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#5 Professional DSLR Camera

Olympus E30 12.3MP Digital SLR with Image Stabilization with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens

The Olympus E30 is the best yet of the ever growing Olympus line. This one is easy to use, easy to hold, and one of the easiest to use in this class camera. The whole design and functionality is meant for all people who are interested in the art of photography to express themselves with this art form,no matter whether they are a processional photographer who has years of experience, or a person who is just getting started with this level of photography.

Olympus E 30 Features-

12.3 Megapixel CCD with Live MOS Imager: This will produce high resolution top quality photographs up to 30-40 inches, with beautiful clean, rich tones, and vibrant colors. The imaging speed can support 5 frames per second continuous shooting. A built in pixel mapping feature lets the cameras adjust the image pick up devices and processing functions.

11-point FastTrack Auto Focus System: The 11 Point Twin Cross auto focus and SWD lenses gives super fast auto focus capability. Hook that up with its 5 frame per second burst rate, a you will be able to easily take all the photos you want to and have them come out clear as can be.

Flip-out, Rotating 2.7″ LCD Monitor: The monitor of the Olympus E30 has the ability to swivel 270 degrees, allowing the photographer to see and therefore create amazing pictures at hard to reach angles.

Live View with Contrast Detect Auto Focus and Face Detection: This advanced live view feature on the Olympus E30 gives the photographer more ability to interact with the subjects f face-to-face instead of from behind the view finder. This gives you a chance for that personal touch with the subjects you are photographing.

11 Scene Select Modes: You will find the Olympus E30 includes an 11 easy-to-use scene select modes are preset shooting modes. This helps make the best use of all the camera’s settings and help you to make the best shots possible.

Art Filter and Multiple Exposure Options: These options are what easily sets this camera apart from most the rest o its kind. The provide the ability to combine beauty and art to photography. These features are easily activated to give a pop art, soft focus, pale and light light tone, grainy film and pin hole settings.

In-body Image Stabilization: The in-body image stabilization of the Olympus E30 gives you the chance to shoot your images free without worrying about the blur that comes from the camera shaking as you shoot, or while you are moving. With this camera you do not have to spend the money on a special stabilizing lenses.

Summary-

If for no other reason, beyond the ease of use, the Olympus E-30 will make you feel like an artist, who is creating their pictures on canvas. This will make this camera not only be appealing to budding photographers,but the shooter with a creative flair, who likes to look at things from other points of view, like graphic designers, illustrators, and fashion designers, will also see and experience its benefits.

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#4 Professional DSLR Camera

Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD

 The Nikon D5000 is the updated version of the popular Nikon D60 entry level camera. This is considers semi-professional DSLR camera, but the beginners or those who want to upgrade a step from the entry level class will find this an excellent option. The Nikon D5000 brought with it many of the popular features of its earlier versions, but also had added many new features commonly found in this class camera., like the addition of live view and HD video recording elements.

Nikon D5000 Features-

12.3 Megapixel DX format CMOS image sensor: The 12,3 megapixel work in tight combination with the CMOS sensor give crisp clear pictures at a breath taking quality

One-button Live View: Another feature that makes the transition from point and shoot more comfortable. The live view will give your some auto focus help and face recognition guidance.

EXPEED Image Processing: The quick and speedy power-up combined with the split-second continuous shooting shutter response capability, up to 4 frames per second, lets you easily to capture any of the fast action shots that are needed for sports events, when children play, or when in a moving vehicle, can be captured with ease and most importantly without any time lag between shots.

Variable-angle color 2.7-inch LCD monitor: With this moveable LCD monitor you can position the camera to reach awkward shots freely giving you opportunity for more options in your shooting perspectives. The LCD screen has the capability of flipping inward to keep it safe when not in use.

19 Auto-Exposure Scene Modes: These multiple options open up so many more options for for that go beyond the expected scene mode choices found in a point and shoot camera include sunsets, Candlelight, Silhouette, Portrait, Landscape, Beach/Snow, and will let you produce more stunning pictures

420-pixel RGB 3D Color Matrix Metering II: This feature that can be teamed with the scene modes lets you evaluate each scene and give the best exposure accuracy settings.

11-point Autofocus System with 3D Focus Tracking: This fast and accurate autofocus feature is able to deliver a razor sharpness. Built in image stabilization reduces the probability of blurred photographs

D Movie Mode: The Nikon D5000’s also has a 24-fps HD D-Movie mode that is able to capture sound along with its video clips. This capability is quickly becoming a must have in this class camera. Although it can be said, that the fast action shutter speed can make the photographer forget they even have the movie option.

Summary-

There really is no excuse for anyone not to buy the Nikon D5000. It is the right price with most of the best features found in this class of camera. It has a little something for everyone. The outstanding quality of photographs and easy to use features make this the perfect tool for someone wanting to enter the DSLR world at the upper end where you normally ind the professionals.

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#3 Professional DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 7D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-inch LCD (Body Only)

In the semi professional category of DSLR cameras, also known as APS-C category, the Canon EOS 7D should be considered extraordinary. The semi professional class is where the camera is still a DSLR camera, more commonly considered the entry level class, but with enough features and quality that professionals will be able to regard this camera as a more than viable option. An experienced amateur, with a little practice, will be also be creating spectacular photographs in no time.

Canon EOS 7D Features:

18.0 megapixel resolution: There is a fine line of demarcation between enough and too many pixels. The Canon EOS 7D has figured out the perfect blend of pixel power that works with the CMOS sensor to create extraordinary pictures. The CMOS sensor has a new photodiode and microlens design that gives a perfect signal to noise(distortion) balance.

Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors: These dual high-speed processors work like our human brain, as this is where all the optical image data is accurately collected, processed and saved at break neck speeds. Without this processing speed, none of the other amazing features found on this camera would be possible.

1920×1080 Full HD Video Recording: What is quickly becoming a standard expectation to have on these cameras, the EOS 7D has video recoding at 30p, 24p or 25p frames per second. It also can record at 1280×720 HD or 60x VGA. Features include HDMI output so you can view directly on an HDTV or a monitor. This feature also give in camera editing

19point, Auto-focus System: This all cross-type auto-focus system give you the most accurate auto focus you can find not only with a Canon but in almost any other camera on the market. What cross-type feature means is that all nineteen auto-focus points can be used for both horizontal and vertical focus calculations, This, combined with the Canon EOS 7D’s ability to take 8 frames per second continual shooting ability, ends up making this camera one of the fastest in the semiprofessional class.

63 zone Dual-layer Metering Sensor: This complements the auto-focus system by taking into account color and brightness levels that surround the focus points of the photographs . What happens is there ends up with a reduced number of exposure errors due to the many light sources.

3.0-inch LCD monitor: This is 920,000 dot resolution . It comes with an optional overlay that gives auto focus detail, exposure information like shutter seed, ISO, and aperture among as well as flash, image and composition.

Flash Information: A pop-up flash is included for those times it is truly needes. Flash free shooting in a wide range of different lighting conditions is possible due to the ISO range of 100 to 6.400, with expansion up to 12,800.

Summary:

Within this class of semi-professional, APS-C dSLR cameras, there are few that can even begin to compare with the quality of the Canon EOS 7D. The experienced amateur photographer and most professionals can’t go wrong if they were to choose this model. The choice really comes down to personal preference.

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#2 Professional DSLR Camera

Nikon D300s 12MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S ED VR II Telephoto Zoom Lens

The Nikon D300S is the updated version of the D300 which basically set the bar pretty high, and that standard is still relevant today. There were very few changes made to this updated version and just adds to the high quality already in place. The overall feel of the camera is outstanding, the controls are placed in a comfortable position and overall construction is of the quality you would expect from Nikon. They have mastered the art of ergonomic design when it comes to cameras.

What you have in the D300S camera is really more of a semi-professional camera. It is a higher class than most DSLRs but functions on par with the full-frame CMOS sensor cameras the professionals generally use. Most pros would find this camera more than appropriate for their use and the more capable amateur will be thrilled with the high level of features and the overall performance. Combine the design, ease of use, and add modern technology and you have a mighty fine camera.

Nikon D300S Camera Features

12.3- megapixels: This is a lower number than normally seen for a professional level cameras, but it is a high quality count for a DSLR. It is deceiving as the exceptionally sharp picture quality matches what if often found with the higher level pixel count found in professional cameras

DX-format full screen CMOS sensor: The CMOS sensor technology allows for a perfect blend of pixel numbers and light sensor capabilities by the angles the light ray hit each pixel. It includes an Integrated Dust Reduction system that uses ultrasonic vibrations will keep the sensor clean.

Nikon EXPEED processor: This will give high quality processing speed and accurate images, keeping the noise levels low. It has the capability of shooting 7 frames per second. The battery charge will last through 950 shots.

3 inch LCD Screen: This monitor with a protective tempered glass covering, has a 921,000 dot VGA screen that is very easy to read and easy to use. It has the added feature of seven levels of brightness to make it easy to read in all degrees of indoor and outdoor light.

Auto Focus System: This camera has a highly effective new contrast detection auto focus system. It uses 51 auto focus points, which is higher than normal for this style camera. The auto focus system is easy to use and will give photos that are especially clear and sharp. In addition, there is a 3D color matrix metering system with 1,005 pixels that has the capability to evaluate color information as part pf the automatic choosing of exposure settings. You will find that its standard ISO sensitivity will range from 200- 3,200 and it has an expanded sensitivity of 100 to 6400 available.

Video Recording: One of the additions to this model, that is not found in the D300 is video recording. The Nikon D300S can record video at 24 frames per second on it s720p HD video. The combination of still and video recording capabilities is becoming an important tool in professional photograph today, much to the dismay of many purists. This includes a n integrated microphone that unfortunately is place too close to the auto focus motor sound. One of the few flaws in the design. Using the external microphone input capability will take care of that problem.

Duel Memory Cards: One particularly helpful new feature for this D300s camera is the dual memory card slots. This lets you use both a compact flash and a secure digital card. You can use these in a variety of ways. Use one to store the overflow from the other. You might also record JPEG to one card and RAW to the other. Another option is to put still shots on one card and video on the other.

Summary:

Having a DSLR camera that functions at the superior performance levels associated with professional class cameras is a nice affordable option. The Nikon D300S is just that camera. It is far above the other cameras in the DSLR class and the features meet the needs of the pros. It keeps the high standards set in the original S300 while adding a video element and other minor changes. Any professional or experienced amateur would be well served by this semi-professional camera.

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#1 Professional DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 5D Mark II 21.1MP Full Frame CMOS Digital SLR Camera with EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the most recent update the the highly popular and well regarded Canon EOS 5D. This is a camera whose extensive electronic attributes are designed to meet the needs of professional photographers and photojournalists, yet at the same time a skilled amateur photographer could also learn to use this model if and when they are ready to upgrade from a DSLR entry level camera. Although much heavier than the point and shoot digital camera, the Canon Eos 5D Mark II at two pounds is considered light weight for its class. The same can be said for the price, it will be a significant jump in cost from the entry level DSLR camera, but in its class, and taking into consideration all the features that are included, it should be considered a bargain.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Features

21.1 Megapixel Resolution: It is important to keep your pixel count at a level that matches the other capabilities your camera can produce. There is no need for a massive pixel count without the proper supporting devices that work with it. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is able to take full advantage of each one of the 21.1 megapixels Full Frame CMOS Sensor: The original Canon 5D was credited with being the first large, single plate full frame (36mmx24mm) CMOS sensor on a digital camera and the EOS 5D Mark II has continued to utilize these benefits. This works in tandem with the pixels, and functions similarly to the ways light will hit 35mm film (the same dimensions.) The light will hit the pixels at the same angle it used to hit the film, a perfect blend of pixel number and light sensor capabilities.

DIGIC 4 Image Processor: This is often referred to as the digital command center of a camera since it is where all the light data received can be speedily processed to create a clear, image with amazing photographic detail, with high quality color, face detection and video recording. Full

HD Video Recording: This EOS 5D MarkII camera is the first model that Canon has made that incorporates video recording into its large sensor, speedy processing and fast 30 frames a second shooting capabilities. Individual still shots can be taken while the film video is recording. Optional mono or stereo microphones can be connected to add an audio element.

Clear View LCD Screen: A 3.0 inch LCD screen, with 920,000/VGA resolution gives top quality viewing. It will adjust its brightness to the surrounding light condition. Other viewing functions include a Live View, where real time viewing can be used, including zooming, and a Face Detection Live setting.

Advanced Cleaning System: There is a low-pass filter found at the front of the CMOS sensor that with ultrasonic vibrations can shake off micro-dust particles. This system was designed specifically for the CMOS full-frame sensor. If any particles were to sneak past this, the accompanying Digital Photo Professional software can be calibrated to delete any dust spots.

ISO Speed and Exposure Controls: There are both manual and automatic speed adjustments, with manual options ranging from 100 – 6400 and automatic options with a range of 100 – 3200. Shooting in near darkness is possible with sensitivity up to 25,6000. The Canon EOS 5D MarkII has a variety of exposure controls like Program AE, shutter-priority AE, aperture-priority AE, and creative auto. Other settings include a more choices than found in the entry level DSLR cameras. In addition to the auto, custom, flash, daylight, shade and cloudy settings, there are also options for tungsten light, white fluorescent light, color temperature settings and automatic white balance.

Summary:

This model update was over three years in the making, which in electronic time seems like forever. Because of this, the modifications and improvements to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II go well beyond minor adjustments and give the consumer innovative and impressive features like massive light sensors, super fast processing, HD videos and a superior quality LCD screen. There is no question that this is a camera designed for the professional, and will serve them well for years to come. Amateurs who want to take their photography capabilities up to a higher level, and can afford the cost, will also benefit from this outstanding camera.

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