Best DSLR Camera Reviews
After carefully examining reviews from expert photographers, and compiling consumer reviews of the best dslr camera’s, we’ve found that below are the top 3 picks. Whats great about these camera’s is that you can continue to use your old lenses, without having to replace, or buy new ones. Upgrading is as simple as changing the body of your camera.
Our Picks for the Best DSLR
Nikon D3
Voted Best DSLR Camera with fast Full Frame for Action Shots by Gean-Edwards.com
| Our Rating: |  |
Making sure you choose the right DSLR
According to expert photographers, and consumer reviews, when purchasing a DSLR, there is a key point to take into consideration when making the purchase, and that is the kind of brand it is. While a camera’s body may be outdated after some time has passed, the camera’s lens on the other hand can perform well for a long period of time, and having brand consistency will help you out in the long run. Some photographers have said that they almost always end up purchasing a camera’s body, and then replacing the lens to make sure they get the right fit.
Below is a list of tips that we have compiled from both expert photographers, and consumer reviews to aid you in your research process:
1. Resolution Requirements – Resolution is not as big of a deal as most would think, and it is not the determining factor in image quality (there a number of other factors involved). The factors that do matter are: Lens quality, Sensor, and Focus. Don’t make the mistake of buying a camera to have a lot of megapixels because all it will do is make your pictures more grainy, which will result in you having to edit them in the long run.
2. Ergonomic Feel & Design – Get a camera that will feel good in your hands when you hold it.
3. Portability – Make sure that you can comfortably travel with your camera. Chances are you’ll be carrying at least one lens with you, and you need to make sure that the overall size and weight wont be a bother to you.
4. Image Quality – Try to take a lot of sample photos with your camera to make sure you have a camera that takes pictures by default that are appealing to your interests.
5. The Viewfinder – With DSLR’s, the Viewfinder is VERY important (more so than with compact cameras). With DSLR’s, you’ll be using the viewfinder A LOT more for taking pictures, checking the focus, lighting, etc. etc. Also, another great feature with DSLRs is the diopter correction. They adjust to you based on your vision so that wearing your glasses wont always be absolutely necessary. Contrarily if wearing your glasses is an absolute must, you can always just use an eyecup.
6. The LCD Screen – According to consumer and expert reviews, 3″+ LCD screens are the best choice, especially when compared to smaller screens. Top of the line LCD screens have 920k resolution, which makes manual focus a lot better. The majority of LCD screens on the market right now have brightness adjustment, as well as wide view angles and tilt for the LCD screens.
7. Self Cleaning – Look for sensors that have self cleaning mechanisms. Dust repeling sensors is pretty much standard today amongst most DSLR Cameras, and most also have software that will eliminate dust spots that are present on photos. A self-cleaning sensing unit will drastically cut down on upkeep. Canon takes charge on this specific rating.
8. Video Playback – Would you like to play with video? If that’s the case, within this price range your option is narrowed to the Canon 5D Mark II.
9. Image Stabilization – When it comes to Image Stabilization sensor and optical shift are the best. If you have a hard time keeping steady hands when taking photo’s while not using a tripod then image stabilization is a must. Its also great to get sharp shots in low light settings.
10. DOF (Depth of Field) – D.O.F is an incredible feature that will allow you to get the most out of your VF(Viewfinder). It helps you get full focus and control how sharp the background will be for your desired effects.
11. Spot Meter – Plan on taking shots of the sunset? Perhaps a lunar eclipse? If you have any plans on shooting things with high contrast (bright lights with dark scenes), then make sure that your camera has a spot meter.
12. Other important Features – If you plan on getting action shots such as family outings, wildlife, or sporting events, features such as shutter lag, shutter speed, and burst mode make a huge difference in overall performance. If you plan on taking close up shots, make sure your camera has mirror lock up to prevent the get the cameras mirror out of the way before the photo is taken. Also make sure that you take budgeting for accessories into account. Everything from carrying cases, a new lens, a new memory card, or a new battery. These are all factors that later on down the line that you want to be prepared for.
1. Here is the best video that we’ve found to aid in the DSLR buying process:
Compare and Contrast to see which is the the best DSLR Camera for you
| Canon EOS 5D Mark II |
Nikon D3 |
Canon EOS Rebel T3 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | Best DSLR Overall | Best DSLR with full frame for action shots | Best Budget DSLR |
| Recommended use | Wildlife, Action Shots, Movie Mode, General use | Fast full frame for action shots/photos | General use |
| Amazon Star Rating | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 |
| Editors Review | Click Here to Read Review | Click Here to Read Review | Click Here to Read Review |
| Where to buy | Click here to see the best available price for this item | Click here to see the best available price for this item | Click here to see the best available price for this item |
| Megapixels | 21.1 | 12.1 | 21.1 |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No |
| Sensor Size | 35mm FF(Full Frame) | 36 x 24 mm | 35mm FF (Full Frame) |
| Optical Zoom | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Focal Length | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| LCD Size | 3″ (standard) | 3″ (standard) | 3″ (standard) |
| Viewfinder | Optical | Yes | Optical |
| Data Storage Card Format | CF Type 1, and 2 | CF Type 1, and 2 | CF Type 1, and 2, SD/SDHC |
| Raw File Support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Manual Settings | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HD Video Capability | Yes | No | No |
| Self Timer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Burst Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rechargeable Battery? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Colors Available | Black | Black | Black |
| Weight | 28.6 oz | 43.7 oz | 42.5 oz |
| Size (Height x Width x depth) | 4.5″ x 6″ x 3″ | 6.2″ x 6.3″ x 3.4″ | 6.3″ x 6.1″ x 3.1″ |
| Manufacturer | Canon | Nikon | Canon |
| *All data current as of 11/17/2011 | |||
