General Camera Info For The Dummy (me)

[MadWoofter]

I'm seriously considering upgrading my point & shoot to an SLR. I've had SLR's previously, but years ago back in the days of film

I'm 99% sure I'm going to get a Canon, but then I read all the info on body types and models and I just get all confused. I will be the first to admit that I'm 'challenged' when it comes to reading technical information - it all turns into gobbledygook !

The major contributing factor is price (of course). I'm quite happy to buy something second hand so discontinued models are definitely in consideration, and honestly are pretty well the only things I can afford.

What I'm looking for is a good, decent all-round SLR. I don't need fancy bells & whistles, but nor do I want something that will be completely obsolete in a few years (or not working as it's too old).

I understand Canon's modelling system (ie a 7D is better than a 5D, and a 5D is better than a 50D), but what I don't understand is HOW they are better, or by how much (if that makes sense).

So here's my question to DOLers - what's a good model to start looking at? Is there a big difference between one model & the next one?

TIA

[Kirislin]

I'm seriously considering upgrading my point & shoot to an SLR. I've had SLR's previously, but years ago back in the days of film

I'm 99% sure I'm going to get a Canon, but then I read all the info on body types and models and I just get all confused. I will be the first to admit that I'm 'challenged' when it comes to reading technical information - it all turns into gobbledygook !

The major contributing factor is price (of course). I'm quite happy to buy something second hand so discontinued models are definitely in consideration, and honestly are pretty well the only things I can afford.

What I'm looking for is a good, decent all-round SLR. I don't need fancy bells & whistles, but nor do I want something that will be completely obsolete in a few years (or not working as it's too old).

I understand Canon's modelling system (ie a 7D is better than a 5D, and a 5D is better than a 50D), but what I don't understand is HOW they are better, or by how much (if that makes sense).

So here's my question to DOLers - what's a good model to start looking at? Is there a big difference between one model & the next one?

TIA

Actually that is not true. They are different though. The 5D has a full frame sensor and is probably better for portraiture and maybe landscapes, although I dont know for sure cause I dont have one. The 7D is a crop sensor and is designed especially for sports/action type shots although it takes some pretty good portraits and landscapes anyway. The 5D is the more expensive of the 2. Have a look at Canons website, they give a run down on all the models.

http://www.canon.com.au/en-AU/For-You/EOS-Digital-SLR-Cameras

[Guest Tess32]

I'm seriously considering upgrading my point & shoot to an SLR. I've had SLR's previously, but years ago back in the days of film

I'm 99% sure I'm going to get a Canon, but then I read all the info on body types and models and I just get all confused. I will be the first to admit that I'm 'challenged' when it comes to reading technical information - it all turns into gobbledygook !

The major contributing factor is price (of course). I'm quite happy to buy something second hand so discontinued models are definitely in consideration, and honestly are pretty well the only things I can afford.

What I'm looking for is a good, decent all-round SLR. I don't need fancy bells & whistles, but nor do I want something that will be completely obsolete in a few years (or not working as it's too old).

I understand Canon's modelling system (ie a 7D is better than a 5D, and a 5D is better than a 50D), but what I don't understand is HOW they are better, or by how much (if that makes sense).

So here's my question to DOLers - what's a good model to start looking at? Is there a big difference between one model & the next one?

TIA

You're probably best with a 60D or one of the *0D's. The 7D is difficult to learn and mostly overkill for most people.

I still have a 50D, they will all last for years.

[kja]

I think the xD series is overkill for your needs, though the 7D is at a nice price point right now.

The xxD series is excellent and will stand you for years. I still use and adore my 40Ds and they are getting pretty old now - but they still rock. If you can find one of these 2nd hand in good shape, go for it. Unfortunately, a lot of us who have them aren't parting with them and those who do part with them are finding that they can get a pretty good sum for them still so you might be better off with the newer 60D.

The xxxD series is Canon's entry level series and they are still great cameras. There's no reason you will outgrow this, with your stated needs, in a couple of years. They are fully capable cameras.

I'd probably suggest heading to something like the 60D as I think you'll probably get a bit more time out of it vs one of the entry level models BUT by the time you are thinking you've reached the end of what you can get out of an entry level model, several new bodies will be out to choose from. Things are always changing so the best you can do is buy the body that best suits your needs and budget NOW - don't worry about the future too much...