This section will attempt to cover the frequent "which DSLR should I buy" questions that appear in the forum. For compact (point and shoot) cameras, see the Compact camera guide.

For some high-level info and resources, see Camera Selection.

Which DSLR do I need?

The first thing to note is that the camera you use will only have a limited affect on how good your photos are. The main determinate of a good photo is the photographer - the technology is just there to make your life easier. Image quality means very little if the photographer was unable to find an interesting subject and compose and expose the image well.

The next thing to note is that pretty much every DSLR on the market is quite capable of capturing very high quality images. There a no bad DSLRs, however some might be more suited to you than others.

When buying a DSLR, keep in mind you are buying more than the camera itself - you are also buying into the system that the camera is part of. This includes the lenses and associated accessories such as memory cards, flash units, triggers etc. You should also take into consideration this support system when making the initial investment into the body, and ensure it meets your style of photography.

Hopefully the information below will help you make your decision. Of course you're welcome to ask any further questions in the forum.

Manufacturers

Canon

Canon are the main market player, and have been for some time. They have the widest choice of sensor formats, bodies and lenses available, and are generally considered to have the sensors that produce the highest image quality, especially at high ISO levels. Many argue that this higher image quality means very little in terms of the end result, especially if you have your images printed.

However, you pay a price premium. At a given price point Canon DLSRs usually have less features than their competitors.

The main argument for buying Canon seems to be the upgrade path. With SLRs, the investment you make in lenses soon eclipses the cost of the body, and Canon are currently the only manufacturer that produce full frame DSLRs. If you see FF in your future, its well worth considering starting with Canon so you don't have to start your lens collection from scratch.

Third party lenses are available for Canon from Sigma, Tamron and Tokina.

Nikon

Nikon are the second major player in the DLSR market. They're known for their ergonomics, build quality and flash performance.

Third party lenses are available for Nikon from Sigma, Tamron and Tokina.

Pentax

Pentax are relatively new to the digital scene, but have a long history in film SLRs. For a long time their prime lenses have been considered some of the best ever made. Currently the Pentax range is priced very competitively and have features that are usually only found on higher end models. For example, the mid-level K10D is comparable to the Canon 30D, but it priced similarly to the entry Canon 400D.

Pentax has used the same lens mount for decades, so there are plenty available on the second hand market.

Third party lenses are available for Pentax from Sigma, Tamron and Tokina.

Sony

Uses the same mount as Konica Minolta, so old KM lenses can be used.

Not many third party lenses available.

Olympus

Uses "4 Thrids" sensor which produces images with 4:3 aspect ratio, rather than the usual 3:2.

Not many third party lenses available.

New or second hand?

If you don't mind buying second hand, you can grab some real bargains. It also means that you can get a DSLR for the same price as you'd pay for a new high-end point and shoot.

The Marketplace subforum of the Photography forum is available to members who have been registered for more than 3 months, and there's always lenses, bodies and accessories being bought and sold.

Local vs Imported

Don't buy the Rebel XT "US version of the 400D" because they have many problems with the sensor leaking light at high ISO levels. [Please note this opinion is lacking evidence to support it]

DSLR guide

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