beginner - can anyone recommend me a camera?

[Zippee]

I'm totally new to photography (most exotic I've used is a point and shoot pocket camera) but want to try and vastly improve all aspects, especially with regards to motorsport - strting hopefully with the Silverstone classic next week.
As such can anyone recommend a good all rounder (pref with high zoom and good for fast moving images).
Is there a good starter DSLR or would I be better off with something a little more simple?
I'm not going to pretend I'll ever be as good as many on here but would like to improve from where I currently am.

Secondly - is there a good place to start in order to understand better the terminology and widgets used on cameras and settings?

[GetCarter]

Here is a pretty good place... people are very helpful.

If you have the cash (£500), the Nikon D60 with std lens (18-55) and a 70-300 lens will give you great results, even in full auto 'idiot mode'.

The D60 will effectivly make your 300 mm lens 450. Numbers mean nothing... what it'll do is bring the cars closer.

http://www.pixmania.co.uk/uk/uk/1394079/packpromo/...

If you can afford this sort of money, then most of us here seem to agree that Canon or Nikon are the way to go, as there are lots of new and second hand lenses out there.

Steve

[Chris71]

Far from an expert, but I found the basic Nikon SLRs that I've borrowed easier to get decent results with than my Canon 400D. I know the proper photographers will frown at this, but you can leave the Nikon on one of its auto modes, whereas the Canon seems to need full setting up for every shot.

[tinman0]

Zippee said:

Secondly - is there a good place to start in order to understand better the terminology and widgets used on cameras and settings?

Canon and Nikon are equal generally. Buy what feels more comfortable. I'm in the Canon (400D) camp.

400D is a good camera, does what it says on the tin, copes with most of the stuff we throw at it.

On Canon, the easiest way to run the camera from start is to use Program (P) mode for outdoor stuff, and Green Box mode (Idiot) mode for indoor when you need the flash. ISO is now set automagically as well, so you don't even need to worry about that anymore.

You can move up to shutter and aperture priority when you are more familiar and have a specific requirement.

[Zippee]

Thanks guys - liking the look of the Nikon. It's a little more than I wanted to spend but given the fact it comes with 2 lenses it looks a good package.

I've got the chance of getting a used Canon EOS 350D (body only) for £180. How does that sound given my requirements?

[GetCarter]

Zippee said:

Thanks guys - liking the look of the Nikon. It's a little more than I wanted to spend but given the fact it comes with 2 lenses it looks a good package.

I've got the chance of getting a used Canon EOS 350D (body only) for £180. How does that sound given my requirements?

For motorsport you'll need a 'long' lens (300 is good - higher the number closer the cars will be in frame)... so it depends what lens comes with the Canon. the 18-55 is good for everyday shots, but to bring stuff close, you'll need the telephoto.

This taken with a Nikon 70-300

[Zippee]

Thanks Steve - the 350d I've been offered is body only so I'd need to factor in cost of lenses. TBH if the 2 lenses the Nikon comes with are more than £300 then it'd make more sense to go for the Nikons package.

IIRC the 350d is discontinued now so is £180 for a 2nd hand body and 2 batteries good value? Or would I be better off going for the Nikon?