Starting out - feedback on Digital SLRs invited

[Aline]

I would like to start shooting concerts, musicians, performers, animals and actors (headshots) with a view to starting my own photography business. I have some photography experience and come from a fine art/video background. However I am a beginner when it comes to digital SLRS.

Given my budget, I considered the Nikon D40. Would this be a suitable choice as a beginner/semi-professional in the above areas?

Any feedback appreciated.

Thanks,

Aline

[Canon Bob]

Aline,

Welcome to the forum....

Have you read the forum "which dslr" guide which may help answer some of your questions?

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=82464

Bob

[Andy]

I think they have stopped making the D40, everywhere I know it out of stock or only have the odd one left. I wouldnt class it anywhere in the semi-professional dslr line. Its a entry-level with only 6 mega pixels. Im guessing your budget is £250 if your going for the D40.

Have you tried going second hand with maybe a Canon 30D? There was one recently going for around £260.


Oh, I nearly forgot, welcome to the forums :thumbs:

[hsuffyan]

i think the 350d can be had for that much money too. its a very good camera, a lot of people on here have some very good results with it.

[mastertrinity]

yes the d40 is pretty much a remnant of new. i would either go for second hand like as mentioned a 30D, d200 would be good but i hear its not good in low light which will most likely be an issue with your concerts (d300 perhaps?) you could also go the sony way with a nice a300 or a200 if liveview is not neccessary, i also hear that the a200 has the best nose handling in the entry class(?).

[scottduffy]

The d40 would be a good camera to start off with but you couldn't consider it semi professional. There are Canon 400d bodies on ebay and on here for around the £250 mark but then you need a lens.

[Frenzied Dwarf]

The d200 isnt half bad in low light, but the 300 obviously out performs it. D60 is something to look at as they are still made new :), i still have mine as a second body

[Aline]

Thanks for the feedback, I will check out some of those other models too. The Which DSLR forum was useful too.

Appreciated,

Aline

[DSLR]

D60 is a good starter not pro.just entry level if you pick up a used one cheap even better