350D or D50?

[Kebab]

Hi, I am a complete newbie to the wolrd of photography, but I am keen to get into the hobby as I going to do a bit of travelling this summer and will have plenty of opportunity to take some great pictures.

A couple of mates of mine got themselves digital SLR cameras. Nikon D50 and D70.
I was looking at buying one myself, I was hesitating between the Canon EOS 350d and the Nikon D50.

What would you guys recommend?

Cheers

[Kebab]

lol just saw the big thread on that exact subject, me being lazy again. Jsut clsoe this thread. thx.

[Kinobe]

When spending this type of money (large amounts) its always best to actually hold the camera to make sure you feel comfortable. Imo, if it doesn't feel right you won't be capturing shots to the best of your ability.

Both cameras that you have chosen come with an 18-55mm lens, unless body is bought seperately. Now these lenses are okay but what kind of photography are you looking capture? The Nikon 18-55 seems and has beaten the Canon 18-55 in terms of build quality and clarity. However I'm not saying the Canon 18-55 is bad. Photography as a subject is all about composition and exposure which you've probably read already. So you could have a £100 camera against a £2000 camera and the person behind the £100 could compose a lot better picture. The much more expensive camera will proably have more features to help you capture what you want but it won't help you compose.

Also remember that DSLR cameras are quite bulky compared to a compact camera which you can just take in and out of your bag and if your going on holiday and just want a few snaps, your partner, friend, family member might want a go and its not just a simple case of pointing and shooting with a DSLR, theres a little more to think about than that. The 18-55 is like having a 3x optical zoom. Most compact digital cameras range from at least 5x upwards with the Panasonic Fz30 having a massive 12x optical which is nice focal/zoom range to have. Its also image stabilised! So remember if you want to get that bit closer to the subject a telephoto zoom lens will have to be bought with your DSLR which adds yet more money to your final bill.

I'm not trying to put you off buying a DSLR okay. But there are some factors in choosing weather a DSLR is right for you.

Kinobe