DSLR Cameras (2 Viewers)

[Aquawhite]

Do you use them? If so, what DSLR is your favourite and why (what reasons make it superior in your mind)?

I'm going to hopefully get a rather entry level DSLR around Christmas time: Canon EOS 550D. I appreciate the HD video, great photo quality that I've seen others reproducing and the 18MP should let me print up some large shots without losing quality.

 

[ohexploitable]

i would get one if i wasn't poor

 

[Aquawhite]

Yah - they do indeed cost an arm and leg.

 

[imd94]

I was lucky enough to win a Canon 7D worth over $3000 two years ago. While this is a camera body used by professionals (and it's been awesome, I must say) the lens is what really makes images stand out. I used to use an ancient 6MP Canon EOS camera before getting the new one, and if you whack a good lens on it, the pictures you take can turn out better than those from my 7D which is 18MP. So my advice is go for a simple body and save up for a nice lens that will give you nice depth of field or high quality zoom or whatever it is you want for your style of photography. But nice choice with the 550D, Canon over Nikon anyday!

 

[cheezcake]

Nikon d5100 is on my to-buy list when I stop being so poor

 

[Aquawhite]

I'd definitely agree with you there. The 550D body is possibly one of the cheapest, with a nice screen and button layout that I'm pleased with. The 1100D has a terrible dot ratio on the screen and is smaller too.

 

[SnowFox]

Bought the GF a Nikon L110.

Not sure if DSLR but i wanna keep it now.

 

[Aquawhite]

It's not DSLR but is a high range compact camera. I prefer using DSLR with manual focus and zoom - greater aperture to capture light as well.

 

[Daniel_95]

I was lucky enough to win a Canon 7D worth over $3000 two years ago. While this is a camera body used by professionals (and it's been awesome, I must say) the lens is what really makes images stand out. I used to use an ancient 6MP Canon EOS camera before getting the new one, and if you whack a good lens on it, the pictures you take can turn out better than those from my 7D which is 18MP. So my advice is go for a simple body and save up for a nice lens that will give you nice depth of field or high quality zoom or whatever it is you want for your style of photography. But nice choice with the 550D, Canon over Nikon anyday!

i have to agree with this, photography is one of my main hobbies that i got into around a year ago by purchasing a Canon 1000d. Yes i know it is the bottom of the range beginner camera but as said before the lens is what makes the big differences. Camera's usually go out of date in 3-4 years and drop in price significantly compared to lenses. An Canon 'L' lens may only drop 10% of its original value over a number of years. Lenses also last a lot longer then cameras so it is not unheard of to have a great lens being used for 6 + years before a new model is brought out.

I am not saying that the most expensive cameras don't make a difference because they do especially in low light conditions with greater iso capabilities and also sport where faster fps is needed although in just general photography a basic new dslr will be more then enough to learn on. The Canon 7d is a great camera for sports and bird due to is very fast fps and also just as a general walk around camera. The full frame cameras such as the Canon 5d mk ii are more suited to portraits and Landscapes although do suffer more from vignetting in contrast to crop sensor cameras such as the 7d.

thanks,

Daniel

 

[CrackerMo]

Even though DSLRs are bulky and look pretty ugly, I prefer it over the normal compacts because of the amazing handling and processing of photos in comparison to the compacts (i.e Noise performace). DSLRs also allow users to shoot in RAW, while only a minority of compacts can, which enables users to have more flexibility in post-production. Overall, even though compacts may be the most convenient and user friendly, you won't be disappointed with the quality of photos from a DSLR, especially when you go travelling or go to an important event.

 

[Aquawhite]

Even though DSLRs are bulky and look pretty ugly, I prefer it over the normal compacts because of the amazing handling and processing of photos in comparison to the compacts (i.e Noise performace). DSLRs also allow users to shoot in RAW, while only a minority of compacts can, which enables users to have more flexibility in post-production. Overall, even though compacts may be the most convenient and user friendly, you won't be disappointed with the quality of photos from a DSLR, especially when you go travelling or go to an important event.

This is exactly what I want it for, and to take photos of other events.

 

[ohexploitable]

Even though DSLRs are bulky and look pretty ugly, I prefer it over the normal compacts because of the amazing handling and processing of photos in comparison to the compacts (i.e Noise performace). DSLRs also allow users to shoot in RAW, while only a minority of compacts can, which enables users to have more flexibility in post-production. Overall, even though compacts may be the most convenient and user friendly, you won't be disappointed with the quality of photos from a DSLR, especially when you go travelling or go to an important event.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirrorless_interchangeable-lens_camera

dslr sensor and lens but in a compact body

 

[CrackerMo]

In terms of performance, mirrorless cameras are still nowhere as good in terms of performance as the DSLR, probably because it is new technology. For example, you are limited to a small range of lenses which may not be sufficient enough to suit your needs and a lack of many DSLR fuctions. If mirrorless cameras were as good as the DSLRs, professional photographers would have all switched by now.

 

[meilz92]

I have a Canon 1100D. It goes alright. Wish I had some better lenses though

 

[Aquawhite]

I have a Canon 1100D. It goes alright. Wish I had some better lenses though

Gotta go with the kit lens, macro lens and a telescopic lens; then you're set. Getting the cash for it though is not as simply as thinking about it.

 

[rawrence]

550D was the first camera I got from last year christmas in a twin lens kit. Installed magic lantern and it's a beast!

Since then I've bought a Sigma 30mm f/1.4 prime and couldn't be happier

Only downside to the 550D was how light it was, it got outbalanced by most lens. Put a battery grip and it's all good now

Next step:
24-105mm f/4L

Here's my album if y'all are interested:
http://the-catharsis.tumblr.com/

 

[timeslowsdown]

I have the Canon 550d and I absolutely love it. I've had it for about a year, with the 18-55mm kit lens and the f1.8 50mm. I'd just like to say, that you can't exercise its full potential with the kit lens; it's not sharp and is horrible in low light. But when I started using the f1.8, I was absolutely blown away by its image quality; exceptionally sharp with excellent colour reproduction.

I wouldn't purchase the 550d solely for its high megapixel count. Sure, it does mean you can create large prints, but it has nothing to do with image quality. Image quality is determined by the lens you're using and the sensor size of the DSLR.

The 550d has an abundance of features; like you said, full HD movie, which is an absolute joy to use, and gives you the option to make short films. I love its design and the interface is so simple, but extensive.

Overall, the 550d is an amazing option for the price; I don't have any regrets, and can't wait to get new lenses to maximise its potential. In fact, I'm getting the Sigma 17-50mm f2.8 soon, which will replace the kit lens. I can't wait.

 

[Aquawhite]

What lens would be your recommendation for scenery shots, and macro shots?

 

[harrisony]

the best you can afford

 

[meilz92]

Gotta go with the kit lens, macro lens and a telescopic lens; then you're set. Getting the cash for it though is not as simply as thinking about it.

I presume kit lens are the ones that come with it? 18-55mm and 55-250mm I think is what i have now.
My life is too mundane for any nice shots though, plus I'm not very camera-savvy