Buying advice for a beginner

[gonzoateafly]

Hello all,

I'm hoping you can help me pick the camera I should be buying. I'm brand new to DSLRs, but have always liked photography and really want to give my hand at it. I get a discount towards certain camera's through my work, so I've narrowed it down to the following options. None of these options has something over the others in terms of features that I really want, so that doesn't help me decide.

I'll also mention that I'd prefer to keep costs low, since I'm not sure if I'm really going to dive into this or not... however, if paying more up front is going to result in a camera I'll be much happier with, I'm willing to do it.

The cameras are:
Nikon D5000 - $579
Cannon XSi - $579
Cannon XS - $475
Sony A330 - $250

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[OldClicker]

Do you have any experience with photography; like with a non-DSLR? If so, what do you shoot now and what don't you shoot because you can't get it right? Do these deals include the kit lens?

IMO, I don't see how you could pass up the A330 at that price. You can pick up an excellent used Minolta 50mm f/1.7 for $50 and really find out if you like photography for $300.

TF

[Franglais]

First point: What are you going to do with the camera?

Second point: You never buy a DSLR body without a lens, so what lens are you thinking of getting with the camera? You can start comparing prices when you've got the whole cost. It usually makes good sense for a first buy to get the kit body + lens proposed by the manufacturer. The lens is almost given away and it lets you get started. In a year's time you will have more experience and you will have a better idea of what lens you want next.

Third point: Your list includes a current-generation Nikon and Canon bodies that are two and three generations old. The sensor and image processor of the Nikon are better than on those Canon models.

Fourth point: I've sort of led you into this but - if you buy a Canon 18-55 kit lens then make sure that it's the latest IS version. Users weren't very happy about the previous version and as you're talking about older models you are quite likely to get the older lens as well.

Got no clue about the Sony I'm afraid (but I see our resident expert has chimed in)

[Anbesol]

You sure those prices are right? That sony would be a steal at $250, I would be weary of the place that offers it at that price, that just doesn't seem right. If it is, no less, the Sony is certainly the best deal of those all by far. Its more fully featured than the XS which you are saying is almost double the price.

[gonzoateafly]

Thanks for your replies!

To follow up with more info:

-Yes, all of these include the kit lens.
-The cameras I chose were based on price... I know the cannon's are older, but I just can't afford some of the newer stuff given the economy right now... trying to be prudent, at least until I know if I'll really absorb photography as a hobby. ;)
-I have some photography experience... unfortunately my point and shoot broke and I just didn't see the value in purchasing another. I've always wanted to learn more advanced photography, so I think now is a good time to venture in!
-I'm interested mostly in scenery, landscape shots, and in night photography (stars, shadows, fireworks.. whatever). I do however do some with typical camera uses; taking pictures of friends and family and what not. I also would like to get into a bit of shooting bands - I manage a coffee house part time and do booking for events... would be cool to shoot some of them. I have also done a bit with macro shots and enjoyed them. So, I guess I do a little of everything?
-Yes, I'm sure of my prices and my sources (because of my main job, I'm able to order straight from the respective manufacturers at a discount... sort of a "try our product" promotion), but I do appreciate the heads-up!

[Ray Dockrey]

Where did you get these prices? There are a lot of places out there on the net that are nothing but scam artists. If it sounds to good to be true it usually is. We have a forum that has a list of approved sites to buy from. It is called camera dealer feedback.

[Frog]

If you can get them at those prices and not from one of the bait and switch stores, then your next step is to see if you can go somewhere to handle the cameras and see which seem most comfortable to hold and intuitive to use.
Also remember that you will be buying into a system. All the manufacturers make good cameras with advantages or disadvantages and its rather a personal choice which you would prefer.
Good luck and please let us know what you did decide.

[gonzoateafly]

Where did you get these prices? There are a lot of places out there on the net that are nothing but scam artists. If it sounds to good to be true it usually is. We have a forum that has a list of approved sites to buy from. It is called camera dealer feedback.

See my post above yours... coming straight from the manufacturer. But thank you.

I'm leaning towards the sony at this point... sounds like a lot of people I've talked to say that because of the price that's a great place to start and see what I like about photography... and when I go to upgrade I can look for something more appropriate to me. I'll let you guys know when I do decide.