Best SLR?

[amalthea23]

So, I'm in the market for a digital SLR. Don't want to go crazy, I'm trying to stick in the <$800 range. Any votes on the best one, from your own experiences?

[TomCat]

So, I'm in the market for a digital SLR. Don't want to go crazy, I'm trying to stick in the <$800 range. Any votes on the best one, from your own experiences?

I got a lightly used Nikon D80 with a kit lens for $600. I love it. If you keep tabs on Craigslist and Ebay, you can score a Nikon D200 ( like Mstrbeau's) or D80 with a standard lens for <$800 range.

[Msterbeau]

If you can stretch to it, the new Nikon D90 is very nice. Comparable Canon stuff is very good as well. (40D or Rebel Xsi) Both manufactures have far more lenses and optional stuff, as well as third party add-ons then any of the other brands. Try them out, the big differences will be the ergonomics. Personally I would not use Ebay. I've heard of too many scams with electronics there and have experienced it myself. Locally through Craigslist is better. At least you can check it out before buying. Assuming you're buying used, of course. If new, go through Adorama or B&H Photo.

[TomCat]

If you can stretch to it, the new Nikon D90 is very nice. Comparable Canon stuff is very good as well. (40D or Rebel Xsi) Both manufactures have far more lenses and optional stuff, as well as third party add-ons then any of the other brands. Try them out, the big differences will be the ergonomics. Personally I would not use Ebay. I've heard of too many scams with electronics there and have experienced it myself. Locally through Craigslist is better. At least you can check it out before buying. Assuming you're buying used, of course. If new, go through Adorama or B&H Photo.

Like Marc, I've always had good luck with B & H and Adorama. Good luck!

[amalthea23]

So far, Amazon seems to have the best price, and I have had excellent luck with their return policies. I'll check out the others though!

[Msterbeau]

So far, Amazon seems to have the best price, and I have had excellent luck with their return policies. I'll check out the others though!

Amazon is cool too. I tend to get things from reputable camera places, though, so when I have questions there are knowledgeable people to ask.

What kinds of things will you be shooting?

[Msterbeau]

Also.. Do you have a camera place locally? See if they have the models you're interested in. How they work and feel in your hands is VERY important.

[amalthea23]

I do, so far, I feel the most comfortable with canons. I also have the most experience with them, so that might have a lot to do with it.

[TomCat]

I do, so far, I feel the most comfortable with canons. I also have the most experience with them, so that might have a lot to do with it.

I have smaller mits myself, so comfort/ergonomics is always a concern. My D80 fit's relatively well for the span of my hand.

[sexslavetrainer]

I'm not unhappy with my Nikon D40, but I know there are newer models with a few benefits...

[Msterbeau]

I'm not unhappy with my Nikon D40, but I know there are newer models with a few benefits...

One of the nice points of the D90 and all the newest Nikon stuff is much better high ISO performance. Shooting in low light becomes a decent prospect. The D300 is better still and the D700 and D3 are beyond belief in this regard. Up until recently, Canons have held the edge in this area but now the Nikon's are on top, though the Canon's are no slouch.

[TomCat]

Like Marc was saying earlier...The D90 may be the way to go (for existing technology, and price, it'll be hard to beat). When I grow up, I'll want something like a D3 to work with...

[Msterbeau]

Like Marc was saying earlier...The D90 may be the way to go (for existing technology, and price, it'll be hard to beat). When I grow up, I'll want something like a D3 to work with...

Go D700. I am. I don't think either of us need extra $2000 worth of weight and gadgets.

[Head Wreck]

how about a D20

[TomCat]

Go D700. I am. I don't think either of us need extra $2000 worth of weight and gadgets.

how about a D20

I said when I grow up Marc....so yeah, a D300 or D700 is a more likely near term acquisition for me!

HW, Have you been shooting with a D20??

[Head Wreck]

unfortunatly not.

it sounds like fun though.... now to find a willing volonteer

[TomCat]

unfortunatly not.

it sounds like fun though.... now to find a willing volonteer

I caught this as an old D & D reference...If upon rolling a 20, on the 20 sided die, you shall recieve a scantily clad model upon which to shoot as you so desire....then roll again...