With so many digital SLRs on the market today it's no wonder that the decision can be a daunting one for someone who is just starting out.
(Credit: Canon)
An SLR gives you a whole array of shooting options at your fingertips, including manual control and the ability to change lenses and add accessories like external flashes as you need.
Fortunately there are more choices than ever. Here are our picks for the best digital SLRs for beginners, but if you're looking for more information on photography or what SLR to buy make sure to check out our digital camera basics article, or our digital SLR superguide for more information.
A lot of people would suggest starting off with the most basic camera in the line up, so for example in the Canon range, the EOS 1000D, or in the Nikon range, the D3000. You'll still be able to get a great result with these cameras but unless price is absolutely everything, we'd suggest spending a little more so that as your skills progress, the camera can grow with you.
The Canon EOS 500D and Nikon D5000 are competent digital SLRs, and both feature HD video recording as part of the feature set; the 500D at full 1080p, and the D5000 at 720p. If you're looking for a lightweight camera, the Olympus E-620 and the Sony A330 are the most feather-like of the options here, weighing in at 475 grams and 452 grams respectively.
Some digital SLRs come with an articulating LCD screen, like the Olympus and the Sony, and all listed here come with live view, which allows you to compose an image on-screen rather than looking through the viewfinder. The Canon, Nikon and Sony use SD/SDHC cards (and the Sony also accommodates Memory Stick Pro Duo), while the Olympus has a Compact Flash and xD card slot. All use a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, but if you want AA compatibility you will have to shift to another brand such as Pentax's K-m.
Another important thing to note is that the camera is just the starting point of your new digital SLR. Lenses are just as important as the camera body you buy. The cameras below all come in either single or dual-lens kits or as body only if you want to choose some glass separately.
Remember to be aware that each company uses different lens mounts: Olympus bodies have the advantage of being compatible with the Four Thirds system; Nikon uses the F-mount, which means you can use most old lenses, even 50-year-old ones, from the company (though auto focus and metering may be unavailable); and Sony cameras are compatible with some old Konica Minolta lenses.
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