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General discussion

time to buy a new camera - seeking advice

Mar 5, 2006 8:55AM PST

I'm one of those "designated photographers!" Every birthday party, every holiday and even every event at work - I'm the one who takes all the pictures. I LOVE taking pictures, sharing pics (via the internet and in albums) and I'm even the type to put all of my pics in an album (and yes, I even order most of my digitals and still put them in albums). However, my camera frustrates me too often, and I'm ready for and in need of an upgrade. I have a Sony CyberShot - 5 megapixels. Outdoor pics come out clear and pretty good (especially on a pretty day). Most stills come out pretty decent. Pics of people, though, are usually blurry and just plain bad! This is due to the annoying delay in the camera...and not to mention the delay between pics. I need something faster and where I can take a few within a few seconds - or else I miss important stuff! I'm ready to take the plunge and am willing to spend up to $1000. I saw a Nikon digital SLR recently...but just don't know which one to get - they seem to have at least 3 models. I'd appreciate any advice anyone can give. The one I really noticed was $1200 and came with such an amazing lens that it seemed to be universal and wouldn't require me to buy additional lenses (which, if I spend that much money, I would prefer not to have to buy more lenses and worry with the switching...remember, I AM an amateur!).

THANKS!

Discussion is locked

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If you 've got a budget to spent for DSLR, these are
Mar 5, 2006 2:31PM PST

some choices for you

Nikon D50, D70s, and D200 ( the most preferable camera ). Good for shooting mostly landscape and high contrast pictures.

Canon 350 ( Rebel XT ), 20D, upcoming 30D, and 5D . Good for portrait and low light at the lower noise than Nikon.

Test them and put the picture on screen to see the differences fit you most. Enjoy shooting . Good luck.

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One more to consider
Mar 5, 2006 10:41PM PST

The Olympus E500 is getting rave reviews by the new owners.

Some are reporting that they purchased the E500 with the lens kit (2 lenses) for under $700.

Here is a look at the specifications:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Olympus/oly_e500.asp

Right at the top, there is a link to a review.
Right under the red stars, there is a link to owner's opinions.

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Hang on!
Mar 6, 2006 12:59AM PST

There are two new cameras to consider. One is the Olympic E330 and the other is the Panasonic DMC-L1.
Unlike standard DSLRS, they allow you to also frame your photo with the live view screen. They should be out shortly so just be a little patient.