Everybody seems to be a “professional” photographer these days. But buying a pro camera definitely won’t make you a professional. Yes, many cameras do a lot of the work for you these days, but nothing beats hard work and experience. Needless to say the beginner to amateur camera market is a huge playing field. How do you decide on an entry-level camera that has all the features and hardware to take great pics, but still is easy enough to learn and understand?
Well we took the time to do some research around the Top 5 entry level DSLR cameras on the market today. There might be a lot more out there, but if you buy anyone on our list you won’t be disappointed.
Canon EOS 100D (R5,895 – OrmsDirect)
Many would argue that you simply can’t go wrong with the Canon 100D as an entry level DSLR. Canon took their standard hundred-range (700D) and whittled it into a smaller body, removing only a few features, while adding one very important one: improved live view auto-focus. The result is a mature camera for the family photographer that’s not a burden to bring along, but which can also serve as a reliable, lightweight backup for a more knowledgeable photographer. The smaller body might be a little fiddly for more experienced photographers but is perfect for people with smaller hands.
Anyone watching the evolution of the digital Rebel line will have noticed a trend toward larger camera bodies with a bigger grip and more enthusiast features, including swivel screens and wireless external flash controls. The features grew to a point that it was difficult to tell the 600D from the 60D, and much of the advantage found in the small body, as seen in cameras like the 600D went away. The Canon SL1/100D changes that and brings back the small SLR. This Canon model will effortlessly introduce you to the world of DSLRs.
Nikon D3200 (R 6,689 – Takealot)
The Nikon range is synonymous with great image quality and that remains the cas with one of their entry level offerings the D3200. What really sets the D3200 apart from the competition in the entry level segment is its 24MP CMOS sensor. With a good lens attached, and shooting in Raw mode, the D3200’s image quality potential is awesome. The problem is that the 18-55mm kit-lens just isn’t good enough to give you the benefit of the chip’s megapixel-count, but that won’t worry a beginner photographer too much.
Whilst the Canon competitor might have better features and usability, the Nikon trumps it with image quality. Although you’ll have to invest in proper lenses to actually see the difference. That said, if you are after a no-nonsense , “traditional style” entry-level DSLR that is a solid performer on all levels, with good image quality, the Nikon D3200 might be exactly the right match for you.
Sony SLT-A58K (R6,495 – OrmsDirect)
While not technically an SLR, the Sony A58 is aimed at the same market. Its non-moving “Translucent Mirror'”enables its high frame rate without a lot of noise, which is good for sports, along with focus while shooting movies. Like most SLRs in this range, the Sony A58 is bundled with an 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens of reasonable quality. Image quality in good light is very good, offering a little more detail than the competition at high ISO.
The Sony A58 is a good-quality substitute for an entry-level DSLR. With a fast frame-rate, an optional 8 fps zoomed continuous rate, a very quiet shutter, and a good set of controls that would serve most beginner photographers. People have found that the slow menu interface and viewfinder difficulties in bright light are only occasionally frustrating.
Pentax K-50 (R7,999 – FotoFirst)
The K-50 follows in the footsteps of the now discontinued K-500. It even mirrors its predecessor in look and features. The K-50 improves by adding weather sealing, a lithium-ion battery, and auto-focus point indicators in the viewfinder. It retains a 100% field-of-view glass (seeing the total picture) and is usually sold with a water-resistant variant of the 18-55mm AL lens, which has reasonably good quality for a kit lens.
The controls on the K-50 are well-placed and easy to activate. The mode dial turns a little too easily, but it’s tucked away well enough that it’s not a huge problem. Its small rechargeable lithium-ion battery isn’t as powerful as its competitors, capable of capturing only 410 shots per charge, so a spare would be recommended. If you’re into personalisation, the K-50 can be had in up to 120 color combinations. It does come at a higher price though (more features and functions), so make sure you like it before buying!
Fujifilm X-S1 (R5,840 – Bid-or-Buy)
The Fujifilm X-S1 is part of the company’s high-end ‘X Series’ with a 12MP 2/3″ CMOS sensor. Despite the comparatively large sensor, it manages to include a 26X 24-624mm equivalent F2.8-5.6 zoom lens. It also features Raw shooting, a 1.44M dot electronic viewfinder and 460,000 dot rear LCD along with a rubberized coating and metal dials to emphasize its premium ‘Made in Japan’ status.
The EXR function is really good especially for a person that is not so experienced or for situations where you need to shoot fast. It allows the user to pick an EXR function (SN- High Sensitivity, DR – Dynamic Range, HR – High Resolution) that sets up the camera to take the best shots in a given situation. The camera also performs very well in low light. With the features and intuitive usability of the X-S1 it is almost a steal at the current retail price.
Let us know what would be your entry-level DSLR camera…
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