What’s Your Preference?

nategesner · #1 (**permalink**) 05-07-2009, 05:27 PM

I've been considering a DSLR ever since the first Digital Rebel came out, but have always been talked out of it or decided on a compromise. My latest P&S just died on me after many years of faithful use, so I've talked my wife into allowing me to step into the DSLR world. I've read a lot and know what I want, but I'm limiting myself to what I need.

It's narrowed down to a D40, D60, or Oly E-520. The E-520 is my first choise based on capability, cost, and cost of additional parts down the road.

Let me get to the point. I would like others to ensure I'm making the right choice. Here are my considerations:

COST: I want to spend less than $600 for the body and a kit lens. This is to learn the system, prove to my wife that it's worth the investment, and then I can upgrade glass, flash, etc. I can find the basic E-520 with lens, brand new, from reputable sellers on e-bay for $500 right now.

MAIN PURPOSE FOR DSLR: I've always had a hunger for photography as an art/hobby. I owned a couple 35mm back in the late 80's and loved learning what they were capable of and squeeking out shots others couldn't. So I want a camera that will allow me to experiment with settings and really "create" an image. From what I've read, the E-520 meets all my needs within the price range.

MAIN USE: I have a rambunctious 6-year-old boy that's playing sports and otherwise active. He's the perfect model because he's photogenic (people always say he should be in commercials) and doesn't mind posing. I also live near Yellowstone Park and wildlife is everywhere, including my back yard. So I'll be doing the typical indoor family pictures, outdoor action shots, and a lot of nature/wildlife. The wildlife will often be at a distance (elk, wolf, moose, buffalo, etc) so I'll need a different lens, but I just want to make sure the camera is suitable. I really like the in-body AS system on the E-520 and have heard great things about it. I've also read that the E-520 can literally shoot non-stop, whereas some other cameras slow down or rest after a certain number of shots.

Again, I want a reliable system for learning while taking solid shots. Once I've proven myself with it by winning a couple contests or taking a photo that makes my wife cry, then I can justify moving up to a better system. So, if you are experienced/knowledgeable and can help me to know if the E-520 is right for me, please drop me a line. Thanks in advance!!

nategesner · #2 (**permalink**) 05-07-2009, 05:56 PM

Again, there are negatives to every choice, but I can't find anything comparable to the Olympus E-520 when cost is a significant factor. Here's an example of a deal on e-bay that I'm ready to jump on:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...2BSI%26otn%3D4

Saralonde · #3 (**permalink**) 05-07-2009, 11:19 PM

I'm not an Olympus user, but there are people on the forum that are very happy with the system. The reviews always look good. If I remember correctly, when I was trying to decide what camera system to buy that Olympus had far fewer lenses to choose from. I didn't know if that would be a problem down the line, so I went with Canon.

Hopefully an Olympus user will chime in here and set me straight!

nategesner · #4 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 12:38 AM

Thanks for the input. Like many others dipping their toes in the DSLR waters, I'm back and forth. I priced an XS with the basic kit lens and a 55-250 lens all for $585 and free shipping (Canon has a coupon going right now). The XS is rated as well as the E520 and they're both feature-rich. The E520 seems cheaper, shoots faster, has in-body stabilization, better AF, etc. But the Canon shoots better in low-light, better lens upgrade opportunities, and has a bigger market so I can sell/buy accessories easier. Frustrating when there's not a clear winner!

I know I'll be happy with either one, but just want to hear other's opinions before I jump in.

LoveDSLR · #5 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 02:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by loveDSLR

I don't recommend picking a camera brand based on price alone unless it is for family and vacation photos,

You have to separate camera brand from camera model. Each brand has its pros and cons and they may affect how you build your future system. In a lesser extend, how you use your camera. It may not be that easy and expensive later to switch camera brand.

To understand a brand, you have to look at all the features across the line and the lens collection. For example, Canon has excellent f/1.2 and f/4 lenses while Nikon has build-in flash commander (starting from mid-priced models).

Next pick a camera model that fits your budget but with enough features that you can use and grow with. Pick the one you need and not what others used.

I know how you feel right now. You are getting your first DSLR and it seems perfect at the price you can afford.

Get E520 now if you're an experienced photographer who knows about SLR/DSLR selection. If you're not and still have some doubts then answer the following questions:

1) When your need is beyond what Olympus can offer, you can afford to switch to another brand.
2) You have handled an Olympus and feel it is right for you.
3) You have found enough resources (e.g., on-line forums) to support the Olympus.
4) You are satisfied with Olympus better models, compatible lenses and accessories selection and their prices.
5) You understand the pros and cons of 4/3 system.

If your answers are yes then I'm sure you will be happy with the E520. The alternative is to spend more for a different DSLR.

Olympus DPS members can give you more in-depth advice than I can.

nategesner · #6 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 02:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LoveDSLR

I know how you feel right now. You are getting your first DSLR and it seems perfect at the price you can afford.

Get E520 now if you're an experienced photographer who knows about SLR/DSLR selection. If you're not and still have some doubts then answer the following questions:

1) When your need is beyond what Olympus can offer, you can afford to switch to another brand.
2) You have handled an Olympus and feel it is right for you.
3) You have found enough resources (e.g., on-line forums) to support the Olympus.
4) You are satisfied with Olympus better models, compatible lenses and accessories selection and their prices.
5) You understand the pros and cons of 4/3 system.

If your answers are yes then I'm sure you will be happy with the E520. The alternative is to spend more for a different DSLR.

Olympus DPS members can give you more in-depth advice than I can.

My reason for leaning more toward the Canon XS is that I know an upgrade will be inevitable. By sticking with Canon, I feel there will be more opportunities to upgrade while keeping the lenses and that there will be more accessories that are compatible now and in the future.

As for 3 through 5, I'm there. I've visited a lot of forums, read reviews, looked at a lot of user sample photos, read about pros/cons, etc. As I said, it seems like everything I would need right now and at a good price. My only concern is thinking about what I'll want/need in a year.

LoveDSLR · #7 (**permalink**) 05-08-2009, 03:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nategesner

My only concern is thinking about what I'll want/need in a year.

For Canon/Nikon:
To take photo of your kid indoor, you may need a 50 f/1.8. For sports, you will need a fast long zoom (e.g., 70-200 f/2.8 for fast action/low-light or 70-300 f/4-5.6 for daylight). Other lenses you may want to consider are 10-20 for landscape and 100 macro for closeups.

Of course you need a flash too.

nategesner · #8 (**permalink**) 05-14-2009, 08:54 PM

I decided to go with a new E-520 with the 14-42mm and 40-150mm lenses. It also included a set of three filters, basic cleaning kit, and a tripod. The whole kit and kaboodle cost me $501.00 shipped, which is impossible to beat with any other comparable camera.

I get it Monday and am already reading up on ISO, Aperture, Shutter Speed, HDR, f/stops, and anything else I can find. I'm excited to get started!