What camera would be better?

[milamguerra]

Hi friends,

I am new here and actually also new to the photography world. I need some advice on the type of camera I should get.

I have read some of your posts, but not been able to decide yet.

I currently have a Sony PnS W220 and I am getting frustrated with the complete lack of possibilities and no control at all. So, I decided to get a better camera. I do not know whether a DSLR would be too much for me at this moment, but I found D5000 very interesting.

However, some friends who have Canon SX20 IS and Canon G11 insisted that I should take one of those to start with as they allow you to connect some filters and other stuff, without changing lenses.

As I like mountaineering, what I want is a camera that would allow me to take good pictures during my practice. So it would include landscapes, flowers, animals, waterfalls and so forth.

Please, your help would be highly appreciated.

Thanks,
Camila

[mattdm]

I think it's quite reasonable to go to a dSLR at this point. The only question is whether you want to spend the money.

Take a look at the Pentax K-x -- very highly rated, incredibly cheap right now, and Pentax is very well suited for the kind of photography you describe.

[milamguerra]

Hi mattdm,
Of couse money is always an issue and that is actually why I am in doubt.
Should I spend more money on a DSLR which I would maybe not use in its full potential for sometime, or should I get a simpler camera, cheaper, but still good enough for what I want? That's one of the points.
As far a I understand, lenses are kind of expensive and I am really steping into this whole new world just now.
Thanks for the indication of Pentax, I will take a look.
Camila

[bono]

You could try buying a used body und used lenses to save some money. But a DSLR seems to be the right way to go.

The D5000 is a good camera but it lacks an autofocus motor so the usage of cheaper used lenses is very limited. Perhaps you should have a look at Canon, Sony (works with old Minolta AF lenses) or Pentax for systems with cheap entry level DSLRs that can make use of cheap old lenses.

[Elmo]

The opposing view!! As you like outdoors activities a small light easily portable camera might be in order. The Canon's you mentioned are good choices as the offer many professional feature. If in time you find you need additional camera/lens power you can add a DSLR and the trusty old P&S will still be around when it better fits the situation.