What Digital Camera Should I Buy?
In addition to creating web apps, doing research, and pontificating on usability and social software, I like to wander around and take photos. Until now I’ve gotten along pretty well with a Nikon CoolPix 5700. It has a number of features that have turned out to be really, really useful - an 8x optical zoom that makes it easier to take photos from far away, a nice macro mode for very very close shots, and a swiveling LCD display that makes it easier to do overhead shots and candid photos.
But, it has a few limitations that I find myself bumping into again and again. No vibration reduction, poor performance in low light, slow autofocus, and it definitely does not give you the kind of manual control that traditional SLR film cameras have. So I’m looking into getting a DSLR.
I definitely want to get a new camera before our kid is born in November. The only thing stopping me from running out and buying a DSLR is that I don’t want to turn my minor photography hobby into a major production - I like the relatively small size and light weight of my current “prosumer” camera, and the fact that I don’t need to carry 2 or more lenses around with me at all times.
So here’s my project: to find a combination of camera and lens that gives me a nice balance between control, portability, and versatility. I’m not as worried about super-high resolution (by the time you hit 5-6 megapixels, you can do pretty much anything you want with the prints), or having really professional gear. Price is also a big consideration.
My guess is that I’ll have to try to find a small, entry-level DSLR and attach a “walking around” or “vacation” lens - something with a wide range, like 18mm - 200mm. Another thing I’ll be looking into is automating geotagging - I’m a big fan of photo sharing systems like Flickr and Picasa and it would be great to have faster, more accurate place data on photos.
This definitely calls for a spreadsheet. I have a tendency to approach major decisions with the application of spreadsheets and/or databases. But before I start laying out facts and figures, any recommendations? Suggestions on brand names, specific models, etc. are all welcome. Please post in the comments below.
Sphere: Related ContentTags: cameras, DSLR, Flickr, geotagging, Nikon, Photography, Picasa
July 9th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
I’m just randomly inspired to note that Jason is great. And that he’s better at taking an obvious hint than some of my other co-workers.
July 12th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
Definately take a look at the Pentax DSLR’s. Good value for the money. On board image stabilization…so your lenses are cheaper than Nikon or Canon. The Pentax K200 is the low end model.
July 17th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
I started with a D70s and quickly moved to a D80 and love it. I first purchased a Sigma 18-200 which I use quite a bit, but also have a 105mm, 50mm, and 10-20mm. I have found it to be a great camera.
A friend uses a Canon Digital Rebel and raves about it. They are not bad for the price and are lightweight cameras. Might be worth checking out.
September 7th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
[...] quick warning: this will be a pretty photo-heavy post, since I got a new camera, a Nikon D60. I’ve been thinking about getting a new camera for a while now but I really wanted to get a DSLR before the baby came - that way I can better handle low light and [...]