Just getting started! I have a question.

[jpkeokee]

Hello all, I signed up for some photography classes this spring at a local college. I have to purchase a camera and I was just wondering what is a good one to start out with that isn't very expensive? Thanks so much for any information!!!

 

[flatflip]

So I guess you want a digital camera opposed to film, and maybe a DSLR for more control? What is expensive to you (equipment - wise, not financial status )?

The Nikon D3100 has been a popular entry-level DSLR lately. It is usually over $700 but has been seen several times in several weeks for less than $600.

I have seen several other name brands for less than $500.

 

[Dao]

It is better to wait until the class starts. The teacher may have his/her own criteria. I am sure you do not want to buy a camera now and find out later it do not meet the teacher's equipment requirements.

 

[jpkeokee]

I was actually looking at Nikon as well as a Canon. I found a Nikon L110/26194 Coolpix 12.1 Megapixel Digital Camera 15X Optical Zoom w/ 3.0'' and a Canon PowerShot SX30 IS. I am looking for a camera to just start out with then after going through the classes I have signed up for I plan to purchase another. Do you happen to know anything about these cameras?

 

[flatflip]

I was actually looking at Nikon as well as a Canon. I found a Nikon L110/26194 Coolpix 12.1 Megapixel Digital Camera 15X Optical Zoom w/ 3.0'' and a Canon PowerShot SX30 IS. I am looking for a camera to just start out with then after going through the classes I have signed up for I plan to purchase another. Do you happen to know anything about these cameras?

I like Dao's answer. My daughter has the L110. She lives several states away and I just got to see her camera last week. It seems real nice. I couldn't find any advanced modes giving some options. It does have some good scene modes like portrait and landscape and indoor party (low light). The image quality seems real good too.

 

[mzgloves20]

I was actually looking at Nikon as well as a Canon. I found a Nikon L110/26194 Coolpix 12.1 Megapixel Digital Camera 15X Optical Zoom w/ 3.0'' and a Canon PowerShot SX30 IS. I am looking for a camera to just start out with then after going through the classes I have signed up for I plan to purchase another. Do you happen to know anything about these cameras?

What is the class covering? If it is only for composition, any camera will do, but if you'll need to do any hands on, manual adjustments (ie shutter speed, aperature...) a point and shoot won't help you.

 

[Seekwence]

I was actually looking at Nikon as well as a Canon. I found a Nikon L110/26194 Coolpix 12.1 Megapixel Digital Camera 15X Optical Zoom w/ 3.0'' and a Canon PowerShot SX30 IS. I am looking for a camera to just start out with then after going through the classes I have signed up for I plan to purchase another. Do you happen to know anything about these cameras?

What is the class covering? If it is only for composition, any camera will do, but if you'll need to do any hands on, manual adjustments (ie shutter speed, aperature...) a point and shoot won't help you.

Agreed. By "some classes" I can assume that you will be getting at least an exploration of manual settings, meaning that you will need a camera that can be used in Manual, Aperture and Shutter priorities. Thus, it will be best to get a DSLR of some sort. Granted, some higher-end P&S cameras allow for more creative control, but it's probably best to step up to DSLR level and you can definitely do that for under $800 or even $500 if you keep an eye out for bargains.

 

[Chamelion 6]

If the course is like most basic college photography courses it is going to require a digital camera. I don't think there are very many "wet" darkrooms being supported anymore. Generally you're going to be given a series of assignments to shoot that will emphasize certain concepts... for instance, DoF, panning, and so on. The more control you have over aperture, and shutter settings, the more successful you are going to be in the class, and the more you are going to learn.

Most of the classes I know of don't require any specific kind of camera and I know several people that have taken classes with very basic and cheap point and shoot cameras and they found their cameras very limited.

 

[jpkeokee]

I sent the instructor an e-mail. If I can use a camera of my choice I believe I am going to get the Canon Rebel.

 

[Dao]

I sent the instructor an e-mail. If I can use a camera of my choice I believe I am going to get the Canon Rebel.

I think this a good idea by asking the instructor.

 

[sobolik]

Ask the instructor now and buy the cheapest. There are a bazillion people who either gave up (advantage cheap) or upgraded (advantage cheap) when taking the old film day classes and using the K1000

"The K1000's extraordinary longevity makes it a historically significant camera, despite its very ordinary design. The K1000's inexpensive simplicity was a great virtue and earned it an unrivaled popularity as a basic but sturdy workhorse, particularly suited to educating inexperienced photographers. The Pentax K1000 eventually sold over three million units."
Pentax K1000 - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[jpkeokee]

My instructor just emailed me back and said the camera i need for class is one that I should be able to set the aperture, shutter speed, or ISO manually. What is a good choice in your opinion?

 

[Josh66]

Look at the Rebel line for Canon. Not sure what the equivalent Nikon models are, but look at those too.

If you're willing to buy used, you can get a lot more camera for less money.

 

[Dao]

Now, you need to set a budget first.

 

[djacobox372]

My instructor just emailed me back and said the camera i need for class is one that I should be able to set the aperture, shutter speed, or ISO manually. What is a good choice in your opinion?

For digital I'd recommend a Nikon D80, about $400 with a kit lens on ebay. Or perhaps a D200 for around $100 more.

If that's too much $$ a Nikon D70 can be had for $300 with a lens. I'd stay away from nikon cameras without an AF motor as that can limit your lens selection drastically.

But make sure that your teacher doesn't require it to be a film camera, many do. For film I'd recommend a Nikon FM or FE.