Not sure what to do or what to buy?

Tamron AF 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di LD Aspherical IF for Canon

04/29/2006 09:49:38 AM · #1

I just recently became "nana" to a beautiful new granddaughter. Of course, being the proud grandparent that I am, I started taking pictures of her, some posed, some not. I was using a 3.2 mp Sony DSC-P52. I had some of them enlarged and took some of them to work to show off pictures of my new granddaughter and my daughter-in-law did the same. Our co-workers and friends have started asking when or if I would consider taking appointments to photograph their children and week before last I was asked to photograph a wedding. This has just basically fallen into my lap and I am intersted in doing some of this. I do not want to do it with the Sony and want to buy a new DSLR (which I wanted to do anyway, now I have a good excuse). But I don't know what to buy exactly. I've been thinking about the Canon 20D and have read some good things about it. But, being the unexperienced person that I am, if there is something better suited for this type of photography I would like to know. I use Photoshop for editing. I would just like some input since I really don't know for sure what to do. Cindi

Message edited by author 2006-04-29 09:51:28.

lfordhere

Canon EOS-20D

04/29/2006 09:56:33 AM · #2

The 20D is certainly a great camera... It is easy to use, and understand; I figured it out in only a few hours, but I come from using film SLR cameras too. The 20D will also be dropping in price, I imagine, since the introduction of the 30D.

If you are a Nikon fan, then the D200 [or is it 200D?] is a really nice camera... Had the shop had it in stock when I was ready to buy, then I would have bought one. I'm a big fan of Tamron lenses as well... Affordable, high quality glass.

TechnoShroom

Canon EOS-30D

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro

04/29/2006 10:00:18 AM · #3

I like Canons and would recommend a 30D but if you're going to get a DSLR then you need to think long term. The real expense is all the lenses you'll eventually accumulate. Those, for the most part, lock you into a brand. Read the reviews over at dpreview.com and other places and if you have a real camera store near you rent one of each of the cameras you're interested in.

dolphnz8

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6

04/29/2006 10:01:35 AM · #4

I have both the Olympus Evolt E-500, and the Canon RebelXT 350. I am just still learning my Rebel, but for now, my Olympus takes the sharpest and cleanest pics that I do. They make it in a kit with 2 lenses, and it has scenic modes which are great for sunsets/sunrises, outdoors, day and night, portrait lighting balance, landscaping and others. It is very user friendly. Between the two, I would have to say I am glad I got the E500 first, because it gave me a better and more simple understanding of a cameras use and capabilities. Just my opinion. I purchased the kit for $799.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro

04/29/2006 10:16:04 AM · #5

Thanks so much for your input. Also I suppose I should have added that I know a person who has the following for sale for $1500. I haven't spoken with him but this is what he emailed to me. This includes:

D70
18-70mm
28-200mm
70-300mm
Wireless Remote
Extra Battery
SB-50DX Flash
Extended Warranty (3 years left on warranty)
Lexar 80X Pro 2GB
Generic 1GB

He upgrades his camaras every 1 - 2 years. I'm not sure about buying someone's used camara and equipment. He is not a professional photographer and just happens to have the money to spend and likes having whatever is new on the market. Must be nice! He is particular with his belongings and I'm sure it has been well cared for. I am not sure if $1500.00 for this is a good buy or not.

TechnoShroom

Canon EOS-30D

04/29/2006 10:18:21 AM · #6

Sounds like a good deal to me.

lfordhere

Canon EOS-20D

Tamron AF 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di LD Aspherical IF for Canon

04/29/2006 10:36:07 AM · #7

I think that's a little high myself... That's without knowing more specifics on the lenses, like f-numbers and other specifics. BH photo is selling brand new nikon D70 kit, includes the 18-70mm lens, for about $1,000; with the body only costing $649.00. There are a lot of extras there though... If I were you, then I would add up what all of this stuff would cost new and see what it comes out to. BHphoto is a pretty decent guide for what market prices are, and sometimes a bit cheaper... Good luck

eschelar

Canon EOS-7D

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

04/29/2006 11:19:02 AM · #8

Sounds high to me too.

You also didn't specify which 70-300mm...

I believe you could also be VERY happy with a Konica Minolta 5D as is often suggested.

5D = $650-700 (includes KM 18-70)
50mm f/1.7 +$130
Sigma 70-300mm APO f/4-5.6 Macro +200

This package is a little less extensive in the goodies department, but sits in the 1000 dollar neighborhood. It may not be quite as good in some respects as that Nikon kit, but in other respect's it's MUCH better.

Remember that all of a sudden, you are shooting with an 18-70 AS, 50mm f/1.7 AS, and 70-300 AS.

Not valid options in the Nikon OR Canon field for that matter.

The Konica Minolta mount has an interesting future ahead of it which will start to be revealed in the summer.

I believe that you will be quite happy with that kit for pretty much anything you will be doing.

Shooting semi-formal pictures of kids or pets with that 50mm AND anti-shake would make just about anyone smile.

I shot with my Canon using an equivalent lens and found it to be an excellent experience. Kids are VERY hard to photograph sometimes.

You can spend the extra 500 dollars on other goodies like a 2GB CF card (you probably won't need much more than that, even shooting RAW), and some lighting.

I'd check out the Sigma 500DG Super for a flash if it's available for KM (I think so). Maybe a couple of other lights if you wanted to do studio work. Otherwise, try to find a way to get the flash off the camera. This will still keep you will under the budget of 1500 dollars as mentioned for that Nikon package.

Oh and don't let anyone tell you the KM sensor is bad, it's pretty much the same thing as in the Nikon....

Message edited by author 2006-04-29 11:22:03.

ragamuffingirl

Sony Alpha NEX-5N

Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM

04/29/2006 11:42:30 AM · #9

Originally posted by dolphnz8:

The only thing about Olympus is that they don't have the accessories that Canon and Nikon have and what they do have costs more.

Sony 24-70mm F4 Vario-Tessar T* FE OSS

04/29/2006 12:48:58 PM · #10

Thanks so much for your input. I will do some checking on the KM 5D. The anti-shake feature sounds very appealing.

Thanks again, Cindi

Bear_Music

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

04/29/2006 02:09:42 PM · #11

Originally posted by barefootengal:

As noted, B&H sells the kit for roughly $1,000.
Assuming the 28-200mm is the Nikkor lens, that's roughly $300.00
Nikon doesn't make a 70-300 I don't think. The Tamron 70-300 is roughly $150.00
The flash is an older model, and not as automated as the newer ones. The newer equivalent (from Nikon) goes for around $300.00 and it is more powerful.
Wireless remotes can be pricy, but they vary all over the map. The CF cards are worth a couple hundred, more or less.

In theory, all this brand new (not counting the warranty) is in the 1800-1900 range. And the lenses are all slow (not good for weddings, especially) and the two longer zooms overlap.

My gut feeling is you'd be better off shopping new for something tailored to your needs.

R.

missinseattle

Nikon D200

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

04/29/2006 02:52:02 PM · #12

I have an Oly E-500 and love it. But have run into a problem. When I bought the camera I wasn't really aiming to make a lot of money with it yet didn't want it to be a recreational toy.
Now I'm to the point where there's some interest, I'm rounding up models for a portfolio right now, and am starting to get into some landscaping shots that I can't do because a 300mm lens is over 6k.

So this fall I'm buying the Nikon D200. I'm learning all I can about manually using a camera without using the settings since I won't have the same options I have with my Oly now. It's a great learning camera, and good for portraits too.

But if you're REALLY serious about starting a business and making this an investment definetly go the Canon or Nikon route. I love my Oly, and it will be fine for what I use it for this summer, but depending on how things go, I'd like a couple more lenses without breaking the bank to do so.

paddles

Pentax K10D

Pentax FA 50mm f/1.4 AF

04/29/2006 06:26:17 PM · #13

Interesting to see a Canon owner recommend the Konica-Minolta 5D, particularly at the moment where Sony is taking over, but we're still not entirely sure of the direction they will take it.

That said, I've been happy with my KM 5D, and the anti-shake seems to work quite well. I haven't shot any weddings with it, but I did shoot a couple with my KM 5 film cameras (which obviously don't have the anti-shake!) and got pleasing results.

However, I'd give you the same advice I give anyone who doesn't already have $ invested in lenses etc. from their film SLR. If you can, go to a camera shop and pick up representative models from a few different brands. Play with the controls, see how the camera sits in your hands. Does it seem easy and intuitive to use (not just for the basic functions!) or does it seem a bit too complicated? Does it feel comfortable to hold and up against your eye?

ALL of the mainstream DSLR manufacturers make good equipment and you can get good quality lenses for all of them. But the best features and the best glass in the world are no good if you find the camera awkward to use. I personally find the Minolta system to be in tune with the way I expect cameras to work - but some of my friends find them awkward, and much prefer their Canon/Nikon/Olympus/Pentax. Similarly, when I had the chance to start afresh a few years ago (all my gear stolen, insurance policy gave freedom to vary equipment), the Canon and Nikon bodies I tried seemed a bit clunky to use to me. When it comes to choosing a system, there generally isn't a right or wrong answer, just a valid personal preference. It's better for you to get something that fits your preference and style, than mine or someone else's.

eschelar

Canon EOS-7D

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

04/29/2006 09:49:43 PM · #14

:) Not every Canon owner is a Canon fanatic.

I like all the cameras. Even the D70.

However, it is often said in photography that it is important to use the right tool for the job. In this case, this involves determining what the most important factor for the individual's photographic needs.

As an entry level user, and someone who hasn't prepared much for entry into the field as stated in the original post, it seems to make sense to start with equipment that is user friendly and forgiving. Anti-shake on all lenses is far more forgiving than AS on one or none. This is especially true if shooting stuff without a tripod. I am guessing that the primary reason for upgrading to a DSLR involves non-tripod shooting.

Combining Anti-Shake with a fast 50mm prime is going to provide a ridiculous level of versatility unmatched in other cameras.

Another major consideration for this user is price. The bang for the buck simply cannot be matched. The cost of that entire kit is less than some IS/VR lenses. Take for example the new 100mm f/2.8 Macro VR. That I believe is 2000 dollars in the Nikon market. That lens could be added for around 600 dollars to the KM 5D. I personally believe that 2-3 stop AS is very useful because it gets you just a little bit extra breathing room. It can be extremely powerful if used in concert with other basic camera stabilization techniques (such as leaning against a wall or using a monopod) I don't feel that the addition of an extra stop of play adds significantly to this equation as I believe that if you are using that much AS, you are pushing things to the limit anyhow and will get spotty performance in your pictures regardless of what the marketing says. Unpredictability is bad.

I feel it most important to make recommendations on what I see the user needing rather than just saying what I like.

Anyhow, it's ultimately not going to be my list of conditions that the 'bare footed one' is going to use.

Oh and one other thing. I strongly recommend that you do not put toooo much stock in your own feelings when you pick up the camera and put it to your eye. Don't ask yourself if the camera feels comfortable, ask yourself if you can see anything that you really couldn't get used to...

I just got my very first DSLR. I am still fumbling with the thing to a certain extent. The reason has nothing to do with the design of the camera. It has everything to do with how used to the camera I am. I have only been using it a little. As I am approaching 2 weeks now with the camera, I am getting much more used to it. It would be the same if it was a D70, 7D, 1d MK II.....

It's just like riding a bike. When we get started, we are clumsy and don't really know what we are doing. If you go from riding a mountain bike to a road bike, you will be uncomfortable. But it won't last. You will get used to it quickly.

It is EXTREMELY rare to find people who cannot get used to a camera (or a bicycle for that matter) within a couple of weeks. But most people are a bit uncomfortable when approached by something new.

kiwinick

Sony DSLR-A550

Sony DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Zoom Lens for Sony Alpha

04/29/2006 09:59:23 PM · #15

I jumped into the Dslr camera a few weeks ago, I purchased the Konica Minolta 5D with the 28/75 F2.8 lens, the retailer threw in the kit lens for free.
I am very happy with the camera and glass, being F2.8 it is fast and the buit in anti shake gives you 2 stops extra,.
As has been mentioned Glass is the decider, and Minolta have always made great lenses,
cost of my kit was 1675.00 NZ
grat deal Eh

Message edited by author 2006-04-29 22:00:36.

eschelar

Canon EOS-7D

Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM

04/29/2006 10:12:53 PM · #16

Sweet kit. On the streets of taipei, 5D and kit lens will set you back 26000NT. that's 1293 NZ dollars. The Tamron lens will cost probably 400-500NZ... Sounds like a good deal!

I will be shooting with that lens before too long. Imagine having it with AS... woah. Yummy!

I personally decided to take ISO freedom over AS freedom, but there's advantages and disadvantages to both. At the telephoto end, AS CAN give you more freedom than ISO because it works with physical movement. With fast moving subjects, ISO works better because it can stop motion better.

Stopping motion isn't always the best way to capture a scene.

Tamron AF 28-300mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di LD Aspherical IF for Canon

04/29/2006 11:38:15 PM · #17

Thanks so much for the input. You all have definitely given me new purchasing ideas. I live in a very small town. I had originally thought I would order whatever I decided to purchase off of the internet. But I am beginning to think, after reading some posts here, that I may need to make a trip to the city and try checking out some camara shops. If, however, I do decide to buy online, what sites offer the better deals and are most reputable?

Thanks again for all the info and help.

Message edited by author 2006-04-30 00:05:50.

lfordhere

Canon EOS-20D

04/30/2006 09:05:03 AM · #18

Originally posted by barefootengal:

By far, go with BH PHOTO Their prices are reasonable, and their reputation, at least with me, is clean. Fast shipping, and excellent customer service after the sale. Your local camera store is likely more expensive than B&H too--at least they are here in Orlando, Florida.