Top 10 Digital SLRs
01 Canon EOS 600D
Stuff says
We’d have liked it to feel fresher, but you can’t argue with the 600D’s features, price or performance
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02
Nikon D5100
A well-rounded package, it ticks all the boxes for a mid-priced DSLR whilst offering some amusing extras and strong picture and movie performance
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03
Sony Alpha SLT-A55
So, so fast – and packed with features other cameras can’t deliver
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04
Olympus PEN E-P3
A gorgeous camera for serious snappers with a penchant for the cooler things in life
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05
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2
Fuss-free high-quality photography for noobs and vets alike
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06
Canon EOS 60D
A mid-range DSLR that gets a gold star for both video and stills
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07
Nikon D700
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08
Nikon D300
A great value DSLR that excels in low light conditions. Only the lack of image stabilisation irks
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09
Nikon D3100
A very solid performer, but lacks a killer feature to make it stand out from the pack
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10
Pentax K-r
A dependable DSLR sidekick with some handy extras
Instant Expert
Simon Osborne-Walker
One of the best things about autumn is the number of photo opportunities posed by fallen leaves and a spot of swirly wind. If you see a swarm of bronze leaves being whipped into a frenzy, try setting a long exposure, using a tripod or monopod to keep the camera steady, and see what sort of swishy abstract you end up with. If you find the days are still too bright for long exposures, try a neutral density (ND) filter. Kenko has just announced its amazing Variable NDX filter (£tba, kenkoglobal.com), which enables you to adjust the ND setting by twisting the front to darken the scene. The darker the setting, the longer you can have the shutter open, and the more whirly your leaves will be.
Autumn’s a great time for swishy, leafy abstracts
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
1. Continuous shooting If you’re into action photography you’ll appreciate a camera that can fire off shots like a machine gun. The average is 3fps, but 6fps and above is ideal.
2. Live View Useful mostly for close-ups and tripod-based shots, this lets you frame the subject on the LCD screen, like you would when shooting with a compact camera.
3. Image stabilisation (IS) Anti-shake technology is built into more expensive lenses, but if you’re buying a load of extra ones you’ll ultimately save money if there’s an image stabiliser already built into your camera’s body.
4. Kit lens Most SLRs can be bought with a standard lens, which is usually around 18-55mm (or 14-42mm on an Olympus or Panasonic). That’s OK for starters, but you’ll want more length to get closer to the main event with sports and action.
