Popular Digital Cameras and Gear

62 Responses to “Popular Digital Cameras and Gear” - Add Yours

1. 
   OsmosisStudios Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 12:41 am

   I was clearly not consulted on this matter.

2. 
   Roy Kirkpatrick Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 1:24 am

   Which camera do you recommend for bird watchers with a simple, point & shoot zoom of 10-20?

3. 
   Mia :) Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 1:52 am

   Hooray ! i love my Canon 50D and 50mm :D

4. 
   Winston Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 2:16 am

   I’m quite surprised that the top listed DSLR camers omitted the new Nikon D5000 (or is it because it is very similar to the Nilon D90?).

5. 
   iamunique127 Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 2:50 am

   I’m surprised that the top five DSLRs are all entry level. But then the 2 top of the line DX, the 2 video capable and the Sony all make more sense.
   I guess amongst those who voted, the majority are entry level owners. No judgement, just observation.
   It’s interesting to see what gear everyone here is using. Thanks

6. 
   tumtum Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 4:27 am

   I would have to agree with ‘iamunique127′. It amazed me that all the DSLRs were the entry or amateur level cameras. Within the Nikon family not even the D700 made it to the list. I guess it shows why it is so hard for me to sell my photographs like I used to at middle and high school sports, the parents of the children are purchasing DSLRs and setting them to fully automatic and the pictures are coming out good enough to not spend money purchasing the pictures from a professional.

7. 
   John Smith Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 8:48 am

   I use a Cannon EOS 40D or 50D with one of the following lenses, 70-200 IS USM L series, 28- 135 IS USM or a EFS18- 22 wide angle with cicular polorising filters( all Cannon gear).

8. 
   Julie Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 11:23 am

   I don’t think I was consulted on this matter either. :)
   I’m disappointed that Olympus didn’t rate. I love my E-30 and 12-60 wide angle 2.8 with SWD. sigh

9. 
   Jonathan Says:
   September 25th, 2009 at 2:10 pm

   canon is king once again!

10. 
    Winston Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 2:17 pm

    Unfortunately there is a growing wide range of high quality entry level DSLR and digital point and shoot cameras that only confusion and frustration will run rampant as to the ability to make an intelligent and accurate decision as to which is the best and least confusing with operating instructions and onboard “buttons” to guide the user through their use. What say you?

11. 
    Tim Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 2:30 pm

    Interesting …

12. 
    Darren Rowse Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 3:38 pm

    I think the large % of entry level DSLRs is fairly typical of what is happening on the wider market – after all DPS readers are pretty ‘normal’ (most of you).

    If your camera didn’t make the list it doesn’t mean you’ve got a bad one – there’s lots of great cameras out there these days – it just means that you’re unique and special :-)

13. 
    Carol Ramirez Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    I’m a beginner and after dropping my Canon SD790 IS (which took awesome pictures), I ended up buying the latest Canon SD200 SX (sounds like a car) but after READING THE MANUAL (a must!) I am now taking GREATER pics and was even accepted as an exhibitor to the 2009 Winter Fantasy (Sawdust Festival) in Laguna Beach, California. Come by and see me at Booth # 245 if you’re in the area in November/December. What I can’t figure out is that I NEVER see any info on the SD200 SX. Oh well, guess I’ll just rise to genious all by myself! (I am unique and special, too!)

14. 
    Winston Says:
    September 25th, 2009 at 11:35 pm

    Perhaps this might be a better link to view the best cameras at each price point… and remember as a professional photographer told me… “the best camera is the one that is with you”.
    http://www.photographyblog.com/articles_best_digital_camera.php

15. 
    tukangpoto Says:
    September 26th, 2009 at 12:56 am

    Canon DSLR is definitly my choise !

16. 
    Nemanja Says:
    September 26th, 2009 at 1:26 am

    NIce…
    I think you should add Pentax k200d in “Popular DSLRS” ;)

17. 
    Rob Says:
    September 27th, 2009 at 12:08 am

    Yeah Nemanja!

    I love my K200D. It has features Cannon and Nikon leave off their “entry level” cameras – top LCD, weather sealing, wireless flash, battery pack option, and of course in body stabilization. It was priced like a D60 and had the feature of a D80.

    I understand that Pentax doesn’t have the market penetration of Cannon or Nikon but I think a lot of first time buyers without an investment in lenses missed out on the K200D just because they didn’t know about it. I love mine, I love paying less for lenses and I absolutely love being different!!

18. 
    Shane - Inspiring Your Success Says:
    September 27th, 2009 at 1:26 am

    Well I like my very entry level Canon 20D, so it all depends on peoples experience and price range!

19. 
    Nemanja Says:
    September 27th, 2009 at 1:37 am

    I love mine too :)

20. 
    Andy Says:
    September 28th, 2009 at 2:45 pm

    It’s always disappointing when your camera, or even your camera’s brand doesn’t make the list. Pentax will never make anybodies list even though they make good cameras and have lens’s that are every bit as good as Nikon or Canon.
    I was contemplating how I could afford to which to a pro level Nikon until I shot an event with someone using a D200. I used a Pentax K10d. shot about the same number of frames, no flash. He had a fully charged double battery pack while I only had the one in camera battery. He drained his batteries while I was still shooting. I got over my obsession with switching to Nikon, for now.

21. 
    Rob Says:
    September 29th, 2009 at 4:09 am

    Right On Andy!!

    The really crazy thing is that pictures dont have “shot with a Nikon” or “Shot with a Pentax” on them (except EXIF data) so unless you TELL someone or they see you shoot it, who knows. I like to shoot out on rocks in the ocean so my K200D with weather seals, AA batteries and battery pack let me go out and spend hours waiting for the wave I want – and the tide to go back down – without worrying about power or ruining my body. You can have the best camera in the world but if it sits at home or runs out of juice, it doesnt get you the shot you want. Would I LOVE to be able so shoot crystal clear ISO 1600+ like the D700? Heck yeah!! But until I win the lotto I will have to “make do” with ISO 800 or less on my K200. Wait, I remember I only used ISO (ASA) 400 film and if it really mattered, only ISO 100. ISO 800 was too grainy and ISO 25 to expensive. Seems like that was OK then. What did Ansel Adams use? He did ok. Its the photographer, not the stuff (unless its something like high speed, underwater, or in body and then you have to have both!!)

    I have good friends who shoot Cannon and Nikon. I have good friends who drive Chevy and Subaru too. I still like my Pentax and my Honda better because they fit ME. Not many people think ill of you because you arrived in the wrong car (outside of the snob set). And none of my friends look at my pics and say – “wow, those are nice but I wish you had Nikon. The composition and framing is soooo much better with the D90.” I completely understand the need for world wide support that Cannon and Nikon provide professionals. And I understand having an investment in lenses. As long as Pentax makes cameras, I will buy them because of MY investment in lenses. I just think a lot of first time buyers are missing even trying Pentax and I fault the Pentax marketing department, not Cannon or Nikon.

22. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    September 29th, 2009 at 11:21 am

    I have had a Canon 20D for many years and love it. Recently I started getting the dreaded error code 99 when trying to shoot. I have returned it to Canon for a repair estimate. I have yet to receive the estimate, but received an offer from Canon stating that I can buy a refurbished 50D in lieu of repair for $621. What does everyone think? should I go for it?

23. 
    Winston Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 12:35 am

    Greg: Have you always been so indecisive? Do your own research and stand on your own two feet…. unless you’re under age 12 of course.

24. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 1:00 am

    Thanks for the warm reply! I was trying to use the experiences of others viewing this site as part of my research. Just wanted to know if any others had experience with refurbished equipment in regards to their favorite gear. Sorry for the immature intrusion.

25. 
    tumtum Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 1:23 am

    Greg,
    Don’t let the unwillingness to help of other’s shot you down. I have learned after many years that there are very few people in the middle when it comes to photography. most are either; very nice and willing to help you with any question you might have, while the others think that if you are not at their level they are better then you and should there for never have to hear your voice. It is very sad to think that a photographer would attack you like that instead of helping you.
    But, to get to your question…when it comes to refurbished things must places will give you a period to test out the product, if this is allowed then yes you should get the refurbished equipment, but be sure to test out all the features and insure that it is in perfect working order and the mechanisms are clean. When it comes to bodies most professionals will not buy them refurbished just to be on the safe side, but some will buy lens after thoroughly inspecting them both on a camera and also taking them apart to insure there is not mold. I bought my 400mm f/2.8 refurbished and love it.
    Although, yes, the final decision is up to you. If you are new to photography or new to the experience that you are being put into, you should use your sources and ask around.
    Best of luck with all your photography and remember don’t let anyone tell you ‘you can’t do’. Practice practice practice

26. 
    Winston Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 2:23 am

    tumtum: You certainly miss the point of effective communication to others with your socialist perspective. What lacks in most people today is the ability to make decisions and “learning to do by doing” – yourself. Google is replete with effective sites to learn from camera experts… where this site is a “blog” filled with individual experience – not necessarily from experts in the field. Taking useful criticism wrongly doesn’t help yourself GROW in the skills to survive and do for yourself. Are you a retired socialist school teacher from a public school, as it sure seems so. The worst products from public schools are without the ability to reason, decision skills, and critical thinking. Pointing a person to being a better and more emotionally mature person is a good thing…so don’t take a good thing and turn it around to be evil or bad. Duh!

27. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 7:46 am

    Winston, at what point did the world drop you on your head?

28. 
    Winston Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 9:09 am

    Excuse me, but you too have gone into the typical socialist attack mode… I find it actually funny because when the truth hits you in the face you can’t handle it…right?

29. 
    Mark Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 1:34 pm

    Wow! people be civil. With almost 40 years of experience taking pictures, all the way back to developing B&W decades ago, I’ve had my fair share of used and refurbished equipment. When the refurbishing comes from a reputable source, it often has a return policy. It then offers some sense of safety. I was reading the thread and miss the place that required a secret handshake to obtain a fair an naive answer. Wisnton, lighten up… I didn;t know that used and/or refurbished equipment had anything to do with social or political views. Greg is just asking for an opinion on certain type of equipment. I thought the whole idea of a blog is to create a public resource. So, Greg, if the refurbishing company offers a reasonably return/try out policy, I think it is safe. Again, just my opinion… That is unless senator Joe McCarthy adds me to the “black list”. Off the subject, many people were very proud to be on his “black list”.

30. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    September 30th, 2009 at 11:31 pm

    Thanks turntum and mark for keeping it photography. I have decided to try the refurbished 50D from Canon, as they do have a 6 month return / repair policy on it. If anyone reading this blog wants to know my experiences with the refurbished camera, please ask in a couple of months.

31. 
    B P Maiti Says:
    October 1st, 2009 at 10:53 am

    Excellent dialogue.Photography perse is impulsive and creative What is needed is visualisation.Exposures give experience and ultimately pleasure.If money comes by use it is good.But it should not be everything.I view photography as a part of life style.Then why treat it differenly like socialist or otherwise.

32. 
    JulianHt Says:
    October 2nd, 2009 at 8:41 am

    Some news from Japan.
    Here in Japan I often see other pro-photographers at work and I strikes me that 90% of them use Canon gear.
    The Camera I want to buy next is the Canon 7D – I tried it out at the Canon showroom yesterday and was really impressed by the speed of 10 frames a sec, the low shutter noise and the weight. I am sure that will become the favorite for many Canon users and another bestseller for Canon.
    I also tried out the new Canon G11 and that is also on my have-to-have list. Another hit. I will go on sale here today, 2 October 09.

    Greeting from Japan.
    Julian

33. 
    Mark Says:
    October 6th, 2009 at 7:32 am

    Julian, it is amazing how much time we spend in equipment, especially discussing brands. The most important part of a camera is that globe that sits right behind the viewfinder. It is conected to another part that sits about 3 cm. behind and weighs about 2 lbs. It processes all the information that little globe recieves and sends the results to the finger that sits on top of the shutter.
    At 10 fps you will go through a 36 exposure film in 3.6 secs. Opps! sorry it is digital :)

34. 
    Shutterbug Says:
    October 6th, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    I only buy used and refurbished equipment. I have bought both lenses and camera bodies on ebay. I have had no problems and it has saved me enough that I can actually afford a decent setup. Sometimes you have to take risks to get a decent payoff. Buying refurbished is the way to go, especially if it is certified by the manufacturer. If you can afford retail, great. But for the rest of us, you can’t go wrong getting refurbished and used equipment.

35. 
    Molly Long Says:
    October 11th, 2009 at 2:23 am

    I am new to this site, so please forgive me if this is not the right place to ask about tripods. Looking for best option for good stability AND light weight for D700 with 70-200mm lens. What do you all like? I am not in an urban area where I have access to camera stores to try them out. Need to buy online.
    Thanks!
    MLong

36. 
    Winston on Truth Says:
    October 12th, 2009 at 7:06 am

    In addition to a very stable lightweight tripod, look for one with a “ball & socket” head for good rotation of the camera on the tripod.

37. 
    Molly Long Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:36 am

    Any advice on brands and models that you all particularly like? I have walmart monopod and tabletop size tripods that are fine, buy my old inexpensive Slik tripod just will not cut it for my current camera. Any opinions would be welcome.

38. 
    Francis Says:
    October 17th, 2009 at 8:07 am

    I am very happy with my Sony DSLR A200 which I bought last year. I bought it because it was well within my budget. Sony maintains an aggressive pricing policy. Sony cameras are a few hundred dollars cheaper than CaNikons with equivalent specifications.

39. 
    Jeremy Says:
    October 30th, 2009 at 9:21 am

    I’m A bit surprised at how little coverage Pentax gets. I haven’t been immersed in photography for long now, having been a bit of a snapper on a lower end point and shoot. Now I have a K20d (several days), I’m looking to technically expand my abilities. I only found this site yesterday. Initially I’m really liking this camera, does anyone else have one? My main interests are wildlife close-ups, especially feeding (I think you get fantastic expressions and body language), and landscape (I hike alot and also live right near the beach).
    Oh, also, I found with a point and shoot that resting the camera on something was good enough for a steady photo. Now that I’m upgrading to telephoto etc, will I definitely need a tripod for great clear pics?
    Thanks for any info.

40. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 12:48 am

    It does not mater what camera you have or buy its the person behind it just go and take photos and learn and have fun. AndREAD THE MANUL FOR WHAT EVER CAMERA YOU OWN. eXPERIENCE IS THE BEST
    TEACHER.

41. 
    Winston on Truth Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 4:45 am

    To “don bird michigan”: your post is the least helpful and silliest for any camera enthusiast to make I’ve ever read here.

42. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 6:10 am

    I promised to leave an update on refurbished gear, after I had used it for several weeks. I returned my Canon 20D to Canon for a repair estimate. I decided to accept their offer of a refurbished 50D for about half the price of a new one. Not only did Canon send the 50D, but they also returned the battery from my 20D, even though that was part of the original 20D package. So now I have an extra battery Except for a small “refurbished” sticker on the 50D, I can not tell it from new. It came with a 6 month warranty, all of the instruction manuals, software, etc. So far it has worked flawlessly and I am very happy that I decided to “trade up”.

43. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 7:33 am

    To Mr waddell
    You may think its sillieBUT if you would think about it befor running you lips you would understand why i
    said what i said let me spell it out for you refurbished or not its noy about haveing a new or reurbished
    camera and no one shuld worry about that just haveing a good working camera is what its all about.
    and like i SAID go out take photos and have FUN.

44. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 7:42 am

    Mr. Bird, you should be directing your comments to good old Winston “the crouch”. He’s the one that slammed you comment. I totally agree that it all comes down to the person behind the camera. I was just leaving additional information from a prior post of mine.

45. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 8:16 am

    To Mr waddell
    I am very sory wrong person.

46. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 8:24 am

    To Mr winston
    ALL i have to say is you need to think about what your saying befor you say or make comments.
    The comment i made to what you said to me about being sillie should be made to you please
    think about what you comment on befor comenting it makes you look SILLIE.

47. 
    Winston on Truth Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 8:32 am

    “don bird”: do pray tell what public school taught you how to write and spell. It sure would be interesting. Are you sure you can even read the instructions to your camera? Your writing is replete with errors for effective communications. And for your lack of knowledge, it does matter what type of camera you use to take good photos because all cameras have varied lens quality. I will concede that the person operating the camera is important but then that’s minimized when higher quality “point & shoot” digital cameras do all the work, so the operator of the camera is important only when a DSLR camera is being used in manual mode. Think about it and reason effectively before you launch more attacks without thinking. Also, try not be so reactive, it does show the lack of emotional maturity.

48. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 9:58 am

    To mr winston you are making moore out of this than should be.AS for your comments about me if you
    dont like what i said dont respond i am not a pro and dont claim to be but i do know the difference from point
    and shoot and DSLR LENS BUT THATS NOT WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT . I ma not goining to try and
    spell it out for you.So ho mistre great one .I have had enough of you good by if you dont like what you hear to bad go away other people liked what i said on here os its not just me go away i well not respond to your
    comment any longer i have better things to do. RAP YOUR LIPS OVER YOUR HEAD AND SWALLOW.

49. 
    Greg Waddell Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 10:17 am

    Don, Nice1. Responding to Winston “the crouch”, only encourages him. He’s always lurking around this site.

50. 
    Winston on Truth Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 10:59 am

    I love it when I’m able to get ignorant socialist’s dander up because they prove my point. Oh, I also thought this was a site for professionals anyway so “blubber” on, Obamaites.

51. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    October 31st, 2009 at 11:33 pm

    Greg Waddell
    THANK YOU for your kind words. Iwork with people like that every dayI found the best to do is say you have to say and not respond to them.The only thing i well say he better watch who he calls a ssocialist.I am not
    responding to any longerpeople like that make me sick os good by to mr winston.

    And thanks again Mr Waddell

52. 
    fran Says:
    November 1st, 2009 at 4:15 am

    Ok, I’m officially a nerd because I’m on this thing. I just wanted to say that I just bought the Pentax K-7 (upgraded from the K10) and it pretty much rocks. Go Pentax.

53. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    November 2nd, 2009 at 3:22 am

    I have the canon 50D i love it .

54. 
    Greg Says:
    November 2nd, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    I just bought a Canon 500D recently and absolutely love it. Certainly the best camera I ever had. I never managed to shoot stuff like this with any of my old cameras:

    

    Visit my flickr page and have a look at my other 500D shots and leave me a comment with your opinion if you like: http://www.flickr.com/photos/43520295@N08/

55. 
    Hoppy Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 8:44 am

    Winston,

    You can criticize Don Bird all you wish, of course, but you are considerably less than effective communicator yourself. I have some difficulty understanding your muddled comments, but your arrogance and hostility come through very clearly.

56. 
    Winston Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 2:52 pm

    Hoppy – What a bunch of Obamaized Chicago thugs you immature guys must be. I bet you even are on the lowest rung of the ACORN bus steps to nowhere. Perhaps you should mind your own business when comments (freedom of speech here) aren’t directed at you. Understand?

57. 
    jomaree Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 2:58 pm

    whats a good book for begginers? something that gets real indepth with shutter speeds, apartures, focal points etc..

58. 
    Hoppy Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 10:13 pm

    Winston,

    You know nothing of my politics – that’s number one. And I’ll post whenever I feel like it – that’s number two. And third, you are flakier than a Wheaties warehouse. All this negativity is not good for you. Understand?

59. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    A good book to read is the photographers manual by john freeman.

60. 
    Don Bird from Michigan Says:
    November 6th, 2009 at 10:49 pm

    Hay everybody please do not respond mr winston.He wants to make people upset he gets off on that.
    I well NOT respond to his comments.

61. 
    Winston Says:
    November 7th, 2009 at 2:46 am

    Jomaree: since you do not mention your camera make/model it’s difficult to offer useful advice. However if you have a high quality brand (Nikon or Canon) you may find a useful layman’s instructional manual at Barnes & Nobler (example) of “DSLR Cameras for Dummies”. This is not a “tongue in cheek” comment but intended as a useful and appropriate comment. Good luck!

62. 
    Winston Says:
    November 7th, 2009 at 2:48 am

    To Don Bird: Finally, you’re catching on. If you can’t handle it…get out of the kitchen. Intelligent debate may be a bit too much for you and “hoppy”.

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