Digging DSLR: Top Cameras from the Buyer’s Guide

Leica M-P
Following the lead of photographers who tape over Leica’s signature red dot, the logo-less M-P is designed for “discreet” shooting. But even without the Leica badge, the M-P won’t be mistaken for any other brand. For the most part, it’s an evolutionary update of the M with the most notable changes revolving around doubling the buffer of the M and multiple frame selection options for the viewfinder.
Price: $7,950

Nikon Df
With its unique, positively retro design and analogue dials, the full-frame Nikon Df is a love-it-or-hate-it type of camera. Think of it as a mashup of Nikon’s F-series SLRs and today’s technology, with a slightly steampunk look. Shooting with the Df will be a trip down memory lane for long-time shooters and an interesting experience for those whose photography has been all digital from the start.
Price: $2,750

EDITOR’S CHOICE: Nikon D810
Although not a revolutionary update to the D800/E, the 36-megapixel Nikon D810 provides enough new and improved features and performance to pique the interest of current—and potential—full-frame DSLR shooters and videographers. Look for trickle-down features from the flagship D4S like automatic ISO and group AF points. You’ll also find improved video capabilities, speedier performance and, above all, great image quality.
Price: $3,300

Canon EOS 7D Mark II
The long-anticipated Canon EOS 7D Mark II arrived at Photokina in September. We had a sneak peek at the end of the summer and were impressed with the sample videos we saw captured with the camera’s second generation Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology and adjustable AF speed and tracking sensitivity. A new 20-megapixel sensor, expanded ISO range to 51,200 and 10fps continuous shooting are only some of the 7D Mark II’s enticing new features. Be sure to check it out on the Canon website or in person at PhotoPlus Expo.
Prices: $1,800 (body only); $2,149 (with 18-135mm lens)

Sony A77 II
From the outside, you’d be hard-pressed differentiating the second-generation, 24-megapixel A77 II from its predecessor. Sure, there’s a three-way LCD and a new viewfinder, but the most impressive updates are evident when shooting action thanks to a new processor, a 79-point AF system and excellent AF tracking—pushing through at up to 12 fps. Sony didn’t skimp on the A77 II’s features either, with extras such as Wi-Fi and in-camera image stabilization.
Prices: $1,200 (body only); $1,800 (with 16-50mm f/2.8 lens)

Ricoh Pentax K-S1
There’s nothing retro about the Ricoh’s entry/mid-level 20-megapixel Pentax K-S1 with its interesting illuminated handgrip, power switch and rear controls. The LED lights are functional, though, and are especially useful when adjusting the mode dial/four- way controller bundled together on the rear panel. Underneath it all, however, is the solid feature set and good performance that we’ve come to expect from Pentax’s DSLRs. And it comes in colors, too.
Prices: $750 (body only); $800 (with 18-55mm lens)