... I've been using a Point-and-Shoot camera for years now, and I felt that I maxed out its potential. Sure, landscape photography is nice, but i've always been a wildlife guy & trying to be a wildlife photographer with a point-and-shoot isn't going to get you good results. It was at this point that I decided I wanted an SLR w/ interchangable lenses. I chose the Olympus E-420 because it was within my price range and list of features.

I've been learning and using this camera for a few months now, and I am very happy with the results. Coupled with a telephoto lens, my wildlife photography collection now includes over 60+ bird species in my area.

I would recommend this camera to someone looking to get a SLR camera. The price is great and Olympus Zuiko lenses are very cost friendly. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E420 10MP Digital SLR Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

... On my first day of field use the lens cap fell and broke. The second day of field use, the flash hotshoe cover was missing. On the third day, the remote cable cap was missing. The only cap that stayed on so far is the flash remote cap. When I googled online to replace these caps, I found out many users like me have problem about caps falling. Olympus caps is not covered by the warranty, so they referred me to their parts store. Check comments for the links.

Be careful about these caps because the weatherproof feature,the main reason I purchased the camera, is only good when these caps are on. When I unknowingly lost my remote cable cap, my camera malfunctioned when it got splashed on. My camera won't stop shooting and non of the buttons and screen worked. I have to prematurely end my picture taking for the day. When the camera dried off the next day, it worked normal again. Without E-3's weatherproof feature, I would settle with half the price DSLRs that can take just as good photos. I think Olympus need to improve their caps from falling off.

Other improvements I would like to suggest is first, auto focus capability for lcd screen use. The worlds fastest auto focus will only work when optical view is used. Without it, I have to look back and forth from my optical view and lcd screen. Or I can use the lcd screen all the way, but do everything manually. I aim through my optical view and see the results on my lcd to make sure there's no overexposure, underexposure or out of focused pictures. It would really be easier if I can use the lcd screen all the way just like point-and-shoot cameras. Second , the optical view does not work when the lcd screen is being used. I think it would be great if I have the option to use both optical view and lcd screen simultaneously, so I can use the live view facing to my subject while I use the optical view just like a video camera with articulating screen. Third, I think it would also great if the buttons were bigger for users wearing thick gloves. Fourth, many people say it is heavy and bulky but I don't think it is a major draw back. If olympus can make this camera smaller without compromising its features that would be great. But if not, this disadvantage won't stop me from puchasing this item.
Last, capability of taking a video like Canon Mark II and Nikon D90 would be a great option.

I gave E-3 four stars because I love the weatherproof feature, articulating screen (you can take photos of the eifel tower with you in it! Place this camera closest to the ground, zoom out, and use the articulating screen to aim), fast auto focus when paired with 12-60mm, and the lens options. If the recommendations are addressed mentioned above or at least have better caps and have an auto focus capability when lcd is used like the point and shoot cameras, I'd give this camera a 5 star.


...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E-3 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Mechanical Image Stabilization (Body Only)

... This is an excellent camera, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with the package that is being offered here, but there is a "devil in the details" of this two lens package that could trip you up if you are not careful.

If you are going to buy a high-power zoom lens like a 70-300mm, having image stabilization built into that lens is pretty critical. At the high magnification factors, any little shake or movement is going to be very difficult to overcome, no matter how steady you are. The D90 itself has image stabilization built in, but the D90 image stabilization alone is not going to be enough to overcome vibration on a handheld camera with a 300mm zoom.

You will note that the standard 18 - 105mm lens in this package is from Nikon's (Nikkor) VR line, and by definition the VR line has the built-in electronic image stabilization. But the 70 - 300mm lens -- the one that REALLY could benefit from image stabilization -- is not a "VR" lens and does NOT have built-in image stabilization -- I just called the vendor and they readily confirmed that this is the case, and they further commented that a package including a 70-300mm VR lens would add "$400 to $450 to the package price".

Again, there is nothing wrong with this camera package, and this is an excellent vendor. Just be sure you go into the purchase knowing what you are getting.
...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D90 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm AF-S DX VR Nikkor Lens [Outfit] + Nikon 70-300mm Lens + 8GB Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... I had shopped for just over a year, weighing feedback on other equipment and watching the complaints very carefully. I've owned this camera now for just over a month and I have shot about 1500 photos thus far.

I'm writing this primarily for those of you who are wanting to buy your first single lens, because it was scary for me to make such a huge decision based on people's opinions and not hard facts.

I would purchase this camera, again, in a heartbeat. It is easy to use, fits well in my hand (and my hands are quite bony and large). It is comfortable to use, and Olympus makes it easy by keeping things simple.

The only downfall I have experienced with the camera, is not the camera but with the software that accompanies the camera. The Olympus software was useless, as were the directions to upload the photos. But with trial and error I just figured it out. My only word of the wise would be to plan using another digital imaging software.

The viewfinder was a bit awkward at first, but I've gotten used to it. I haven't used the swivel out display much.

I shoot primarily portraits, nature, and jewelry. The images will stand up against anything professional I've seen.

All in all, I consider it a good buy. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens

... I know that these are no longer on the open market, so my review is simply to explain why I think these are an excellent value on the used market.

Bottom line is this - unless you are going to blow up your photos to poster sized, the 8MP XT is a great choice. The upgrades to later versions give you a larger display screen, sure, but the basic functionality doesn't change much for at least two generations. While I'd like to be able to preview the picture in the display (which you can't do on this model), the quality of photos as well as the excellent feature set (all laid out in other reviews) make this an excellent choice.

Combined with the incredible array of excellent lenses, the compact size, excellent battery life and great feature set make the Rebel XT a great choice on the used market. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XT 8MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 Lens (Silver)

... Nice camera. Pictures are clean and easy to take. It's my first dslr and it does not disappoint me. The next purchase for this camera is a variety of lenses. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha A200W 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization with 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 and 75-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Lenses

... This camera is very good for the Price we pay for it. I suggest this camera to the people who are starter to the Photography. It has many feature which a professional camera has. It give the feel for the professional camera and I love the calarity of the Images.It is better then Cannon or another SLR cameras in this range. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + Nikon 55-200mm AF-S Zoom Lens + 4GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case, Bonus Accessory Kit

... First -- I love this camera. I haven't had a dSLR that has behaved exactly like my old Nikon film cameras until the D700 -- it works with all my old Nikon lenses, and the full frame format is excellent. It is 99 percent of the D3 with only half the price.

Second -- I got the kit through Amazon only because the camera with the kit lens was cheaper than anything being sold locally for the Body Only. As prices drop, and if it becomes available on Amazon, purchase the Body Only and get your own lenses. The Kit lens is basically unworthy of this camera body. It has a nice range and the VR is nice -- but it is soft across the entire focal distance range, and there is severe vignetting at 120 -- some of the worst I have seen in a Nikon lens.

Finally --for those of you upgrading from a D200 or a D300, you hopefully know by now that your old DX lenses will work on the D700, but it will crop them to 5.1 megapixels (even the D40 has 6!)...unless you already have a lot of FX lenses (G-series lenses and the like) you are going to be spending additional money on lenses for the full format camera. I am surprised how many people don't do their research, but the D700, and then are upset that they have to shell out more money for additional lenses. As to lenses, my personal suggestions without breaking your bank: The Nikon 50mm 1.4 G lens - it's sharp and works great on this body. It becomes a walk-around lens. The Tamron 28-75 2.8 lens -- a fantastic zoom lens at 1/3 the price of the Nikon equivalent and possibly better IQ -- and either the Nikon 70-300 VR G lens or the Tamron 28-300 VC lens (That's what I have, and it is sharp and wonderful for large focal length situations). In a pinch, the old Nikon 28-80 G (the one that starts at 3.3) that came on old film bodies of the early 2000's creates awesome sharp photos and is a steal for 60 bucks from resellers.

Anyway -- the D700 has become my best friend -- the lens I eBayed right away... ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G ED IF VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

... This was the best deal I could have taken! I'm so happy with the camera and everything that came with it. My only problem was that one of the snaps was broken on the bag. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 4GB Card + Gadget Bag

... I have used the D80 camera with the 18-135 lens kit that was a package when I bought it in Dec 2006. Not even 3 years and the lenses has malfunctioned. I was on vaction in Yellowstone and the camera does not focus anymore, so I ended up doing manual focusing. I knew it is the lens because I have 2 other G lenses from my old N65 and the camera focuses well when using the old lenses. Nikon only has a 1 year warranty on this. Otherwise, before the lenses broke it was a great camera. Nikon has very poor customer support. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body only)

... I needed to change my old Pentax K100D camera because I messed up the optics on it.. Therefore, while shopping for a new camera, my next choice was also a Pentax, due to my previous great experience with this brand, and I also wanted to use the lenses I already owned. The Pentax K200d camera is so far very good; I especially like the large LCD, the 10.2 MP sensor, the clarity of the pictures, and its good price. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Pentax K200D 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction (Body Only)

... I'm new to the SLR world and a VERY novice photographer. With this camera it doesn't matter. I have taken great shots of my children play soccer and baseball using the sports setting and have gotten excellent action shots that I never dreamed I could get. The package with the zoom lens, tripod .... was the best value around. This is the best purchase I've made all year. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens & EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Deluxe Accessory Kit

... The Camera was in "good condition" with one minor chip in the top of the "control panel". Everything else seems to be in good or like new condition. It is fast and does take good or excellent pictures. The camera with the 18-200mm ED-IF AF-S VR DX lens makes for a real good match.
The seller, along with Amazon, had to be contacted and encouraged to send the missing parts, a lens and a body cap.

Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

... I use a Canon Rebel XSI at work. I bought the E520 for my personal use. It's a great camera at a much better price. I wold highly recommend it. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E520 10MP Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization (Body Only)

... This is exactly the camera I've been waiting for. I was Pentax fan when I used 35mm film and switched to digital several years and several cameras ago. My last camera was a Nikon Coolpix 8700. Great camera but I missed the versatility and speed of an SLR. I wanted a Pentax so I could use some of my old lenses. As it turned out, that wasn't all that important. The kit lenses are adequate for my hobbyist purposes and the guaranteed match of features to the DSLR camera body made it a great package. I have taken over a hundred pictures just to get the feel of the camera and I'm very pleased with the results. It is an easy camera to get to know, at least on an adequate beginning mode and then to expand as your picture taking demands get more sophisticated. I recommend it highly for any beginning to intermediate digital camera user. Unbeatable combination of capability and price. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Pentax K2000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DA L and 50-200mm f/4-5.6 ED Lenses

... The camera and the accessories arrived on time.

the camera is great and being a beginner i found the operation very easy. i recommend this to anyone and everyone. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + 16GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case + Cameta Bonus Accessory Kit

... I love my new camera, it takes great pics. I'm still playing with it. Love it! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Digital Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Black) + Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens + Spare LP-E5 Battery + 4GB Card + Gadget Bag

... I received the shipment within 10 days. It is really good for this. I purchased the Cannon EOS 40d camera on Feb 1st, 2009. Received around Feb 10th. I did not test it extensively when I received it. On Feb 27, 2009, when my friends and I wanted to take pictures, it continuously show ERR 99. We checked the battery, lens etc, but no luck. It will show ERR 99 after 5 to 6 shots after reset by unload/reload the battery. We sent an email to them asking if I can exchange one but no response yet. I have contacted with Cannon, hopefully the Canon staff will fix it for me. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon EOS 40D DSLR with 17-85mm lens

... I continued my travels through the Pentax family since I learned to shoot with the old K1000 and all my lenses were bought for this camera, I just hated the idea of starting over from scratch. I upgraded to the MZS several years ago but finally made the leap to digital with the K20d this spring after missing graduation pictures of a niece due to rewinding film. I have absolutely loved the in camera shake reduction. My general use lense is a Sigma 28-300. I was shooting a pickup basketball game at our church this weekend at around 200 handheld in shutter speed priority and getting excellent shots. I've used all the modes at some point in the past six weeks or so and they all work wonderfully well though I can't imagine when ISO priority will actually be my main consideration in a shoot. I have only had one complaint and that came shooting lightning shots at night. The camera takes about 80% as long to write the information to the card as the aperature was left open. I have done some research and have learned that card speed might be a factor so I have some 30m cards coming,... I'll update if these improve this weakness. The data capture with each shot will be helpful in learning becuase this camera tracks everything but moon phase and wind speed involved with taking the shot. It can only greatly improve the leaning curve. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Pentax K20D 14.6MP Digital SLR Camera with Shake Reduction and DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II Lens

... I had shopped for just over a year, weighing feedback on other equipment and watching the complaints very carefully. I've owned this camera now for just over a month and I have shot about 1500 photos thus far.

I'm writing this primarily for those of you who are wanting to buy your first single lens, because it was scary for me to make such a huge decision based on people's opinions and not hard facts.

I would purchase this camera, again, in a heartbeat. It is easy to use, fits well in my hand (and my hands are quite bony and large). It is comfortable to use, and Olympus makes it easy by keeping things simple.

The only downfall I have experienced with the camera, is not the camera but with the software that accompanies the camera. The Olympus software was useless, as were the directions to upload the photos. But with trial and error I just figured it out. My only word of the wise would be to plan using another digital imaging software.

The viewfinder was a bit awkward at first, but I've gotten used to it. I haven't used the swivel out display much.

I shoot primarily portraits, nature, and jewelry. The images will stand up against anything professional I've seen.

All in all, I consider it a good buy. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD (Body Only)

... I already reviewed this product as excellent. Packaged very well. Excellent correspondence with seller. Brand new condition as promissed. Prompt delivery. I would recommend this seller highly. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D200 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

... While it does have its quirks, this is a great camera. I'm not the most skilled photographer, yet, and it's nice to play with the manual settings or to be lazy and let the camera's auto settings do the work, and they do a decent job.

Pro's:
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Small size - The Olympus E-420 (smallest SLR) is 32.6% larger than the G1. The Rebel is 60% larger than the G1.

Excellent Photo Quality - Having come from ultra zoom camera that was incapable of taking a quality picture over ISO 100, it is a dream to be able to shoot pictures at ISO 800 and be able to get print quality photos. I wouldn't go above 800, though.

Ability to capture raw - While it's expected in a camera this price, it's still nice to work with RAW files and have the ability to manipulate the unprocessed image - including white balance problems.


Cons - each of these is very minor
-----
Auto WB - This needs some work in certain lighting conditions

Burst Mode - Even if you have picture review turned off, it is forced on if you're in burst mode. This makes it next to impossible to capture a moving subject in burst. You're better off to rapidly fire off individual shots. **This is the #1 thing I would like to see addressed in a firmware update**

ISO above 800 gets real noisy real fast.

Bulb Mode - is capped at 4 minutes. This is fine unless you want to do star trails.

Limited # of lenses - hey, it's a new system and as such there aren't going to be a lot of lenses right now. They will be coming, but it will take time. If you want access to a ton of lenses right now, you may want to consider another system or at least be prepared to buy an adapter that will allow you to use Olympus 4/3 lenses or Leica M lenses.

-------------------------------------------


All in all, I love this camera. I'm just trying to figure out how I'm going to talk the wife into allowing me to purchase the 45-200mm lense. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 12.1MP Digital Camera with Lumix G Vario 14-45 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH Mega OIS Lens (Red)

... The 6 Megapixel Nikon D40 is targeted for those who want a relatively compact and light camera yet having most of the important SLR features. The D40 is priced reasonably (cheaper than D50/D80 and Canon Rebel XTi). In my opinion, if you are still considering whether to get a point and shoot camera or a DSLR, the D40 will be a better choice than any point and shoot camera, by far, even those with 8MP or 10MP. But if you are already deciding to get a DSLR or you want more control of the picture taking experience, then I would recommend you to also test the D50 and/or D80 first before deciding to buy the D40. I want you to make sure that you know what you will get (and not get) with the D40. Don't get me wrong though, the D40 is an awesome camera, and I don't think you will regret buying one. There are some limitation with the D40 which shouldn't bother most people, for example, the D40 doesn't have dedicated button to change picture quality, white balance or ISO settings (which generally only professional/enthusiast will care). Once you understand (and accept) its limitation, the D40 is a potent and exciting photography machine.

Just like all its (DSLR) siblings, the D40 powers on instantly and take pictures with almost no shutter lag which are the major advantages of a DSLR over a point and shoot camera. In addition to the P,S,A,M mode, the picture quality of the auto settings (auto, child mode, landscape etc) are also very good. With 2.5 frames per second you can capture movement progress in sports like football, basketball, baseball etc. Also great to photograph your family or child (child mode). The D40 is a great all around camera.

Some notable new features:
1. Auto (no flash) mode. Without this mode the flash will pop-up (on all other pre-programmed mode) even when you don't want to use flash (which can be annoying). The internal flash will not pop up automatically with the P,S,A,M settings.
2. In camera editing capability such as black and white, sepia and some filter effects etc. While sounds gimmicky, these features are useful especially for those who doesn't have Adobe Photoshop (or other image editing software).

To date, D40 is the smallest and lightest among all the Nikon DSLR (even smaller than the Canon Rebel XT/XTi, however the D40 is more ergonomics). I believe that choosing a camera that fits comfortably with your hands is important. Therefore, I recommend people to test the camera before buying (even if you want to buy online, please do go to a physical store and test the camera first whenever possible).

The D40 has only 3 (horizontal) autofocus point (5 for D50 and 11 for D80). If you know "The Rule of Thirds", the additional AF points above and below the center focus point (available in D50 and D80) are handy to help create the horizontal third line. However, the 3 horizontal AF point in D40 is still helpful to create the vertical third line. Also one can focus with the middle AF point and after the focus is lock then move the frame upwards/downwards to create the horizontal third line. Just make sure the exposure level is still accurate when you move the frame after you lock the focus.

About the 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens: A good lens producing sharp photos (though not a very fast lens). Also decent for close-up/macro photography. Lens uses internal focus technology and focusing operation is silent. A very decent kit lens.

Lens compatibility: Notice that with D40, autofocus function will not work for non AF-S/AF-I lens. If you already have non AF-S/AF-I Nikon lenses and want a backup or replacement camera, you will be better off buying D50, D70s or D80. If you buy the D40, it will be convenient to stick with AF-S and AF-I type lenses. I'm not sure why Nikon choose this route for the D40 (whether to enable smaller size camera or from now on Nikon will only make AF-S lens compatible camera). There are a lot of good Nikon AF-S lenses (price range added: low, medium, high) that are fully compatible with the D40 such as:

- Nikon 35mm f/1.8G AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 50mm f/1.4G AF-S (M)
- Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G ED IF AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S DX VR (M)
- Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX (L)
- Nikon 55-200mm f4-5.6G ED AF-S DX VR (L)
- Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR (M)
- Nikon 12-24mm f/4G ED IF AF-S DX (M)
- Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
- Nikon 17-55mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S DX (H)
- Nikon 28-70mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S (H)
- Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR (H)
- Nikon 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR Micro (M)
- And several other expensive prime tele/zoom lens like 200-400mm, 300m, 400mm, 500mm, 600mm.

High priced lens ($1000+) are usually pro level lens which usually have better construction, faster (f-stop), and produce better quality picture. However, often times, lower price lens will serve your needs just fine. I think it is important to know what you want to use the camera for before deciding which camera and lens to buy.

Image quality of the D40 is very good which is #1 factor that I look for in a digital camera.

Here are the pros and cons of the D40 in my opinion:

Pros:
1. Nice out of the camera result picture quality
2. Affordable price
3. Compact size and light weight
4. Large and bright 2.5 inch LCD
5. 2.5 frames per second
6. B/W, Sepia, several more in-camera editing features.
7. Instant power on, fast autofocus and no shutter lag
8. Noise is acceptable at high ISO settings. Auto ISO settings available.
9. Great 18-55mm II AF-S kit lens.
10. Great battery life (400+ on a single charge. 1000+ if flash is not used).
11. Auto (flash off) mode available
12. 1/500 flash sync

Cons:
1. No direct button to change QUAL, WB and ISO settings
2. Grip comfortably but might be a bit too small for some people
3. No top LCD and no front command dial
4. Autofocus will not work with non AF-S or non AF-I lenses (such as the 70-300m G and 50mm f/1.8D lens)
5. No AF/MF switch (have to use the switch on the lens)
6. Only 3 autofocus point
7. 6 Megapixel (More Megapixel needed to print larger than 12 X 18 at 300 dpi)
8. No night landscape mode in pre-programmed settings
9. No in camera image stabilization (like Sony and Pentax) but Nikon has lenses with it (VR).
10. No depth-of-field preview button

In conclusion, the D40 is perfect for those who want high quality pictures, more control (than a point and shoot camera), and have a DSLR experience (instant power on and no shutter lag), without having to carry a bulky camera. And unless you are shooting sports/actions professionaly (which faster focusing processor, faster frames per second and larger memory buffer might be needed), the D40 is pretty much all you will need.

Happy Photographing!

Sidarta Tanu ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX and 55-200mm f/4.5-5.6G ED AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens with 2 Nikon School DVD

... Affordable and loaded with features, this is a terrific introductory camera for digital aficionados. Selecting the silver made my high school graduates' gift a little more personal; everyone has a black camera, after all! The camera uses a standard memory card that is available literally everywhere, and it's functions are deluxe but easy to learn to operate. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens (Silver)

... I went for this product [Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + Nikon 55-200mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + 16GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case] after a few weeks of on-line research and after having read several camera reviews.
I am returning to Nikon-brand after about 10 years of using other brands and honestly I feel a bit disappointed at the general feel of the quality of the Nikon equipments nowadays. The camera itself is OK-ish but everything seems to be made of cheap "recycled-toy" plastic and gives impression of being a "disposable" product. The camera itself is technically fine though, with its Nikon 18-55 lens, it is quick, responsive and easy to use. However, the other lens (55-200) does not give the impression of high quality very much. Having said that, if I were given the opportunity to re-do mu purchase I would only buy the "camera and 18-55 lens only" and not pay for the other (mainly unwanted)stuff included in the package. Beside the camera, everything else included in the package can be bought later if/when needed. Generally, When you buy a package you pay for accessories you might not use at all and the things you get in the package are probably of the lowest quality and cheapest on the market). Furthermore, in the package I bought, the camera case is too big for the camera and all its accessories. When you put the camera in the case, you have to put something soft on the top of the camera (such as an old T-Shirt) to keep it on the place. The bag feels very bulky when you travel. The battery might be unnecessary for someone (like me) who is not a heavy camera user. The SD-card and card reader: I could have ordered 2x8 or 4x4GB SD cards which made the total price much lower than one 16 GB. And finally, you can live without the other stuff included in the box such as a peace of fabric, (presumably to clean the lens with; I won't) a CD, a SD card wallet ( don't need), and a card-reader(my laptop reads all sorts of card. I think: you won't need or may not use many of these accessories so do not pay for them. They are just box-filler and eventually hurts your wallet. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + Nikon 55-200mm AF-S VR Zoom Lens + 16GB SD Card + EN-EL9 Battery + Case

... This is a great camera, it takes amazing pictures. Makes me feel like a professional. I did not know what to expect, been using point and shoot cameras for a while and got used to their quality. Now i realise that i was getting crap!. It night versus day. The first picture i took i realised the quality and the display is incredible.Wow! The flash does what it is supposed to, not like the ones on the point and shoot cameras. It really lights up the room and brings warmth to the photos.
I have large hands and it fits well and is super light.

The only problem i had was getting the strap in, but who cares!!.

The camera bag is spacious and is made of quality materials(waterproof). This is a great package. Thanks to Ken Rockwell & Cameta!!

(February 2009)Shooting in manual mode now, manipulating apperture and shutter speeds. It is amazing the type of photos one can get without using flash. The manual mode gives alot of flexibility and variation to photographs.

The battery lasts very long (over 1000 shots) even when using flash.

A good start for anyone moving up to DSLR's, for professional jobs go with the D300 and above.

[...] ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera + Nikon 18-55mm AF-S Lens + Nikon SLR Gadget Bag + Transcend 4GB SDHC SecureDigital Card + USB Card Reader

... I had shopped for just over a year, weighing feedback on other equipment and watching the complaints very carefully. I've owned this camera now for just over a month and I have shot about 1500 photos thus far.

I'm writing this primarily for those of you who are wanting to buy your first single lens, because it was scary for me to make such a huge decision based on people's opinions and not hard facts.

I would purchase this camera, again, in a heartbeat. It is easy to use, fits well in my hand (and my hands are quite bony and large). It is comfortable to use, and Olympus makes it easy by keeping things simple.

The only downfall I have experienced with the camera, is not the camera but with the software that accompanies the camera. The Olympus software was useless, as were the directions to upload the photos. But with trial and error I just figured it out. My only word of the wise would be to plan using another digital imaging software.

The viewfinder was a bit awkward at first, but I've gotten used to it. I haven't used the swivel out display much.

I shoot primarily portraits, nature, and jewelry. The images will stand up against anything professional I've seen.

All in all, I consider it a good buy. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD

... This is an excellent camera! I like it very well and very pleased with the service! ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Sony Alpha DSLRA350K 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens

... My K100D still works great, but it's starting to feel a bit dated with its slower autofocus system and lack of SDM lens support. Since K2000s are getting so inexpensive, I decided to pick one up for a minor upgrade.

My initial impression was that the K2000 is heavy. It actually weighs slightly less than the K100D, but the smaller hand grip makes it feel heavier to me. The hand grip is less bulbous so it doesn't fill into my hand nearly as well, but I suppose that the hand grip was the only part that could be drastically reduced in size without making the camera feel unbalanced.

I also immediately noticed the missing LED screen at the top. Fortunately, all of the information is clearly and brightly displayed on the back LCD screen now. The new interface is actually very, very well designed. It's familiar enough that I could jump right in, and intuitive enough that I quickly figured out the new shortcuts and features. I'm finding the autofocus to be pretty quick and camera operation a bit quieter. Overall, I find the K2000 to be extremely usable.

The switch to the 10MP sensor finally gives me ISO 100 and smaller ISO increments for more control, but I'm also noticing much more noise than with the wonderful 6MP sensor in my K100D. With my K100D, I found ISO 800 to be very usable, but I'm afraid of pushing beyond ISO 400 with the K2000. I think this is something that I'll just have to get used to when I'm framing and exposing scenes.

The DA L kit lens seems to be about the same as my old DA 18-55mm, except for the plastic mount and sticker badge. You also don't get a lens hood. I haven't really tried the AF200FG flash because I have the AF360FGZ, but it seems appropriate for an entry level kit flash.

Pros (relative to the K100D):
+ Smaller and slightly lighter than the K100D.
+ 10MP sensor that gives more control over ISO.
+ Incredibly intuitive interface.
+ Sv (sensitivity) mode! I didn't have this before on the K100D.
+ Excellent mix of pro and non-pro features like the Help button, which can also be changed to be the RAW button.
+ Despite the cheaper construction, the kit lens still feels solid and comparable to my old 18-55mm that has a metal mount.

Cons (Relative to the K100D):
- The 10MP sensor is noisier than what I'm used to. I've seen some amazing pictures taken with this sensor though so I'll have to learn the limits of this camera.
- The ergonomics of the body aren't quite as good as the K100D. It's probably perfect for people with smaller hands though.
- The DA L kit lens has a plastic mount, a sticker badge, and no lens hood. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Pentax K2000 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 DA L Lens and AF200FG Flash

... The 5D Mark II represents the future of digital SLR photography/videography. I was fortunate to purchase my kit with the EF 24-105 f/4L at its actual list price of $3,499 through Amazon and sold by 6 Ave Electronics on December 29, 2008. That offer was only available for about 6 hours. Now that I have used the camera for 6 months, I would even now pay a significant premium over the list price to have it. In my opinion it is worth much more than the list price in terms of advancements in low-light, low-noise and quick exposure setting features. It also has markedly improved picture quality over all other Canon DSLRs with the exception of the 1Ds Mark III ($7,000 street) which it at least matches.

This camera isn't perfect. The 5D Mark II does have a lower frame rate than some other very fine cameras at 3.9 frames per second. Nevertheless, this frame rate has been fine for my purposes, including wildlife and bird photography. I am able to catch hummingbirds in flight. Unless you are a professional sports or action photographer there is simply no need to consider the much more expensive 1 series camera bodies.

I would have preferred more focus points than the 9 visible and 6 invisible points this camera provides, though in normal lighting conditions there has been no problem getting fast, accurate focus. In very low light where the shot requires an ISO of 3200 or 6400 and no flash, the camera does sometimes have trouble, especially with moving or flat, low-contrast subjects. But considering that we wouldn't even be able to get an essentially noise-free image with another camera at these settings it seems a small criticism.

This camera also lacks an internal flash. Some people may feel this to be a loss, but with the extraordinary low-light capability of the 5D Mark II I haven't missed this feature at all. When I want to use a flash I can easily attach one, and that seems to be a rare event now. The ability to capture low light images without the exposure problems flash often causes is an enormous improvement for me. And when I need a flash I always have my 580 EX II available, though it does add some weight to this body.

The high resolution of this camera will show up flaws in any attached lens. Thus, you are going to have to use high quality glass to get the most out of the body. Those who are not able or willing to make an investment in "L" quality lenses would probably be just as happy with a 50D or similar bodies from other manufacturers. On the other hand, this camera's ability to register most Canon lenses and eliminate problems like peripheral illumination has proven remarkable during my use.

Notably, there are many other improvements over the original 5D, which was a wonderful camera that many people would still be very happy with. The Mark II's new display is outstanding; while a few other cameras now offer the same 3 inch high resolution LCD, the new display allows the user to enlarge the image enough to get a very good idea of what the final image will look like in print. When using auto ISO settings the camera makes very good choices to capture the best image possible. In fact, the algorithms this camera's DIGIC 4 processor uses for all its settings seem superior to any of the others I have looked at. And if you don't like the choices the camera makes, it is completely customizable, including 3 user settings on the main control knob.

Then too, you do have to read the manual and take time to learn the many controls and settings that are available. I am convinced that several of the negative reviews on this site are simply the result of not understanding the full capabilities of this camera. For example comments about the "sharpness" of photos fail to take into account that the camera comes with certain sharpness settings by default, but that these can be changed and images sharpened to an almost garish degree. Other comments about supposed failings of different portrait mode settings or white balance adjustments likewise seem not to recognize that nearly every setting on this camera can be modified to match the operator's desires. This is a highly advanced instrument which requires some study before taking it out into the field.

One way to judge a camera body is by the people who choose to use it. The outstanding professional photographer and professor of photography, Pete Souza was named official Whitehouse photographer earlier this year; his history-making first digital official Presidential portrait of President Obama was made using a 5D Mark II. Numerous photo journalists, wedding and event photographers and others who make their living with their equipment are using 5D Mark II bodies. I am also seeing this camera being used more and more by sports photographers, despite its 3.9 fps rate.

I have said nothing about the video capability. This was not a reason for my purchase, but I have been impressed by the quality of the videos this camera produces. I did not at first recognize what a game changer high def video capability in an SLR would become. It is interesting that Canon has now issued a firmware upgrade to allow full manual exposure control during videography which in my experience works very well. You must, however, have a good quality computer with a fast processor and high end video card to be able to edit the high def output.

Like any other camera, there are a few small things Canon could have done to make this an even more remarkable improvement over the original 5D. But taken as a whole, for my money this is far and away the best, most feature rich and useable DSLR available for professional and serious photographers. ...
Check Amazon Price and Read More Reviews on Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens