Where to get started?

[j-spec]

Hi guys,

First off, I'm a real noob with photography. I currently own a 4 year old Canon Powershot.

I really want to get into photography, and I was wondering where I should start?
I don't think I should jump right into DSLR, so do you guys have any reccomondations about what I should start out with?

I.e. is there a good camera that is kind of a "transistion" between regular cameras and DSLR?

I was looking at some ultrazoom cameras cause I thought those would provide a lot of features found in DSLR but in a cheaper package, and I was also looking at the Panasonic TZ5, which has 10X optical zoom too.

Am I going about this wrong? Should I just do my research on DSLR and study them while using it? Is it a waste of money to purchase a lower digital camera first if I know I'm going to upgrade?

Thanks for the help!!

[KCook]

Link to similar discussion - Camera for a amatuer hoping to some day be a pro (http://www.dcresource.com/forums/showthread.php?t=40473)

Kelly Cook

[SpecialK]

A DSLR is a "regular camera". A compact point-and-shoot is also a "regular camera". So, there is no such thing as a "regular camera".

However, a DSLR is really no more complicated than your old Canon. They both have a similar menus, and similar options.

The main difference is the DLSR has a larger sensor which will yield far superior images (everything else being equal), normally provide much better low-light/high ISO performance, allow the use of specialty lenses (which you must buy separately, and good ones often cost more than the camera body).

A compact is smaller (which is why they call them compacts), generally less expensive, and can shoot movies. Many have a rotating LCD which I find to be very handy. However, the newer (and more expensive) DSLRs have "live view" which acts like the LCD on your Canon, though not rotating.

If you are going out with the intention of taking photos, I would recommend a DSLR. Figure $400 sometime for a second lens (it could be $200-$800). If you are thinking you might just catch some shots while doing something else, I would recommend a compact.