Which DSLR

[jimb]

I have decided that I want to upgrade to DSLR after using a Panasonic FZ18 bridge camera for the past year and would like some advice please.
Having started bird photography with SLR's years ago (eventually using a Canon T90), I attempted digiscoping as the early DSLR's were originally out of my budget. Unfortunately this did not tick all of the boxes for me so I moved up to the Panasonic but while producing some decent images it is obviously not up to the same level of quality as a DSLR can produce.
The question is do I go for a mint condition second-hand body (e.g 20D, 30D or 40D) or a brand new body which would probably be a 450D. Ideally I do not want to change my camera every year so have set a budget of under £1000 for the camera and lens.
I would then look for a second-hand 400mm f 5.6 to cater for action and still shots.
Apologies if this has been asked a million times before but have trawled through this forum and have found a lot of useful advice

[QuantumTiger]

In terms of the camera a lot will be personal preference. The 20, 30, 40Ds are slightly larger and better built. Eergonomcially I find them more comfortable to use. I beleive that you will also find the AF and shot to shot speeds better. But the 450D is a fine camera and there is a certain peace of mind associated with buying new.

A while back I compiled a list of UK dealers who sell secondhand canon cameras (http://cameras.quantumtiger.org/canon-links.php) and lenses (for my own use). It's probably far from complete but it may help you.

[jimb]

Thanks for the response Ian. My current plan is to go for broke and get a new 40D body plus a secondhand 400mm f 5.6 - all I have to do now is to get the budget fixed as soon as possible !.

[Robert L Jarvis]

I think you will find it very difficult to get a S/H Canon 400mm, these lens tend to be keepers. You could consider say a Canon 300mm and a kenko tc and choose the camera body depending on the funds left. Believe me it is far better to have good glass in front of an ordinary body like the 450D than an expensive body with poorish glass in front. At the end of day it depends on your budget but do not forget perhaps spare batteries and the memory cards.

[paul goode]

I think you will find it very difficult to get a S/H Canon 400mm, these lens tend to be keepers.

Postcardcv's is for sale

http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=132379

[Robert L Jarvis]

I had not seen that. So yes if it is still available consult with Pete.

[QuantumTiger]

So 400's do come up occasionally (just when you need them?). I bought mine secondhand from LCE four years ago after watching all the second hand lists like a hawk.

[h14nha]

Hi Jimb
I have recently upgraded from an FZ18 to a 450d and have a Canon 100-400mm lens up front. Believe me its a huge increase in image quality from the Panasonic ( which I really enjoyed having ).
If you check out some members galleries as I did (mike from ebbw is using a 450d at present ) you will see that there is little difference in IQ between 350d,400d,450d and most of the xxd bodies. Some people can get amazing results from 8-10MP cameras ( I wish ).
Also don't discount a zoom for a prime, I was trying to shoot a Goldcrest the other day and even at 100mm was having to back away as it kept coming right at me.
The IQ debate between zooms and primes will never end but if its good enough for Nigel Blake then it's good enough for me.
Regards
Ian

[jimb]

Hi all,
Thanks for all of your comments and advice. I have finally purchased a 40D body with a secondhand 300mm f4 + 1.4 converter.
Will post some pics in the near future.

Thanks again, it really is a great forum.
Jim