I really want to become a good photographer because I like art a lot, but i feel like I can never focus well with my camera (I have a Nikon coolpix). I took a non-digital photography class in school a while ago, but I didn’t learn anything, so I don’t really want to waste my time in a class again.
I was wondering what kind of camera would be good to get started on? And any other tips would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Before deciding about your profession I think its always better to ask the older one within your same family and before going for the camera you have to decide which sort of photography that you are going to do with. D-SLR most commonly used by the professional photographers and some other point and shoot cameras also provides both functions like in D-SLR and Compact both in 1 like we have Canon SX10 IS and Canon G10. Those are some good Cameras for the beginner I think. The purchase provides you a mannual book that will teach you a lot about photography and camera functions. You will have to do lot of practical with different lighting conditions and designing if you really want to become a professional photographer or a designer later. Please visit the site
http://mounteverestandtrekkinginformations.blogspot.com/2009_11_01_archive.html
There are different topics included within the site with travel photography and more that will guide you and help you find your answer in detail. Thank you.

Education…what a waste of time. Since you didn’t learn anything in class, then buy a camera, and teach yourself. You’ll do just fine.
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Avid photographer for 30+ years, not self-taught.
It all depends on how serious you are and how much you are willing to spend. All good photographers do not go to "photography school" they simply have photography in their blood and will keep shooting no matter what.
I shoot Canon so I’m going to be biased and say buy a Canon. For a couple of reasons. The lenses, I think are better and when you get to the high end stuff the colour quality is nicer. Also the cameras themselves are more or less easier to use and feel better to shoot with too.
Suggestion for camera …
Canon 50d = $1499.95
Suggestion for lens …
Prime: 50mm f/1.4 USM = $649.95
Total cost: $2149.90
With this camera and this lens you will be ready to rock some totally awesome photos. I have that lens, with the model below that camera. The "Prime lens" means you cannot zoom in or out, but it is a relatively cheap lens that is very very nice. It lets in heaps of light so it is great for portrait/folio shots, especially indoors when there might not be that much light. Its focal range at 50mm, means that photos you take look natural, they don’t look to close or to stretched.
If you really, really want a zoom lens then its better to spend more to get the proper stuff…
Zoom: 24-105mm f/4 = $1599.95 [super expensive but oh such a good lens]
OR
Zoom: 17-85mm = $799.95 [standard with most SLR purchases]
NB: all prices in Australian dollars
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