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General discussion

Beginner who wants to buy a DSLR

by M_Man633 Dec 4, 2009 8:43AM PST

I am a teenager who wants to , with the help of dad (who is photography fanatic), to buy a digital SLR. I have the SONY Alpha DSLR-A230 in mind because of its good review on cnet and its price. I have a budget of 600 dollars. I plan to use the camera on school trips, family get-togethers, and outdoor scenery type things. I was wondering if I should get a second zoom lens, a UV filter, and a lens cap. If anyone has any sugestions or other recommendations feel free to leave a comment. Thanks.

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4 Posts
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DSLR
by snapshot2 Forum moderator Dec 5, 2009 4:47AM PST

All new lenses I have bought come with a lens cap.

I can't say about a second lens, when I don't know what first lens you will get.
But I would recommend that you use the first lens for a least a month before thinking a bout a second lens.
By that time you will know what type of lens you need.

The UV filter is normally used as physical protection for the lens.
Much like an insurance policy.
You may or may not need it.

If you use the lens cap when not taking pictures you can get by without a UV filter.

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Typo
by M_Man633 Dec 5, 2009 9:59AM PST

I meant should I get a lens hood not a lens cap.

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Lens Hood
by snapshot2 Forum moderator Dec 5, 2009 11:27AM PST

Some lenses come with a hood, some do not.

If you get a lens hood, try to find one that is made for that specific lens. If not, look for a petal shaped lens hood.
Example of a petal shaped lens hood:

http://www.amazon.com/Adorama-58mm-Wide-Angle-Digital/dp/B000FJXR5G

They provide maximum shielding without causing vignetting (darkening of the corners).

I would not buy the lens hood right away.
Use the lens for a while to see if you really need a hood.
You usually only need one when pointing the lens in the direction of the sun.

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Or Make Your Own Lens Hood For Free
by snapshot2 Forum moderator Dec 5, 2009 11:51AM PST
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