So you got fed up with your compact digital camera and its limitations. You’ve seen those breathtaking photos taken with big black cameras. You want to be regarded as a real photographer. You might even want to make some money. Only one question remains: what should you buy? How would you choose? NB: UPDATED in September 2012 with the latest facts and figures.
Do you know what you are getting?
A dSLR is something many hobbyists are secretly lusting for, but they don’t know exactly what it is, except a vague notion similar to “it’s like my compact, only better”.
- Make sure you know the available options
If I had to describe a dSLR in one word, that would be “versatile“. A dSLR can be used for almost anything you want – from taking pictures of insects to weddings, landscapes or astronomy.
Advantages:
- interchangeable lens – depending on the type of photography you want, you can buy lenses optimized for that task, instead of the one-size-fit-all lens of a compact.
- optical viewfinder that goes through the lens via a mirror or prism – you can look through the camera lens for perfect framing and see much more detail than using the LCD screen.
- faster autofocus – the camera will focus much faster and with better accuracy.
- no shutter lag – there’s no delay in between pressing the shutter release button and taking the actual picture – you won’t miss that perfect moment.
- no delay in between pictures – you can shoot at least 3 frames per second (depending on the camera model it can be even 12 frames per second), perfect for action shots.
- less noise in low light – you can shoot in low light and still get usable image.
Disadvantages:
- size – you can’t fit a dSLR in your shirt pocket and if you get more than one lens, be prepared for a camera bag or even backpack.
- less beginner-friendly – compacts are designed for simplicity and instant gratification, while dSLR require some learning in order to be used effectively.
- no live view – not all cameras have a live view mode, and even those that do are not optimized for it, resulting in some compromises in terms of autofocus,optical viewfinder size and so on.
- no movie mode – not all cameras have a movie mode, and even those that do have significant limitations.
The disadvantages are getting fewer with each generation as more cameras come with usable live view and movie mode and even built-in help screens. There’s also a whole new class of “bridge” cameras with interchangeable lenses but with the rest similar to the compacts (Sony NEX 5 and 7, Panasonic Lumix, Nikon V1) but here I’ll be discussing “real” DSLR cameras.
Forget about brand
This is something guaranteed to cause controversy. When it comes to camera brands, people get religious. For some reason, people don’t argue loudly about HP vs. Dell or Audi vs. BMW, but when it comes to Canon vs. Nikon, people will defend their favorite brand to the death; if some poor soul dares to suggest another brand, like Sony or Pentax, murder ensures. I heard people saying “Nikons have the best quality“, “I trust Sony to make good electronics“, “I’m a die-hard Oly fan“, “Annie Leibovitz uses Canon“, “Pentax means value for money” and so on.
Choosing a camera based solely on brand is great if you want to show it off, but not if you intend to actually use it
There are five main dSLR manufactures (I list them alphabetically): Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony and a few smaller ones of which I will only mention Sigma because of its unique Foveon sensor. I took Olympus off this list because now (autumn 2011) they are in big financial trouble.
Let get this straight: in terms of quality, all of them are great. Sony got into dSLR business by buying everything from Minolta, so all of these brands have a lot of history behind them. Each of these can list innovations, awards and achievements.
When you compare two cameras in the same range (entry-level, advanced amateur, etc.) the differences in terms of quality or features are very small. I won’t attempt to debunk any myths (there are too many of them), but all manufacturers produce cameras with great reliability.
Don’t buy a camera, invest in a system
With compacts, most people would just buy the camera and that’s it. You could buy a Panasonic now and a Fuji two years later.
Choose wisely as you’ll be stuck with it
Remember how I said that the keyword for dSLR is “versatility”? It’s quite possible that in the beginning you won’t even know what type of photography you’ll want to do. As you gain more experience, chances are you’ll want to buy more stuff for it, so the system will grow with you.
A likely scenario: At first you’ll get the camera body and the included kit lens. Then you’ll buy a telephoto lens; then a flash; then a wide-angle zoom; then a polarizing filter; another flash; a remote release; a vertical grip; a prime lens; and so on. Myself, in 8 years I got 7 lenses, 3 filters, 3 flashes and a wireless flash/remote release.
So in time you’ll most likely buy new camera bodies but will want to keep the lenses and other accessories. Because of that, you’ll be less likely to “jump ship” from one brand to the other (technically you can, but you’d be wasting money).
Think ecosystem
By ecosystem I mean everything that’s available for a brand: camera bodies, lenses, third-party lenses, accessories, stuff you find on eBay, tutorials, seminars, and more.
Canon and Nikon are competitive and are likely to remain so for the foreseeable future, with Sony being a strong contender
While the brand may not matter, the market share does. Why? If you want just the camera and the kit lens, market share doesn’t affect you. However, if you intend to keep investing, choosing a big brand means that you can easily find all kinds of accessories for it, whereas for a small brand, you’ll have to hunt to find what you need.
Global market share data for 2010 shows Canon at 44.5%, Nikon at 29.8%, Sony at 11.9%. If we take in account all cameras, the order becomes Canon, Sony, Nikon. Read more on Bloomerg’s Sony, Nikon Narrow Gap to Canon With New Digital Camera Models.
- A wide selection of lenses always helps
In terms of market share, the safest choice would be Canon or Nikon. Both companies are widely supported and have a ton of lenses and all kinds of accessories (including many from third parties) available for them. After buying the business from Konica-Minolta, Sony invested massively, taking some market share from Canon and Nikon and squeezing Pentax and Olympus into a corner. There is very high quality stuff available for Sony (does Zeiss ring any bell?), but you won’t find everything you can think of for them. Olympus is pretty much out of the picture and Pentax’ future is uncertain.
A few quick searches on eBay to illustrate my point:
- “
Pentax lens“: 13,000 results; - “
Sony lens“: 28,000 results; - “
Nikon lens“: 45,000 results; - “
Canon lens“:62,000 results.
What features to look for
Get an entry level camera, save your money for quality glass (lenses)
All cameras boast lots of features; sometimes they offer the same thing under a different name.
Generally speaking, I advise you against buying a high-end camera as your first. The best camera money can buy will not automatically make beautiful pictures for you – if anything, the multitude of options will only confuse you. The forums are filled with people with Sony A900, Canon 5D Mark II or Nikon D3, all complaining that their cameras are “crap” or “broken” because they can’t get a decent picture out of them. Further, an entry level camera with a good lens will produce better images than a high-end camera with a crappy one. I cannot stress this enough: buy a camera body you can easily afford and save money for good lenses.
Resolution
Megapixels. We all know bigger is better, right? Well, like all things in life, it’s not that simple. Bigger resolution is great, but the final image quality depends a lot on the sensor size. Most dSLR sensors are about 24×16 mm (APS-C size). For them, as resolution increases, noise increases too. I’d say that with the current technology, 16 Mp is the right balance. Of course, the so-called “full-frame” sensors present in high-end cameras, with a size of 36×24 mm can achieve resolutions of 24 Mp – but we’re talking about your first dSLR, right? A 12 Mp sensor can give you a 12″x16″ (approx. A3 size) picture at the highest detail and much more if you don’t need to get very close; I made a 10 feet (3m) billboard from a 6 Mp image. Higher resolutions allow you to crop large parts of the picture, but I believe you’re much better off by learning to frame effectively in the first place.
Live view
- A tiltable LCD may come in handy
With compact cameras, you pretty much rely on the back LCD to show what you’re doing in a WYSIWYG fashion, with the optical viewfinder (if it existed at all) being nearly unusable. Until recently, dSLRs did not have a live view on LCD at all.
LCDs can be useful, but they do lead to drawbacks in design and performance; most notably, if you use Live View, the autofocus will be again slow, negating the speed advantages of SLRs over compacts. If you feel you must have it, make sure the LCD can be tilted, so you can look at it with camera over head or very close to the ground. It’d be also worth looking into the a55 and a65 SLT line from Sony, a new breed of cameras that essentially eliminate the problems associated with Live View.
Movie mode
Another feature adopted from compacts, some newer dSLRs have a movie mode, usually HD. Movies on dSLR is a mixed bag. On one hand, it can get you a beautiful, film-like look; on the other hand it’s severely limited in terms of autofocus and exposure, making it useful only for controlled environments with little motion. The only camera I’d use to record fast action would be Sony SLT line. Canon now offers a “hybrid AF” solution but it requires special lenses that are not widely available yet.
Optical stabilization
Shooting in low light and/or with telephoto lenses can be tricky without a tripod. Almost all dSLR cameras have some sort of stabilization. There is a trick though: Canon and Nikon provide stabilization in their lenses (“IS” lenses for Canon and “VR” lenses for Nikon), while Sony, Pentax and Olympus have the stabilization feature in camera body. The difference is very important because for Canon and Nikon you need to buy IS/VR lenses, which are quite more expensive than ‘normal’ lenses, while with the other manufacturers the stabilization will work with any lens. The effectiveness of stabilization is about the same in both philosophies (3-4 stops); the stabilized lenses have the advantage of you seeing the actual stabilized image in the optical viewfinder, while stabilized bodies enable you to use any lens for the same effect.
In-body motor
Some Nikons do not have an in-body autofocus lens motor. This means that although the camera itself is relatively inexpensive and small, you need to spend extra on lenses with built-in motors.
Hold it in your hand
Actually holding the camera in your hand can help you decide
Even if you plan on buying your camera online, I still recommend you to actually walk into a store and hold the camera in your hand and take a few pictures. All the features in the world don’t matter one bit if you hate the way it looks or it’s not comfortable in your hand or you find the layout of the buttons cumbersome. When I bought my first dSLR (after years of using a film one), I had my eyes on a certain camera based on reviews and pictures, but in my hand it felt cheap and uncomfortable.
Don’t bother asking the salesperson for advice on what to buy; chances are they are either clueless or biased toward a brand or will try to steer you to an expensive model.
Final thoughts
I tried to keep this guide as unbiased as possible and provide you with information to help you make a decision, rather than make a decision for you. Below, I’m listing some cameras on Amazon that at this time (September 2012) I believe would be good choices for you:
| Canon EOS 650D | Nikon D3200 | Sony Alpha a37 |
|---|---|---|
| Pros: Good balance of features Cons: Price |
Pros: Highest resolution Cons: Fixed LCD, lacks some features |
Pros: Quick Live View, In-body stabilization, Highest FPS, fast AF in movies Cons: Electronic viewfinder only, small LCD |
Hi Armand
I am looking to buy my first DSLR – I will only be using it to take photos of my kids, pets, family holidays etc. I just want something basic and easy to use and not too bulky – I don’t think I will want to get more involved at theis stage other than taking photos for fun.
Someone at the camera shop recommended I get a Canon EOS M (EF-M 18-55 IS STM, EF-M 22 STM KIT, SPEEDLITE 90EX)
What would you suggest?
Thank you
The EOS M is not really a DSLR, it’s a “mirrorless” (there’s no clear name for this range of cameras; they use DSLR sensors and interchangeable lenses in a smaller body without the optical viewfinder). In this segment I really like Sony NEX-5R. Have a look at it before getting the Canon.
Hi,
Im wanting to buy my first DSLR, I recived an old Minolta film camera a while ago. Becuase of this it has made me want to buy a DLSR. As a 14 year old my budget isnt too high, around $800 (because i work)
Im looking to use it to take photos of the pets. family etc. but to also start exploring more creative possiblilies with it, as in using it as a hobby. If you get what I mean?
I was hoping you could recomend a DLSR that would be suited for my needs
Thanks
Victoria, do you have some lenses with the old Minolta camera? If so, it may be worth getting a Sony DSLR since the lenses will work fine.
I was interested to see your comment about using old Minolta lenses with a Sony DSLR. I was an avid photographer and bought a Minolta X-700 in the early 80s. I used to do all kinds of photography (outdoor, vacation, family, pets, creative, etc) and enjoyed the manual aspect of my X-700.
If I were to leverage my Minolta lenses, which Sony DSLR would you recommend?
Any Sony alpha would work, so it’s more a matter of budget. Since you are already a photographer and don’t need to learn the basics, I’d suggest Sony A58 or Sony A77. The full-frame A99 is their top of the line camera, but it’s $2800…
Hi Armand, great article and site!
I recently lost my Nikon D90, and now that I need to replace it I don’t know if I should get the D90 again or upgrade. I am of medium skill level now that I have learned the ropes of photography, and I mostly shoot outdoors, some still some motion, but also need to use the camera for product photos for my business. Any suggestions, or should I just stick with what I know in the D90? Great advice to go into a store and actually hold the cameras, I will definitely be trying that:)
Kerry, the D90 used to be a great camera, but it’s several generations behind. You’d benefit from a new body. The current best replacement would be a Nikon D7000 or maybe the upcoming D5200 (although personally I’d choose the D7000). Best of luck!
I am looking to purchase my first dSLR. I read what you said, but confess I am stuck on Canon in my head. That being said, I am open. I have three kids that I take pictures of at dance, baseball, basketball and soccer. I want the camera for vacation and holiday photos. Your suggestions for brand and model would be appreciated.
Ron, regardless of the camera, indoor sports is a difficult subject. What you need first is a camera capable of high fps and second a good lens.
I’d recommend a Canon T4i body ($650 on Amazon) and a Canon 18-200mm lens.
The camera allows 5 fps and it’s quite capable and you can use the lens both for travel and for sports. It’s not a great lens but it’s versatile and fits your interests. When travelling it’s great to have one lens for a variety of situations rather than 3-4 different lenses. If you’re serious about photography, I recommend you buying some better / more dedicated lenses, but only later (A Canon 70-200 F/2.8 is great for low-light sports but it’s over $1700!)
I have used a sony compact for all my photography hobbies and needs,am planning to buy a DSLR…..i havent used one as such and i want to use it to develop my skill in photography.My budget for the camera is roughly 500$,so that i can spend a few more on lens…….Can u please suggest a few camera bodies and lenses.I have interest in macro photography and landscape .i will also be using it for family moments……
Not sure about prices in your region, but you should look into a Canon T2i (550D).
Thank you.
If it were a NIKON, what would u suggest ?
Nikon 3200D
Hi,
I’m a photography beginner and would like to invest in a DSLR.
My requirements are as follows:
- can take good/excellent quality of photos/videos;
- optical zoom as big as possible (X21 is already good?);
- more interested in sunset/night/winter/waterfall/rainbows sceneries pictures/videos;
- not too heavy/big camera, more convenient to take during travels;
- any touch-screen interface for settings ? (something like Galaxy Camera)
Can you pls recommend me which DSLR camera ? (I don’t really care of the brand).
Thanks
Jean-Louis, DSLRS don’t come with built-in lenses, you have to purchase them separately.
Based on your comment, I suggest you have a look at the Sony NEX line of cameras, specifically the NEX 5R.
Hi, I want to buy my first DSLR, but I am still confused on how to choose the one right for me. I want a DSLR that can take good quality photos of landscape, pets, portraits and family. Photography is my hobby and I want to be able to be creative and explore different options/possibilities with settings. As a 16 year old I can’t afford to spend more than $1,000. Could you recommend some DSLR, different brands (Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc.)? Thanks!
Vanessa,
given your age, interests and budget, I would suggest the Canon Rebel T4i + 18-135mm lens. It’s $860 on Amazon. This setup gives you a lot a flexibility and room to grow. If you’re serious about your hobby, you’ll be able to get filters, flashes and more specialized lenses. Best of luck!
Hello,
I’m interested in buying my first DSLR camera and have been doing research on several different sites. I still don’t know what I really need to look for. The camera I need will have to work well in low light settings. I am the owner of a lounge and want to use the camera for taking pictures of our customers having a good time. I have no experience with DSLR cameras but am a pretty fast learner with most things so I don’t want to buy one that I will outgrow too quickly. Neither my husband or I have brand loyalties, we just want a camera that works better than our Sony point and shoot. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks in advance!
For your low-light use I recommend a simple camera with 14-16 Mp like the Nikon D3100. It has the advantage of less noise than a 18-24 Mp camera, and not as expensive as a “full frame” camera.
You’ll most likely need a fast lens – one that allows for wide apertures so you can use it in low light properly. These lenses are usually fixed (primes) as opposed to “zoom” lenses so you’ll have to pick one depending on the type of shots you usually do – if you want wider shots, choose a Nikon 35mm F/1.8 or if you prefer closeups, a 50mm F/1.8 or even a 85mm F/1.8
Hello,
as everybody, I want to buy my first DSLR camera. I am a master biology student so my main interest in photography is about nature. I have been using a Canon Powershot sx100 IS for some years but I want to get it to the next step. One of my first objective is to make birds photographies (so I am looking for a good lens with stabilization as well). I also take a lot of picture of plants/lichens/insects (so I might want a macro lens as well). Of course I will make landscape photos and I would like to be able to take decent shots at the comet Ison in the end of 2013 (so night photos without too much noise).
I have read a couple of reviews, jumped from a forum to another, and I would most likely go with Nikon or Canon (I may want to upgrade the camera in the futur but keep my lens). However, I don’t know what to choose between the Nikon D3100, D3200, D5100 or the Canon rebel T4i or T2i. Canon seems a little bit overprice for the quality you get with Nikon…
One of my friend has a Nikon D3100 with a Nikon AF-S VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G IF-ED and she’s making very nice photos of birds! Any reasons I should go with the D3200, D5100 or T4i instead?
Thanks in advance!
Laurent, I recommend the Nikon D5200 or D3200 for you. The 24 Mp sensor will come in handy for you because it will allow you to crop the image nicely (think of it as a digital zoom), important when doing both macro photography and small birds.
Hello,
I’m looking to buy my first DSLR camera, I’ve narrowed my choices down to two: the canon 650d and the nikon d5200. They are being sold for exactly the same price at a local store and I’m trying to figure out which is best for me. I mostly take macro shots and pictures of my family (vacations, younger siblings etc.) I am a student, so I won’t be able to upgrade for a few years at least, I don’t want to outgrow the camera very soon. Any advice? Thank you in advance
There’s very little practical difference between the two cameras given your interests, although I’d give the Nikon D5200 a very slight edge. My advice, go to the local shop, try both cameras, choose the one it feels better in your hand. If you still can’t decide, get the D5200.
Dear Armand,
I am an Architecture student. I need to take photos for my Architecture projects, for my portfolio etc. I will be taking photos of landscapes, buildings, interiors, streets and my Architecture models. I would like to buy a DSLR camera . I have never handled one before. My friends suggest canon 650D, but, I am quite confused as to what is camera body & then camera kit.I do not know the difference. Kindly advise which camera would be suitable for me. Also I intend using it at least for the next 4 years. Thanks
Rivi, DSRLs have interchangeable lenses. You can buy just the camera body (without any lens) or as a “kit” – the body and a lens.
For architecture a Canon 650D will suffice, but you will definitely need an ultra-wide lens. A Sigma 10-20mm should be fine. There’s also the Canon 10-22, but it’s 50% more expensive.
Hi Ron,
Im a beginner and i want to take pictures/videos of my family and pets. what can you suggest on this. i have a budget of around $700. thanks
Get a Sony a57 or the new Sony a58. You’ll like it.
Hello Ron,
I am a travel enthusiast and also a sports fan. I now have a nikon d3200 with 18-55mm lens. I am not thoroughly satisfied with the result. I am looking for a cam that has great picture quality and resolution. Is nikon d800E a good choice. I haven’t worked with that piece yet. I also make short documentaries. What would you suggest?
For travel I recommend a superzoom, something in the 18-200 range. I hate bringing lots of lenses with me when I travel and switching them in the middle of the street.
The Nikon D3200 is OK for travel but not ideal for sports. The D800 is Nikon’s flagship and the best DSLR you can buy at this moment, but it’s a full-frame and I can’t recommend it unless you’re very serious about photography and/or its hefty price won’t impact your finances. You’ll need a good zoom lens for sports too, Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8.
Hello Ron,
I want to purchase a dslr and searching for a good one,I Iike to do conceptual photography mostly and it varies a lot depend what I want to capture. That’s why I’m hell confused which one I should buy, first I was interested in D7000 but than I move to D600 or D800. My intention to hold a good camera for long run. I have two manual lense and both are tokina which was fitted on minolta film camera, can I use those lense on any Sony dslr?
Yep, old Minolta lenses work on all new Sony cameras.
Nikon D800 is the top of the line but I would advise you to start with something smaller. You don’t get a Ferarri as your first car, right? The D5200 is an excellent camera to start with.
Hello, Armand –
I’ve been using a Sony HX1 for a couple of years. I like it, but I have Parkinson’s, so need a camera that will support remote shutter release. I do a lot of document photography, but my real interests are macro (snowflakes, water drops, flower depths, caterpillars, etc) and close-in shots of flying birds. Two opposite ends of the spectrum! I’d like to stay in the $500-$800 range, though I know deals can be had if one searches. I’m also comfortable with an older generation camera if it fits. Suggestions? Thanks!
Sali, all DLSR cameras support remote shutter release, usually via cable. The fancy models support wireless remotes. Although it may be outside your price range, I like Sony A77 for its 3-way swivel LCD. You can mount the camera on a tripod, rotate the LCD the way you like (it’s really very flexible), see and adjust the shot live, with the ability to magnify the view and mark the focus edgeson screen for focus fine-tuning and finally use a remote to take the shot. The Sony SLT-A77 body only is almost $1000 on Amazon.com, I think you’ll also need a specialized lens for nice macros.
Hi Armand,
Thanks for the article. I’m interested in investing in a “system,” starting with a MILC, the included zoom lens and 50mm f/1.4. I’ve been considering the Sony NEX series as you recommended to others, but I’m concerned about whether or not the lenses are actually compatible with Sony’s Alpha DSLRs. It seems that the the NEX line uses E-mount lenses while the DSLRs use A-mounts, and so the lenses are not compatible. Is this correct? Is there a MILC camera you would recommend which shares lenses with the larger DSLRs?
Thanks,
-Kevin
Indeed, the E-mount is not 100% compatible with A-mount. There are adapters but AF won’t work. E-mount lenses also have a slightly different design, so they look better on NEX cameras.
I don’t see this as a big disadvantage though. People who usually invest in mirroless (MILC) usually don’t want/need so many lenses. If you see yourself having more than, say, 3 lenses, it’s better to get a DSLR directly.
Armand? I narrowed it down to two. Which is better choice? Nikon D5200 or Canon Rebel T5i? Thanks
Personally I’d go with the Canon T5i (700D). The resolution is a just a bit smaller and has less focus points but it’s a newer design and several small advantages that make the difference (like 5fps instead of 3.5)
Hi Armand!
I really appreciate this post and all of your replies. I’m looking for a great upgrade from my very old point and shoot. I will use the camera for an upcoming three month backpacking trip (portraits, food, etc.) and eventually for taking photos of handmade products (for my online store)… I’m leaning towards the Canon t4i with the 18-135 lens. It’s definitely the most recommended to me when I ask for opinions.
That said, I’m having a hard time with the cost. After purchasing a protection plan/tax/camera case, I’m looking at $1000. I was hoping to spend $600. Do you think it’s worth the extra $400 to have a newer model? or should I take a look at older models (like the Canon t3 with a 18-55), refurbished/used cameras or even a really good point and shoot? Thanks!
Shana, if budget is a constraint, definitely look for a T3i instead. You can find a Canon EOS Rebel T3i for $580 on Amazon.com, and it will be just great for your purposes.
I planning to buy my first DSLR but don’t know what to buy. I will be using it to our town vacation, family gathering what do you prefer ?
If it’s for family and you are not attached to a specific brand, I’d recommend the Sony a58.
I’m at a standstill in selecting a DSLR and looking for another “opinion.” Had a Canon AE-1 for years (always shot on manual). Used it for travel, landscapes, weddings, portraits, mostly. 1.4 55 mm prime and 3.5 35-105 zoom (always wanted a bit more in zoom and greater aperture though). Looking to replace my set up (finally). I’ve looked at the T4i with the 18-135 STM and the 60D (which even without the AF on video, thought of still getting the 18-135 STM. Then they threw in the SL-1 and I thought maybe I should just forget about a better camera and go for convenience. I hate all the dialing in/menu searching for all the photo settings on digital (point and shoots) and so would also want something easy.
Hear there are downsides to ease of use on both the 60D (with the wheel and the need to hold in the locking mechanism to change back and forth from video to still), and on the T4i having no wheel and needing to “find” the manual settings for aperture and shutter speed.
Would love another perspective.
Thanks!
Carla, unfortunately there’s no “right” answer for you, especially since you have plenty of previous experience with the cameras.
My advice: walk into the biggest camera store in your area and try both cameras for a few minutes. Using a camera you’re comfortable with (size weight, buttons and dials positioning) can make all the difference.
Hi, first of all great article, very useful for ppl like me, who are absolute beginners. I have a question, it would be great if u could help me. I’m thinking of buying my first DSLR and my2 final choices are Canon 650D and Sony A57K – can’t decide which one to choose. What would you recommend? 650 or 57, or to wait a little more and get the new Canon 700D. I also want to shoot video with it (music videos). Thanks in advance!
If you are a hobbist and don’t care about the brand, go Sony. If you intend to buy lots of lenses, maybe earn some money in the future and/or care about the brand, go Canon. (Canon and Nikon shooters tend to look down on Sony and others, even though there’re no good reason to). Canon & Nikon are more pro-friendly (priority repair, more repair centers, more lens rental opportunities). If you’re not pursuing a professional career, none of these matter to you and the A57 is a very fun camera to work with.
I need a camera for my kids, family and Travel Photography. I need the following key features, Articulate Screen, large Sensor, Fast lens f2.8 . I do not mind going for SLR, but I am bogged with Canon vs Nikon as Nikon as least f2.8 or faster lens variety. Please suggest which System to invest. Could I go for Four Third Camera, do they have future. Does DSLR has future or it is end of life.
It’s not as much DSRL vs. Four Thirds as is DSLR vs. mirrorless. The jury is still out, but my feeling is that in the long run all cameras will be mirrorless (like the Sony DSLT cameras – AXX or their NEX line).
You can get a fast F/2.8 lens for either system.
Sony A77 comes with the best articulated screen out there and a 16-50mm F2.8 lens.
Hi Ron,
I read all your reviews , you are doing a fantastic job. Your dedication amazes me.
I love photography and finally i’ll be getting my 1st DSLR. The confusion remains hence bothering you. I don’t know whether to buy Nikon 5200 or Canon 650D.
I like abstract photography [object and places] , nature and food. Family n friends will always be there. But i would also make small movies like the ones in you tube.
I dont want 18 55mm so what should i buy as a 1st good lense .
* I love the macro effect, is that possible without a macro lens to a certain extent or do i need to get it to have a picture with a blurry back ground’*
Either camera will do the job. As you say, a better lens will make more difference than the camera brand. Personally I like the Nikon D5200 but it’s just a personal preference.
As for the “macro effect”, if you mean the effect where you make a city look like a miniature, it’s something done in Photoshop.
Hi, I’m deciding on my first DSLR after years of shooting with a Canon Powershot A650 IS. I used to shoot 35mm film so I know about manual settings and am so ready for a camera that can do more. I’m looking to spend about $500–$600 on the body, and I will use it mainly for macro (especially flowers), family, pets, landscapes and occasionally wildlife. I also love using Photoshop to make more artistic images.
I have an old Canon EF zoom lens which is about 25–200mm, I think, so wondering if it would work ok with a Canon APS-C DSLR. I also have a good friend who uses a Nikon D3100 as a hobbyist, so we may be able to share lenses at times. I’ve narrowed it down to the Canon T3i or Nikon 3200 or 5100. With either, not sure if I should get the kit lens or another one to start, based on my needs. I tend to be a bit shaky sometimes so would definitely need to invest in the lenses with stabilization.
I’d appreciate any advice or thoughts you may have. This is a big investment for me that I plan on using and adding to for years to come!
Thanks in advance!
Yes, APS-C Canon cameras support EF lenses (although their focal range gets multiplied by x1.5 or x1.6, so the 25-200 becomes 40-320mm). So if you’re satisfied the lens you have, it’d be smart to stick with Canon. Best of luck!
Hi Armand! Great article, very helpful. I am going to be traveling heavily soon and having some experience with DSLR cameras and an older Pentax film SLR camera, I would like to transition to a DSLR. What camera would lend itself to being very versatile but also very travel friendly (I.e. light, weather-durable, long lasting so I will not have to buy a new body very soon)? I am looking to photograph people and scenery from my travels.
If you still have lenses from the film Pentax, it might be worth getting a Pentax DSLR, like the K-5 II. These are nice, solid cameras but unfortunately outside your budget. Within your budget you could get a Canon 650D (T4i), but it’s not rugged. Usually solid, rugged cameras with metal bodies and some level of dust/water protection are more expensive…
Hi.. i am very much interested in photography and so now i am planning to buy a DSLR but dont know much about the features and models… Ive seen people fighting over nikon vs canon but i didnt find much of a difference in picture quality.so i decided to buy canon D650.. i used nikon D3100 once and the picture colours came outbrilliant …then i used my friends D650 and i dont know why i wasnt very satisfied with the result…now i dont know was it because i didnt know about the proper settings or realy theres a difference between both the brands?… Please suggest me a camera .. i just want to click pictures everywhere and they should look like the ones taken somewhat professionaly!… thank you so much for the article and your help..
Really any camera will do, you just need to learn the basics (like proper white balance) and color settings. If you like the D3100, go for it!
Is the sensor size going to create any problem? I am confused between canon 60D and the Nikon D5200. the sensor size of the nikon is more along with more focus points. other features are better at the canon. what shall i go for? I have been confused for a long time.
I recommend Nikon D5200, newer, better resolution.
great work Armand,Unbelievable passion
i take your advise of not to bother too much about the camera ,pls advise the best versatile lense i can get for my first dslr
thank you
In the beginning the kit lens should suffice, or maybe something in the 18-135 range. Start with a simple lens and get a better one after you reach its limits. In the meantime you can discover what type of photography you enjoy the most and the lenses best suited for it.
Hi Armand,
I have posted earlier but it seems like not displaying..I just wanted to know the best lenses i should have for my alpha 57 professional shoots. its more for wedding, travel and portfolio. kindly advice.
For travel, get a Tamron18-270mm. For wedding I like the Sony 16-50mm f/2.8, which great for video too.
thank you Armand
Hello Armand,
I am looking to purchase my first DSLR Camera. I am a beginner looking to learn. I will mainly be taking baby pictures but would like to use it for travel and sports once in a while. I have been looking at the Canon T3i and Sony A58 or A57. What would you suggest between these two brands and what type of lenses should I start with and what could be bought later down the road.
Personally I’m fond of Sony a58. Between it and T3i, I’d get the a58. As for lenses, for travel a superzoom like the Tamron 18-270 is a good deal. It’ll work for sports too (in good light), but if you’re planning on shooting indoor sports, you’ll need a much more expensive lens.
Armand, I’m going to be taking a photography class in the fall and wish to upgrade from point and shoot to a dlsr. I mostly enjoy nature and pet photography, as well as extreme closeups. I am leaning towards a nikon but have no idea what to start with or what lens to look for. Can you recommend something with a budget of about a grand? Quality is important to me.
Sara, this would be a good deal: Nikon D5200 + 18-105mm
Basically you get a very nice camera and a zoom with a pretty good range, that will enable you to make some closeups. It’ll be perfect for photography classes.