Whether it’s for capturing your kid’s first recital or the entire family’s going on a vacation, a good dSLR camera is a must. In the following article, we’ve listed some of the best SLR cameras for beginners so that you don’t have to miss an opportunity ever…
Since their invention, compact digital cameras have become quite popular among consumers to take everyday pictures. You can find pretty much everyone with such digital cameras nowadays. However, SLR cameras are still new and less common for amateur photographers. SLR or Single Lens Reflex cameras have helped transform the way we take pictures. Until 2005, only professionals would use such cameras as they produce high quality images due to its advanced features. Although that’s not the case anymore as many people are finding out the meaning of clicking high quality pictures. Now the question that arises here is, “Can an amateur photographer use these camera for taking regular photos?” And the answer is, of course, why not?
However, there’s a slight issue with owning just a SLR camera. If you have one of these cameras, you would have to keep changing the film every now and then. So, in comes technology and adds the word ‘digital’ in front of our cameras. The beauty of using a Digital Single Lens Reflex (dSLR) camera is that you can actually see what the lens sees. You can change the lens of the camera, alter the large image sensors which produce high-quality pictures, and they ideal for action photography as well. Now don’t get me wrong, these cameras are not of poor quality or anything, but since the advancement in digital cameras have skyrocketed, why would anyone want to settle for an older model, right? So basically, with these cameras, you can click pictures from vibrant flowers to F1 Racing. And I’m going to bet that sounds pretty amazing. And now that we know these cameras are the new ‘must have’ gadget, where do you start your research? Here’s an idea. We have put together a list which you can go through to choose one for yourself. Take a look.
Top dSLR Cameras for Beginners
If you are or wish to be one of those zealous photographers that has to have a complete creative control over the pictures, then this camera is right for you. These cameras provide sophisticated features which can be learned over time (with enthusiastic drive) and with wide range of convertible lenses and accessories for advanced images. Although, these features and camera specifications can get anyone confused, and eventually hinder with making a decision for themselves. In such cases, along with knowing which camera tops the charts (in no particular order), we have thought of providing you with the specifications of each of those cameras.
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
This was the first camera that had full frame digital quality. Canon EOS 5D Mark II is affordable, lightweight (2 lbs) and takes pictures like a pro. Whether you’re an amateur photographer trying to become a professional photographer or photojournalist, you can’t go wrong with 5D. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 1080 p |
Main Features-Resolution | 21.1 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 800 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 4 frames/second, 2.5 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 18mm – 55mm |
ISO Speeds | Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 30 – 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
Nikon D300S
Referred as the semi-professional camera, Nikon D300S has high quality construction and brilliant ergonomics. Basically, the camera is of APS-C (Advanced Photo System type-C) dSLR category, which means it doesn’t get any better than this. Although not much improvement has been made over its predecessor, Nikon D300S is in a class of its own. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 720p |
Main Features-Resolution | 12.3 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | No |
Battery Life | 1000 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 7 frames/second |
Lens Systems | Varies with lens |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
Canon EOS Rebel T2i
A great follow-up to T1i, Canon EOS Rebel T2i gives fast performance, excellent photo quality, and good video-capture quality. However, there are couple of cons for the camera; one, it has an annoying viewfinder and two, the control layout for video capture is a bit too much to handle. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 1080p @ 30 frames/second; 720p @ 60 frames/second |
Main Features-Resolution | 18 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 550 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 3.7 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 18mm – 55mm |
ISO Speeds | 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 1.04 megapixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 30 – 1/4000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
Sony Alpha a850
Although on the expensive side, Sony Alpha a850 is one of the winners among all cameras. Sony is among few of those camera manufacturers that have camera sensors which is a must (in my opinion). Even though Sony has taken a late entry in digital camera industry (along with high prices), this camera is not very different or has more over the a900 camera. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 1080p |
Main Features-Resolution | 24.6 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 880 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 3 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 28mm – 75mm |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
Nikon D5000
One thing’s for sure, Nikon D5000 is definitely worthy to stand head-to-head with D90. When you’re out to shop an affordable, less expensive camera, this is not something you’ll choose. However, Nikon D5000 gives brilliant technical image quality, is small in size, weight, and price (among other Nikon dSLR cameras). Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 720p |
Main Features-Resolution | 12.3 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 510 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 4 frames/second |
Lens Systems | Varies with lens |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 2.7 inches |
Display Resolution | 230,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 2 Years |
Pentax K-7
A competitive, well-featured, and well-priced camera, Pentax K-7 raises its profile substantially. Couple of good elements about the camera, especially for amateur digital photography is that it’s small in size, light weight, sensor shake reduction that works with different lenses, and in-body shake reduction as well. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 720p |
Main Features-Resolution | 14.6 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 610 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 5.1 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 27mm – 82mm |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 921,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 2 Years |
Nikon D90
A smart, fantastic camera from Nikon; one of the best DX format cameras in market. D90 has slightly better technical image quality than D300 and it adds many useful ergonomic features for faster handling as well. This means, you’ll be better prepared to take excellent images with this camera. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 720p |
Main Features-Resolution | 12.3 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 1000 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 5.2 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 18mm – 105mm |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 2.7 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 2 Years |
Canon EOS 7D
For our next camera, we bring you Canon EOS 7D; a semi-pro camera. Its autofocus is better than Nikon D300S and 5D Mark II. Hold the camera horizontally and vertically to take different focus point images for a 100% coverage. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 1080p |
Main Features-Resolution | 18 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 1000 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 8 frames/second |
Lens Systems | Varies with lens |
ISO Speeds | 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400 |
LCD Panel Size | 2.7 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 2 Years |
Olympus E-3
With new aerodynamics, Olympus E-3 has small, refined buttons and dials and is very comfortable in the hand. Plus the camera takes the advantage of offering less high ISO noise and high dynamic image quality range. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 720p |
Main Features-Resolution | 11.8 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 610 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 5 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 14mm – 54mm |
ISO Speeds | 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 2.5 inches |
Display Resolution | 230,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
Canon EOS 50D
Whether you’re an advanced amateur or professional-grade photography, this reasonably-priced camera has a APS-C sized CMOS sensor. Replacing the popular 40D, 50D adds live view, newly developed CMOS improvements, high ISO performance and enhanced noise reduction options. Take a look at the specifications for its standout features.
Specifications | |
Video Resolutions | 1080p |
Main Features-Resolution | 14.6 megapixels |
Self Timer Delay | Yes |
Battery Life | 620 Images |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 6.5 frames/second |
Lens Systems | 18mm – 55mm |
ISO Speeds | 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
LCD Panel Size | 3.0 inches |
Display Resolution | 920,000 pixels |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 second |
Manufacturer Warranty-Full contract period | 1 Year |
dSLR cameras are the next step, and something tells me we haven’t even seen the end of it. With huge advancement in technology, I’m sure that there will be better cameras with amazing features and picture quality each year.
Now as you begin to shop for your next camera, you might notice the ‘impressive’ price tag on them, and that can be a turnoff. If that’s the case for you, there’s really 2 things you can do about it. The first thing, wait for sometime so you can save up for the camera or purchase it when it’s on sale. And the second thing, go for an entry-level camera as they are quite affordable. With whatever you decide, once you do purchase a camera for yourself, it’s going to be the best feeling in the world. With just you and your camera by your side, the world really is going to be at your fingertips.