Geeky Gift Guide 2011: Best DSLR cameras

Photographs have an amazing quality: they capture moments. Situations may change, people may grow older, but a picture stays the same, displaying countless emotions. Probably this is the reason that many people love photography, some take it as a career while others take it as a hobby. Photographs manage to capture the soul of the moment, speaking volumes about the scenario. With technologies advancing, the art of photography has managed to become a favorite for many. So, if you have a loved one who loves photography, then check out this list of Best DSLR cameras and gift them a memory forever.

1. Canon EOS Rebel T1i (500D)

Canon EOS Rebel

Target: This camera targets budding photography enthusiasts who are learning about the art of clicking.

Price: $554

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: Canon is famous for making some of the best DSLR cameras and this camera is no exception. This is an incredibly fast camera with an ISO range stretching up to 102400, offers 1920X1080p HD recording and clicks 1500 images per battery charge. The camera comes with 15.1 megapixels resolution and has a 3 inch LCD screen with anti-reflective glass for better viewing. All this comes at a weight of just 5 pounds. It offers 10fps continuous shooting and comes with Canon’s DIGIC 4 image processor which ensures that you get great images. You can use a wide variety of lens with this camera.

Nikon D5100

2. Nikon D5100 16.2MP CMOS

Targets: This camera targets a variety of users who want the best features of a good camera at an affordable price.

Price: $799

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This camera is a fine amalgamation of several qualities of D3100 and D7000. This Nikon camera has user friendly ergonomics with a good 16.2 megapixels camera. It comes with an LCD screen and a new ‘Effects’ mode. This camera has an in-built High Dynamic Range and records stunning videos at 1080p with full time auto focus. This result in exquisite detailing in highlights and shadows in an image. It offers a continuous shooting at approximately 4 frames per second; therefore, you can capture your subjects precisely.

Canon EOS 60D

3. Canon EOS 60D

Target: A budding photographer will love this camera as it is easy to use and handle. Moreover, it is compatible with large range of lenses allowing more experimentation.

Price: $971

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This camera comes with an 18 megapixels CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Imaging processing for clicking better shots. Its ISO is expandable to 128 and the body comes with a clear view LCD monitor. It shoots at 5.3 frames per minute during continuous shooting. The video mode comes with manual exposure control so that you can set the exposure according to lighting and other requirements. The audio input level can also be set to auto or manual, with a variety of other options to minimize unwanted background noise. This product is compatible with the full line of Canon EF and EF-S lenses.

4. Pentax K-7 14.6 MP

Pentax K-7 14.6 MP

Target: This camera is a good buy for a professional photographer as it can endure extreme working conditions.

Price: $1099.99

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This DSLR camera offers high resolution photographs with a 14.6 megapixels CMOS sensor fitted in a compact, magnesium alloy body. The camera is weather resistant, dust prof and cold proof. At continuous shooting, this product offer 5.2 frames per second. It comes with a 3 inch LCD and a live view mode. Its body is durable and functional, certainly smaller than any other camera in its class. The battery is pretty powerful and the product has a versatile exposure system for a budding artist to click creative images.

5. Nikon D7000

Nikon D7000

Target: This is an easy to use camera that can target any photographer, whether s/he is a hobbyist or an enthusiast about photography.

Price: $1499.95

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This is the best Nikon camera in middle range and a great gift. This powerful camera comes with 55-200mm lens kit and has 16.2 megapixels CMOS sensor. It comes with EXPEED 2 Image processing engine that provides brilliant quality pictures. At continuous shooting, this camera offers 6 frames per second. The auto focus capabilities of this camera are great and definition videos appear crystal clear.

6. Nikon D50 Camera

The Nikon D50 Camera

Target: This camera targets professional photographers who click a wide range of pictures.

Price: $1899

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This camera offers interchangeable lens system and therefore, it is easy to use and provides outstanding digital SLR pictures. The product is compatible with AF and DX Nikon lenses and has a 6.1 megapixel sensor that clicks detailed pictures. It comes with 2.0 inch LCD display and offers continuous shooting at 2.5 frames per second. This camera includes 18-55mm lens and is a good camera for a budding photographer.

7. Sony Alpha A900

Sony Alpha A900

Target: This camera is for learners, hobbyists as well as professionals.

Price: $2699

Availability: Amazon

Why you should buy: This is an excellent camera with 24.6 megapixels Exmor CMOS sensor in a 35mm full frame body. It offers image stabilization with SteadyShot INSIDE technology. The body comes with 3.0 inch extra fine LCD for photo display. This is a top of the line model in Sony’s alpha series and offers the world’s highest megapixels resolution. At a continuous shooting, the product offers good 5 frames per second and has noise reduction technology for video recording.

All of these cameras are best in terms of their quality, utility and price. So, what are you waiting for? Buy one of these and gift your loved one the ability to capture memories.