New camera for beginner

[Deaks]

Hi guys, just love your site am getting new camera pls advice what would be good for beginner up to about $600. thanks.

[Gav1n]

I can't suggest a camera in particular, but you have options of either:
1. cheap second hand old DSLR (For up to $600 you probably won't be able to afford a DSLR, unless you find an older, second hand one for cheap.)
2. Point & Shoot (Typical compact Digital Camera)
3. Hybrid (Don't know if that's what they're called) but its kind of in between, they have similar functions to a DSLR (You can change speed, aperture, ISO etc) but are still in reality a point & shoot. I used a Fuji S5600 for a while before before getting my DSLR. It was still fun to use and gets you in to how a camera works, instead of jumping in the deep end with a DSLR if you have no idea what you're doing.

[ricktas]

If you want to get into photography seriously, keep saving. When you get to about 1000-1200, there are some good entry level kits available in DSLR at that price point.

[Kym]

$600 is pushing it for a DSLR

a. Get a good point and shoot (with manual control capabilities) for $300-$400

b. 2nd hand DSLR

c. Pentax K-x http://www.staticice.com.au/cgi-bin/search.cgi?q=pentax+k-x&spos=3 for around $700 with a 18-125 kit lens (plus memory card and rechargeable batteries)

Check the New to Photography (http://www.ausphotography.net.au/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=104) forum equipment guide (http://www.ausphotography.net.au/forum/showthread.php?t=24359) before purchasing - lots of good advice.

[Mircula]

If you want to go a bit beyond point and shoot photography I would suggest you to get a second hand DSLR.

I got my Canon 20D luckily for $300 with lens and all I needed to start shooting. I am still very happy with it!
And to start with you do not need the newest Canon entry level DSLR.

[RaoulIsidro]

Hi guys, just love your site am getting new camera pls advice what would be good for beginner up to about $600. thanks.

You could also check out your friends and relatives who are knowledgeable on cameras. You'd be surprised you had a next of kin who is!
Get reading on back issues of photography magazines at the library or buy a few current magazines at the newsagent, to get you up to date on the latest trends.
It is good to walk up in a camera shop with a preference rather than be swayed by that nice looking chap with a necktie...
Cheers and all the best!