How sturdy are DSLRs?

I got one in the other day. I've never used a DSLR before but the UPS box was beat up. Might photo quality be affected? I've never used one before so I won't be able to tell much. The box the camera came in was fine though and it was wrapped in bubble wrap and stuff too. It was a canon camera from best buy. Do I have much to worry about? Like from excessive shock?

 

Its probably fine. As long as nothing is cracked and the lens works smoothly I wouldn't worry.

 

Should be fine. There's plenty of padding in those boxes.

 

Give it a try-- any jarring of the sensor will result in entire blocks of your picture (if not the entire photo) going missing. Remember to document how the box looks though before opening anything up

Beyond that, much of that durability depends on how the camera is constructed. If it's an entry level DSLR, it's a lot more prone to damage than a pro model-- plastic construction versus some of the nikon and canon mag body cams. many of the anti dust features involve a rapid shaking of the sensor anyway, so you're pretty well covered. Hope that helps!

 

Oh yea the bubble wrap was still good and all and not poped

 

Thought about returning it to best buy but I figured they would just return the same one back to me saying its fine. But I looked over everything cosmetically and everything inside the box was in perfect shape. So its probably ok?

 

DSLRs can take some pretty good abuse, even the entry level ones. I'm sure being rattled a bit in the box wouldn't have hurt anything.

 

I've been rough on mine. Never had any problems.

 

My guess would be that it is ok. If no physical damage to the camera or anything you can SEE that is broken or falling off - probably good. I have not abused my cameras but they do take some wear and tear. Take several pictures - take pictures rich in color and take pictures of something that looks like a test pattern - find a magaine or such. Do they look good? Normal? Does the camera not make any "funny" noises? Probabaly fine - but if you think you might not have confidence in the camera - take it back!! Your confidence in your gear is paramount -- test it -- if it satisfies you that is all that matters. If not - return it!! IMHO.

 

DSLRs are beast. The only thing that ever broke from my friend knocking it over was the lens cracking. The bodies are usually composed of magnesium alloy and poly carbonate (my D7000 is anyway).

 

The bodies of DSLRs are fairly resilient...but I wouldn't bang them around more than you can help.

What you really need to be careful of is the glass you own. I've had more glass ruined by carelessness than I care to admit. *hint* Shoot with the lens hood on ALL the time...it's a wonderful guard against bumps and knocks.