New to Photography

[Smileychez]

Hi, I am keen learn how to take some good photots. I am hoping to join a photography course in September and they have told me to start building up a portfolio at the moment. I therefore need some advice on the camera I should buy to take pictures with. I have looked on e-bay and there seem to be a good selection of 35mm SLR's which are all reasonably priced. Therefore I would like peoples opinions on what make of camera they would recommend and the model and if possible why they would suggest that camera. Any comments and opinions would be greatly recived. Thanks Chez

[Axle]

Well first of all, what level of a photographer are you? Beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Since you're looking at 35mm format there's a wide range out there. You could get an all manual camera, a semi-manual, or an automatic (modren) SLR. Those are some questions you should ask yourself. Also I would go investigate what sort of cameras would be used in the course itself.

I won't go spouting brand names, although I'm sure you could tell which one I'm particular towards.

It's a great hobby! I enjoy doing the photography thing.

[Smileychez]

I am a complete beginner. Thanks for your suggestion about asking the course tutor what camera to get. Unfortunatly they do not know yet since they are still deciding this themselves due digital cameras growing in popularity. So therefore I have to start creating my portfolio without knowing which camera to use.

[Dzerzhinski46]

Some good questions to ask yourself:

1. Do you want to just point and shoot, have some control, or total control of your camera?

2. How much do you want to spend?

3. And most important, new or used?

You seem to have decided on used, as you said you were look at ebay. I would also say that, even if you get a totaly manual camera, get one with a meter. Working without a meter can be painful, and a meter will especially help you get good pictures in the beginning, when it is most critical. Make sure it is a center weighted meter as well if you can.

Hope this helps. Keep asking if you need help.

Dzerzhinski

[Smileychez]

I would like a camera that I can learn from (if that is possible) but something that is not so complex a beginner could not use it.

I looking to spend up to 100 pounds on a camera (approximately $170).

I was also looking for a used camera as my thinking is I will be able to get more for my money.

Thanks for everyones replies so far.

[walterick]

I used to sell cameras at a Ritz a few years back and the brands I always recomended were Canon and Nikon. Not that the other top two brands are bad, but I have good experiences with both Canon and Nikon and I know most photographers use one of these two brands.

Here are the basic, entry-level cameras offered by both:
Canon: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=371190&is=USA
Nikon: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=247088&is=USA

Both are good cameras, will let you do all auto or all manual modes (often photography teachers want you to learn in all manual but you want all auto for holidays and events, etc) Both will let you use every lens they currently manufacture. I'd check them out, look for them used from KEH, B&H, Adorama or a reputable dealer rather than Ebay as they will give you a guarantee.

Good luck!

Rick

[jar_e]

Well,

Everybody covered mostly what you needed, but I just wanted to welcome you to the boards! Always a pleasure to have new posters!

Welcome,

Jared