stevetheoldman

The 60-250 is, IMHO, a fantastic lens. So is the

Limited 77 1.8. The former is a litter slower focusing

than I'd like. To me the question is 60-250 f4 or 70-

210/2.8? Depends on the usage. Two slightly different

tools.

Photosig used to be a great site to

learn how to critique. The site needs

(needed?) a real overhaul to the

interface, including a mobile

component. Photosig was also

nortoriously unstable (as well as a few

of the people who used to run the

show.)

I think it's gone for good this

time...just an opinion.

<p>Thanks for the input! On the one hand, I've had experience with a film SLR (FM-2) but probably never really understood what the potential of the camera could be. My "system" consisted of a few zoom lenses.</p>

<p>I don't know, maybe the best course of action is at some point to get the camera & 18-55mm lens first, then proceed as funds allow. I've been more or less away from photography for years. Back then (for SLRs) it seemed that Nikon was 'the' camera, but Canon, Pentax, Minolta, Olympus, and I'm sure I'm forgetting 1 or 2 others were worthy choices also. Now (for DSLRs) it's pretty much Nikon or Canon, with the others just beginning to get their acts together.</p>

<p> Again, thanks for your thoughts!</p>

<p> Of course I know which is the "better" camera. Sure, I'd love a

digital SLR. But getting the lenses to match what I have with my ol'

FZ20 would take awhile. I feel like I'd be losing a lot of

capabilities. I could live without the zoom, but man, that f2.8 in a

small, light package is really useful. I'm sure it's

not "professional quality", but I'm not a professional!</p>

<p> What I wish the Panasonic had was more depth of field (f8.0 is

it) and more of a "wide-angle." What I like about the Rebel is that:

a) it's small (I have small hands), b) a lot of features, and c)

great choice of lenses (though that's not going to be a factor for

awhile)</p>

<p> Also, any advice about alternative, digital SLRs that might fit

the budget are welcome.</p>

Thanks!

I really can't go into technical detail about the camera, but I do have an FZ-20 and am happy with it. Haven't gotten a really bad photo (well, due to camera shake anyway!) out of the it. IMHO the "program" mode tends to overexpose scenics, but it's not a big deal, since the camera has manual controls. I don't know what's on the market these days, but about a year ago it seemed like the best overall bang for what I could afford.

Good luck!