What is a good high school DSLR to teach with?

I am starting a digital photography program at my high school. I have taught traditional B/W photography for 14 years. I need a simple DSLR. Easy to repair $550 or under if possible. Bells and whistles not needed. Also, where can I purchase these cameras. Place must take a school purchase order.

 

You could look for a used DSLR. Many local camera shops carry them. You can buy them online as well from sites like KEH, Adorama, B&H Photo and Cameta Camera, among others. Since you're not picky about bells and whistles look primarily for condition and price. But in order to make sure your cameras are compatible with your lenses, buy only the same brand. The most popular brands, with the most available lenses, are Nikon and Canon. Sony and Pentax are not as popular but still have many lenses available.

If you want new only, the Canon Rebel T3 and Nikon D3100 are two of the most inexpensive DSLR's around and they are quite good, though not at the level of more expensive DSLR's.

 

In theory at least a mirrorless design would be the simplest. Accessories will be harder to come by for these than the popular Canon and Nikon brands. As for repair, check with your local camera technicians.

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Kelly Cook