DSLR on a budget

cookie8 (Vincent) · #1 22-11-2007, 08:44 PM

Hi guys
After many years of visual observation I am considering some basic astrophotography these days with DSLR becoming more and more affordable. Any suggestion? There are so many models on the market...Canon,Nikon,Olympus? Not many has a bulb"B" setting or even a shutter string fitting? Am I right? I need some guidance here

Cookie

leon · #2 22-11-2007, 08:52 PM

Cookie, be assured all the models you have described, although not always obvious, do have Bulb settings.

Most have electronic remote fittings which are similar to the old fashioned cable release.

Leon

netwolf · #3 22-11-2007, 09:54 PM

Canon is the king of the hill at present. If your on a budget, then look for a 350D on Ebay. They usually go for around 500$. This one I think is the best bang for buck.

Regards
Fahim

cookie8 (Vincent) · #4 22-11-2007, 10:35 PM

I checked the specs of Canon 350D on the net. The max shutter is 30sec. Has it got a Bulb setting so I can lock it open for long exposure?

Kal (Andrew) · #5 22-11-2007, 10:51 PM

Yes it has bulb. Canon may not say it on their specs, but they do say it elsewhere

Suzy_A · #6 23-11-2007, 03:46 PM

Another option is a 8.2 MP Canon 20D. They are available now second-hand for $750 - $100, including lenses.

Suzy_A · #7 23-11-2007, 03:47 PM

Sorry, dropped a '0' - meant to be $750 - $1000.

netwolf · #8 23-11-2007, 06:56 PM

Yes the 20d is a very good option, Canon did release a 20Da camera for Astronomers. But i believe they discontinued it. The 20Da has produced some amazing shots as has the 20D.

Astromart is another place to look for used camera's given the current strong Aussie currency there are many bargains to be had.

Regards
Fahim

cookie8 (Vincent) · #9 23-11-2007, 08:43 PM

Thanks guys for your info. I am now looking at the 2nd hand Canon 350D on ebay.

netwolf · #10 24-11-2007, 09:37 AM

One further thing to be mindfull of when buying second hand is how many photos the camera has taken. Some owners keep a track of this. The Canon 300D, 350D and 400D's are rated to give i think 50000 click shutter life. And the 20D, 30D and 40D i think are rated at 100000 or more. My figures maybe wrong so someone jump in and correct me. Some sellers will mention low usage of the camera or low actuations (Clicks) etc.

Regards
Fahim

Garyh · #11 24-11-2007, 01:06 PM

Hi cookie,
Like Fahim mentions make sure you ask how may actuations the camera has had! I would stay clear of anything with more than 10,000 unless its cheap.
My camera has had a bit over 8,000 in 3 years (1000 from the previous owner).
Happy shopping!!