DSLR vs Compact System... which to buy?

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ShutterBug97

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Jasmine
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I'm saving up to buy a new camera - it may not be until after Christmas that I can afford it, but I'm curious as to what kind I should get.

I have several camera happy friends, and they've given me mixed opinions - some say I should buy a digital SLR, and others reckon a compact system camera is the way to go. However, those friends are like me - only amateurs. I was wondering if any pro photographers off this site could give me a bit of advice as to what's best? And which model would be the best to go for? My price range is £200-£400.

If it makes any difference, I'm currently using a Fujifilm Finepix S3400.

Any help/advice/opinions would be appreciated.
Thanks :)
 
I'd say that in terms of best picture quality for the minimum outlay then an entry level DSLR will give you this. (eg Nikon D3100 or the Canon equivalent)

The compact mirror-less systems will cost more for the same level of quality as you are paying a premium for miniaturisation.
 
I agree with above. With your budget you would only be able to buy a budget campact system camera with no viewfinder, which isn't ideal.
 
With some of the CSC cameras the size reduction isn't actually that much over an entry level DSLR anyway. Primarily go for what feels best in your hands and falls within your budget, so get to a shop and have a play about with the ones on display to see what you like.
 
Mandoo said:
With some of the CSC cameras the size reduction isn't actually that much over an entry level DSLR anyway.
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It's the lenses that make the system compact IMHO - at least, it's the case with the micro 4/3rds.

I have a 24-70 f2.8 equivalent (won't get the same depth of field but will still get the light in) which is smaller and lighter than the 24-70 f2.8 WITH the body attached and has 3 stop IS. The new 70-200 f2.8 equivalent is almost half the length and is less than half the weight and volume of the Canon 70-200 f4 IS. Again, camera and lens together weigh less than the f4 lens on its own.

People focus too much on body size and not on system size.
 
Check out the Panasonic FZ150, A 25 to 600 zoom, very popular even with pro's, who wants to lug a bag full of lens'es around, this gem does it all.
 
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