How to choose your first DSLR…
Okay so you are shopping or trying to figure out which model DSLR to buy. Well, the following method is just one of hundreds of ways to narrow down your choice, but I feel it’s a very good method because the following web sites used are very reputable and give you full coverage, from sensor performance to overall performance.
But before we begin, I figure that most out there shopping for a DSLR for the first time are coming from point-and-shoot cameras with little knowledge of how a camera really works or for that matter fundamental photography basics. Or maybe a prior film SLR shooter with stale memories of camera/lens basics. So let's assume this is the case and you are ready to buy your first DSLR. My first recommendation to you is to buy the entry level DSLR from the manufacture. For instance the Canon Rebel T21 or 550D or Nikon D5000. The reason for this is simple; buying a higher end camera will more than likely just amount to throwing your extra cash away for functions that may take you a lot of time to master. So save those pennies to buy good glass (lenses), because good glass will work just fine on your lower end entry camera as it will on the highest end pro cameras of the same model and will likely outlast your camera technology 10 fold or more.
This buying guide will show a comparison of the current top Canon Rebel (T2i or 550D) VS. the current top Nikon equivalent D5000 (I hope those are somewhat on a level playing field). If you are looking at different models, then don’t worry, these websites are easy to use and select different models.
First I recommend comparing sensor performance. It’s important to be able to generate the clearest image possible, often called IQ (Image Quality). For old film shooters think of it back when you were going somewhere special and you went to the camera shop to buy some film...you probably knew then which film would give you the best results. With digital, there's only one point of sale and zero ability to change after that. Today, sensor=film and it's a constant once you buy a DSLR.
Now, let's test sensor quality. When using the Image Quality comparison link below, be sure to analyze all of the metric tabs and hover over the colored scale on the right side of each graph to see a sample photo at different y-axis levels.
DxO Image Quality Comparison of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i VS. Nikon D5000Now that it's clear the D5000 beats the Canon T2i in sensor performance, but it doesn't mean the D5000 is a better camera only its sensor is better compared to the T2i. Now let's move onto the WEB’s most reliable source for digital camera reviews, dpreview.com
Use the below side-by-side comparison of the T1i VS. D5000 to pretty much compare specifications (apples-to-apples) and even obtain price points and user reviews:
dpreview.com side-by-side comparison of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i VS. Nikon D5000To get to the side-by-side comparison site to choose other cameras
Click this LinkKeep in mind that just because a sensor in one body is better than another doesn't mean it the camera you should buy. You have to understand all the specifications when you look at the side-by-side specs. and then weigh each one that matters most to you (this includes price) and then add it all up and maybe run off to a forum like this one or another and start a thread asking other fellow photographers out the to hear your rational behind your buying method so they can respond with advice.
So when you find the DSLR body you want, all that’s left is to match it up with some fine glass
I would love to say we are the WEB’s #1 resource for glass, but that's not the case for now, so I highly recommend having a look at
SLRGear.com first (their Blurr Index Tool is great), but remember if you need some quick sample photo galleries or have any lens questions be sure to have a browse at our Lens Photo Gallery or register and post some questions.
And last but not least, be careful out there on the Internet Camera and Video websites, there are plenty of scams. I personally recommend either B&H Photo, Amazon.com, or Adorama.com as the top 3 resources and if you do decide to buy from them then please click one of the below corresponding links to help support The Motley Pixel.
Thanks!
Amazon.comB&H Photo and VideoAdorama.com
