Shop For SLR Digital Cameras This Year

If you like to take professional quality photos, then a SLR digital cam is the best choice when buying a new digicam for personal use.

I have a DSLR that I bought earlier this year when I wanted to replace my point-and-shoot. For me, a DSLR is not an everyday type of camera, so I ended up getting a new point-and-shoot digital cam as well. However, when I want really stunning photos, I use the DSLR that I own.

When I was shopping for a new one, I ended up spending a LOT of time checking out the different models that were available to try to determine which one was the best choice for me. Plus, the prices for a DSLR can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. When I did my shopping, I narrowed it down to the top 3 best DSLR cameras to make my final decision. You can make your own list using the Amazon Best Sellers in Digital SLR Cameras, or just check out my top 3 below.

Keep reading to learn about my top picks.

all images via Amazon

Where To Buy Cheap SLR Digital Cams

Since SLR digicams are used by a lot of professional photographers, I visited a few local pro photo shops in my area to get an idea of the best options for someone like me (a non-professional) and also to see how the prices are on the equipment. Then, I hit up the Best Buy and Fry's to see how their prices compared and to see how their selection was for DSLRs.

First, I noticed that the pro photo shop was WAY more expensive than the other local shops. Plus, they seemed to just have more of the expensive DSLRs there than at Best Buy and Fry's. Then, I compared my list of prices to Amazon and guess what - Amazon was loads cheaper. And that isn't even taking into account that Amazon has free sales tax in most states.

So, you can compare prices, but I bet that Amazon is cheapest for you too - plus they have free shipping!

I don't want to spoil the ending for you, but this is the one that I bought for myself. I really love the quality of Canon products and this one does not disappoint. It takes pictures in an incredible 18MP and shoots full 1080p HD video.

The real deciding factor for on me on this one is that it has some of the same features as the super expensive 60D model DSLR.

It is an upper entry-level DSLR camera at a mid level price. And I love the quality of the images from it.

Nikon really makes some great digital equipment and I actually almost bought this one. The specs on the T3i are just a wee bit better, which tipped the scales in its favor. But this Nikon D5100 records in Full 1080p HD for video and takes photos in a decent 16.2MP. And the Night Vision mode is really cool, especially if you like to take a lot of shots at night. I wish I'd had this Nikon D5100 a few years ago when I visited the Catacombs in Paris, France.

Overall, this is a solid choice with a price almost the same as the T3i.

Even though it is out of my price range, I did take a look at this Nikon option. I had decided that if it really was the best choice for me then I would save up for it. But since I am just a hobby photographer, it is not really a wise choice for me. However, it is one impressive DSLR!

The Nikon D600 records video in full 1080p HD quality. And look at that 24.3 MP that it records images in! WOW! Talk about crazy impressive!

This is a POWERFUL little machine that records OUT OF THIS WORLD images. I have never seen a DSLR that takes images like this Nikon D600. Truly amazing, but truly out of my price range for my needs :( But if you buy one, leave me a link to where I can see your photos!

You don't want your new DSLR to get broken or damaged in any other way, so be sure to get a camera bag or backpack to keep it safe!

The high MP resolution images take up a lot of space on the memory card, so it's a good idea to keep an extra one or two with you in case you fill the first one up.

No need to go have your DSLR images printed when you can get a photo printer and do it from home!

Got any reviews or tips to share? Feel free to leave them here and you might be able to help other shoppers with their purchase. Thank you!