Are you looking for a secondary camera? A camera that you can use as a backup camera while on a photography assignment or simply for replacing your high-end gear for the times when you don’t feel like hauling your bulky equipment with you. The secondary cameras are quite common these days; with your camera phones making way for it. But here we are talking about the serious stuff; i.e., a backup DSLR for professional photographers. Here are top 5 DSLRs, the best in the lineup as entry level DSLRs which can also accompany you as the backup option when you want to act fast and not miss a single shot.
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Nikon D3200
Nikon D3200 makes up for the newest member to Nikon’s entry level DSLRs. This 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor is powered by EXPEED 3 image processor (same as latest high end cameras released by Nikon — Nikon D4 and D800). With the frame rate of 4 fps, shutter speed in the range of 1/4000 to 30 sec, 11 focus points, ISO 100-6400 expandable to ISO 12800, the body weight of around 16 oz (455g) and the price tag of $699.95 approx. ; Nikon D3200 makes for a compact, lightweight camera to carry around with you as a backup camera. Check out Nikon D3200 here.
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Canon EOS 60D
Canon EOS 60D is an APS-C sized 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor camera powered by DIGIC 4 image processor which features 5.3 fps continuous shooting. Breaking through the league of EOS 30D, 40D, %0d pattern, in terms of features and specifications this camera sits somewhere between EOS 550D and EOS 7D. It’s plastic body adds to the light-weight advantage and its creative filters allow you to get some real nice toy camera looks in-camera. You can mount on your EF lenses and easily carry around with you along with your primary camera. Check out Canon EOS 60D here.
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Sony SLT Alpha A55
The key specifications of Sony SLT Alpha A55 read as follows: 16.2 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor bundled with maximum ISO 12800, 15 point auto focus system, 10 fps continuous shooting rate and an electronic viewfinder with 100% framing accuracy. The camera features SLT (Single Lens Translucent) technology positioned between DSLRs and MILCs (mirrorless interchangeable cameras) which allows for more accurate focus in Live View. And for a price of $495 approx. it is a good option to consider as a secondary camera. Check out Sony SLT Alpha A55 here.
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Pentax K-30
Pentax K-30 is a 16.1MP CMOS sensor with in-built IS feature and a weather sealed body. In its camera reviews, Gizmodo has pronounced Pentax K-30 as fastest, toughest and inexpensive DSLR. For a price tag of $850, you get 11 pt AF system, continuous 6.0 fps and 1/6000 as the highest shutter speed in a compact and lightweight package. Check out Pentax K-30 here.
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Nikon D5100
Nikon D5100 employs 16.2 MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 2 image processor which delivers image quality quite similar to that of Nikon D7000. This DX format camera features 95% viewfinder frame coverage, shutter-speed in the range of 1/4000 to 30 sec. in steps of 1/3 EV, 4 fps continous shooting speed at full resolution, ISO expandable to ISO 25600 and 11 auto-focus points for a price of $899.95 approx. Check out Nikon D5100 here.
Do you have a secondary camera? Which one would you like to include in your arsenal?