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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Going to buy a new D-SLR?
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05/12/2009 03:15:21 AM · #1
Here's a wishlist of features that you should consider:

Resolution: At least 6 Mp (12 MP, if your pocket allows).
Smallest ISO: Preferably 100.
LCD Screen: 2.5" or 3" (The bigger the better).
File Format: RAW is a must.
Mirror Lock: Yes.
Shutter speed (B setting): Must.
Built in ND Filter: An added asset.
Built in Flash: Yes.
Hot shoe: Must.
Sensor Size: The bigger the better (as it affects the focal length of lens)
Video Capture: Based on personal preference.
Burst mode: Preferably 6 fps or better.
Self cleaning sensor unit: Preferred.

Needless to say that this is just a wishlist, and you may not find a single camera that meets all these requirements, and fits in your budget too! Use your best judgement then.

Best of luck.

05/12/2009 07:17:24 AM · #2
If you look at the Pentax K20D, you can add built in shake reduction to your list.

Tim
05/12/2009 07:32:12 AM · #3
I am a Nikon man, but since viewing some of the HD video the Canon MarkII 5D can pull off...I'm drooling over it. But I'd be buying it just for the HD video. I will be buying a 35mm converter for my current HD video camera so that I can use my lenses. When it comes to just a camera, can't go wrong with the Nikon D700.
05/12/2009 08:48:04 AM · #4
Originally posted by heavyj:

I am a Nikon man, but since viewing some of the HD video the Canon MarkII 5D can pull off...I'm drooling over it. But I'd be buying it just for the HD video. I will be buying a 35mm converter for my current HD video camera so that I can use my lenses. When it comes to just a camera, can't go wrong with the Nikon D700.


I should go and lie down in a quiet darkened room until you feel better!
:)
05/12/2009 09:01:23 AM · #5
You forgot to include "under $500".
05/12/2009 08:16:45 PM · #6
Originally posted by Yo_Spiff:

You forgot to include "under $500".

I think that's based on personal preference, but for some, a "must". Good news is that the Nikon D40 and Canon Rebel XT are pretty close to that price point.

The new Canon T1i (EOS-500D) has pretty much the list, except for the 6 fps - it is 3.5ish fps at a sub-$1000 USD price point - and it shoots HD video.

Message edited by author 2009-05-12 20:18:00.
05/12/2009 08:33:29 PM · #7
Originally posted by kbhatia1967:

Here's a wishlist of features that you should consider:

Resolution: At least 6 Mp (12 MP, if your pocket allows).
Smallest ISO: Preferably 100.
LCD Screen: 2.5" or 3" (The bigger the better).
File Format: RAW is a must.
Mirror Lock: Yes.
Shutter speed (B setting): Must.
Built in ND Filter: An added asset.
Built in Flash: Yes.
Hot shoe: Must.
Sensor Size: The bigger the better (as it affects the focal length of lens)
Video Capture: Based on personal preference.
Burst mode: Preferably 6 fps or better.
Self cleaning sensor unit: Preferred.

Needless to say that this is just a wishlist, and you may not find a single camera that meets all these requirements, and fits in your budget too! Use your best judgement then.

Best of luck.


A couple of points to consider.

The more MP you shove into a crop DSLR the more noise that occurs. Numbers don't mean squat to me, show me the results of the sensor and a proper exposure then it might matter how many MP it really has.

ISO 50 is a point I want my ISO to start.

LCD don't mean squat really. I have a 16.7MP camera with a 2" LCD and it has no effect on the output of my photos.

Are there really any DSLR's that don't shoot in raw? And what if I don't want to shoot raw?

Built in ND filter? You gotta be kidding me right with an interchangeable lens system?

I don't know any photographer who actually like the look of On board flash. Neither of my cameras have a flash and I don't miss it.

Video capture I'll leave it to the video cameras, which I can buy much cheaper then a dslr and it will AF while I'm videotaping.

FPS really is a personal need. Most Portrait photogs and landscapers will never need it.

I think chosing a DSLR has so many variable and really depends on the person's needs that you can't possibly put a wishlist together for someone else unless you know exactly what they shoot.

Matt

05/13/2009 02:44:02 AM · #8
Originally posted by Yo_Spiff:

You forgot to include "under $500".

Under $500 or Under $1000 is a trade off. If you ask me, I would like to put it under $300. And the day is not far off when you'll get an entry level DSLR at that price.
05/13/2009 02:51:38 AM · #9
Originally posted by MattO:


A couple of points to consider.

ISO 50 is a point I want my ISO to start.

Are there really any DSLR's that don't shoot in raw? And what if I don't want to shoot raw?

I think chosing a DSLR has so many variable and really depends on the person's needs that you can't possibly put a wishlist together for someone else unless you know exactly what they shoot.

Matt


1. Many DSLR cameras start lowest ISO at 200. Some at 100. I really don't know if some DSLR offers ISO 50.
2. Most DSLR (I don't know whether ALL) offer RAW format. RAW is an added asset, even if you DON'T want to shoot in RAW. Occassionally, you'll need it.
3. Agreed.
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