I'd like to make the leap from a traditional digital point-n-shoot camera to a digital SLR. I have owned several Canon models over the years and think that's the way I'd like to go this time around as well. Based on $$$ and reviews I've seen online, I'm looking at the Canon Rebel line - including the T2i, T1i and XSi.
I'm willing to put in the effort it will take to learn how to use the camera. The things that are most important to me are: Excellent printed images (color, clarity, etc), strong performance in low-light situations, and a good zoom lens (I realize that will depend on what addt'l lens I might purchase).
If you have first hand experience with any of these models, I'd love to hear from you - the good, the bad, the things you wish'd you known before purchasing it...
I love my Nikon D70, I've had it for a year now. I took a Digital Photography class last semester and had so much learning the different things on the camera and photoshop editing!! That was fun!!
NIKON!!
I used to have a photography business and Nikon's are the only brand I would buy no matter if it's a point and shoot or SLR. My cousin who also loves photography didn't listen to me, bought a Cannon Rebel and ended up hating it. She now works at a camera store and says she wouldn't buy anything but a Nikon now. Cannons have a higher return rate than Nikon, and more manutacture defects.
Before completely deciding on anything, check out dpreview.com
Nikon D60!!!!
I've had mine for 2 years. Abolutely love it.
Great images, both for beginners (Auto) and for advance photography. Easy use.
I've added an extra zoom lense. Two filters, polarized and clear glass(for protection). Just bought a external Flash. Love it.
I take my camera everywhere, Hiking, Fishing, Rodeos. It's has put up with alot and still looks new.
Oh and I don't take my kids to a studio anymore, I can get better photo quality than what the local studios produce. Just make sure you get your photos process with a good company, makes a difference in outcome, I like mpixs.com
Good luck on your choice.
I have a Canon Rebel XS and I love it. It takes beautiful pictures.
I have the Canon Power Shot SX20 IS. Really love it.
I bought it at Best Buy. In it's price range it was definitely the better camera. I wanted one that had the regular view finder because with my husband's camera you couldn't see anything in the sunlight and had to guess what you were shooting.
Victoria
I have a Nikon D40 and LOVE it....on auto it is a breeze to operate!!! Now on the down side.....My DS doped it about a year ago and I just had it fixed in Nov 09 and it took FOREVER to get it back!!! So I think Nikon's service dept stinks....but I do Love the camera!!! I know you will be happy to make the change, it makes SUCH a difference in taking pics of kids who move soooo fast there is never a blur to the pics unless you move and even then you have to move far and fast.... enjoy it!!! :o)
We recently bought the XSi 200 model with 12 megapixels and 12 optical zoom......love it!! Great features, easy to use and VERY reasonably priced compared to some.
Check out cnet.com. They have all kinds of info and reviews on electronics. Also check out consumerreports.org (you can see some things without a membership, but other things you have to have a membership- but it may be worth it). We bought a Canon PowerShot SX110 IS last year from Sams Club and we really like it.
I have also had Canons for a long time and last spring got the Rebel XSi. You will find the basic setup very familiar if you've been using Canons. I had a (non-digital) SLR Eos for many years and found the switch incredibly easy - it allows you to be as automatic or as customized as you want with settings. I am very pleased with the low-light results (I've tinkered with some settings and created a set that I like) - I'd put it almost on par with what I got with film. Same goes for the printed images. Don't be intimidated, though - it's not like I actually know what I'm doing. I don't actually know much about photography beyond film speed, I just tinker around until I get what I want. I agree with the other poster that taking a class (digital or otherwise) is probably a great idea - I know community ed offers inexpensive opportunities like that. I should probably do that myself.
