Help with my first DSLR please

[Milo10]

Hello,

I consider myself a beginner in the world of digital photography. I've had an interest for a long time, and enjoy taking photos with my compact digital camera. However, I'm really keen to purchase a DSLR and would appreciate some advice in my choice of camera. I'm sure you can appreciate that this can feel somewhat overwhelming considering the array of cameras out there! So I have a few questions...

My preference is for a Canon (my compact is great and I've heard nothing but encouraging comments from a few friends). I've been doing some research around the 500d and wondering whether this might be a good starting point? As I've read more reviews, the 550d is clearly very highly regarded, although ultimately I want to choose a camera because of the potential for great photographs, not movies. What do you think about these two cameras?

I do have some questions regarding lenses. A few people I've spoken with have recommended buying the camera body only without the standard kit lens (18-55mm) and spending what I save on a higher quality lens (18-135mm?). A couple of people I've spoken to have even recommended buying a cheaper camera body (30d, 40d, or 1000d) and spending the rest of my money on lenses. This seems to make sense to me. What do you think about this? I visited my local camera shop this afternoon and the guy there recommended the 50d and a better lens. He also handed me the 500d with a 18-135mm lens??

Thank you!

[ALwin]

Whether you choose 500D or 550D you won't go wrong with either as a first DSLR. As for lens, 18-55 is an OK kit lens but of course that would mean getting a second lens for longer focal lengths. So perhaps 18-135 or 18-200 may be better choices for starter lenses.

Also check out the 'second-hand' market from a trusted/reliable store or place for lenses, sometimes you can find great deals. These can save you big bucks for good glass.

Now I would suggest not to disregard the Nikon cameras. Try them out also and see what you feel comfortable with.

[ravens-eye]

The 500D was my choice when I started and I have not outgrown it yet (although the 5D mkII is calling ) and I have never looked back. I was torn between the 500D and the Nikon D5000 as they were very similar but the Canon just felt better for me and was improved upon even more with a battery grip.

I researched the lenses and found that they were going to be cheaper for me and I had more options available when it came to used ones if I went with Canon also. As an example, the Canon 50mm prime lens (one that should be in everyone’s bag) is the cheapest 50mm of all the main brands and gives great quality images. I don’t think the 550D offers enough to warrant the extra money and you would better off using that extra money going towards new kit (because that road is never ending!!!!!)

I found the Kit lens a great starting point and still use it today.

Best advice I can give is. Consider your budget than research research research and when you have a few options get in the shop and try them out. Take some memory cards with you, then when you get home compare the quality and after everything, make your own decision.

I came on here when I started asking for advice about what to buy and the best advise you can receive is "go with what feels right for you" as you will always have your Canon fans & your Nikon fans and at the end of the day, it's you that will be using it.

http://www.dphotographer.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=1932

Have a read, hope that helps and good luck.
Gareth

[db1]

HI

Did some research for my daughters first DSLR and ended up with the Canon 550D. I found this site gives excellent in depth reviews http://www.imaging-resource.com/ Worth a look I think

Good hunting Rgds David

[somneim]

Check on this website it is a great source to find lots of information if you are interested.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/C ... os550d.asp

I knew that there were some options to compare 2 models and it was displayed very comfortable to look.

I do not know but, I am fan of canon cameras but this model It is not worth the money.

[dickonclark]

I know the 5D Mark 2 is nearly £1700.00 but it is just phenomonal! I upgraded from the normal 5D and can see the difference straight away, The major plus point with the Canons is that they are fantastic with natural light as the ISO is 6400 on the mark2. I now do all my indoor shots inside without flash which gives some lovely atmospheric shots! With the 2.8 lens I can shoot virtually in candlelight

http://www.dickonclark.co.uk

[Troy]

I have used the 550D, and it was a great camera. But I don't think it will be much of an improvement over the 500D if you are not after video capture.

However, as mentioned before, don't disregard Nikon so quickly. I never used a Nikon until my first (and still current) DSLR. Managed to get my D50 for a good price second hand, and have been building my lens collection. The Nikon range to me just feels better in the hand, and seems to feel natural. So if you haven't already done it, get back to the shop and start handling some Nikons. You never know.

But to be honest, most of the modern DSLRs will be more than good enough for the beginner. They pack so many features and will keep you happy for years before you can afford to upgrade. My one main piece of advice would be to stick to larger brands, because the choice of lenses and accessories is vast.

Oh and if you want any more recommendations for lenses or other equipment, it could be an idea to include budget. Then we could give you more precise ideas.

[ashi]

Canon 550d is a good choice if you want photo + movie but if you are not much concerned about movies than a better choice I feel is Canon 40d.It has a Pentaprism viewfinder, also has faster shutter speed, at the same time if you want full hd video recording , printing pictures in big size, ISO boost upto 12,800 than Canon 550d is the choice. Better way is to go to the shop and try out both.