Howdy friends! It’s that time of year again…good food, football, snow, decorations, lights, friends, family, laughter, memories, and presents.
Having been a photographer for over 20 years, friends and family are always asking me…
- What’s the best budget camera for a beginner?
- What’s the best compact camera for a beginner?
- What’s the best slim-zoom camera for a beginner?
- What’s the best super-zoom camera for a beginner?
- What’s the best digital SLR for a beginner?
With the holidays fast approaching it can be very confusing trying to select the right digital camera, especially with all the reviews and expert opinions out there.
If you’re on information overload, then you’ve come to the right place. You won’t find any specs or technical jargon in the list below. This list below is intended to provide simple and straight forward recommendations for beginners.
If you have any questions about which digital camera to buy, just submit a comment to this post and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
Best Budget Cameras of 2010
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Panasonic FH20 |
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Fuji F700EXR |
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Canon SD1400 IS |
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Sony W330 |
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Canon SX130 IS |
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Nikon S6000 |
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Fujifilm S1800 |
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Kodak Z981 |
Best Compact Cameras of 2010
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Canon S95 |
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Nikon P7000 |
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Canon G12 |
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Panasonic Lumix LX5 |
Best Slim-Zoom Cameras of 2010
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Sony H55 |
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Panasonic ZS7 |
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Fuji F300EXR |
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Canon SX210 IS |
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Nikon S8100 |
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Sony HX5V |
Best Super-zooms of 2010
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Panasonic FZ40 |
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Canon SX30 IS |
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Panasonic FZ100 |
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Nikon P100 |
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Fuji HS10 |
Best Beginner DLSR’s of 2010
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Canon T2i |
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Nikon D3100 |
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Pentax K-r |
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Sony A33 |
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Panasonic G2 |
If you have any questions about the cameras mentioned above or another camera you may be considering, just add a comment to this post and I’ll get back to you lickety split! Happy Holidays!
P.S. You can reward me by using your shutter clicking skills on the
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tutorials to share with you. Thanks for your support! :)
I used to be recommended this blog through my cousin. I’m no longer sure whether or not this publish is written via him as nobody else understand such particular approximately my trouble. You are wonderful! Thank you!
Hi Moose!
After speaking with you last year, we purchased the Canon Rebel XS. Thank you again for all of your input. We have the the 18-55 mm lens that came with it. Although the lens is great for close-up, it doesn’t have the range I need to take good pictures of my boys playing basketball so I need another lens that can zoom in on them. What would you suggest? Originally, you had suggested the Tamron 18-270mm for an “all in one.” to start off with. Is that still your recommendadtion? I see Canon has a 75-300mm lens, but there are multiple versions, and I honestly don’t know which one is the best one for my needs, without “breaking the bank.” What do you suggest I purchase? Is it silly to purchase an all in one since I already have the 18-55m lens. Should I just be going to the next level on the telephoto lens? What brands and options do you suggest? Please advise. Thank you again! I look forward to your response!
Moose,
Recently started shooting with T2i, however there is an opportunity to acquire the 60D at a great price. Your thoughts?
k
Hi Moose, it’s me again with more questions! I have researched alot of cameras and I keep going back to the Nikon 7000. It is more than I want to pay but I think it might be a good investment if I get really good at photography.
Again, I am interested in taking photos of sports especially in low light situations (in a pool setting for sure) Also I have trouble taking shots in an auditorium. What would be a good lens for action etc. in lower light situations with this camera? Can you use FX lenses with this camera?
I don’t want to waste my money buying a cheaper camera if this one does the trick. I looked seriously at the Nikon 3100 but you can only use DX lenses ans you can not do bracketing with it.
I want to be able to take really good action shots as well as indoor portraits. I also need video and this one has it. The only thing I can see that might be an issue is the weight of this camera. I was also considering the Canon T2i. but you can not use a wireless flash and it doesn’t focus really well when shooting video.
I hope to get my camera soon. I am willing to spend up to $2,000.
Thank you again for all your great advice, Robin
Robin,
- For low light action, go with a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. Tamron and Sigma both offer more affordable versions of this lens compared to the higher priced Nikon.
- Yes, you can use DX and FX lenses with the D7000.
As for shooting video, the D7000 and every HD DSLR for that matter has issues auto-focusing during video recording. When recording video, the D7000 uses a contrast detection system which is much slower than the phase detection system used when capturing photos. As of right now, the Sony A33 and A55 are probably the best cameras in this department thanks to their translucent mirror design which allows for fast phase detection autofocus while recording.
Happy shooting!
- Moose
Okay, Wow… thanks you really know your stuff. I am so thankful for people like you. I think I am really almost ready to purchase my new camera. You have been a huge help. THANK YOU……Robin
Robin,
I’m glad to help…best of luck in your decision! :)
- Moose
Hello, I hope you can help me out. I love taking pics. and I especially want to be able to take action shots indoors and out. I want to take indoor soccer and pics. in a pool setting. I have a Canon Powershot point and shoot camera. I get so frustrated when I’m trying to take pics. of my son swimming. I tried to set the camera using the manual setting, even changed the lighting to flouresent and still the pics. were blurry. Anyway besides that I’d like to be able to take shots in an auditorium setting like at a school choir concert ect….
Okay I’ve been researching cameras and I am willing to invest in at least $1,500 for a good DSLR. Here’s my story, I have lenses from my SLR camera Minolta 7000. The lenses are Minolta Maxxum 70-210 ans another Maxxum lens 50mm1:1.7 (22). I talked to my instructor and he advised me to buy a Sony because the lenses will work for most Sony DSLR’s. Now having said all that I am leaning away from Nikon’s and Canon’s. I have compared the Nikon 7000 to the Sony SLT A55VL. I want to be able to shoot video as well so I am looking at both of them. The Nikon 7000 is about $2000. and the Sony A55 is about 800. with DT 18-55 zoom lens. I need to know if this camera would be the camera for me?
I want to start taking more photos of not only action indoors/outdoors but video and portraits/landscapes. I really want to invest in the best that I can because my plan is to get really good at photography someday. For now I’d like to be able to get indoor action and still shots for sure along with video.
Remember, I already have the lenses for Sony. Question is are they good lenses for the Sony A55? I have heard this too that it’s all about the lens in the quality of the photo. I know that Sony cameras have built in stabilizers. Do you know it the lenses I own also have the stabilizer in them?
Thank you so much for your time, Robin
Howdy Robin,
Wow, sounds like you’ve done your research. For a beginner, it really is quite impressive.
Here’s my advice…
1. We know your budget is $1500. When purchasing your first DSLR, I’d subtract $150 from the budget so you can apply it towards a good memory card, cleaning supplies (blower & brush), bag, tripod and a spare battery. This will bring your DSLR budget down to $1350, which is plenty for your first DSLR.
2. Before committing to an HD enabled DSLR, understand that the learning curve is pretty steep. Having been a photographer for over 20 years, I can tell you that I’m still learning the ins and outs to capturing video successfully with my DSLR.
3. Looking at the current crop of DSLR’s, I would prioritize my selection based on the features that are most important to me. You mentioned the Sony A55 which has a wonderful LCD screen, but doesn’t come equipped with an optical viewfinder. For some people this isn’t a big deal, but for others it’s a deal breaker. You also mentioned the Nikon D7000 which is way out of your price range and probably more camera than you can handle right now. My thought process is very similar to yours. If I’m spending the money, I might as well buy the best. However, when it comes to DSLR’s your basically paying for better build quality and more advanced features…some of which you’ll never ever use. Most people assume that higher priced models equal better image quality, but that’s not always the case. An entry level DSLR with a nice lens will produce sharper images that an expensive DSLR with a cheap lens.
4. Don’t let your older Minolta lenses skew your decision. Choose the DSLR that has the features which are most important to you. Most people upgrade their lenses every few years as their interest in a certain type of photography grows. To answer your question, the lenses you own do not have image stabilization built-in.
5. Based on your budget and the types of photography you’re interested in (sports), I would take a look at the Nikon D90 (body-only $749). At roughly $749 for the body, you’d have $600 for lenses and another $150 towards the essentials (memory card, bag, tripod, etc…). If you’re in the market for something a bit more compact, then take a look at the Nikon D3100 or the Canon T2i. The advantage of a Nikon or Canon DSLR is lens selection. Nikon and Canon both have the largest selection of beginner, intermediate and pro lenses on the market…which is fantastic for those who plan to grow.
Since you’re interested in sports photography, you’ll definitely need a good telephoto lens. If you go with the Nikon, then start with the 55-300mm VR (vibration reduction = image stabilization) lens. If you go with the Canon, then start with the 55-250mm IS (image stabilization) lens. As you grow, the next lens in the progression would be the 70-200mm lens offered by both companies.
Hope all of this helps, if you have any questions just let me know!
- Moose
First of all, Thank you so much. I was thinking about the Nikon D-90 but I have seen some photos taken by a photographer that uses this particular camera at the pool. She actually tried taking pics. at our last swim meet and because of the lighting she wasn’t able to capture any good photos which was indeed discouraging. My instructor has a D-90 and loves it but says the same thing it’s hard to capture shots inside a pool area or other places with lighting issues. I really need to find a camera that can capture great, crisp action shots. I especially want the photos to be crystal clear with the splash. I am willing to pay more to get these great shots. I need a video camera just to get small clips 5 min. max of my son’s swimming events.
I will research further. I haven’t looked into the canon’s much. Thinking seriously about the Nikon’s or Sony. I thought the Sony cameras had a built in stabilizer which means you don’t need the stabilizer in the lenses, correct? You mentioned not to base my decision on my Minolta lenses but it seems silly to waste them if they are good lenses, eventhough I may upgrade later. You also said that Nikon has the largest selection of lenses. Let me ask you this, when buying a camera for the use of action shots especially, does it really just some down to what lens I use?
Also I read that the camera sensor is a big deal. Both the Sony A55 and some Nikons have the same type of sensors. Are they pretty good sensors? Why does this matter so much?
Thank you again for all your advise. I GREATLY appreciate your time. Robin
P.S. I will look into the other cameras you mentioned, however as I mentioned earlier I need to find a camera that can take photos/video in a pool setting (mostly) because of the lighting issues. (not even sure if the Sony a55 is capable of this if I decide to go this route)
Robin,
I’m glad to help! When it comes to personal opinion, you’ll get lots of different views. I’m sure you’ve already read seen how reviews can vary from person to person.
Now, just because a lady with the D90 took some bad pics it doesn’t mean that it was the D90′s fault. Imagine if a beginner bought a set of expensive paint brushes. Are the brushes going to instantly turn them into a master artist?
Having shot pro sports for over 10 years, I can tell you that shooting sports is an art form that requires lots of practice to get right.
You’re instructor is dead on about shooting indoors with poor lighting, however, this applies to every single DSLR out there…not just the D90.
DSLR’s (regardless of brand) are quite capable of taking excellent sports shots indoors, but it really comes down to the skill level of the photographer.
I’m completely biased when it comes to camera brand.
I own cameras and lenses from many different manufacturers (Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Sony, Panasonic, Fuji, etc…). I mentioned the D90 based on features, lens selection, performance, price and overall value.
To answer your question, yes, the A55 has image stabilization built-in to the body…which means you’ll have image stabilization regardless of lens.
The reason I don’t want you to base your decision off old Minolta lenses, is due to the fact that metering and auto-focus on those old lenses are very unreliable…especially when it comes to sports photography when you need super quick and sharp focus, along with accurate metering. You’re better off selling the lenses and putting that money towards a new lens that’s capable of shooting sports effectively.
In my opinion, lens selection is a bigger decision than choosing a DSLR. As I mentioned before… an entry level DSLR with a nice lens will produce sharper images that an expensive DSLR with a cheap lens. No matter how large the image sensor is inside a DSLR, the glass in front of that sensor is what determines the level of sharpness and detail.
Some manufacturers do share the same sensor…however, the same sensor doesn’t always produce the same result. Each manufacture (Canon, Nikon, Sony, etc…) applies different levels of noise reduction and color rendition to produce an image they’re happy with.
Sensors can make all the difference when it comes to overall image quality. Generally speaking, you have three groups of sensors. Small sensors (compact cameras), medium sensors (entry-level to intermediate DSLR’s) and large sensors (full-frame advanced DSLR’s). Small sensors are really bad in low light situations. Medium sensors do a much better job in low light. Large sensors are great for pro photographers who need advanced dynamic range and super low image noise.
To answer your last question, the Sony A55 is quite capable of taking excellent sports shots (indoors or outdoors). If you go that route, you may want to couple it with a Sigma or Tamron 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. Both lenses will give you the performance and sharpness you need for capturing sports. Best of luck in your decision…happy shooting!
- Moose
Hi Moose, thank you so much for all your advise with my camera decision. I have narrowed my decision down to the Canon Rebel T2i and the Sony A55. I have been researching the Nikon 7000. I really wish I could afford that one. It has everything and more.
I have just a few more questions: One Is it more important to have optical zoom verses digital and if so why? And is it more important to have the image stabilization in the lens or in the camera it’s self? And why?
Thank you again for you time, Robin
Howdy Robin,
Digital zoom is basically a fancy word for image crop. Optical zoom actually gets you closer to your subject, while capturing the image at full resolution. Image stabilization built into a lens is “usually” better than I.S. equipped inside a camera. Image stabilized lenses are tuned to the exact needs for that lens. Longer lenses require a different level of I.S. than shorter lenses. Another advantage of I.S. lenses is the optical viewfinder is also stabilized making it easier to shoot distant subjects. With sensor shift systems, the image displayed in the optical viewfinder is not stabilized.
- Moose
A great website you got. I am looking to see if there is any tip to help me. I got Canon XSi camera. Love the camera.. however am having so much trouble taking good pictures during a basketball game. I got Sigma DC 70-300 lens. Was wondering if you got good tips to help taking indoor pictures during basketball games. Thanks so much.
Cindy,
Even though you’ve got an XSi, I recommend reading “Canon T2i Lenses for Indoor Sports Photography.”
Towards the bottom of that post I have a section labeled Tips for shooting sports in low light. Those settings will also apply to your XSi. If you have any other questions after reading that post I’d be glad to help…happy shooting!
- Moose
Hello Moose,
I am going to shoot some wildlife and wanted to know what lens you recommend. I am thinking of getting the Tamron 18-270 but was wondering whether I should get a separate zoom instead of an all in one. Thoughts?
Thanks again for this great website!
Generosa,
Sorry for the late reply, been busy with some commercial photography work. What camera do you have?
- Moose
Hey Moose,
I’m having a really hard time finding info on DSLR buffer times in video mode. I had been planning to buy a T2i to double as a camera and a camcorder, but found out that the buffer limit is about 12 minutes per video. I then checked into the Sony a55 and it was only 9 minutes (with IS enabled). Can you point me in the direction of any DSLR that can shoot video for an hour or more continuously? Thanks, I really appreciate it.
Will
Will,
I’m shooting from the hip here, but I’m about 99% sure that every DSLR currently on the market has a recording time limit less than 30 minutes. The Nikon D7000 can record up to 20 minutes and the Panasonic GH2 can record up to 30 minutes. I have a feeling they don’t want to cut into the “camcorder” market, thus time limitations are set.
- Moose
What would be one of the better cameras for macro photography and everyday pictures be priced up to $500
Howdy Ed,
There are a number of compact cameras with excellent macro abilities currently on the market. Are you looking for a portable camera that can fit into a jeans pocket or is size not an issue?
- Moose
How about the Canon SX30 or Nikon P100 ?
THANKS
Moose,
I just wanted to say thanks for all of your advice. We purchased the Canon XS, and I’m anxious to get started taking great basketball pictures of the kids! Your site is super and so very helpful! Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Best wishes in 2011!
Kristen
Kristen,
Awesome! Congrats on the new cam…I think you’ll really enjoy it. If you ever have any questions, you know where to find me! :)
- Moose
My 12 year old grandson has asked me for a “camera that takes photos underwater in the pool”, ‘videos” and is “easy to use”. I have no idea what types to even search for. The one I found on a shopping website seemed great as far as function and price; however, the reviews were negative. I feel so inept in this area. Nana needs someone with some knowledge on this one. Do you have any suggestions for possibilities? Thank you in advance for any help you can give me. I appreciate your site.
Have a Merry Christmas,
Rebecca,
He’s talking about the Kodak playsport HD waterproof camera. Its a super simple device that can take HD videos, 5 megapixel images and is waterproof up to 10 feet deep…which is plenty fine for most pools. They’re great little cameras, especially for kids. Happy holidays!
- Moose
I am looking to purchase a superzoom camera, but cant decide which one to pick. Ive read reviews and they are all up and down was looking towards the p100 but still undecided. Had other digital cameras and lighting was poor and pics blurry just want an all around good camera. Thank you
Derrick,
You and about 10 million other people (including myself) want a portable, compact camera with the same low light ability and performance of a Digital SLR.
Unfortunately, compact cameras (superzooms included) have much smaller sensors than their bigger brothers.
Smaller sensors have trouble in low light. Problems such as overbearing image noise (grain), poor color and blurry pics are all attributed to the smaller sized sensor.
Think of low light ability like the Great Wall of China. On one side you’ve got compacts (compact, slimzooms, superzooms) and on the other side you’ve got Digital SLR’s. You’re standing on the wall and have to make a choice of which side you’re jumping to. If you’ve made the decision to go with a compact camera, then you’ll have to sacrifice low light performance to a certain degree.
As for choosing the right compact camera, it comes down to what features are important to you. If you’re considering the P100, then it sounds like you want lots of zoom. The P100 is an excellent camera for true beginners. It’s priced right and produces very pleasing images, especially outdoors (here are some sample photos that I took).
As for matching it up against the other top superzooms, it depends on what you’re looking for. The SX30IS has one of the best and easiest video modes for beginners. The HS10 has a manual zoom barrel, allowing to go from wide-angle to telephoto with a simple twist. The FZ100 comes with a really nice flip out and rotating LCD screen. The FZ40 is a wonderful superzoom, priced towards the lower end of the scale.
Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose
Hello! I’m looking for a spectacular camera and need advice. I take lots of photos in different ways… indoor, outdoor, action and stills, up close and I try to do long distances (doesn’t work with my camera), etc. At this point only I have a simple Canon PowerShot 6megpix (which was a present 4+yrs ago). It has been great for basic needs so far. I have taken a digital photography course and am very hungry to learn more about photography. I am interested in taking photos that make a statement, “WOW! shots” of nature & people, things people tend to overlook in life, etc. I would like to make picture books & framed photos (in larger sizes), professional type portraits… I need something that picks up detail, lighting, etc. What would be a fabulous camera for my needs? I am NOT looking for something cheap (couple hundred) or a bit expensive for me ( 1500+ ). Thank you in advance for your terrific opinion! Warmly, Michelle
Michelle,
It sounds like you’re ready for a Digital SLR. DSLR’s are really the best tool for capturing the most detail and for producing images that pop.
Most people are scared off by all the advanced settings and huge selection of lenses, however, shooting with a DSLR can be just as easy as a compact camera. Many entry level digital SLR’s come with creative modes that allow you to shoot different types of subjects and scenes with the twist of a dial.
As for choosing your first DSLR, that’s a tough one. It really comes down to your skill level and budget. If you’re a true beginner on a limited budget, then I’d start with the Canon Rebel XS or the Nikon D3000. Both cameras have been on the market for a couple years so the price has come way down.
As for deciding between the two, that will be up to you. Choosing between Nikon and Canon is like deciding if you like Coke or Pepsi. Everybody has an opinion as to which one is ‘better’. The best advice I can give you is to go through some images on flickr (XS images / D3000 images) for both cameras and decide which images look best to your eye.
Generally speaking, Nikon goes for more ‘natural’ looking colors, while Canon goes for more ‘punchier’ looking colors….however, you can adjust the image settings (in-camera) to your liking.
When it comes to lenses, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed in the beginning. Both cameras mentioned above come with really nice kit lenses that can handle 70% of shooting situations you’ll encounter. As you grow, you can start investing in lenses that match the types of subjects or scenes that you’re interested in.
If you decide on a DSLR, let me know and I can point out some additional lenses that are great for landscapes and portraits. Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose
I’m wondering about getting the Kodak Easyshare Z981 but many photographers say the image quality is bad. I like the zoom and its cheap but is it worth it to get it? Or should I get a Nikon L110?
Bryan,
I suggest browsing through some photos taken by the Kodak Z981 (Z981 images) and the Nikon L110 (L110 images) on flickr. This will allow you to judge which camera produces images that are most pleasing to your eye.
The Z981′s advantages over the L110 include a wider and longer zoom range, and a brighter lens at both wide-angle and telephoto which will allow you to get a faster shutter speeds in low light.
The L110′s advantages over the Z981 include a more compact body and a better burst rate (13 fps compared to 1 fps).
Right now the price for both cameras is nearly identical, so I would go with the one that has the features that are most important to you. If you like longer zoom, then go with the Z981. If you like a lighter, more compact camera then go with the L110. Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose
Thanks for your reply moose. I prefer large zoom cameras but my parents won’t let me buy a dslr and I think the Kodak Z981 is the choice for me. The Nikon L110 has less zoom and the colors are too sharp and hurt my eyes. I looked for a feature where you can take many shots at once on kodak.com buy can’t find anything. Can the Kodak Z981 shoot multiple shots at once?
Bryan,
Yes, the Kodak Z981 has a burst mode, but it is not one of its strong points. It can only capture 3 images at a rate of 0.9 frames per second. It has a high-speed burst which can capture 9 images at 8 frames per second, but the image quality is reduced to 3 megapixels. The L110 isn’t any better. It can only capture 4 images at a rate of 1 frame per second. It also has a high-speed burst which can capture 20 images at a rate of 11 frames per second, but the image quality is reduced to 3 megapixels.
- Moose
I am looking for a good camera for eBay photos. I take pictures as small as a dime and as large as automobiles. Shack elimination is very important. Focus very close up also important. Your input is appreciated. Bill
Howdy Bill,
For your needs I’d recommend the Canon SX30IS. The lens starts out at 24mm wide, which will allow you to capture larger sized subjects in cramped or smaller sized spaces.
The SX30IS also has an excellent macro mode for extreme close-ups. Focusing is possible within 1cm of the lens.
For your eBay shots, one of the most important things is lighting. Good lighting can make a product “pop” and grab a readers eye. The Canon SX30IS comes equipped with a built-in hot-shoe which will allow you to attach an external flash (like this one) for more even lighting. You can use the flash outdoors to fill in the shadows or indoors to provide a more natural looking exposure. Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose
I need to buy a new camera, and I am having difficulty deciding on what to buy. There are so many options out there, I don’t know what’s the best choice for me…how much is too much and what’s not enough??? I’ve always thought higher megapixels meant better camera, but as I’ve been researching, I discovered that megapixels beyond 12 on a smaller sensor are a waste. Is this true? So many reviews with conflicting info; it’s hard to decide! I’m not a “photographer” by any means, but I do take pictures of important events, and they just aren’t turning out! Here’s what’s important to me: a camera that takes clear, sharp pictures (as opposed to the fuzzy, blurred ones I get now), a camera that will actually capture good photos of my kids while they are playing basketball, a camera that adjusts to indoor/outdoor lighting and doesn’t appear so grainy/dark. I want to get the most reasonable camera that will accomodate my needs. Do I need to “break the bank” to get that? Any input and recommended cameras would be greatly appreciated! Happy Holidays!
Kristen
Kristen,
Yes, you’re correct…in fact a 6 megapixel camera has more than enough resolution for an 8×10 print. Megapixels really have nothing to do with image quality at this point. Image quality is really determined by the size of the image sensor.
Larger image sensors are capable of producing less noise (grain) and capturing more detail, especially in low light (indoors).
Unfortunately, compact camera use very tiny sensors that are crammed with millions of pixels. This leads to muddy looking images in low light.
It sounds like your primary subjects are…
Of the two subjects, shooting basketball indoors is almost impossible with a compact camera. Not only do you have to account for slower (inaccurate) focusing, but you’ll have to use very high ISO’s in order to get a shutter speed fast enough to prevent subject blur (your kids running, jumping and taking a shot).
I’m not sure how old you are, but if you remember buying film there was a number on the box that represented the film speed. Lower numbers (100, 200) were better for outdoors, while higher numbers (400, 800) were better for low light action shots. ISO is basically the digital equivalent to film speed. Higher ISO’s lead to more image noise, while lower ISO’s produce clean and sharp looking images.
Now, having said all that…in order to see a dramatic difference in your low light action shots, you’ll need to invest in a digital SLR. These days, DSLR’s are very affordable. In fact the Canon XS can be purchased with a lens for under $500.
You have to weigh the pros and cons. If you spend $200-$300 on a new compact camera, you may get faster autofocus, a better LCD screen and a few other features, but the low light action shots will look the same.
By spending a bit more up front, you’ll have a camera capable of not only low light action shots, but detailed shots outdoors and amazing portraits with incredible background blur.
If you have any other questions about all the info I just threw at you, just let me know and I’d be glad to help! Best of luck in your decision and Happy Holidays!
- Moose
Moose, thank you for your reply. I really appreciate your input. Quick question (since budget is an issue)….I found the Nikon Coolpix P100 “bundle” for $309 (after instant rebates and such), which appears to be a great camera. A salesman showed me the “continuous sport” feature, which looked great and captured multiple pictures that seemed clear on the screen (but I really can’t judge until the picture is printed, which unfortunately is not an option at this point). How does this camera compare to the Canon EOS Rebel XS? Will the Nikon be sufficient for my needs? If so, of course, I’ll opt for the cheaper one (i.e., Nikon). The cheapest I found for the Canon with 2 lenses (EF 18-55 and EF 75-300….which really means nothing to me now), 2 GB card, and gadget bag is $579, and that appears to be quite a deal in comparison to other offers I found. The Canon camera seems kind of intense….the lenses are almost scary! How difficult is it moving back/forth between lenses? Thanks again for any info you can provide. I really appreciate your honesty! Happy Thanksgiving!
Kristen,
Here’s the thing…it all depends on what you shoot (the most). If 90% of your shots are outdoors in bright light, then the P100 will be an excellent choice. If most of your shots are indoors or in low light, then the P100 will give you results on par with any compact camera. If you want to see a dramatic difference in your low light shots, then you need to go with a DSLR.
If you don’t mind image noise, then by all means go for the P100. Image noise or grain is not really a problem until you start using an ISO over 400. Once you go over that threshold, your images will begin to lose color and detail.
If you’re shooting your kids basketball game, you’ll need to be in shutter priority mode in order to get a fast enough shutter speed to “freeze” the action. A good starting point would be 1/500 of a second or higher. The camera will likely choose an ISO of 800 to 1600 in order to get a proper exposure. On the P100, this translates into loss of detail and reduced color. With the Canon XS, detail is retained and your images will look much more vibrant and clean. This again is due to the larger sized image sensor.
I realize that DSLR’s appear to be “scary.” To be honest, there really isn’t anything to be scared about. The Canon XS comes with helpful shooting modes that take control of everything. On top of the XS you’ll see a mode dial. On the mode dial there are a couple icons that stand for portraits, landscapes, sports, ect… All you have to do is rotate the mode dial to the mode that matches your shooting situation and the XS will do the rest.
As for lenses, there are a lot to choose from. In the beginning I recommend going with an all-in-one lens like the Tamron 18-270mm. This will allow you to capture everything from wide-angle to telephoto, all with one lens.
Another idea, would be to purchase the Canon XS USED. This would bring your total price down to $400 for the XS and a 18-55mm kit lens. The kit lens will allow you to capture images in and around the house. In situations where you need more zoom, you’ll have to purchase an additional lens.
Lastly, I would stay away from kits on eBay or package deals that include memory cards, cleaning kits, tripods, etc… Many times these sellers will include low grade items in order to “beef” up the deal. All you really need is the XS, kit lens (or all-in-one lens) and a memory card to get started.
Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose
I would like some help finding a good camera for taking indoor pictures. My daughter does competition cheer and I have not been able to get any decent images inside. Everyone comes out dark and grainy. And any pictures zoomed in are impossible to see. I also have the same problem with family pictures of the kids. Inside pictures are dark and I get alot of blur. It also seems to take forever to actually take a picture. I currently have a Kodak EasyShare Z760. Any advice you could give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Howdy Colleen,
Low light photography can be very frustrating, especially with a compact camera. Not only do you have to deal with slower focusing, but images turn out blurry and full of noise.
Of those three problems, the only one you can fix with your Z760 is image blur. You can correct it by putting the camera into shutter priority mode and raising the shutter speed to 1/500 or higher when shooting cheer or fast action. For low light portraits or group shots, you can dial it down to 1/125. The problem with raising the shutter speed in low light, is your ISO will go up…higher ISO’s lead to grainy (muddy) looking photos.
Now in order to fix the issues of slow focusing and image noise (grain), you’ll need to purchase a digital SLR. DSLR’s are equipped with larger image sensors and more advanced focusing systems.
Large sensors can produce much cleaner looking photos in low light with very little image grain. On top of that, DSLR’s can focus much quicker and more accurately than compact cameras. The problem with DSLR’s is that they can be expensive, especially when you consider buying extra lenses.
One DSLR that I really like (and wasn’t mentioned in the list because it came out in 2008) is the Canon Rebel XS. For under $500 bucks, you get a fantastic DSLR and kit lens that will dramatically improve the look of your low light photos. Don’t be scared off by all of the advanced controls. You can keep the XS in Auto mode as you learn and still get some amazing images. Here’s a link to some images taken by the XS and the kit lens. Best of luck in your decision!
- Moose