Want a DSLR - I need help!

[tukogirl]

Hi all,

First of all, I know nothing about lenses, aperature, anything like that! I have a kodak point and shoot and I think I have a good eye but the kodak is very obviously limiting my photography and I'm not getting the types of shots I see in my head, kwim?

I'm looking to spend $800-$1100 for a camera and possibly a lens or two that might be helpful. I want to be able to take several photos in quick succession. I'd like to have a camera that I can grow into as I learn more about photography. I'd rather spend a little extra now if neccesary than kick myself in a year that I didn't get a nicer model.

Anyone have ideas on something that fits this bill or know of any good camera purchasing info on the net to help me narrow down my options?

[WDW Scrap Princess]

I would go with the Nikon Digital SLR!
ah, a dream, I would get it in a heartbeat if I could afford it!

I would also get it at costco since they are so good at returns and exchanges!

[ILuvCrush]

Go play with some cameras at the store!! All the major brands entry level DSLRs are very nice.... offer both auto, priority, and manual shooting options.

You should have no problem getting a Sony, Canon, or Nikon body...a kit lens (usually 18-55mm or abouts) and a standard telephoto lens (70-210mm--give or take) within your $1100 budget.

Nikon and Canon do have a larger selection of lenses available...and are easier to find accessories at your local store than Sony.

The big thing is to find what feels the most comfortable in your hands... so go play!!! You really aren't going to go wrong with pretty much any of the top brands!!

[tiggernjen]

I bought my DH a Nikon D40 almost two years ago and he loves it...At the time I bought it they were having a really great deal on the camera...I got 2 lenses and a camera bag for around $899..Disney photo pass photographer use the Nikon, I believe...Anyhow they did the last year...My DH asked what brand camera they used...
My DS had his engagement pictures taken by a professional photographer 2 weeks ago and we were there watching their dog while they were his getting their pictures taken...My DH brought his camera and took over 400 pictures, my DS friends thought that the pictures my DH took were from the professional...
I wish I would have waited a little longer, right after I bought the D40, Nikon came out with the D5000...But he is very happy with his camera...

[disfamily07]

I would recommend any of the Canon's I have a Canon Xs they have newer versions out now. You can achieve the same with a Canon or Nikon but the Canon cameras and lenses tend to run cheaper. It's a great beginner camera as well and is something you can grow with. I'm always learning new things and just recently started my own business with it For lenses I'd recommend the telephoto lenses(70-300 mm) or a 50 mm depending on what you want to achieve. Hope you find something you like!

[tukogirl]

I ended up with the Canon Rebel t2. It came with the 18/55 lens (something like that haha) with image stabilization and I also purchased a 75/300 lens with IS. the only problem is that it is hidden away until Christmas, so I can't actually use it! I told hubby we can't do anything that will make me want to take good pictures before then

[hsmom]

So, do you get to open your gift "first" on Christmas morning?

[ILuvCrush]

yay!! Congrats and happy early Christmas Andrea!!

[Disney Baby]

Congrats Andrea! Christmas is only 39 days away!!!!