Part 2 in my series to once and for all answer everybody's camera questions, in my own, pointed way. Part 1 talked about advantages of DSLRs. Which one?
The two biggest players are Nikon and Canon, and you can’t go wrong with either. I went with Nikon so lean that way in my advice. I read about Canon often but still haven’t figured out their confusing naming system and overlapping product lines.
I prefer Nikon ergonomics, I like Nikon’s noise handling in the fine details better, the Nikon flash system is more mature, and there seem to be more Nikon users around my area to trade lenses with (a big plus when you’re getting started). And my Dad shot Nikon.
Your initial choice of brand is a commitment to the future. The add-on lens or flash you buy for your Canon today will not work on the Nikon you switch to tomorrow. To switch brands is to start over.
Buying new
You’re dropping a good chunk of money. Shop only at places with free shipping and liberal return policies, like Amazon or B&H Photo. Never, ever purchase at Best Buy, where camera gear is overpriced.
Everything is usually included, except for the memory card.
Good new Nikons
Nikon’s intro models are the D3000 ($450) and the D5000 (with video, $700). The new Nikon D3100 (with 1080p HD video) looks to be superior to both and is out in September 2010 for $700.
Nikon’s midrange camera is the excellent D90 ($850, no lens). There are rumors it’s about to be replaced by a new “D7000,” to be announced in late September.
All of these cameras take the same pictures, generally. Price differences involve low-light sensitivity, video capability, and ease of access to controls on the camera body. More expensive cameras have additional buttons, which means less digging through software menus.
Unless you plan to mess with aperture, shutter speed and ISO often, get the cheapest model. And start taking great pictures.
Part 3: Buying a Used Digital SLR
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