Nikon D3100 Review

The Nikon D3100 is the successor to the previously reviews D3000. While it is more expensive than the previous version, it has a larger number of mega pixels (14.2MP) and comes with an 18-55mm zoom lens. Other features include a 3 inch monitor that has a Live view and the ability to record movies.

Nikon D3100 Specification

  • The camera is built to be affordable, easy to use and lightweight, making it perfect for the keen amateur photographer. It also includes an assistance system that allows you to learn the ins and outs of the camera while still taking photos.
  • Along with high quality images, the Nikon D3100 can also record full HD 1080p films with sound and autofocus.
  • The 14.2MP CMOS sensor takes fantastic photos, and can prints to larger than 20×30 inches. If you like to have your photos blown up and on your wall then this is essential.
  • The Nikon D3100 comes with a 3x zoom 18-55mm Nikkor lens. The lens also includes a stabilization function making it easy to get sharp shots every time.
  • As you’d expect from a Nikon camera, the D3100 is well designed and all the buttons are easy to reach. It is also relatively compact compared to other cameras on the market.
  • The Nikon D3100 features an 11 point autofocus system that’s known for its speed and clarity. The ISO sensitivity ranges between 100-3200, but is expandable to 12800.
  • The 3 inch monitor features a “one touch” live view system

Although you’ll have to pay a reasonable amount of money for the Nikon D3100, the wide range of features and high specification means that it’s definitely worth the money. If you’re looking for a middle of the range camera that can record HD video then it’s definitely one option to think about.

Fujifilm FinePix S1800 Review

Fujifilm are still some way behind Nikon and Canon when it comes to top quality SLRs, but they more than hold their own when it comes to entry level models. The Fujifilm FinePix S1800 is a 12.2MP SLE camera with a 3 inch screen and an electronic view finder. While it isn’t able to keep with middle range or high end cameras, if you’re looking for a cheap way to get into digital photography then it may be a good option.

Fujifilm FinePix S1800 Specification

  • The Fujifilm FinePix S1800 has a 12.2 MP CCD that allows you to take photos and blow them up to large prints.
  • A great feature of the Fujifilm FinePix S1800 is that it comes with the ability to record 720p HD video.
  • The lens included with the camera is 1n 18x wide angle lens with optical zoom. It takes high quality photos, according to the company, and has an Instant Zoom feature which allows you to take a picture at a distance which is then immediately cropped.
  • The camera includes smile detection, and can also tell if someone blinks meaning that you need to retake the shot.
  • A tracking autofocus system is built into the camera which allows you to follow a moving object automatically.
  • Other features include automatic system for rotating pictures, a large and clear LCD screen and a dual stabilization system.

Although the Fujifilm FinePix S1800 faces stiff competition from entry level cameras of other companies, it has received decent reviews and has a large number of features. If you’d like to start SLR photography but don’t want to spend a lot of money then you should definitely take a look at the camera.

Nikon D3000 Review

The Nikon D3000 is a middle of the range SLR that’s highly popular amongst amateur photographers. It usually costs between $500-600 (although deals are often available and this price is subject to change), and features a 10.2 MP image sensor that can print at up to 20×30 inches. Although it has been superseded by the D3100 (review coming soon), it is still a popular choice and worth looking at.

Nikon D3000 Specification

  • The DX format sensor is 10.2 MP allowing for large prints of your photos.
  • A lens is included with the package – namely the 18-55 Nikkor zoom lens with image stabilization. If you’ve never used stabilization before then you’ll be amazed at the difference it can make to your images if you’re shooting without a tripod.
  • The large 3 inch LCD screen allows you to view it from a wide angle of 170 degrees. This is important when taking those tricky shots. The screen is bright and high resolution, which means that you’ll immediately be able to see if the photos Is good or not.
  • The EXPEED image processing system creates high quality images in the minimum amount of time.
  • A great feature of the Nikon D3000 is that it comes with automatic sensor cleaning. Dust can easily get into the sensor and cause unsightly blobs on your shots, so if you change lenses a lot this is a very useful feature.
  • The camera captures images to both SD and SDHC memory cards. These aren’t included with the camera, however, so you’ll need to buy them separately. Luckily they are relatively cheap.
  • Capable of taking pictures within an ISO range of 100-1600. This means you can get shots even in low light environments.

The Nikon D3000 may have been replaced by the D3100, but if you need a basic, middle of the range SLR then it’s still a good choice.

Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18MP Review

The Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18MP SLE camera is more expensive than the Rebel XS model, but for your money you get a range of extra features including a greatly increased pixel number and a larger screen. Some of the stand out features of the Canon EOS Rebel T2i is its large 18MP CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 image processing system which gives great shots in minimal time and an included kit lens. Keep reading for a more in-depth look at the cameras specifications.

Canon EOS Rebel T2i 18MP Specifications

  • If you want to take high quality images that can be blown up to large sizes, then the 18MP sensor is perfect. Although the camera isn’t meant for professionals, the sensor borrows many of the same technologies that are used on its more expensive models.
  • The DIGIC 4 image processor has been designed to greatly increase the speed of the camera. It is also good at reproducing the natural color in the image, as well as capturing the fine detail.
  • If you need to shoot in a range of different light situations then the ISO range of 100-6400 is essential. This can also be expanded to 12800 if required. Higher ISO settings have reduced levels of noise due to the image processing system.
  • The movie mode has been improved so that you get manual control of exposure.
  • Other features of the Canon EOS Rebel T2i include a nine point auto focus system, a large 3 inch screen and a dual later metering system. There is also a quick control button added, and the camera can shoot at up to 3.7fps.

Looking at the specification of the Canon EOS Rebel T2i, it’s easy to see why it’s considered to be the flagship of the EOS line. If you want a high quality camera without having to pay the money for a professional one, then it may be perfect for you.

Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Review

The Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP is a middle of the range SLR. It features a large LCD display, image processor that’s built for speed and accuracy, Live View and an ability to store images on both SD and SDHC memory cards. The camera has received very positive reviews from people who’ve bought it, and is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an SLR that’s better than an entry level camera but not too expensive.

Features of the Canon Rebel XS

  • The camera contains a 10.1MP CMOS sensor that Canon claim allows you to take images with fantastic clarity. The tonal range of the sensor is also high, giving your shots the edge over other cameras.
  • The inbuilt DIGIC III processor has been designed to increase the performance of the camera while not sacrificing on speed. The main benefit of this is a reduction in noise – especially in dark or shadowy areas.
  • If you want to take great photos every time then lighting can be an unnecessary distraction. The Canon Rebel XS comes with a lighting optimizer tool that brightens the darker area of the picture. Unlike previous canon cameras, the optimizer is available in all modes.

There are a large number of other features of the Canon Rebel XS. It has a seven point auto focus system, for example, and allows for 3fps shooting. The 2.5 inch monitor provides a live view of the pictures you’re about to take, and has a wide viewing angle so you’ll never be unable to get an accurate representation of your photo before you take it. The integrated cleaning system is also fantastic if you need to change the lens in areas where there is a lot of dust, and it will save you loads of time.