Photoshop is the software that most all professional eventually use to manipulate pictures. I think there is a free version coming out soon. I know that some novice users use the Picassa application from Google which also doubles as an upload tool to their website photo hosting (I think).

For digital SLRs, I like Nikon or Canon and use Nikon myself.

Most users who are heavy into Photography and digital design use the Mac, but a computer should be bought to include the other things you do with it.

Posted by martin:

Photoshop is the software that most all professional eventually use to manipulate pictures. I think there is a free version coming out soon. I know that some novice users use the Picassa application from Google which also doubles as an upload tool to their website photo hosting (I think).

For digital SLRs, I like Nikon or Canon and use Nikon myself.

Most users who are heavy into Photography and digital design use the Mac, but a computer should be bought to include the other things you do with it.

So far I've checked out 3 brands Sony, Nikon, and Canon. I want something sophisicated but not so sophisticated that a novice would have a difficult time figuring it out. Martin thanks for the tip on the Picassa application because sadly my laptop is lacking big time in terms of photo editing software. I had one more questions for you guys is there a gross difference between the different mp from 6 to 10?

Posted by martin:

Photoshop is the software that most all professional eventually use to manipulate pictures. I think there is a free version coming out soon. I know that some novice users use the Picassa application from Google which also doubles as an upload tool to their website photo hosting (I think).

For digital SLRs, I like Nikon or Canon and use Nikon myself.

Most users who are heavy into Photography and digital design use the Mac, but a computer should be bought to include the other things you do with it.

Agreed. Also agree with nykshaknbake. Only thing, if you want really clear, great looking photos, 8.0 mp and higher is best. 10 is spetacular. Put it this way. The higher the resolution, the more you can use the photo. I've seen some unbelievable photos with very high resolution. Incredible!

also, I say invest in a less expensive camera to learn on now and spend on a good lense (which will last you a lifetime).

Regardless of the camera, the lenses are where you should spend the bulk of your photography money. Bodiy prices drop fast as aforementioned. Lenses are always the same. 10, 8 and 6 there really isn't too much of a difference as area is 2 dimensional and not linear.

http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/mpmyth.htm

[Edited by - nykshaknbake on 04-04-2008 2:19 PM]

Posted by Silverfuel:

6 MP should be more than enough.

For photo editing, check out: http://www.gimpshop.com/
Its free, powerful and supposed to replicate the Photoshop environment. Definitely more features than most standard apps.

Gimp is aight, but nothing fully replicates the functionality of a full version of Photoshop... u can probably download a pirated copy off Limewire or get it on Bit Torrent (not that i would advocate such illegal activities obviously)

Go for the wide angle. remember that on digital SLRs there is 1.5-1.6 magnification so your 20 mm becomes more like 30mm. the nikon d40 comes with an 18-55 mm zoom lens. If you really need wind angle and can shell out the bucks there's an 11-22.