Looking for good start-up camera - is this the one? Would this be a good camera for a beginner and would it take me into a semi-pro career?
1275273
Let me start with a few obligatory questions: how much experience do you have with photography, what do you want to photograph, and how much are you willing to spend?? The Rebel XT is a great camera. You can start learning on it, and continue with it for a long time. I currently use one. The biggest limitations this camera has are: Slow fps (3) Extremely small buffer if one shoots RAW (I shoot RAW exclusively, and the buffer only holds 4 shots) Small(ish) screen - the 2.5 on the 30d makes me drool... Rear wheel on higher canon models seems more efficient than four buttons Smallish, and plastic construction. Don't let these turn you away - I am a sports shooter, and that is very demanding on the equipment. You said you want to do a little semi-pro; for that reason, I would reccommend the canon 30d for you if you can afford it. The higher fps, bigger screen, larger buffer, better build quality, and rear wheel would all be of benefit. But if you don't want to splurge on the 30d, the rebel makes a fine choice. Don't forget that the newer 400d has come out - it is an upgraded version of this camera. And most of all, remember that the camera can only capture what a lens sees. Invest in some good glass.
1465878
This camera is perfect for beginners to advance photographers. I'd take the GH3 over any Canon or Nikon entry level camera anyday. You'll be perfectly comfortable as a beginner with this camera but don't be afraid to wander in the semi-manual and manual modes, that is the only way you are going to learn. :)Buy it, you won't regret it.Enjoy
1186022
Its a good camera for novice photographers. If you have experience, there are better buys.
1060837
It is certainly a good camera for its price. In bright light pics and videos are good. HD quality and Wide-angle are not as good as some expensive cameras, but the 3-D Pics and 3-D videos viewed with 3-D glasses (Blue/Red) were amazing. As a starter 3-D Camera it is ideal.
905828
Its a huge step up. Its a great camera, but if all you want is to point and shoot with better images, I would suggest you save a few bucks and buy the Sony RX100. If you want to get into using different types of lenses, this is a great camera with a growing range of E-mount lenses.
456321
The D300 was my first SLR Camera. Before that I was using point and shoots. I would say it is appropriate for a beginner who is learning actively. When I bought this cam I had started taking courses and I evolved rapidly to a serious hobbyist. I would say you shouldn't buy it if you're not planning to learn how to be a better photographer, otherwise, the Canon 40D which is also a medium sized SLR would be much more suited. It has many kinds of automatic modes that you would select. The D300 has only four modes: Manual, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority and Program mode. Personally I'm glad I ended up choosing the Nikon D300, it's such an amazing camera... I hope this was helpful
1433092
It was a OK camera, however the E500 is a better one. I upgraded my to E510 the semi-professional and still have it and have not changed it for the purposes. However, if you want a beginners SLR then get the E300.
2044190
I'm no producer or anything, but this camera does take great video. It's got a decent warmth to the video also. If you're going amateur and would like a decent start up camera, I woul suggest this camera. Just keep in mind that you can use it only with a high powered computer. A regular computer won't be able to handle this thing... I am thinking of selling mine. My old MacBook Pro doesn't handle the files too well...
797923
they are great. I use it for recreation mainly. Honestly it's more camera that I need. if you'd like to buy mine I'd sell it. SethPhilpott@gmail.com for more info.
1159420
I wouldn't catagorize it as a professional camera. It has the look of one and many features, but very user friendly for the everyday photographer.
730064
If you are a beginner it's a really easy camara to start with, the flash is super fast if your using the automatic function.
588557
In my opinion, this camera is more than acceptable. It has amazing lowlight capabilities, incredible image quality, etc. My girlfriend is the publisher of a Parenting Magazine and has shot covers with it. It is hands down one of the best cameras she or I have used for still photography and the absolute best in this price range. We're thrilled with it, and it is absolutely a true professional grade camera.
462535
Yes, this is a great camera for both a novice and a more advanced photographer. There are two different "Auto" settings. One is fully automatic, but the "Auto-Plus" gives you control over color balance, depth of field and exposure, which is a great intro into learning about camera functions. There are numerous pre-set "scene" settings too. Then there are all the manual settings for more advanced photographers. All this in a small easy to carry size, and the camera takes great shots in all kinds of conditions. Highly reccommend.
646696
DEFINITELY go with the T5i. I was thinking the same, but the extra features, newer & better tech, MANUAL video mode (light settings) and such were a great addition. This camera is great for the starting shooter or amateur. I went from little knowledge to taking masterpieces. Go for the T5i. You won't regret it.
525778
Probably not simply because of the price (neginning around $6600). For a beginner who wants to become more involved in photography, I would definitely recommend the Canon 7D as a starting point. It has many of the features of a pro camera and at around $1250 is probably the best way to "dip your toes in the water". Also, a great lens to start with is the Canon 70-200mm f4L at about $700. Good luck!!
351432
I think this will give you a lot more than the option to take "kids pictures". :) I'm a novice abd really bright it for it's videography caPabilities. it is almost professional grade without the price. the add-ons however are rather disappointing. (sorry)
653621
Personal opinion only, I think you'd find this camera would perform fairly well. It seems to do fairly well in low light situations and of course with the super zoom, you can zoom in on the target from considerable distance. Given the relative low price of this camera (compared to others with this zoom capability), your investment would be fairly low and you could always come back and sell one as "used" right here on Amazon.