HOWZAT

BEST FOR EASE OF USE

Pentax K-M £400

This 10Mp SLR camera is one of the smallest and cheapest on the market, and yet it still has a really solid feel to it, and is particularly easy and comfortable to hold thanks to its thick handgrip. The controls have been simplified to just a few buttons situated on the rear, but it’s certainly not short of features— you just have to use the on-screen menus to get to them. This makes the K-m a very easy camera to use. With the same built-in shake reduction facility and anti-dust function (for self-cleaning after changing the lens) found on more expensive rivals, it turns in a very respectable performance indeed.

Verdict: A budget bargain that also happens to be a cinch to use.

www.pentax.co.uk

BEST FOR MAXIMUM IMAGE RESOLUTION

Sony Alpha 350 £450

Sony is comparatively new to the world of digital SLR cameras, but its Alpha range has already established a reputation for innovation and value. The Alpha 350 offers a truly class-leading 14.2Mp resolution, so you’re able to make larger prints from it (up to 18in x 24in) while still retaining plenty of sharp detail. It’s also packed with features that will appeal to the more creative amateur photographer. The autofocus function works brilliantly, built-in image stabilisation is included, and the LCD monitor is on a pullout mount, so you can take shots from unusual angles.

Verdict: A feature-packed digital SLR that also happens to represent superb value for money.

www.sony.co.uk

BEST FOR HUGE RANGE OF LENSES

Canon EOS 1000D £350

Canon’s smallest and lightest digital SLR feels reassuringly solid in the hand, and is ready to shoot the instant you flick the on/off switch. The autofocus is fast and accurate, the 10Mp image is of very high quality, and the camera is compatible with Canon’s enormous range of lenses, which numbered 62 at the last count. The set-up of the controls is intuitive, so even beginners will feel at home with this camera within mere minutes. However, spend a little more on a higher-specification EOS model, and you’ll end up with a lot more features to play around with.

Verdict: A brilliant digital SLR, but rather lacking in personality.

www.canon.co.uk