Five Things to Consider Before Buying a Digital Camera








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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Bill @ Jul 9th 2008 9:17AM
When someone asks me for advice on a DSLR purchase, I usually ask them how they plan to use it. My next question is what they realistically expect to spend over the next few years for lenses to support their camera. If they have no intention of spending the money to buy the high dollar image stabilized lenses available for professional DSLRs, then they really have many more choices than the "Big 2" camera companies. For less than $1,000, most people would likely be able to get more camera and lens than they would ever need. Depending on their choice of cameras, they might also end up with one that had image stabilization built into the body.
Carla Yokum @ Jul 9th 2008 11:55AM
What kind of DSLR camera do you recommend then? I want one with with stabilization. I want a new camera and do not know very much about them, although I am willing to learn.
Jimmy Weener @ Jul 9th 2008 9:28AM
I have a Kodak easy share z612 it takes great picture,and has a great zoom.The cost was less than $200.00 complete.
complik8td @ Jul 9th 2008 11:30AM
I've been using a Panasonic FZ18 for a few months now. I got it at a great price, and I'm achieving some very nice results with it. This Panasonic model is terrific for those who want (somewhat) DSLR quality images without having to go to that expense. I'd highly recommend it.
artist @ Jul 9th 2008 12:12PM
As a long time SLR user and darkroom photographer who has long since gone digital (Elf subcompact) I must say there is one page of this excellent review I differ with. As my little digital pics exceed the quality of my film experience in sharpness, resolution, noise and particularly exposure latitude. And as my Nikon SLR exceeded by far the quality of the typical amateur snap shooter of yesteryear. The great majority of photographers need no more than one of the current Canon Elf models or similar to fully meet their needs. Incredibly good, creative and technical work is achieved in mass numbers with these little cameras that are affordable. For perfectionists, sure, consider dropping $1-$2,000 on a DSLR with features that require weeks of study to begin to appreciate. But don't count on having that brick with you when you go for that 2 hour picnic or casual outing to the zoo.
This column could simply state that, and have buyers concentrate on the other good points raised in the advice column.
photorit52 @ Jul 9th 2008 12:51PM
i use a kodak z740 and people are amazed at the results i get-- and i have used everything from a kodak 35 , rollei , linhof and deep sea underwater cameras. the phantom has spoken!
Blake @ Jul 9th 2008 12:55PM
Just make sure you don't buy a camera that uses regular batteries because they don't last very long.
I'm looking for a new SLR and saw on http://www.cityskoop.com that Circuit City has a sale on digital cameras
Christina J @ Jul 9th 2008 2:08PM
The most important thing that I look at is the lens. MOST stores, no matter how professional, will sell you used cameras that their employees borrow. You need to open the box and look at the lens. If it has fingerprints on it, DO NOT BUY!!
Alice @ Jul 10th 2008 5:20AM
Voted the post on Digg.
Charles L Svihla @ Jul 10th 2008 10:39PM
Can I use my AE-1 camera interchangeable lenses with your Cannon Digital cameras, would i need to purcchase a SLR camera?