Beginner SLR?

Hi Folks, I've been looking into buying a film SLR. I basically wanted to just buy a cheap lens, but then I found out that a body behind that lens isn't really a lot more expensive. So, the question is; which camera is the one to buy?

I'd like to get something beginner-friendly, not to high end, but not to bad, something like the d40 of the SLR world. It should have some sort of shutter priority mode. So, any advise?

 

Film slr cameras are so cheap these days that there's little reason to go with anything but the best. You should be able to find an F100 body for around $200 used.

If you want something cheaper, and manual focus, then an FE, FM, FE2, or FM2 are all great choices for < $100.

 

The Canon AE-1 and Canon AE-1 Program are popular starter cameras and
they both have a shutter priority mode. They are also plentiful and don't
cost much and there are zillions of lenses available for them (Canon FD
mount).

 

Well, thanks for the help so far. Looks like I've got a wide selection of cameras to choose from. One last quick question: Does anyone know if there's Canon FD to 4/3 adapters (looked on ebay and amazon, only found FD to m4/3)?

 

I can second the Canon AE-1. I got mine in 1979, and it's still going strong (it's my daughter's camera now). I found it to be durable and easy to operate. But I think you'll do fine with any old Nikon or Canon. They both have tons of cheap, good-quality lenses and accessories available.

 

AE-1 is a great camera, but watch out for squeaky/slow shutter issues--they seem to occur more in these then other older slrs.

One plus on nikon is you could use the same lenses on your d40.

 

Minolta XG-M, XG-1, sr-T's are great choices for .$50.00.

 

I guess I'll look out for a AE-1. Thanks for the info.

 

Two AE-1's here. A nearly bulletproof SLR with many good accessories to choose from. Pick one up with a 50MM lens and go shoot some film. Don't worry about lenses,power winders or other unneeded foo-foo just yet. Maybe a flash if you like that kinda photography. Manuals are available online to explain how to use the camera. Don't get caught up in the gimme more stuff syndrome. Spend that money on film and processing and I believe that rest will come along later.

 

It was suggested that since you're already into Nikon lenses try the N2020. It's small, durable, and unlike most cheapies, it has a nice, smooth shutter.

 

The N2020/F501 is indeed a very nice camera. However, it was one of the first consumer SLR with auto focus, so don't expect good performance in that regard. Otherwise, it's a very user friendly camera because it has the right balance of manual vs auto functions for a beginner. I had it for 10 years before I moved on to something better.

Also, the view finder is amazing. The shutter sound will give any mechanical fanatic a boner.

 

I always see N series Nikon 35mm SLR bodies on craigslist for cheap (well under $100 without a lens, in most cases) if you're interested in modern auto-focus bodies. The N80 is an awesome camera if you can find one. And deals can definitely be found! I was patient on a Canon AE-1 and got it in great condition with 2 functioning flashes for $30. The Canon Elan 7 I use as my main camera I got with a battery pack for $75.