Good beginner camera? - 1
What's a good beginner camera thats under $400? (preferably a nikon or canon)
i have recently got into photography (when i go on vacation i love taking pictures but unfortunately my sony camera sucks) and i also want one for tumblr.
i need a camera that is moderately easy to use, because I have no clue how the lenses work, or the difference between slr and dslr.also, i would like for it to have a flip out screen. It doesn't matter if its an older model or a more recent one.
The words "beginner" camera do not apply to DSLR's. You won't find a DSLR under $400.00. DSLR's are about $550.00 and up. Then there are the lenses needed when ever you change photographic subjects, like for macro, portraits and really distant subjects. But if you are set on a DSLR you would be better off to save your money for a while until you can afford to buy the camera with the standard zoom lens of 28-50- 55mm. Plus get a 50-to-200mm lens included in the outfit. This is really your most economical way of doing things even if it does double your budget. There's no difference between SLR and DSLR except that SLR refers to single lens reflex cameras that accept film (which are non existent any more) and DSLR refers to digital single lens reflex cameras that use a memory card in place of film which every camera made today operates with.
My personal recommendation is for you to start with a "bridge" type camera. This a camera with most all the features of a DSLR camera, with the one very big exception, bridge cameras DO NOT accept interchangeable lenses. However interchangeable lenses are not needed because the lens on the camera is a long lens encompassing wide angle, long telephoto and macro functions in one lens!
Your best bet in a "bridge" type camera would be one of the Canon Powershot "SX" series. The current model is the Canon Powershot Sx50 IS selling around your $400 price range, and it DOES HAVE A FLIP OUT LCD SCREEN! The Canon Powershot SX series came in the SX10, the SX20, the SX30, the SX40. Some are available "refurbished" by Canon and are great deals price wise. The main difference between them is an increase in the zoom lens power and the video feature.
I really think you are suscribing to the hype presented by a few that a DSLR is the only type of camera to own. For me---YES, my house is decorated in wall to wall 11x14's and 16x20's. Plus many DSLR owner's use their cameras to make a little $ on the side. But you need to visit the web sites of the DSLR's and price the lenses and see if this type of an investment is for you!
Sony cameras are easy to use and can be tweaked to make the shot look better. If you can't get great shots on a Sony, won't with any other camera unless you get lucky.