Thinking about buying SLR

[j_electric]

Well since I have upgraded to this big tank I have decided that I need to invest in a new camera. I know there a quite a few of you out there that got some skills , so I am looking for advise on a decent digital slr to buy, and what is a good size on a lens for macro shots

TIA

-joe

[Nick_Kun]

I would go with an XSI kit, best bang for the buck! Great Starter SLR

- Nick

[sandiegoryu]

I would recommend the Canon Rebel series. There are newer ones out there but I have the XTi and it takes awesome photos.

As for lens you should get the Canon 100mm macro or the Tamron 90mm macro lens.

I also recommend you look at dpreview.com and http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ for some reviews on cameras and lenses.

Some will recommend Nikon to you but if you want to someday invest in professional quality equipment, Canon cameras are the way to go, and you get to keep your lenses.

[SDFISHMAN]

I might be selling my Nikon D80 body soon if your interested. Time to upgrade BTW Nikons are good camers too

[malakaikingston]

I might be selling my Nikon D80 body soon if your interested. Time to upgrade BTW Nikons are good camers too

I love my D80, solid easy to use and does what you want it to.

[The_Gryphon]

You didn't mention your budget. That info would help, but if the sky's the limit then drop the $7999.99 on a Canon 1Ds Mark III and then $1309.99 for a Canon 180mm f/3.5 L Macro USM Lens. And/or add in the Canon MP-E f/2.8 EX DG Macro HSM lens. That lens is $869.99 and is more like a magnifying glass allowing 1-5x life-size.

I am personally enjoying my Canon 40D. I seen a mention of the Canon Rebel XSi. It is a very nice camera for under $1000. It's basically a toned down 40D which is why I shelled out the couple hundred more for the 40D.

Before we go further, I'd say lets here the budget you want to keep and then everyone can better throw out their ideas.

[Dakota]

Whichever you go (Canon Rebel xsi, 40D 5D Mark III or Nikon D40, D80, D300, D3) all are good choices. For futurebility (yes, I made up that word) stick to Canon or Nikon. Budget will limit you to WHICH model. As for GOOD macro lens, a simple 50mm will do (as long as it's a true 1:1 magnification, EF-S(canon) and DS(Nikon) models have 1.6 or 1.5 increased magnification respectfully). If you have the budget get the 100mm variety (Canon EF 100mm f 2.8, Nikon 105mm VR f 2.8).

[semifan1]

canon I use one just for everyday pics but I work with some guys who are really into picture taking and they live by canon.

[Dakota]

canon I use one just for everyday pics but I work with some guys who are really into picture taking and they live by canon.

I, personally, live by canon.. only because that it what I've learned on. In my experience, I've found it best to learn other camera systems for the fact that people I may work for may use other systems (I'm a photographer if anyone was wondering).

Bottom line: Each have their advantages, and after Nikon releases their newest full size (5d competitor) sensor, Canon will no longer have that edge. They are both great cameras and I PERSONALLY know many professionals of BOTH systems.

[Nick_Kun]

5D...drool

[pako73]

Costco has the XSi kit for 800 bucks.

[stawn]

Hey Joe,
I have an Olympus E-510 and love it. http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/spec...s/oly_e510.asp
It's 10mp and cost less than $600 and comes w/ two lenses. If you are just getting into photography, something in this range is good. Of course Nikon and Canon are great cameras as well.

Olympus just came out with the E-3 as well: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/olympuse3/

[Dakota]

5D...drool

I know I love mine

[Technoviking]

Which is better for Canon? The SXi or the XTi?

[The_Gryphon]

The XSi is the latest Rebel camera meaning improvements over its predecessors.