Originally Posted by Killmatic07
Used Nikon D40 for $210 or New Canon Powershot SD940IS for $225?
One question: what's your purpose? Simple answer: SD940IS. Why? The SD940IS sensor is about 8 years newer than the D40 (2009 vs. 2001). Also, Canon OWNS the point-and-shoot market. I started on a D40X (4 more MPs and a little bit better sensor than a D40). Unless you're looking for a long-term, ridiculously expensive investment. In most cases, it's not worth lugging around the big camera. The SD940IS has 6MP more of resolution. That being said, the D40X that I had has a 10.2MP sensor and prints 11x17 inch prints with NO noise or other problems.
Originally Posted by Mycoldyourdone
[noob]
what is the gist of taking photos like this? not to sound like a trendfollower but, i might go to the philippines this summer and i mightconsider buying a dslr for it, even though ive always thought that theyare rediculously overpriced if i think about the amount of time imactually going to use it.
so it consists of buying a camera? body? then a good lense? then what?i take it its not as easy as taking pics right away and expect nicepics? so i'd need to learn about settings and stuff?
what do the lenses add to the pictures? do the lenses need to be thesame brand as the body? depending on the price, i want to stay entrylevel but not take away must have quality.
[/noob]
They're not ridiculously overpriced, for one (not trying to be a douche, just trying to be helpful and possibly save you money). My newest body (no lens) was $2K and was more than worth it. If it's overpriced to you, don't buy a DSLR. Those of us using a DSLR are shooting seriously nearly every single day, and not just pics of friends.
Part 2 of your question: Yes. Yes. Yes, several times over. Then a flash, external lighting, filters, memory cards, et cetera. Learning to shoot in different "settings" is a serious time investment and will take you about 6 months or more to fully understand, and after you understand them it may not be worth the time and effort. The settings you're referring to probably refer to terms such as: aperture, exposure, ISO, shutter speed, composition, rule of thirds, bokeh, et cetera.
What is sounds like you're looking for is DSLR resolution photos without the hassle. In that case, you're looking for a Canon G9, G10, or G11. When making that purchase, remember that more megapixels doesn't mean better. My D40X (as stated above) made several 11x17 inch prints that had no problems no matter how close you looked. Most people don't actually need more than 5-6 megapixels, realistically.
If you still think a DSLR is for you, welcome to your next terribly expensive hobby. We'd be happy to help you spend that money.
