The SLR, or Single Lens Reflex camera is the choice of professional photographers around the world for a lot of good reasons. Better quality lens, and the added flexibility to change lens when the situation calls for it are just a couple. A good SLR makes for some truly exceptional photographs. While the pros have come to rely on SLR as their first choice in cameras, there’s no reason to assume that beginner, or serious amateur photographers can’t benefit from the advantages of SLR cameras. With their considerably cheaper pricing over previous years, and the incorporation of many easy to use features found in inexpensive point and shoot cameras, the SLR is quickly becoming the choice of pros and the amateurs alike.
With that in mind, lets take an early look, at what promises to be the best DSLR cameras for 2009. As new cameras hit the streets in the coming months, be rest assured that prices will drop, and the number of features offered will only increase. We’ll update this report as those cameras are released.
Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP & 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens
One of the first digital SLR cameras to offer at least basic video recording capabilities. Image quality is top rate. While the lens kit is a favorite of many, I can’t totally say it’s my first choice. The plastic mount feels a little cheap compared to the metal mount provided with the 70-300mm from Nikon. On the plus side though, it does have the same ISO functionality as the D300, which actually costs about $600 more. For under $1200, this is a lot of camera, but it needs to be handled with care because of the construction of the body. Given the price of it though, I expect many people would do that anyway. A solid performer.
Canon EOS 50D 15.1MP & EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens
If you want to feel like Joe-Super-Photographer, or maybe even Peter Parker, then this is the camera for you. It’s a few hundred dollars more than the D90, but not without good reason. The 50D is truly a very adept camera, that produces eye watering photographs at any ISO setting. With very fast shutter times, and next to no lag, you won’t miss a thing with this Canon. One point to ensure true photography bliss, is to pair the 50D up with a good lens. While the 28-135 is adequate, the EF 24-105mm f4.0L is a much better choice. The extra dollars will be forgotten about as soon as you start to develop the brilliant pictures produced by this very capable camera.
Canon Digital Rebel XSi 12.2 MP & EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
While the Rebel XSi, is a substantially less expensive SLR then my prior two choices, I would be remiss, if I didn’t include it in this discussion. The Rebel series from Canon has been responsible for converting more point and shoot amateur photographers into true photographic geniuses, the likes of which even Ansel Adams would be proud. If your new to the world of SLR, then you can’t go wrong with the XSi. If however, your a more advanced photographer, then the Nikon D90 or Canon 50D are likely better choices.
