Hi, I would really appreciate recommendations on the type of SLR camera to buy. I'm a complete beginner who has always enjoyed taking pictures with my p&s camera. I'm now becoming more interested in photography and signed up for a beginner class. I would prefer a camera with a few automatic functions for everyday shots but with manual operations so that I can actually learn the ropes and build on later and one that does not cost too much. The camera will mostly be used for travel photography...landscapes, buildings etc. so I would prefer something not too bulky. I know these are very basic questions but there are so many models on the market to choose from. Some recommendations so far have been Minolta(because they are cheaper)maxxum 5, 600si and QTsi, Canon Rebel G, Pentax K1000 and Nikon N60. Again, I woulod really appreciate any advice that you could provide. Thanx for you're time.

-- Lisa Elliott (sweety_lisa@yahoo.com), February 19, 2002

Answers

So many good choices to pick from.

Of all the entry level cameras, I like the Minolta Maxxum 5 the best, but you might want to look at a whole system instead of just your first serious camera.

As far as whole system options, Nikon & Canon seem to be fighting it out for who has the most, but I think Canon's winning that contest right now. Nikon, Minolta and Canon all seem to try to be innovative, but Minolta takes more risks in introducing new ideas on mid level cameras. Canon isn't far behind, but often introduces them quicker on low end gear to see if it flies. Nikon seems more conservative and really only innovates with their high end stuff. Seems to be different marketing philosophies for each. Pentax has't been innovative since the ME was introduced in the late 70's. Okay, that's a bit of an overstatement, and this whole paragraph is all an oversimplification.

In the end, you should go to a camera store and try them all & see what you like. Then buy the Canon EOS Rebel 2000. :~))

-- Jim Strutz (j.strutz@gci.net), February 19, 2002.

Two ways to go here. 1. Buy a new low end autofocus camera, Nikon N65, Canon Rebel 2000, or Minolta 5. Get a 50mm lens 1.8 to 2.0 and use it until you are getting pictures you like before exploring other lenses or a zoom.

2. Buy one of the older used match needle manual focus cameras el cheapo on ebay or somewhere with also a 50 and learn more about photography - exposure, depth of field, etc etc.

Either way in a year or so you will know more about what you like and what you want and what will work for you. Just remember that Lilo Raymond said that photography gets harder after the first 5 years. She could make a beautiful picture out of a wrinkled bed sheet. Good luck.

-- Don (wgpinc@yahoo.com), February 20, 2002.

In your list, I only know about the K-1000. It has match needle metering, which gives you more information about under- and over- exposure than a digital or LED readout. You'll learn more about photography if you use a completely manual camera and lens. Start with the 50mm lens and stick with it for a year. Have fun!

-- Jaff Polaski (polaski@acm.org), February 20, 2002.