I am looking for a 35mm camera to begin my dream of learning and taking b & w photos. My budget is about 350-450 price range. I was looking at Sigma, Pentex, Minolta, etc. What would be a good solid long term camera and first lens combo? Thanks!

-- CK (ckmail4me@yahoo.com), June 18, 2002

Answers

Whatever you get, make sure it has a "Manual" setting; better yet, it should have "Manual," "Shutter Priority," and "Aperture Priority." If the camera is fully automatic, you may learn how to make photos, but you won't have much control over how they look.

Also, the Nikon N65 and Canon Rebel 2000 are within your price range. With either one of those, you just might find that lenses and accessories are easier to find and buy than with some of the other brands you mentioned. Have fun!

-- GB55 (mousetube@yahoo.com), June 22, 2002.