Digital Camera HQ's 2008 Holiday Gift Guide: Best SLRs
This year has seem some extraordinary advances in digital SLRs, namely the introduction of high-definition video to this class of cameras. For consumers looking to get into high-level photography or in search of the perfect gift for your camera-loving loved one, these five SLRs are the cream of the crop. There's a camera here for all skill levels, from the budding enthusiast to the consummate professional. Take a closer look at what makes them so special.
| The Nikon D60 is the excellent follow up to Nikon's inaugural affordable SLR, the D40. It continues in the tradition of that camera, providing exceptional performance at a fraction of the price you'd expect. It's small, lightweight, and highly portable, making it a perfect choice for travel and vacations. Though the 10-megapixel sensor may seem small by today's standards, that's more than enough power to take incredibly detailed, high-quality photos that will help you capture those memorable moments with stunning clarity. | |
| The Canon EOS 1000D is better known as the Digital Rebel XS, the latest entry in Canon's entry-level SLR line. The Digital Rebel XS is a tremendous camera, blending professional-level quality and power with a comfortable, approachable design that makes it easy for budding photographers to pick it up and take great shots. Try as you might, it's virtually impossible to take a poor photograph with this camera. The 1000D is a strong rival for the D60, and does it one better by including a 2.5-inch Live View LCD, meaning you can preview and frame your shots on the LCD display (something not available on all SLRs, including the Nikon D60). | |
| The Canon 50D is this year's professional-level superstar. The 50D packs a 15-megapixel CMOS sensor, which allows for high-quality images while keeping the overall size of the camera manageable. It also boasts a vivid 3-inch LCD display with Live View capabilities. Canon's big update over the 40D involves their DIGIC 4 Processor, which is said to result in faster image processing and cleaner final products. If you're thinking about making photography a big part of your life, or perhaps your career, then you need a camera that will elevate your photography to that level: the Canon 50D. | |
| The Nikon D90 made a big splash as the first dSLR to feature a movie mode. Well, in the weeks since the announcement, it's no longer the only one. Still, the D90 offers a very interesting opportunity for consumers looking to consolidate their high-resolution photography and high-definition video into one capable, portable, versatile device. The D90, in addition to being an excellent 12.3 megapixel SLR (using Nikon's pro-level DX sensors!), is also a competent 720p HD video recorder. The ability to use Nikon's series of interchangeable lenses means you have an extraordinary amount of control over your movies. And all this for a relatively affordable price. | |
| Though the Canon EOS 5D Mk. II is quite expensive and intended mostly for serious professionals, we can't simply ignore it. It's got a huge 21-megapixel sensor, for outrageously large photographs, features a Live View LCD, and has full-HD 1920 x 1080 video recording, which can be used with its various interchangeable lenses. If you want true, raw power, the 5D Mk. II is a solid and substantive choice. For those not ready to step up to this impressive camera, it gives something to aspire to. |
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