A lot of the variations in output on a good camera are a result of pre-processing choices decided by the manufacturer. Kodak has a bias towards warm snappy colors and boosted saturation. Other companies choose to tell it like it is and take a lighter approach. A mark of a good camera for me is one that does not get too aggressive with the pre-processing, but provides an in camera method for controlling the preprocessing and a method to save and apply these choices via presets. Most good cameras allow this.
My personal favorites have been Canon, especially their SLRs. A lot of my work was in low-light. I really like the low noise of the CMOS sensor. It is especially noticeable when pushing the speed (ISO) and with time lapse photography. I like Nikons as well, but don't like the proprietary raw format used. Being an ex lab-rat, I do a lot of post processing. Having an open Camera Raw format is a necessity for me. Sony makes good cameras and is getting more competitive.
Whatever the choice, my recommendation is to get a camera that allows one to fine tune sharpness, contrast, saturation etc. in camera to be saved and applied as a preset. And to consider a CMOS sensor. And to get one that supports a generic form of Camera Raw or DNG format. All of these come together in the incredible value of the Canon 400D (Digital Rebel XTi). Note, if you get a Canon Digital Rebel (under $500) don't get it with the stock kit 18-55mm lens, That lens is a low quality promo item. Get the body only and a decent first lens.
For a nice site with reviews and forums go to: http://www.dpreview.com
My personal favorites have been Canon, especially their SLRs. A lot of my work was in low-light. I really like the low noise of the CMOS sensor. It is especially noticeable when pushing the speed (ISO) and with time lapse photography. I like Nikons as well, but don't like the proprietary raw format used. Being an ex lab-rat, I do a lot of post processing. Having an open Camera Raw format is a necessity for me. Sony makes good cameras and is getting more competitive.
Whatever the choice, my recommendation is to get a camera that allows one to fine tune sharpness, contrast, saturation etc. in camera to be saved and applied as a preset. And to consider a CMOS sensor. And to get one that supports a generic form of Camera Raw or DNG format. All of these come together in the incredible value of the Canon 400D (Digital Rebel XTi). Note, if you get a Canon Digital Rebel (under $500) don't get it with the stock kit 18-55mm lens, That lens is a low quality promo item. Get the body only and a decent first lens.
For a nice site with reviews and forums go to: http://www.dpreview.com
