Opinions?

[ErnestM]

After updating my website with the latest pictures, I have come to the conclusion that I need a higher end digital still camera. I have narrowed down the two possibilities for me (<-photo numpty with aspirations) to:

Sony DSC F828

-or-

The New Canon EOS Digital Rebel XT
(AKA the 350D in more civilized parts of the world)

Opinions? Keep in mind that this will be a learning experience for me. I do know a little - just enough to be dangerous - which one has the best function without letting me shoot myself (metaphorically) in the foot...?

ErnestM

>> Edited by ErnestM on Wednesday 11th May 00:11

[rico]

Go with the dSLR mate. It's basically a big point and shoot with infinitely better quality results, then you've got the ability to change lenses as and when you want.

[agent006]

rico said:

Go with the dSLR mate. It's basically a big point and shoot with infinitely better quality results, then you've got the ability to change lenses as and when you want.

What he said.

[Ex-biker]

If you get the Sony, you'll only end up wanting more later.

You can always leave the Dslr on auto until you get used to the controls.

Don't forget to budget for lenses aswell.

[LongQ]

It really depends on what you want to do with the camera.

If you go dSLR the question of lenses (and the costs) come into play. And having the thing available - size and weight considerations.

I have a small shirt pocket size digital selected specifically for size so I can carry a camera at all times without it being a burden. I got fed up with never having a camera when I felt I wanted to take a shot.

My SLR kit is not digital - yet. And when it becomes digital it won't fit in my pocket, that's certain. So I think the volume of shots will come from the pocket device and the dSLR will be used for specific planned activities - unless the pocket device can cover those as well.

In the end it may not matter too much. If you get seriously bitten by the bug you will undoubtedly find the budget required to upgrade as necessary.

If you don't you will probably be very happy with whatever you buy provided you start with a recognised name manufacturer. Most products out there are pretty good these days IMO. Especially when you live somewhere sunny and the cameras can work at their optimum settings most of the time!

[simpo two]

LongQ said:

So I think the volume of shots will come from the pocket device and the dSLR will be used for specific planned activities

I use a similar setup: a modest compact for trivial stuff where snaps are sufficient, and a DSLR for when I get serious and/or need more control/performance.

Although both cameras are now digital, the compact + SLR combo is a system I've been using happily since 1984!!

[ErnestM]

I've got the Sony P150 (7 mp) that I use for "constant carry". I even bought the lense adapter and the neutral density lense kit (sun gets INTENSE here and can really screw up some outdoor shots). I got the slave flash for it as well.

Problem is, every single picture that I take with it needs photoshop manipulation of some sort before it is ready for public display, that's why I was thinking of the better camera.

I was all set for the F828, but I ran across the Canon Digital Rebel XT (350D) and the reviews on it seem to be fantastic. That, coupled with the advice on this thread, and it seems that I will get the Canon.

Wife wants to get it for my birthday though, so it will probably be a few months. That will give me some time to look for accessories. Any advice on lenses, etc? (keep in mind, sunny Florida, some track work probably and some hi speed stuff out of car windows. I also want to be able to take better - deeper color and more professional - pictures of the Esprit)...

Cheers and thanks all!

ErnestM

PS: Any advice on tripods as well? Whats the best/easiest to cart about (and will fit in the Esprit boot )?