After doing a bit of research, I’ve come to the conclusion that an entry-level dslr is way out of my budget, & I definitely still fall under the category of beginner so I don’t think that would be worth it; however I need something better than the standard cheap point and shoot camera. I photograph jewelry a lot so I need one that will actually focus manually (the auto-focus function on my old compact digital camera just made everything blurry). so, does such a camera even exist?? I’m completely willing to look at used/refurbished cameras if that’s the only way I can get a good price

I’m 14 and as a late birthday present, my parents decided to get me a DSLR because of my interest in photography. I really didn’t want them to spend too much and I’ve had my eyes stuck on 2 cameras.
The Canon Rebel XS:http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CBKJGG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&m=AHVUXX1NUM5OB Which I will be able to get for 0.

The Fujifilm FinePix S4000: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HO58O8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&m=A29PHU0KPCGV8S Which I can get for 0.

I know most recommend the XS, but what is different about the S4000 other than a non-removable super-zoom lens?

I was checking out these one’s,

http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/side-by-side?products=fujifilm_f500exr&products=sony_dschx9v&products=canon_sx230hs&products=nikon_cps9100&products=panasonic_dmczs10&sortDir=ascending

& have narrowed down to the Finepix F500EXR & the Cybershot DSC-HX9V
The larger sensor in the Finepix & a high ISO range attract me
The Cybershot has Manual Focus mode which is the main plus for me

Still images in demanding conditions like low light are my primary requirements.
Video capabilities are not important & Megapixel count is meanigless for me, lol
I am fully aware that even entry level dSLR’s have a much larger sensor & total manual controls, but then I cannot lug it around everywhere. Maybe I will get one in a years time or two
Plus my better half simply finds those unwieldy !

Which one will give me better results from among the Finepix & Cybershot

I am beginning an arts program at college in the fall and will have few photography classes, I have always enjoyed photography as a hobby as well, but only owned cheap P&S cameras and played around with friend’s digital slrs.

I only have around 0 to spend on it, so I am looking at used entry-level digital slrs, I need a versatile camera that can fit my class needs, and one that can grow with me as I explore photography more seriously as a hobby. (Until I can afford to upgrade in a few years)

I have been looking at used Nikons online, since I’ve used and liked the brand before, the D40x with a basic lense (18-55) seems like it could be a good fit

What camera’s would you recommend for someone with my budget and needs?
Would a D40x be the best choice? Or because of its age will it be too far behind in technology etc?
I only have experience with Nikon, but would another brand give me more "bang for my buck"?

Any opinions or recommendations are really appreciated!

I’m upgrading from my point and shoot, which has been great, but I just need something better. I’m looking for something that will provide quality that’s semi-professional but with simple functions and relatively portable. Basically, an entry-level camera for someone who needs more than what a point and shoot has to offer. I’ve searched relentlessly for high-quality cameras within my price range and I’ve narrowed it down to the Olympus PEN EP1 with a 17mm lens and optical viewfinder for 0 or the Pentax K-x with a 18-55mm lens for 0. Both are 12 mp. From what I’ve researched, the Pentax seems to give slightly better image quality, however the Olympus has a sleek, compact design that is definitely more appealing. The Pentax is a true DSLR while the Olympus is a micro four thirds. Everyone always says that when going for professionalism, the DSLR is better, but it’s bulky size just makes it a bit inconvenient and the Olympus seems to give pretty high quality images as well. I don’t want to sacrifice image quality for camera size, though, so I’m a bit torn.

Which would be better for someone looking for an upgrade from point & shoots who expects high quality images but without the complicated controls of higher end DSLR’s? I still enjoy shooting with manual focus and settings, but I just want something where the settings will be simple and user-friendly, as they were on my point & shoot.

I am looking to upgrade from my current entry level DSLR. I was thinking of maybe the 550D twin lens kit then buying some more glass. However 2 people I know and the salesman told me the 550D is also only really an entry level camera and they all suggested the 7D,

The trouble is the 7D with one lens is over A00 I feel I could get more for my money with the 550D. I don’t want to have to upgrade again in 12mnths but it’s working out pretty expensive for the 7D.

I am a keen photographer and enter comps etc

Can someone please offer their opinion/advice on which way I should go

thanks in advance
Thanks Keerok. only reason I am upgrading is I get a lot of grainieness especially in low light shots even when bumping up the ISO. I have had it back to the shop they tested it aand got the same thing. the older the camera and more shots i take the worse it is. They eventually sent it away for me and when it came back their support guy told me it actually seems that these cameras are like that. both the &d and 550D are good in low light conditions. part of my confusion is being told the 550D is only entry level and not to bother with it

I need a DSLR for my photography class and I would like to get into taking pictures, is the Canon 500D with the kit (a EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens) a good DSLR to start with? I want to stick with the Canon Brand, and I’m thinking of getting a better lens in a week or two, is this lens compatible with the camera, and a good lens for the price?

Camera: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001XURPQS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

New Lens: http://www.amazon.com/Canon-75-300mm-4-5-6-Telephoto-Cameras/dp/B00004THD0/ref=pd_sim_p_9

Thanks to anyone who helps me, I want to make sure this is the best camera to get, and that the lens is compatible.

Im looking for a good entry level DSLR i narrowed it to the sony a2000 or the Nikon d40 but any suggestions or retail sites would be awesome!
edit looking for a multi lens kit set also.
why choose the d40 over the sony or vice versa
i need some reasons that are behind opinions
whats the better deal
A) http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Digital-SteadyShot-Stabilization-75-300mm/dp/B00126P8NU/ref=dp_cp_ob_p_title_1
or
B)http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9999113600050024&type=product&id=pcmprd113700050024
ok thank you for all the help guys, however i cant decide, the d40 looks nice but with out the built in AF im skeptical but from what i hear about the sony is ill outgrow it. I’ve done some minor photography before with some nikons but havnt given a sony a shot before. all help is appreciated. and again please tell me why not just the opinion but ur backing to it.
Thanks,
Ethan

I am planning to buy a new DSLR in next few weeks. My experience in Photography has just been in Point & Shoot and although some of my pictures turn out nice.. I want more.
I plan to use my camera for the following:
1. Indoor shots of people (needs to function very well in low lighting)
2. Concerts and shows, (at the shows I go, the performers are usually moving around and jumping a lot so maybe an Action setting?)
3. It must be able to take decent up close shots (flowers) and decent scenery.
4. Preferably is able to record video.
5. Digital image stabilization.
I am aware that you can buy "lenses" for DSLR’s for scenery, macro, ect. But I honestly would rather stay under 0 in total.
I’ve been doing some research but I’m just so overwhelmed with all the different types. I would like an ENTRY LEVEL, nothing super fancy. Just to give you and idea, I will classify myself as a beginner. I would like a SLR that can function and get excellent pictures of bands/people. If you can help me out and give me some information and personal preferences that would be great!
I forgot to add that it definitely should have live view. I am not that comfortable using a viewfinder.
To the person who said I should buy a point and shoot and then move onto an SLR if I am "still interested": I am on my fourth or fifth point and shoot, I have been interested in photography for 3 or four years now, and I already stated that I could take nice photos with it. I want an DSLR because I am indeed very interested. I am in high school and enrolled in photography classes in the new year, so I asked what SLR you would suggest for me, not if you thought i was interested enough. Thanks.

I’m looking to get my 1st DSLR. I’ve been researching it for so long that I’ve almost confused myself more because obviously every camera has some negative reviews. I really want the Canon 5D or 7D, but I think that is a little too much for me to spend right now. So I’ve narrowed it down to these three cameras…

Nikon D3100
Nikon D90
Canon EOS Rebel T2i

What do you all think? Pro’s/Con’s? Or other recommendations?

I am leaning towards the D90 because it seems to have more functions & isn’t an "entry-level" camera. I am also planning to start out by getting the camera with just the lens kit it comes with on Amazon, so keep that in mind when you are recommending.