Natalie Hitchins is news editor of What Digital Camera magazine and a former editor of Digital Photographer. Here she picks the best of the huge array of digital SLR cameras.Click here forDigital SLRs Overview.
Best for Aspiring Professionals (Canon EOS 5D)
A rare breed in the world of SLRs, the EOS 5D is a pro-grade camera at the perfect price and pitch for the ambitious enthusiast. Boasting 12.8 megapixels, a full-frame sensor and compact body, the 5D has created a whole new premium DSLR category and is the ultimate in aspirational kit for amateur photographers everywhere.
Hot from the creators of the photo trade's most enduring dream machines, Nikon’s latest SLR combines top of the range technologies with compact convenience. A high-resolution sensor and lightning-speed processor are just two of the D80’s many class-beating features that’ll leave enthusiasts rubbing their hands with glee.
Compact, high-tech and oh-so-easy to use, the 400D is the ultimate first-time buy for the quality-conscious snapper. The camera packs in a whopping 10-megapixels, compatibility with top notch lenses and a whole host of gadgets including automatic sensor cleaning and a super-bright LCD screen.
Packed with user-friendly features and boasting the enviable accolade of being the world's smallest digital SLR, the E-400 has everything family users could wish for and more. Its 10-megapixel sensor and twin lens kit ensure it’s a real all-rounder that’s perfect for capturing the most spontaneous of family occasions.
Feeling the need for speed? Then look no further than the acclaimed Canon 30D. This 8-megapixel beauty has everything the aspiring sports or news photographer needs, all perfectly packed into a seamless camera body that can cope with everything life in the hands of a high-octane photographer throws at it.