Once you've made the decision, that a tiny point and shoot cameras simply aren't going to cut it for you any longer, you've probably started looking in to the world of cameras known as SLR. SLR stands for single lens reflex, and if you think that sounds confusing, you ain't seen nothin' yet. There's a whole jungle of tech terms you get to learn, if you proceed further down this path.
Well, depending on the kind of shopper your are, or how much information you like to digest before making a purchase, you can be in for quite a ride on your quest towards buying a digital SLR. It's my intention here, to help make that ride as painless as possible.
So, without much further adieu, let's dive right in. If your a fan of technology, your gonna love this stuff, as there is an almost limitless array of jargon, and technological advancements you can learn about with SLR cameras. That information should serve you well in making your final decision however. As, that same technology that has given the consumer a wonderful number of features, has also forced the manufacturers to be extremely competitive with one another. The result many a lot of very capable SLR cameras loaded with features at pretty affordable prices.
What I'm trying to say here, is that just about any SLR camera you end up buying will be a good one. That's not to say, that there aren't some lemons. If you stick with one of the major established brands, like Canon, Nikon, or Olympus your pretty much guaranteed to make a good choice. The Nikon D60, the Canon Rebel line (XT, XTi, XSi, T1i), or an Olympus Evolt E510 are all excellent choices. Considering you'll pay the same or less for one of those, that you would have paid for a basic point-and-shoot camera five years ago, is a testament to how far digital cameras have evolved.
Given the quality of all the top brands, the major differentiating factor between the final quality of your photographs has very little to do with the camera. That major factor is the person behind the shutter button. You, the photographer. Learning more about the art of what makes a good picture would be a good investment on your part. As well as spending some hands on time with the cameras your considering. Either borrow a friends camera, or sweet talk the sales clerk at your local photo shop into letting you take one home for a few days.
Taking a lot of practice shots, in diverse environments, will give you a pretty good idea of how much you like or dislike different cameras. Try taking pictures at parties, weddings, sporting events, sunsets, sunrises, or just around the house and neighbourhood for a few days.
Don't get overly hung up on technical specifications for each camera. A few extra megapixels here and there aren't going to make much difference. For a first time SLR buyer, as long as you get a good lens, with at least 8 or 10 megapixels, and a solidly constructed camera body, you'll be content.
If you really have a burning desire to delve deeper into specifications, tech jargon, and features, then go right ahead. I know that for some, that's just part of the fun of buying a camera, or any product. Just remember, in the long run, it's a lot more fun to be taking pictures than just reading about taking pictures.
