Konica Minolta Dynax 5D

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When Konica Minolta released the Dynax 5D in July, the company took into account its target market for this entry-level digital SLR and did away with complicated configurations. This compact unit doesn't weigh a ton at 590g (body only), but nor is it feather-light after you fix on the lens.

Upside: The 6-megapixel Dynax 5D features anti-shake capabilities which is effective with all Dynax lenses except the Dynax Macro Zoom 3x-1x. Using a CCD-shift mechanism, the anti-shake system allows the user to shoot at shutter speeds two or three steps slower than would otherwise be possible.

This digital SLR comes with the usual fanfare of dedicated control buttons, including a Function key that displays a menu for autofocus, metering and color modes; flash-compensation values; and selection of contrast, saturation and sharpness.

A 2.5-inch LCD screen dominates most of the rear estate on this Dynax. The display automatically switches to an upright-format when you rotate the camera for vertical shooting. When you place your eye near the optical viewfinder, the LCD monitor turns itself off to conserve battery.

Downside: There is no top status screen, so you will have to rely mostly on the camera's LCD to change your settings. This could drain the battery life at a faster rate unless you'd rather squint at the row of digits through your viewfinder to check the shooter's current status.

Outlook: While the Dynax 5D may not appeal to every professional photographer for its boxy design and somewhat limited features, this entry-level dSLR presents yet another option for enthusiasts who wish to take their photography up to the next level, but not break their bank while doing so.