First Camera

Magical Trevor · 24 Jul 2003, 13:38 (Ref:670297)

I've got a birthday coming up and was wondering about getting a camera. My only experience is with disposables and digitals, although I've used my father's old Canon a few times. I was wondering if you could give me any specific brands/models for me to start out with. Thanks!

paul-collins · 24 Jul 2003, 15:28 (Ref:670405)

First you're going to have to tell us what your budget is and what your purpose is.

Are you primarily interested in (motor)sports photography? If so, fast autofocus, high frame rate, and decent zoom are things you'll be looking for.

Are you more general in your interests? Perhaps you'd want to invest more in the lens than in the body.

I'm sure there are other questions that we could ask that would help us pinpoint what camera type would be good for you.

Magical Trevor · 24 Jul 2003, 15:50 (Ref:670425)

Well, my parents probably wouldn't want to spend more than $400-$500 U.S. Yes, it would be for use at the track.

Jay · 24 Jul 2003, 16:09 (Ref:670438)

Try this site: http://www.popphoto.com/ Especially their reviews, and discussion forum on Gear. Do a search for the camera you're interested and you'll find lots of opinions.

I have a Minolta Maxxum 5 that's been very good for a beginner like myself. It has a lot of the features of the higher end models, is very small (possibly too small for some), reasonably sturdy (as far as the new ones go...still delicate compared to the old bricks though) and cost about $500CA, so it should be in your range.

Others to check out are the Nikon F65 (these seem to be bargains now!), F75 and the Cannon Rebel line...all should be in your range.

KC · 24 Jul 2003, 20:47 (Ref:670578)

Things you will need...

1. A camera that has manual mode. There will be times that automatic exposure levels are not going to get it done.
2. A skylight filter to protect your delicate lens surface. Its a clear filter that will take away some of the blue cast of the atmosphere and warm up yellows and reds.
3. A circular polarizing filter to help with the non-cooperative sun. This will get rid of extreme glares and such. You can spend up to US$300 on a circ polarizer, but my US$30 Hoya works just fine.
4. As fast a lens as you can afford. The fStop number on a lens denotes how much light it will allow in. The smaller the number on the lens means more light and more cost. Top shooters use as low as f1.0 lenses.
5. A lens hood. This will keep sun glare down and protect your delicate lens from the inevitable bumps as you use it.

Some things that help later...
1. A graduated neutral density filter. This acts like a pair of sunglasses for your camera. It will allow you to get foreground detail against a bright sky without making all the shadows very dark.
2. A monopod or tripod. These will help to steady that long lense when you are not going to pan the camera.
3. A bag with a really comfortable shoulder strap. A poor strap will cause you unending discomfort.

Cameras by Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta, Sigma, and Olympus all have good reputations and I am sure that there are some I am omitting.

GTV27 · 25 Jul 2003, 05:02 (Ref:670813)

KC's post is really very comprehensive and the only thing that I could add to it is regarding what lens you might want.

I've had a Pentax Mz-50 with 28-80mm and 100-300 Sigma lenses for a few years now. It was my first "serious" camera (costing AUD600 odd) but still a "base" model, although I haven't really outgrown it yet (but I would like a 300 to 400mm lens that will stop down to f1.0 - that'll cost a number followed by three zeros, and that just aint happening).

Most common cameras will have lens of this or similar which will cover a wide variety of subjects.

Good luck with the shopping

KC · 25 Jul 2003, 12:33 (Ref:671055)

If I remember correctly, Pentax makes an SLR that has a complete manual mode that even requires no batteries should they go dead. Now that is a good idea. There have been times that I wished I could have switched to powerless photography.

HH Tech · 3 Nov 2003, 20:07 (Ref:771995)

If you get a Nikon F3 or F4 you will be able to use most of the lenses produced after 1970! Dead cheap, manual focus good lenses.

Henrik

kdr · 3 Nov 2003, 21:55 (Ref:772083)

Quote:

Originally posted by HH Tech
If you get a Nikon F3 or F4 you will be able to use most of the lenses produced after 1970! Dead cheap, manual focus good lenses.

Henrik

i'm with henrik...only drawback is they're film bodies not digital.

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