As I move up the "ladder", should I buy a Canon D-Rebel or a higher end prosumer like the newly announced Sony F828 or the Minolta A-1.

While I had pretty much decided a few months ago to go with the Rebel, I decided to wait to see what Nikon will offer in response to Canon with their D70. Others will no doubt announce new models (both SLR & Prosumer) at the upcoming PMA'04 as well . . . I can wait. I saw yesterday that imaging-resource.com is calling 2004 the "Year of the 8 megapixel Prosumer" with what they know (& can't say) is coming over the next 6 months) I know I don't "need" 8MP.

Then I began rethinking the whole thing. SLR's offer much flexibilty I know but they do require at least two lens to match the "flexibilty" and "reach" of the prosumers with 7-8+ zoom. The two lens requirement adds weight (Big issue for me), cost, hassle when traveling, risk of breakage, etc.

One last relevant question: I have read a few comments about the problem of getting dust on the D-SLR sensor as result of changing lenses. Due to the fragile nature of the sensor, each reference advised using only professional service in having it cleaned. IS this an issue I should add to the scales as I weigh my decision on D-SLR vs. Prosumer? ArtB

Hi,

depends on your needs, what you plan to capture and do with the photos... if it just for web or design use or normal photo-size printing (4R,5R or even 8R) and not planning to get involved too much in photography in the future, then would suggest go for NON digital SLR. But that's doesn't mean you can't expand further in photography, like mr.Mark Plonsky, he only use Canon G series for his amazing works (at http://www.mplonsky.com ) for details check out his article in Fine-art photography section.

Just my opinion.

I prefer DSLR what about you?