale now at about $250

Answer 6

If youre on a budget but image quality is really important to you skip Canon and Nikon and go for the Pentax K-x. In tests it performs better than the Nikon D3000 and about equal to the D5000. See the comparison

http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/eng/Image-Quality-Database/Compare-cameras/(appareil1)/331|0/(appareil2)/320|0/(appareil3)/345|0/(onglet)/0/(brand)/Nikon/(brand2)/Nikon/(brand3)/Pentax



The K-x performs better than both the Canon XS and Xsi. See comparison here

http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/eng/Image-Quality-Database/Compare-cameras/(appareil1)/268|0/(appareil2)/185|0/(appareil3)/345|0/(onglet)/0/(brand)/Canon/(brand2)/Canon/(brand3)/Pentax



The Pentax K-x performs better than any camera in its price range and as well or better than some higher priced cameras. Go to this link and enter any camera models you like where it says “Compare Cameras” for comparison

http://www.dxomark.com/



The K-x has Image Stabilization and Auto Focus in the body. These are in the lenses with Nikon. AF is in lenses with Canon. Why pay for IS and AF over and over with each lens you buy? Having IS and AF in the body will save money on lenses for as long as you have the camera. The K-x also has HD video for the price of cameras with no video at all.



Here are price comparisons in your range from B&H Photo except as noted



Pentax K-x w/18-55 $521 HD video

Pentax K-x w/18-55 and 50-200 $625 HD video

Pentax K-x w/18-55mm and 55-300mm $715 HD video

Nikon D3000 w/18-55 $550 No video

Nikon D5000 w/18-55 $700 HD video

Rebel XS (1000D) w/18-55 $530 No video

Rebel XSi (450D) w/18-55 $560 No video



Full specs and features for the K-x here

http://www.pentaximaging.com/slr/K-x_Black/



ImagingResource

“The Pentax Kx has enormous value, thanks to its remarkable image and print quality, fine build, and class-leading burst speed, all combining to make one impressive digital SLR camera. The Pentax Kx is a Dave’s Pick. For sheer image quality at a wide range of ISOs, the Pentax Kx is tough to beat, especially for the price.”



DCResource

“The Pentax K-x is an impressive entry-level digital SLR. It brings very good image quality (especially with a decent lens), snappy performance, tons of features, HD movie recording, and good build quality to the table. If you’re looking for your first digital SLR, then the K-x should be high on your list.”



MacWorld.uk (Editor’s Choice)

“Ultimately, this is a beginner-friendly model featuring most of the latest must-haves”

http://www.digitalcameratracker.com/pentax-k-x-reviews-sample-photos/



Some will argue there are more Nikon and Canon lenses available. Its true. Check the prices. Can you afford all the lenses available? If you can do you plan on buying each and every one? There are more than enough Pentax and third party lenses available for any photographer.

Answer 7

I have a Canon Rebel XSi and i love it. I also wanted to buy a nikon d60, but my aunt (who studied cinematography) told me that canon cameras are better so i went for the rebel. It all depends on what you want. Maybe wait a bit before you buy it, take a few lessons and then maybe it'll be easier for you to decide. You can also ask you photography teacher which camera he/she thinks would be appropriate.



Good Luck!

Answer 8

Hi, I can recommend Nikon Fa, Fe2, Fm3a all are well built cameras which continue to stand the test of time. They dont cost very much and keep their value. They have everything you need to take fantastic shots and have a huge number of high quality lenses which they can be used with. Taking photos should be a intuitive and dont be fooled into buying a camera which has all the latest technology...most of it never gets used and will cost you a lot of money...if you want to spend money on your kit then buy a solid camera body and good lenses.

http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/

Answer 9

Photography Master Class gives you all the knowledge you’ll ever need to take photos that dazzle. It takes you step-by-step through every aspect of photography – from the absolute basics right through to the cutting-edge techniques used by the world’s most celebrated photographers. Whether you want to launch a new career as a professional photographer or simply learn to take better pictures, photographymasterclass. puts you on a fast-track to success.

https://tr.im/83353

Answer 10

You really need a DSLR not a point&shoot. Im a fan of the Canon Rebel but there are others that would be sufficient. You need a camera with the ability to add lenses, filters, flashes etc.

Answer 11

What's your budget? Are there any features in particular that you're looking for?



Edit: I would suggest the Canon Rebel XS or the Nikon D3000. They should both fit around your budget, and are good for first-time DSLR users such as yourself.

Answer 12

Nikon D60 all the way

thats the camera i got.

looking for a new camera now.

email me if u want it?

Answer 13

I don't know.



I just stick to the basic ones, no need for those complex instruments.

Answer 14

the D60, like he said, but maybe the canon rebel. it looks complicated, but even when everything is on auto, the pictures still turn out amazing.

Answer 15

nikon d40..

Answer 16

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/PENTAX+-+K-x+12.4-Megapixel+Digital+SLR+Camera+-+White/9555858.p?id=1218124207638&skuId=9555858&st=pentax%20k-x&cp=1&lp=1