DPChallenge: A Digital Photography Contest You are not logged in. (log in or register
 

DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Motivated newb buying a camera - Recommendations?
Pages:  
Showing posts 1 - 6 of 6, (reverse)
AuthorThread
01/12/2009 07:42:47 PM · #1
Hi all,

First off, I'd like to say that I've been coming to this site for about a year now, and have been amazed at the creativity and artistry that I have seen. I've gone through a couple dozen pages of threads and didn't a whole lot of up to date information on this topic. Sorry if it is a repeat question.

I've been wanting to buy a camera for a while, and have only recently saved up the pennies (about $2000 CAD) to get what I think is a modestly respectable camera and lens. This might sound like a lot when comparing it to my experience level, but I know I have the enthusiasm to take advantage of it.

The kind of shots that I am looking to take are quite varied. I live on the doorstep to Banff National Park, so I have access to some amazing landscapes which definitely fascinate me. I also snowboard with a bunch of friends and would love to get some action photos of them "shredding the gnar". Furthermore, I would love to muck about with high speed shots and light tricks. I am also going to be travelling with this camera.

I've recently been looking at the Canon 50D, Nikon D90 and D300. I am also open to other suggestions. Some other questions I have are:
-- I have heard that it is better to spend the money on a good lens than a good camera. Is an L-series or its Nikon equivalent to much business for me?
-- Is there a lens that can will do well with everything that I want to do with it?
-- I have read that the 50D degrades at the higher ISO levels. Is this going to hinder the quality with high speed shots?

I tend to get a bit wordy, so if this is TLDR, I understand. Any information you guys can give would be appreciated.

Thanks
01/12/2009 08:33:45 PM · #2
I am just a newcomer too, but i would buy the Nikon if i had the chance.
01/12/2009 08:35:22 PM · #3
you can't go wrong with either Canon or Nikon ... my suggestion would be to go to a brick and mortar store and hold them ... see which one feels the best in your hands ... if you can afford it, stay away from the kit lenses and get something better ... I don't have a lot of Nikon knowledge, but I can tell you that I LOVE my 50D ... I took a huge step up by upgrading from an XT ... good luck with your search and welcome to DPC!
01/12/2009 08:39:41 PM · #4
Just chiming in here, my 50d arrived today!!! It's a huge step up from my 20d. Honestly you cant go wrong with either system so take the time to figure out what features are most important to you.
01/12/2009 08:43:56 PM · #5
I also got upgraded to 50D from 20D. I do have some minor questions specially with the live view :) but other than that, I do not see any problem. I tried to take some night shot and day shot. They all are came out good. Again as other said, you can go with either Canon or Nikon and you won't be disappointed. At the same time you will find some good and bad reviews about a camera but I guess you would have to make a choice :) Best luck for the search!

Message edited by author 2009-01-12 20:44:40.
01/12/2009 09:32:38 PM · #6
If you can find a used D300 for a good value, I'd say jump on it! It's a great body that performs wonderfully in low light for a crop sensor.

But yes, do go hold them. What feels best should ultimately guide your decision.

A couple ideas for lenses, if I may?

50mm f/1.8 -- VERY cheap, with great optics and fast aperture
Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 -- Also cheap, but adds zoom lens versatility. The optics are also very nice
Tokina 11-16 f/2.8 or 12-24 f/4 -- Both are great lenses, and it sounds like an ultrawide might suit your surroundings well.
Pages:  
Current Server Time: 03/29/2024 01:05:38 AM

Please log in or register to post to the forums.


Home - Challenges - Community - League - Photos - Cameras - Lenses - Learn - Prints! - Help - Terms of Use - Privacy - Top ^
DPChallenge, and website content and design, Copyright © 2001-2024 Challenging Technologies, LLC.
All digital photo copyrights belong to the photographers and may not be used without permission.
Current Server Time: 03/29/2024 01:05:38 AM EDT.