L-plates....

[muppetdave]

Hi there.

As I posted in another thread, I'm now starting to think about taking up photography as a bit of a hobby over and above snapping at things with my digital camera. I'm just becoming increasingly impressed with the composition of good photos, and the techniques to make amazing shots, the work behind the camera I guess.

I have looked back at previous topics, but all I found were a year or so old. Could you please point me in the right direction to start off - I'm thinking an evening class would be a good step forward initially - along with getting out and taking photos! What about equipment on a start-up basis - I notice lots of positive comments about the Canons - would they be good way forward?

Thanks for your help in advance.

[V6GTO]

First thing to work out is your budget Dave.

Martin.

[toothlessjim]

A canon 400d would be a great place to start off....i got a kit that came with the body and standard 18-55mm lens as well as a 55-200mm usm lens and battery pack that goes on the bottom (very hand for portraits! as for learning there plenty of stuff you can read online if you look for it and of course an evening class isnt a bad idea but the best way to learn is to just keep taking pictures and fidling with the settings. dont be affraid to ask if you dont know what something on ur camera does either.

[TheStoat]

As has been said work out your budget first. Then have a look at what is available new *and* second hand. A 400D may be nice but it may also be outside your budget. You might get a 350D instead and not notice the difference for quite some time. When you know how much money you have to spend you'll be able to ping people on here for more accurate advice and any kit they're selling

[Gingerbread Man]

Canon and Nikon are your two main companies. Nikon's entry camera is the D40 and Canon's is the 400D.

From comparisons and reviews I've herd that the Canon 400D is one to go for out of the two. Both will cost you around £400 with the kit lens. 18-55mm normally.

Now from there on I think either Nikon or Canon both play a fair game and it's down to what camera body you like the weight/ size/ shape/ look of etc... (Go down to your local Jessops/ camera shop and get your hands all over them).

I'd then personally go home and find a cracking deal online. You need a loan to shop at Jessops these days.

After you've got your camera you may want to buy another lens. Most people would normally then get a 70-300mm range or similar to cover a wide range of field.

Anyway tea's calling.

David

[muppetdave]

Thanks for your help so far guys. From what I've seen nosing about, the Canon's you've mentioned are pretty much the region of cost I was looking at.

However...

I know nothing about the lenses etc etc, so I think a lot more time spent reading up around the background information would be time well spent...

Funnily enough I need to meet with our photographer for work, so will tap him up for information at the end of the week.