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Gail's DSLR dilemma Blog
DSLR dilemma
I may buy my first digital single lens reflex camera. There is so much more to consider than I ever imagined and doing the necessary research certainly isn't child's play!
I went all digital several years ago, when I traded in my last single lens reflex camera. I've adamantly stated during this time that I don't want a DSLR because of the high cost, bulk and weight.
Admittedly, it was easy to be so sure of myself during a time when each new advanced compact digital camera improved over its predecessor. But this trend has changed during the last year or two.
Don't get me wrong, compact digital cameras are very good. They have significantly improved since I bought my first one in 2000. I always expect to have at least two compact digital cameras -- a carry-at-all-times ultra compact like my Canon SD700 and one like my Panasonic FZ18, a lightweight, full-featured camera that has a magnificent zoom range.
During the past few years, manufacturers started adding features such as face detection, smile detection and auto-everything modes instead of improving those that are important to me as a photographer. Worse, they stuff mega amounts of megapixels onto small sensors. As a result, image quality degrades when using high ISO numbers. Oh, and many otherwise fine cameras don't have viewfinders.
DSLR features I want
Good high ISO performance is at the top of my list as to why I'm looking at DSLRs. Some features such as predictive autofocus are much more effective on DSLRs than compact digital cameras that claim to have them.
Few would argue that, in addition to outstanding high ISO performance, DSLRs have better image quality, better dynamic range, faster and more accurate autofocus and the like. All DSLRs have hot shoes for external flashes, which provide superior flash performance compared to built-in flashes. There is also a wide variety of interchangeable lenses and accessories for DSLRs.
Other top priority features include:
- Lightweight with comfortable ergonomics
- Very good dynamic range
- Preditictive auto focus
I have a lot of homework to do! I'm off to class....
January 2008Things to consider
There are many, many things to consider when buying a DSLR.
The contenders
I've narrowed down my DSLR choices to three models.
Useful DSLR links
Links to helpful information for first-time buyers of entry level DSLRs.
Canon 450D / Digital Rebel XSi
The Canon EOS 450D / Digital Rebel XSi is more expensive than the two other DSLRs I'm considering.
Nikon D60
I've narrowed down my DSLR choices to three models and the Nikon D60 is one of them.
Olympus E-510
The price of the Olympus Evolt E-510 with its two lens kits is one of the best camera deals I've seen.
DSLR image stabilization
There are two types of digital single lens reflex image stabilization. Which is best?
Anti-dust system
Any DSLR I purchase must have a built-in dust removal system.
Predictive autofocus
Predictive autofocus is one of the DSLR features I'm looking forward to most.
Live View
Using a DSLR Live View LCD is different than using a LCD on a compact digital camera.
Canon XSi - my choice
Why I chose the Canon XSi/D450 over the Nikon D60 and Olympus Evolt E-510.
DSLR lens basics
Buying an interchangeable lens for a digital single lens reflex camera in't easy.
DSLR focal length multiplier
Understanding focal length multipliers doesn't have to be confusing.
DSLR focus modes
Digital single lens reflex cameras have three main focus modes.
