Hi gentlemen, i've search through the forum and doesn't seem to find what i want, just wanting to ask some questions on DSLR...
1. what is the functions or specifications that is important to look out for or comapre when purchasing a DSLR? (i.e what is the main function or specification that is important for a DSLR camera?)
Ans: I've picked photography when my girl was born, like you didn't know and couldn't decide. Asked some friends with some 'good' photography experience for advice, first thing I learned is "how deep a pocket you willing to burn?", more funds means more leeway for features. So, SGD 1K is good, but not quite enough for a decent set-up, go somewhere around SGD 1.5K would be better.
But if you are really not sure if the interest can be maintained, then go the SGD 1k and be done with it, meaning you have to go for a basic kit, example, Nikon D3000 with AF-S 18-55 VR kit or Canon 1000D with EF-S 18-55 IS kit, or even the Pentax K-X with 18-55, etc. Bottom line, these are about the most decent kits within the SGD 1k budget. Advantages/disadvantages here, price for a decent kit, some hand-held help from camera, do not expect some high ISO capabilities from most of these cameras (meaning you can't expect to shoot decent night scenes hand-held), with the exception of the Pentax K-x listed above ( that can outperform even the current mid or high end bodies including Nikon, Canon and Pentax's own K-7) , however if you do not have DSLR experience, you will be pleased with the results even going this route compared to compacts.
If you could and 'want' to go the SGD 1.5 K route, Nikon D90 (or if you can wait the next iteration of the 'prosumer' kit, should be announced around end this month) or the Canon 550D/500D route. Advantages/Disadvantages here, better performance bodies and/or kit lens (meaning wider focal range, not bigger aperture lens), these bodies have better features that you will not outgrow as soon as the budget bodies. In the case of Nikon, wider range of lens available due to "Screw-driver" for older AF-D lens, which could not be auto-focusing in the Nikon D3000/5000 series, also the Nikon D3000/5000 series do not 'officially' has the Vertical Battery Grips, thus shooting vertical shots requires more practices to get desired results, meaning you need a long time to get good vertical shots.
[/QUOTE]2. which brand is better? canon or nikon? what are the difference?[/QUOTE]
ANS: For a beginner, no difference, a lot of the features will require hefty investments later, including Flash-Guns, bigger and better lenses (F/2.8 lenses, L Lenses for Canon). My advice, pick up the models you intend to buy and hand-hold them, the feel in the hand will tell you which model/brand you favor, in my course of purchase the Nikon D80 beats the Canon 400D in the 'feel' or ergonomics department. I'm still, using my D80 now.
Another advice I have is, are your friends Canon or Nikon users? Friends are a good avenue for advice, meetups, equipment trials/borrow, etc..
Also, do more reading prior to purchase, each brand has it's strengths, Nikon's photos has more punchy colors, Canon is better in reproducing what you see, Nikon systems tend to perform better with 'Aperture' mode due to a arguably better metering system, Canon is legendary in 'Shuttle' mode, being the official camera system in the US National Football League, etc.. Like I said, how much you want to pay now is the key, which system shall be determined by you after you have set the budget.
I'm a Nikon user myself, but I'm also interested in learning to use a Canon system or even a Pentax. In my opinion, each system is good in its own ways, provided the user learned to exploit the features to the limits. You can find some very good photos from people using only 'puny' 18-55 lens producing amazing shots.
[/QUOTE]3. how to look after a DSLR?[/QUOTE]
ANS: Buy a decent Dry-Cabinet, a necessity in Singapore weather. DSLRs are pretty hardy, provided you do not soak it in rain, knock it excessively, etc..
4. any gentlemen out there can recommend me a decent DSLR a) without any budget? b) with a budget of less than $1k?
ANS: 1.) Canon 1000D with 18-55 IS, price around SGD750, can add a vertical grip if size is an issue.
2.) Nikon D3000 with 18-55 VR, current on-going promotion SGD 888 for the kit, add SGD 199 to get the 55-200 VR lens with one additional battery, worth the price, and covered for both long and short ranges. But no official vertical grip, third party grip's available but requires some unusual means to shoot vertically.
3.) Nikon D5000 with 18-55 VR, same as D3000, but a better performing sensor, with articulating screen.
4.) Nikon D90 with 18-105 VR, cost more but versatile lens, better high ISO performance.
5.) Canon 550D with 18-135 IS, or with 18-55 IS, see for yourself what's available.
6.) Canon 500D with 18-55 IS, or with 18-200 IS kit, see for yourself what's available.
7.) Pentax K-X with 18-55, vibration compensation built in body already, decent high ISO performance, but the lack of focus points indication in the penta-mirror may be a concern.
Oh, please remove the 'without budget' part, as the answers will be either moot or you will not want to go there at all, without any dslr knowledge.
[/QUOTE]looking forward on your guys helps. thanks so much and thanks everyone.
[/QUOTE]
ANS: Best of luck in your quest for a DSLR, sure you will not regret doing so when you start to see some amazing results from your new DSLR.
