Your main debacle is whether you should get a pricey digital SLR or get a less pricey point compact super zoom camera.
Our answer ( actually our opinion) is simple– get a entry-level digital SLR. We recommend the Nikon D5000. You might pay a little bit more but the quality of a DSLR versus a compact super zoom is miles apart.
Okay so here’s the reason for our recommendation…
First off is picture quality, it doesn’t matter if the super zoom camera you have says 14 megapixels. The digital SLR uses a sensor that’s about as huge as a postage stamp while a compact camera’s sensor size is as big as a pinkie’s nail. Image sensors dictate how well your photos will come out so bigger is better in this case.
Second is the bulk. Entry-level DSLRs are not as bulky as you would think. Yes, you cant put them in your pocket but you cam fit them in a sling bag. You can’t put the super zoom in your pocket either as most of them have bulky lenses.
Third, the lenses on a DSLR are better. The quality lens made by Nikon and Canon for their dSLR line is top grade, the super zoom compact camera can be quite good but you can’t switch them around. Although to be fair the compact super zoom camera have it all from wide to telephoto but its still limited.
The fourth factor to consider is price. So yes owning a entry level DSLR can be quite expensive especially if you decide to buy more lens to fit your need but if you want memorable photos of trips, birthday parties and just want to take photography as a hobby get a DSLR.
Buy a super compact zoom if you don’t want the hassle of learning the functions of a camera. If you’re the type of photographer who’s always on AUTO then by all means buy a super compact zoom, it is less pricier and it will cover your needs.
Recommended DSLR Cameras
- Canon EOS 450D/Rebel Xsi
- Canon EOS 500D (Digital Rebel T1i / Kiss X3 Digital)
- Nikon D5000
- Nikon D90
Highly Recommended SuperZoom Cameras
- Panasonic Lumix FZ38
- Canon Powershot SX10
- Pentax X90
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