Buying my first DSLR - advice needed

[Thesnipergecko]

Hi all

The time has come for me to invest in a DSLR camera.

My current camera is a Lumix FZ38 which I've had for a few years. My main issue with the camera is I miss a lot of shots trying to get the right settings for the image I want to capture and also the time it takes from clicking to capturing the image.

What I do like the look of is the manual focus lenses and the ability to snap an image instantly.

I'd like to spend between £500-£700 for a decent camera with a lens too, but I have no idea what's "good" by today's standard. We have a baby on the way in December too so I'd like to be able to capture some decent quality video on it too.

Thanks for any help.

 

[Kenai]

I honestly think the most important factor is the feel of the camera and how it handles for you.

Look at what the big brands do in your price range then go and try them. I went Nikon back in the day because I couldn't stand the feel of the Canon body even though it was probably technically superior at the time. Others will find the opposite, some will find they don't notice a difference.

I wouldn't even contemplate committing to a body and lens range without handling them first though, even if they are meant to be the best available on paper.