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Resolved Question

Fastest focus,, sharpest, quickest/or non-buffering camera?

Jan 3, 2012 1:45AM PST

Hi folks,

I need a recommendation for a dslr at no more than $700. My current camera buffers every so often, holding things up as much as 45 seconds or so. The focus is not as quick as I would like. And, I want sharp, sharp, sharp. I understand these variables might be difficult to match on one camera, from what I have seen, especially at the cost, but I'm hoping someone has some good ideas. I'm lazy so go with automatic typically, therefore not overly concerned with a lot of adjustments. I will be purchasing a separate telephoto lense, so any any recommendations on a brand (can I go with other manuf's than who builds the camera?) Thanks so much...Amy

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Tool
Jan 3, 2012 3:05AM PST

A camera is a tool, not a magic box. If you do not know how to use the tool, you will still get bad photos. In other words, you are asking too much from a camera. You need to learn how to use a DSLR if you are trying to shoot sports (which is what I am guessing you are wanting to do). Lazy and automatic won't cut the mustard.

That said, the fastest camera with the biggest buffer for the budget you have indicated is probably the Pentax K-r. It can shoot at close to six frames per second for up to 30 frames. Buffer clearing time would be approximately 12 seconds after those 30 shots. The only way to get faster is to spent significantly more money.

You can buy the K-r in a two lens kit that come with 18-55mm and 55-300mm lenses for under $800. However, brighter telephoto lenses are not common for Pentax cameras, so the kit is only good for daylight sports photos. Canon and Nikon cameras have many more lenses to choose from, but a bright telephoto lens would cost more than your entire budget.

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Fastest focus,, sharpest, quickest/or non-buffering cam
Jan 17, 2012 2:13AM PST

Thanks for the information on the camera itself.

I would like to say I very much do know how to use a DSLR, have been doing beautiful portraiture, nature and other work for years and years. I don't do sports, nor high-speed shooting, except for squirmy kids. I make adjustments as necessary for the portrait lighting I am using. Quick focus, reduced buffer time and sharpness are the factors in my needing to upgrade at this point. I have experimented with very high-end DSLR's, and have truly found the quality I am getting, for my particular work now, to be pretty exceptional, based on the skills I have.

I wanted some input as to something just a step above, so I will definately check out the K-r!

Thanks for the info...