[dilesh]

hey,
i came across this forum when i was researching to buy my 1st SLR...
background history: my dad has a EOS 350D with the kit lens and a 75-300mm... and I love using those... i currently use a Sony DSC V1, and its high time i replace it, and upgrade my level of photography.
So, i was initially thinking of going for the EO400 cos i'm used to the EOS interface from my dads 350 and i once useed a EOS400 to cover an indoor nighttime event for a friend. the pictures were ok and i'm happy with it.
But then when camera hunting i came acorss a D40x which a shopowner let me try out and i was quite happy with that too... its cheaper than the Canon, but i'm unsure about the interface and if i'll be able to learn the settings controls soon enough.

So now i'm torn between buying the EOS400D and the D40x.... i also plan to buy a lens that goes upto 300mm (for whichever camera i buy) in addition to the kit-lens...

I know this is probably like a constantly asked question, but which one do you guys suggest i go for considering my background and all...

Thanks guys!

[silkstone]

We are asked this sort of question quite a lot, and I think the best advice is to get what you think you will be most comfortable with in the longer term. There are very few bad cameras these days.

Remember that the camera is only the start - lenses and accessories can easily add up to several times the price of the camera itself. You're buying into a system, and once you have a collection of lenses etc it is expensive to swap to a different manufacturer.

Both the 400D and D40x are good cameras, although (tell me if I'm wrong here) there are some restrictions on the lenses that the D40 will accept. Personally I went the Canon route and have no regrets, but if I were starting again I would have to think long and hard.

For now, go to your friendly local store and handle both cameras - see which feels better to you. Whichever you choose, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

[snap2photo]

I would consider getting something that is compatable with your Dad if there is any chance of sharing stuff or if one of you upgrades and there will be cast off lenses etc. I think you will find that there are often families that stick to the same manufacturer.

[VinnyP]

I agree re go with your dad's manufacturer and even though I am a Nikon user I think the 400D just shaves the D40x but if you want to shoot fast moving stuff the Nikon has better focusing for that. But if one feels better or easier to use to you then I'd go that way.

[Dabhand16]

Just to add nothing to this - the current issue of Digital Photo magazine tested budget dSLR's and the D40x and the 400D got joint first place!

As has been said before, it is all about which one feels more comfortable to handle. Try out the way different functions are changed and set.

There is also a powerful argument for going the same way as your Dad as you can then share equipment.

[Markulous]

My heart says Nikon (they're on a roll, producing the goods at the moment) but my head says Canon (potential to share your Dad's).

Just gone through the same and arrived at that same conclusion!

[fionaB]

as with everyone else says... try then out and see what feels best, as a 400D user i am over the moon with mine, but mind u are buying into a system NOT just the camera.

As has already been mentioned it would be an advantage to be able to share equipment with you dad .

Fi

[P-E]

I've just recently started using a 400D for work and must say it's quite a nice little camera

[Davetherave]

i got my 400d with a 90-300 and 18-55 lens kit from comet so check them out they may well still offer the same/better deal

400d for me