sigma

After doing a lot of research in trying to find the perfect entry level slr- I decided to go with this camera. The only thing that makes this camera entry level is the price. As far as features go- it is in a higher class. Despite it's large variety of features, I found this camera extremely easy to operate. It is a very cut and dry layout- and considering my overall lack of knowledge when it comes to manual exposure settings- I have found that this camera makes the whole process much easier than I would have originally thought. I think Sigma did a real good job with the users manual- one thing I thought that might be lacking on this. Sigma to most people is a "chance" buy- mostly because you are limited to purchasing only Sigma lenses, as well as Sigma Flash units. But how many people buy every single lense available for Nikon, or Canon? Sigma currently has 40 very good lenses for the SA-9, as well as 2 real good flash units, one of which can be used wirelessly. For Amateur photographers that want to save some money- you can't go wrong with this camera.

The last time I purchased a 35MM SLR was 35 years ago: a Canon FTb-all manual. The only battery needed was for the light meter. This SA-9 does everything electronically and does it well. In program mode, the shutter speeds are "stepless", i.e.: the exact speed needed for the exposure. My first test roll was impressive. Night shots, day shots, sync flash in sun, etc. They all turned out great. The auto focus is just a tad bit slow, but I can live with it. I was reluctant about the proprietary choice of accessories, but Sigma makes great lenses and also a great flash (my next purchase). I'm shocked at all the features for the price. The new Sigma digital camera coming out has the new "X3" three layer CCD and is cutting edge. Sigma is a young company compared to the majors: only 40 years making lenses and 7 years making cameras. Amazon had a great price for a really good camera. Thanks again.

STUDENTS THIS IS THE BEST BET! DONOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON ALL THOSE FANCY NIKONS,CANONS OR WHAT EVER!
Most of the reviewers miss the this camera as a good starting camera for a STUDENT! let me emphasize this, that you need to have some interest in learning photography. It is a simply NO NON SENSE camera for a budget user. I have seen rantings about the single AF sensor it has but, most often people use only 1 AF sensor, simply put that is what is pratically usable! most of the pros who have 45 of them (canon) find it painful that the AF is not on the subject but some thing of either nearer or brighter and all the cameras have only the center sensor more sensitive than others. why 4/5 its ability in low light is slightly on the lower side, but it will not limit a person with basic knowledge (just read the small user guide with it) on photography from taking good photos. No other camera at this price offers you more. i would love to see focusing screens but it is ok. i have had it for OVER a YEAR & HALF. sigma has enough lenses that you can afford and difference between 40-45 (sigma) and 50 (canon) lenses does not make any difference. if you want to use it as a point and shoot it is a NONO. the commads are very intutive and the alignment is classic. it may not have the fastest AF! but for the price you pay it is way beyond the canon rebels, N55,65,70 and may be even N80.Oh btw the viewfinder was the brightest that i could find (may be comparable to F100).and the camera feels solid! the flash is really powerful! Sigma lenses are very good too! i have not found any "short commings". I like the 2CR5 battery as it is more lighter than carrying arround 4-8 AAs and it lasts much longer. i thought of 'upgrading' to nikon F100 or canon EOS 3/7NE but really did not feel the need.Reselling value is low? i have no idea ! as long it is good why sell it anyway? i should also tell you that i am an advanced amateur and by no means a pro. but i have read extensively on photography through correspondense courses, books etc. a good review of it is at popphoto.com in the cams & lenses section

All you need is a certain practical frame of mind to like sigma products!