Hello everyone,

I have been following the photography posted on this web page for quite some time now. I was thinking about getting into it as a hobby but I am not sure where to start. First off, I was wondering if there are any good beginners cameras. I am not looking for an expensive camera, but I would like to get a digital one that I can make desktop wallpapers for my computer (Resolution 1280x1024) with good quality and clarity, but I do not really want to spend a ton of money. Second off, I am not sure about any techniques or things that I should be aware of when taking photographs etc., so are there any really helpful magazines i should look into purchasing or any good web pages I could use to help me get started. I am really looking forward to starting photography soon, especially when the spring rolls around, so I would like to be ready. There are so many wonderful pictures on this web site whose beauty cannot be explained by words, and I would like to someday be able to post those types of pictures on this very site. Anyway, thank you so much for your time. Hopefully I will get to know everyone here better and learn from your techniques so that I can become a better photographer once I start. Once again, thank you so much in advance for any comments or suggestions. I am looking forward to getting a camera soon, so any help in that department would be very much appreciated.

Apostle

Well I compiled a list of what to look for when choosing the best digital camera for your needs. Buying a digital camera. It's not a review of any particular model but should help you understand some of the jargon.

For photography tips you can also swing by the site for the basics of composition. Other tips will be added in due time.

Also a good place to look for reviews is: dpreview.com and steves-digicams.com

Just have fun, that's the main thing. I just bought a digital camera in October 2005, a Canon Powershot S2 IS...my first. I just started snapping away and having fun!! Before that I could probably count on two hands how many pictures (film) I'd taken in my life.

I started talking to people here at Caedes and posting some shots to get opinions and it's been great ever since. I just got into Photoshop as well as Apophysis and am even making fractals now.

Take up Bowling! It's easier and cheaper. Seriously if you are interested in a digital camera look at the Kodak Z760 6.1 megapixel for $228 at Walmart. I use one, got it at Christmas time for $199 w/docking station. What a deal! And I love it.

How much were you planning on spending? It is best to get a camera that allows you to use manual controls. I can guarantee that it won't be important to you when you first buy the camera, but not being able to control your images will hinder your learning. I learned on my mom's old camera. It had everything except manual focus, and the longer I used it, the more of those features and controls I used. I work camera retail, so if you have any questions, specific or otherwise, feel free to ask.