You don't need that camera!

[kccougar]

My brother-in-law takes photos as a hobby and, until recently, has shot everything with an inexpensive Canon point-and-shoot. You could give me the nicest camera in the world, and I couldn't come close to getting the shots that he does. I agree with you.

Here's his photostream:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_d/

[happyone]

We gave in a purchased a DSLR about 2 years ago. It was an entry level Olympus with 2 lenses about $550. It is sufficent for our needs and takes good pictures.

When I purchase my SLR, I got an Olympus OM1 back then, when I was on my mission, the clerk said something I really agree with about cameras. If you are getting a quality camera, almost any one will do, its the person behind the camera that counts.

[RobinFinderson]

My own feelings -- if you think you will take up photography seriously, and you buy the entry-level $600 camera body and some entry level lenses, you will eventually want to replace all of that, and then you will have bought everything twice. Most people never take their photography seriously. Personally, I'm really glad I bought good equipment from the start. Photography continues nourish and make me strong even five years after I bought my first camera (canon 20D).

[SteelBlue]

My brother-in-law takes photos as a hobby and, until recently, has shot everything with an inexpensive Canon point-and-shoot. You could give me the nicest camera in the world, and I couldn't come close to getting the shots that he does. I agree with you.

Here's his photostream:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_d/

This is a great shot. I'm assuming this is one he shot with his new camera?

[RobinFinderson]

My brother-in-law takes photos as a hobby and, until recently, has shot everything with an inexpensive Canon point-and-shoot. You could give me the nicest camera in the world, and I couldn't come close to getting the shots that he does. I agree with you.

Here's his photostream:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bill_d/

Your BIL has some incredible work! I'm impressed. The bee photo alone is amazing. He either got very lucky, or has some superb technique. Getting such a sharp photo of the bee like that isn't easy (I haven't pulled it off. I've tried.)

[falafel]

My own feelings -- if you think you will take up photography seriously, and you buy the entry-level $600 camera body and some entry level lenses, you will eventually want to replace all of that, and then you will have bought everything twice. Most people never take their photography seriously. Personally, I'm really glad I bought good equipment from the start. Photography continues nourish and make me strong even five years after I bought my first camera (canon 20D).

The body will definitely need to be replaced. The funny thing is, lots of people who are taking up photography buy expensive bodies and then skimp on the lenses, when it should probably be the other way around. There are always newer camera bodies (updates coming for each model annually), but quality glass lasts a very long time and is very often fully compatible with new bodies.

[RobinFinderson]

The body will definitely need to be replaced. The funny thing is, lots of people who are taking up photography buy expensive bodies and then skimp on the lenses, when it should probably be the other way around. There are always newer camera bodies (updates coming for each model annually), but quality glass lasts a very long time and is very often fully compatible with new bodies.

You are exactly right. Good glass is the best place to put your money. I have two lenses that are each worth more than my camera bodies (I'm now shooting on a 5D, but I keep the 20D around for Little Robin, Faith, and for dusty environments).

For anyone shooting Canon, I encourage you to pick up the 50mm 1.4. This is my very favorite lens.

[Katy Lied]

The D40 (or D60) is what most people should buy in a DSLR. The D40 is great camera. SLRs have some big benefits over point and shoots, one of which is shutter speed. The lens you have is right in the middle - some nice range, but let's not kid ourselves - regular amateurs photographers don't *need* 300mm zoom lenses. Must walk closer to your target.

Another great thing about the D40 is it is so dang light. It's easy to grab it and go, which means you always have it with you which means you can take advantage of great outdoor light when you come across it. Plus, you get better as a photographer when you take 1000 shots a week vs digging out the heavy expensive camera and all the accessories on Easter morning only.

[Pheidippides]

We have been in the market for a new camera lately because our current camera does not have sufficient resolution for the editing that I do.

We considered a DSLR, did a lot of research, found a great Canon with way more megapixels than we needed and two lenses for under $1000.

And....then I bought a simple point and shoot for $100 with 10 mp. Why? Because I realized I'd have no clue how to use the thing to potential without some serious studying first. I may take a photography class at a local college or something and get it then so I know what I'm doing. Until then, I will live with my tiny Coolpix.

[falafel]

We have been in the market for a new camera lately because our current camera does not have sufficient resolution for the editing that I do.

We considered a DSLR, did a lot of research, found a great Canon with way more megapixels than we needed and two lenses for under $1000.

And....then I bought a simple point and shoot for $100 with 10 mp. Why? Because I realized I'd have no clue how to use the thing to potential without some serious studying first. I may take a photography class at a local college or something and get it then so I know what I'm doing. Until then, I will live with my tiny Coolpix.

I understand what you're saying, but I think you really could have done well with the D40 or D60. Both have really cheap kits available, and they really don't require any special knowledge to use them out of the box. They've got great auto modes that make anyone look like a good photographer. I'm sure Canon's entry levels are good too.

I'm certainly no expert at photography, but for me the advantage of a DSLR is not missing a great photo. With a point and shoot, you've got to wait for it to focus and flash and all that stuff. It takes at least 1-2 seconds longer than with an SLR, which is of course plenty of time for the shot to change. Or, you could have had 2 or 3 shots in the time it took you to get 1 with the point and shoot.

Everyone should have a good coolpix or canon point and shoot. But for taking more than a few pictures, a DSLR is a must.

[Pheidippides]

I understand what you're saying, but I think you really could have done well with the D40 or D60. Both have really cheap kits available, and they really don't require any special knowledge to use them out of the box. They've got great auto modes that make anyone look like a good photographer. I'm sure Canon's entry levels are good too.

I'm certainly no expert at photography, but for me the advantage of a DSLR is not missing a great photo. With a point and shoot, you've got to wait for it to focus and flash and all that stuff. It takes at least 1-2 seconds longer than with an SLR, which is of course plenty of time for the shot to change. Or, you could have had 2 or 3 shots in the time it took you to get 1 with the point and shoot.

Everyone should have a good coolpix or canon point and shoot. But for taking more than a few pictures, a DSLR is a must.

Yeah, we're going to get there eventually. Maybe next year. But for now it was too much camera for us.

The one I have had my eye on is the Canon Rebel T1i (Costco has a great package deal). It's still an "entry level" DSLR (or so they say) and I don't want to get any fancier; the selling point on that one is the ability to do full HD video as well.

[beefytee]

I understand what you're saying, but I think you really could have done well with the D40 or D60. Both have really cheap kits available, and they really don't require any special knowledge to use them out of the box. They've got great auto modes that make anyone look like a good photographer. I'm sure Canon's entry levels are good too.

I'm certainly no expert at photography, but for me the advantage of a DSLR is not missing a great photo. With a point and shoot, you've got to wait for it to focus and flash and all that stuff. It takes at least 1-2 seconds longer than with an SLR, which is of course plenty of time for the shot to change. Or, you could have had 2 or 3 shots in the time it took you to get 1 with the point and shoot.

Everyone should have a good coolpix or canon point and shoot. But for taking more than a few pictures, a DSLR is a must.

That's why we got ours.

We got a Canon. You can take pictures much quicker and it really is easy out of the box. We don't know anything but have some great pictures.

[HuskyFreeNorthwest]

Another great thing about the D40 is it is so dang light. It's easy to grab it and go, which means you always have it with you which means you can take advantage of great outdoor light when you come across it. Plus, you get better as a photographer when you take 1000 shots a week vs digging out the heavy expensive camera and all the accessories on Easter morning only.

The D40 is nice and lightweight and a quality camera. ldc has one and she really likes it. I have been using Canon since my first camera when I was 16 years old, so I get frustrated with a Nikon.

[falafel]

The D40 is nice and lightweight and a quality camera. ldc has one and she really likes it. I have been using Canon since my first camera when I was 16 years old, so I get frustrated with a Nikon.

I understand. A lot of Canon users are frustrated by the superior quality and low price Nikon offers.

[Lost Student]

People who fall into this category: My sister in law, my best friend, my (other) best friend's wife, my best friend's sister, and some other people.

:bsflag:
LOL! How many "best" friends do you have?! By definition, you can only have one.

Say goodbye to any credibility around these parts.

Also, I've been wanting a DSLR like the D40 for a while. Maybe if my bonus next month is good enough. . .