What are some good cameras for a beginning photographer?
I'm 15, I'd really like to get into photography. I've been stuck taking pictures on really old Polaroid cameras and cheap Kodaks and I'd like to do something more. I went to Best Buy to get one, but I was completely lost on what would be good for a beginner. I really like Nikons and Canons but nothing too big--just something I can easily carry on my neck. My parents don't want to spend anymore than 700 dollars on a camera. Any suggestions?
Get Nikon D3200.It's a great camera for someone like you and it's right in your price range.
Lucky you, the Nikon D3100 and Canon T3i are both $500.
Which brand is up to you, virtually they are the same.
The Canon's CMOS sensor tend to have a tiny tiny bit of warmer colours compared to Nikon's.
If it's in your budget, go for it, there isn't a right or wrong answer when it comes to camera bodies. I know you're already aware, but just invest more in the lenses.
I went with the Nikon D3100 when I first started, it's an amazing camera for what the price is. The kit lens was really sharp for its' value.
I upgraded cameras because the viewfinder is too small in smaller DSLR's, and I love manual focus more than auto focus.
I would recommend a setup of an older entry-level DSLR (like a Canon Rebel XSi, which currently goes for about $200, but is still a rocking good camera for a beginner). If you prefer Nikon, look for a Nikon D5000. I imagine it's priced similarly. Just stay away from the Nikon D3000; it uses an old kind of sensor that won't give you the same quality in low light.
With the rest of your $700, get a nice lens. I recommend a 50mm f/1.8. That's an awesome lens to get going with, MUCH better than the 18-55mm kit lenses that usually come with entry level DSLRs.
Or if you want to go even crazier, get a film SLR. They're fun. And learning on film will kinda force you to learn how to expose correctly.
In my opinion you should expand your search to include the Sony SLT A37.It has features not found in any comparably priced Nikon or Canon.
The Sony SLT A37 uses Sony's Translucent Mirror Technology which allows for full-time, continuous phase-detect auto focus whether you're shooting still images or full 1080p HD video.
Advantage Sony.
The Sony SLT A37 has a focusing motor and Sony's version of Image Stabilization (IS) in the camera body. With the entry-level Nikon models (D3100, 3200, 5100, 5200) you have to use the more expensive AF-S lenses if you want auto focus. Canon has always used lenses with a focusing motor. Both Nikon and Canon have their respective versions of IS in some but not all of their lenses.
Advantage Sony.
The Sony SLT A37 uses the legacy Minolta Maxxum "A" lens mount which gives you access to a large selection of high quality previously owned lenses which will auto focus and meter on the A37 as they should plus any lens used becomes an IS lens.
Advantage Sony.
Sony A37 review:
http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/sony-a37/sony-a37A.HTM
Price at B&H ( http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...ovideo.com )
Sony A37 with 18-55mm zoom lens, $498.00 after a $100.00 'Instant Savings' from B&H that ends 03/02/2013.