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Random Quote: You can twist perception but reality won't budge.
Beware though, once you understand exposure and all the other various elements, you'll almost naturally have to move on to a SLR.
So true!!! Then you start factoring in megapixel count, high ISO clarity, crop sensor vs. full frame. I just got my Canon 50D in June and I'm already looking to go full frame. I am definitely a photography addict!
That is some really good advice. I NEVER shoot in auto anything, I rarely even use autofocus. I started on all manual film cameras and I attribute that to my ability to get good shots today. I assess every single shot I take, decide which factors I want control (shutter speed, aperture, etc.), set those first, then set the other accordingly. What is great about digital is being able to instantly check your exposure and not rely so much on the camera's meter, which can be easily fooled.
Beware though, once you understand exposure and all the other various elements, you'll almost naturally have to move on to a SLR.
Agreed,
Jason, doesn't it amuse you when someone compliments your photos by saying " Wow, you must have a really nice camera to get those shots!"
or "Your camera takes great pictures!"
I had a neighbor who spent much$$ on the best setup she could find so she could take great photos too. She constantly complained about her high end Nikon because it just did not "take great photos". I didn't have the heart to tell her the best gear in the world is useless if you don't know how to use it. She basically used it like a point and shoot in Auto mode...
Thanks guys for the comments. I had the cameras checked out at a local camera shop and one works and one doesn't work. Go figure, the one for $175 doesn't work, the one I paid a bit more does. So the cheaper one will go back to the store. I am excited to learn how to use this. I just need to pick up a batter & charger. I have a memory card, I want to say a Kingston 4GB SD(?), should I get a better one or will this work fine?
I will have to post my experimental photos. Thanks again for all the suggestions.
This thread got me thinking about my camera and how I needed to upgrade from the canon 50D to the new 7D. I caved....7D is coming in tomorrow, 50D will be going online soon :D
i just got the cannon sx110is i love it will take 60 minutes of hd vedio on a 4 g card pictures are great im not a camera freak but it will take as good of pictures as my sisters 2000 nikon and mine was 500
The bug got me. I picked up a Nikon DS3000 at Sears for 365.00. There was a problem with processing my transaction, so 3 hours later, they gave me the camera for 175.00 off.
I will be heading to the boat show in Anapolis to break it in.
It is a 18-55mm f/3.5 - f/5.6 ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor lens. It also says "VR" on the lense.
I have a lot of reading to do this weekend.
You got to get at least a 200mm lens. The one that comes with the camera is ok for close-up and distant scenery but to get good detail of objects over 50' away a 200mm is a must.
Update- I took Pug's suggestion and picked up a Nikon D40 DSLR tonight. It was a floor model, but I also purchased the extended warranty. The Mgr gave it to me for $175 and the 3yr warranty was $29. I just have to buy a battery for it.
If you'll be using it on the water, you may want a clear sky or UV filter for your lens. You will almost certainly want the lens hood too. This protects the front of your lens and blocks light from the side which can cause image-ruining flare.
The original battery was the EN-EL9. It's been replaced by the EN-EL9a. There are third-party batteries too. You'll need the MH-23 Battery Charger or a 3rd party equivalent.
The PhotoBert CheatSheet for Nikon D40 might be useful. It has a lot of the owner's manual stuff condensed and printed on a full-sheet of paper that's laminated with a heavy 3-mil laminate and is folded in thirds.
You need a strap and you need to use it all the time, or until you've learned how to defy gravity.
Salt water is the camera's enemy. A sealed plastic bag is minimal protection. A more robust option (and $$) would be something like the Ewa-Marine U-A Underwater Housing.
Everything that everyone tells you about what you need for your DSLR camera (with the exception of the bare essentials that BANDHPHOTO has given you).
You only need a lense that suits YOUR needs for the type of pictures you take. Not everyone needs a super zoom lens. Someone else may tell you that you absolutly need a flash that is better than the built in one (and yes, it does stink) but if you only take outdoor pictures, you don't need it. And the list goes on.
Get what you need and can afford
If the photo bug gets you like it gets most of us, you'll move your budget from other areas and before you know it you'll be looking at $1000 lens
__________________
Justin
2000 Luhrs 320 Open - CAT Power
United States Power Squadron - Vessel Safety Examiner
