Photography is no longer the exclusive domain of professionals with tens of thousands of dollars worth of equipment. Today's Digital SLRs can produce extremely high quality images and still allow great flexibility in shooting. The truth is, almost any of the familiar brand cameras on the market will product high quality images. However, there are still some entry level cameras that stand out from the pack.
Pentax K200D
Pentax continues to fire well-placed shots at Canon and Nikon's market share. The K200D has many of the features of a much higher priced camera at a rock bottom price. The controls are set up with the user in mind and allow for fast adjustments during shooting. All of that and its built to last. Unlike many of the newer DSLR's, the Pentax K200D is not a flimsy plastic construction.
- Features
- 10.2MP Sensor
- Shake Reduction in-body, eliminates need for special shake reduction lenses
- Expanded Dynamic Range
- 16 Segment Metering
Canon Digital Rebel XSi
Image courtesy of Pricegrabber
The Canon Digital Rebel XSi is the latest offering in the very popular Digital Rebel line that has very nearly become THE DSLR of choice for amateur photographers. Canon was the first to offer a DSLR under $1000 US and has continued to improve the Digital Rebel for the past few years. The current offering is strong enough that some pros happily use it as a back-up camera.
The Canon Digital Rebel XSi also gives the photographer access to a huge range of compatible lenses.
- Features
- 12.2 MP sensor
- Image stabilization lenses available
- Integrated Cleaning System
The Canon Digital Rebel XSi also gives the photographer access to a huge range of compatible lenses.
Nikon D80
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The Nikon D80 continues excellence that has won over numerous photographer's to being loyal Nikon shooters. Nikon's continuing flexibility and high quality makes the D80 and excellent choice for those wishing to move up to a DSLR.
- Features
- 10.2 MP sensor
- Various program modes including fully automatic, manual, and shutter priority
- Several focusing program options
- Sensitivity from 100-3200 ISO
- SD and SDHC memory card compatible
Sony Alpha 200
Image courtesy of Pricegrabber
The Sony Alpha series is another low-cost offering in a field where the cameras are generally $1,000 US and over. The quality and pricing of the Sonya Alpha has begin winning over photographers that don't want the extra cost of paying for a "name" like Canon and Nikon. A lot of the Alpha series features feel like a stripped down version of the Pentax but it is still a nice little camera.
- Features
- SteadyShot Image Stabilization System
- Improved Digital Range
- Up to ISO 3200
- Anti-Dust Features
