All the top brands offer high-end DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses.
When you're in the market for a new camera, you'll find a dizzying array of options from simple point-and-shoot cameras that you can put in your pocket to the more expensive and complex digital single-lens reflex cameras. To make a choice even more complicated, there's also the middle ground, in which you'll find some of the features of the DSLR in a format that's easy for the nonprofessional to pick up and start using. The first step is to decide which type of camera you want to use and how much you want to spend. Beyond that, familiarize yourself with the top brands and their distinguishing features. When you're ready to buy, Consumer Reports recommends using an online camera-buying guide to narrow down the features that mean the most to you and to find a camera that matches your needs.
Canon
According to Consumer Reports, Canon is the best-selling point-and-shoot camera brand. The PowerShot S95 is listed as the best "starter" advanced camera by CNET Reviews based on design, features, performance and image quality, while the S100 model received top marks from PCWorld, which called it "a near-perfect pocket camera" for its ability to shoot 1080p video and stills in the RAW format. The Canon EOS Rebel is one of the best-selling midrange DSLR cameras on the market, with a reliable auto mode that helps novice DSLR users learn to take quality photos on the sophisticated camera. At the high end of the spectrum, professional photographers like Canon cameras for their wide range of interchangeable lenses. According to Consumer Reports, Canon offers a bigger lens selection than other camera brands.
Sony
Sony cameras receive consistent praise from reviewers. Sony's point-and-shoot models grace a number of Top 10 and Top 5 industry lists. CNET Reviews named the compact Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V the best consumer compact for its features, which include full manual and automatic settings, an ultra wide-angle lens and full HD video capability. Several of Sony's midrange and high-end cameras feature the latest technology; its A-model cameras, including the A200, A550 and A700 models, include the High Dynamic Range feature, which captures several images at varying exposures and then combines them into one composite. Another distinguishing feature among Sony's NEX line of cameras is 3-D panoramic technology. Those new features are costly though. According to Consumer Reports, Sony offers many innovations in its cameras, but at a relatively high price tag.
Nikon
Point-and-shoot cameras run the gamut in price, depending on the brand and the number of megapixels.
A few key camera models put Nikon among the top camera brands. Among its most notable cameras is the Coolpix line, which is available in a number of different models. According to reviews from PCWorld, the Nikon Coolpix P300 is a close competitor with the Canon PowerShot -- minus the RAW mode that the PowerShot offers. It features a compact size with manual controls at a significantly lower price than the PowerShot. While it does not have a manual focus, the Coolpix P300 has manual shutter controls and aperture, which allows novice users to become familiar with the functions of a DSLR camera without the high price. Of special note is the midrange Coolpix S series camera that features an ultrasmall, built-in projector for broadcasting images on the fly. Nikon's D7000 model is listed as CNET's top pick among professional DSLR cameras for its streamlined operations and great viewfinder.
Olympus
In both point-and-shoot and high-end cameras, Olympus models earn some of highest ratings. Among MacWorld's "Nine Great Cameras for Beginner Photographers" is the Olympus PEN E-PL1, which offers many of the features of a DSLR camera, including interchangeable lenses, with the ease of a point-and-shoot camera. The help guides that come with Olympus point-and-shoot and compact models are a popular selling point. They teach beginners the basics of aperture settings, depth of field and other photography basics in simple language. Many of the brand's midrange subcompacts, including the Stylus models, attract attention for their tough exterior with waterproof and crush-proof features. Among its high-end models, the Olympus E-5 is rated one of Consumer Reports' Best Buys for its image quality and overall versatility.
Tags: Consumer Reports, According Consumer, According Consumer Reports, DSLR cameras, interchangeable lenses, camera that, CNET Reviews
