what to buy?

[shawnxstl]

I just read some reviews and watched some "first look" videos on some cameras.

Now I'm leaning towards the A200 simply because it has pretty much the same features as the k200d does but its quite a bit less. I know it's not the best thing ever but it seems like a pretty good thing to learn with.

 

[sultan]

One of the main reasons why I went Pentax was AA batteries. The K200D can take up to 1100 shots on 2500 MW/h NiMH batteries. Plus, can you pick up your proprietary Canon batteries from the grocery store?

Also, do all Canon lenses have free IS in them? Many lenses are non-IS and the IS ones are expensive. With Pentax, you can advance in photography with better lenses without going bankrupt.

PS #1. Sorry for the rant-like tone. I just can't tolerate those who say that expensive Canon is the only way to go.

Update (Response to your latest comment): The K200D will probably have slightly better IQ than the Sony and Pentax lenses are (generally) better quality and lower cost than Sony ones. However, if you won't be buying lenses or will only buy one cheap additional lens go with the Sony; costs significantly less.

 

[Village Idiot]

One of the main reasons why I went Pentax was AA batteries. The K200D can take up to 1100 shots on 2500 MW/h NiMH batteries. Plus, can you pick up your proprietary Canon batteries from the grocery store?

Also, do all Canon lenses have free IS in them? Many lenses are non-IS and the IS ones are expensive. With Pentax, you can advance in photography with better lenses without going bankrupt.

PS. Sorry for the rant-like tone. I just can't tolerate those who say that expensive Canon is the only way to go.

My Canon grip lets me use AA's if I so choose. And the IS in lens can provide greater stability vs. in body. Sure, it's more expensive but they normally only put it in the very high quality lenses anyways.

And I never said Canon was the only way to go. You're trying to put words into my post.

 

[ChickenFriedRyce]

Sony also has a vertical grip that adds 1500 to the A200/300/350 or one for the A700.
It's SuperSteady Shot works with all Sony and Minolta/a-mount lenses. The only downside of that is that you don't see it through the viewfinder.
There's a new FF model coming from Sony soon, so that's something to consider.

Although, Canon has a few bodies with in camera IS, there are some to consider.

So do you think that getting A200 + flash + tripod would be good for starting out?

If so:
Camera: 580
Tripod: 130
Flash: ???

That would leave me with a little under $300 for a flash unit.
That also might be enough to get another lens though, right?

What would you do with the other 300?

I wouldn't think that a tripod should cost that much should they?? Sony flashes again, are very expensive. You could find a Minolta flash or go for the Sony Flash. $300 could get you another lens, probably not the best lens but if you save that $300 and keep saving, you could get a 50mm f/1.4 or that $300 might get you the one that Sigma is coming out with.

 

[ksm]

Well most everyone (especially in this forum) is either a Nikon or Canon fan. Both great camera manufacturers been around for a long time and more than likely will be around for a very long time.

Myself I started shooting with Olympus a long time ago and have stuck with them. I love their cameras and my latest one is the E-510 DSLR (although thinking about the E-3). Do your research and just know (unless money will not be an object in the future) that whatever body you buy, you are also buying their "system".

If you ever decide to swith manufacturers you're going to have to start all over with lenses and accessories.

 

[Village Idiot]

Sony also has a vertical grip that adds 1500 to the A200/300/350 or one for the A700.
It's SuperSteady Shot works with all Sony and Minolta/a-mount lenses. The only downside of that is that you don't see it through the viewfinder.
There's a new FF model coming from Sony soon, so that's something to consider.

Although, Canon has a few bodies with in camera IS, there are some to consider.


I wouldn't think that a tripod should cost that much should they?? Sony flashes again, are very expensive. You could find a Minolta flash or go for the Sony Flash. $300 could get you another lens, probably not the best lens but if you save that $300 and keep saving, you could get a 50mm f/1.4 or that $300 might get you the one that Sigma is coming out with.

The only Canon IS is in lenses and P&S's.

Bogen tripods that cost between $500-$799:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/con...e_+600+<=++<=+799.99&basicSubmit=Submit+Query

 

[MX962]

Sony also has a vertical grip that adds 1500 to the A200/300/350 or one for the A700.
It's SuperSteady Shot works with all Sony and Minolta/a-mount lenses. The only downside of that is that you don't see it through the viewfinder.
There's a new FF model coming from Sony soon, so that's something to consider.

Although, Canon has a few bodies with in camera IS, there are some to consider.


I wouldn't think that a tripod should cost that much should they?? Sony flashes again, are very expensive. You could find a Minolta flash or go for the Sony Flash. $300 could get you another lens, probably not the best lens but if you save that $300 and keep saving, you could get a 50mm f/1.4 or that $300 might get you the one that Sigma is coming out with.

And you realy think in camera IS is better then in lens IS !?

 

[ksm]

And you realy think in camera IS is better then in lens IS !?

Not trying to get into which is better, but lenses do end up being quite more expensive if you are looking for IS and you don't have it in the body.

 

[deudeu]

I find it quite amusing how every one just rules for their favorite brand without any objectivity whatsoever.
I own a Samsung GX-10 and i am happy with it. Everybody is happy with their camera, so all manufacturers make good cameras!
If you go to dpreview you can see some sample pictures and make your mind for yourself... which is a pretty good idea.
It is also a good idea to go and see the cameras and put your hand on them. I didn't and i don't regret my investment but I have touched a Rebel Xti since and i feel like i got lucky.
Anyways, i think you should check this out:
http://cgi.ebay.ca/Pentax-K100D-Dig...ryZ30020QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

You even have money left for the tripod... Thank you deudeu!
This being said, pentax seam to make some pretty good lenses and you can find some old school ones for dirt cheap.