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07/12/2005 10:25:38 AM · #1 |
You've probably seen me around here spouting my opinions and posting my pathetic pictures. I've learned a lot, already, and really love this site.
Wanted a DSLR since the day I got this *%$#@@! P&S. Well, now's the time. We have a chunk of cash headed our way, and will be in the market soon.
So here's the question: If you were me, what would you be shopping for?
Check out my Portfolio
to get an idea of the things I like to photograph (lots of nature, macro, natural and low-light). I'd also like to get into journalism by writing and photographing some free-lance stories to submit to local newspapers.
My husband is into astro-photography.
Low noise is a must.
I'd like a good macro lense, and whatever else is necessary for these things. We are looking at the Nikon D50, but haven't found any reviews.
Canons are the other choice.
Any suggestions? Thanks In advance!
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07/12/2005 10:32:42 AM · #2 |
| Expect everybody to recommend their camera. Mine is a Minolta... why not Minolta? |
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07/12/2005 10:33:29 AM · #3 |
Roxanne, check out DPReview.com. There you can get an in-depth review of the D50, as well as the Canon DSLRs, and any other DSLR for that matter. Their forums are second to none, in terms of participation and content. While you'll learn a lot here, I believe the best place for info on cameras is DPReview.
I'll check out your portfolio this evening (when I get home from work :-)) and let you know what I think.
-len
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 10:33:47. |
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07/12/2005 10:35:38 AM · #4 |
How much are you willing to shell out total... there was another thread where someone has given a breakup of spending $3000 (USD) on equipment.
A good Nikon / Canon (in that preference) body and a couple of lense should get you going. Would recommend the Nikon D70 / canon 350D Kits and other lenses specific to your needs.
EDIT: PS: do not forget to keep some moey away for a good bag for all your equipment. Something which you can carry easily with you. Look at Tamrac for the bags.
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 10:37:10.
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07/12/2005 10:36:05 AM · #5 |
DPReview also has the feature of doing side by side comparisons so you could compare the features of the D50 with the Rebel XT or even the 20D or all three. Two others that usually get passed over are the Pentax and the Minolta.
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07/12/2005 10:36:37 AM · #6 |
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07/12/2005 10:36:47 AM · #7 |
Congratulations on stepping into the dSLR market. I looked a long time before I purchase my dSLR camera and went with the Canon 350XT. The main reason I went with it is because it had numerous features and in comparison came close to the Canon 20D. Now the 20D is a more superior camera but the cost different lead me to the Rebel XT. I then applied the savings on lens. I currently have a canon 50mm f/1.8, Lens Kit, and 70mm-200mm f/4 L lens. And trying to save for a replacement for the lens kit in a L series lens.
So basically what I would suggest is you can save on the camera by purchasing a 350xt and put more of your money into the lens up front. Or you could go with the 20D and may have to limit your lens up front. All depends on what you have to spend.
Good luck and hope you have fun shopping for one and have a great time with it when you get the camera of your choice. I canĂ¢€™t wait to see your profile with the new camera.
EDIT: B&H a great place to purchase your new camera. Quick and helpful.
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 10:39:18.
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07/12/2005 10:40:13 AM · #8 |
Originally posted by lenkphotos:
Roxanne, check out DPReview.com. There you can get an in-depth review of the D50, as well as the Canon DSLRs, and any other DSLR for that matter. Their forums are second to none, in terms of participation and content. While you'll learn a lot here, I believe the best place for info on cameras is DPReview.
I'll check out your portfolio this evening (when I get home from work :-)) and let you know what I think.
-len |
Doh!! Was just getting ready to link that. Yes, dpreview is THE place to go when researching a new camera. I am in the market myself, so have spent a lot of time there lately. And my choice for a new DSLR (if I had the bling) would be the Nikon D2Hs. But that's just me.
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07/12/2005 10:44:54 AM · #9 |
I own a Nikon D70. Buy a Nikon D70....just kidding.
I always like to look at the Cameras section under DPC Equipment as you can can get a pretty darn good idea what people are doing or can accomplish with those cameras. I also look at what my favorite photographers here at DPC are using or individual photographs because that's what appeals to my eye, so there you have a natural path to the right equipment.
First and foremost I would go to the local camera store and hold a few choices in your range and see how quickly you can feel your way around their operating systems(buttons, swithches, on-camera short cuts etc.) Feel(ergonomics)is or can be very important. keep in mind some features that are great, you may or may not be able to live without. A burst rate difference of 3fps or 5fps might not be an issue. For me....not a big deal. Little things like that need to be weighed.
Happy Hunting!
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 10:48:21.
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07/12/2005 10:45:58 AM · #10 |
Thanks everyone!
My husband is a better shopper, and I guess he already knew about that review. I am going to spend some serious time there.
Jaxter: I said "Nikon D2Hs". That got a whistle out of him:) I think we will have to start modestly and add more lenses as we go. Parts availability is another issue with him. We will need to stay somewhere between $2K and $3K.
These suggestions are great so far!
Roxanne
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07/12/2005 10:47:18 AM · #11 |
Check out the reviews to see what camera body you might be interested in. Both companies make great lenses. Get to a camera store that carries them and see which ones you are most comfortable with.
In terms of lenses and accessories, give us a budget you are working with and everyone can give you tons of suggestions that will keep you on budget and also satisfy what you want to do with your photography.
You posted your budget while I was typing. I'm sure now you'll get a ton of advice.
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 10:49:09. |
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07/12/2005 10:59:55 AM · #12 |
Well, had a look at your portfolio and decided to stick a sock in my mouth. You absolutely do not take *&^$#( pictures.
You might also consider a couple of add-on lenses with the Lensmate Lens adaptor (//www.cs.mtu.edu/~shene/DigiCam/ for a lot of really great info on the A80/A95) to get a little more out of your A80. Additonally, I would encourage you to consider finding a decent wireless slave flash. This will likely come in handy when you are using a DSLR, but can also really expand what you can do with the A80.
Regarding the DSLR, yourself a free favor and go down to a shop in your area with your camera and your CF card in hand (okay, keep the CF card in your camera until you get there). Spend a few minutes looking around for three situations that best describe your shooting style and desires. Shoot three images of each with your A80 the best you can. Ask to use the Rebel XT and repeat. Take three more pictures each with each situation with the 20D. If so inclined, try it with the Nikon D70 too - it's a totally wicked camera, but it has several aspects of operation that you will need to relearn after getting used to the A80.
You might want to take something colorful as they don't usually have much to shoot in a Photo store.
When you have done this, go home, open your wallet on the desk (optional) and with it in full view, scrutinize each picture carefully. This should tell you exactly what you need to know about which camera you should buy.
If you have really done all your homework here, I would imagine there wouldn't be much left to ask other people about what kind of camera would be good for you (which is the Canon Rebel XT by the way. Spend the money you save on lenses and if you really feel limited by the body, upgrade next year and keep your glass). If you really want to penny pinch, see if you can get a second hand 300D with the Russian hack for 4-500$ US and call it a learning experience. Do the same thing regarding lenses and body. There is very little difference between what can be done with the 300D with the Russian Hack and a 350XT. The difference is only in a marginal increase in print size and better noise handling.
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 11:12:20. |
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07/12/2005 11:05:07 AM · #13 |
Originally posted by greatandsmall:
Jaxter: I said "Nikon D2Hs". That got a whistle out of him:) I think we will have to start modestly and add more lenses as we go. Parts availability is another issue with him. We will need to stay somewhere between $2K and $3K.
Roxanne |
Hehe... did I say bling... I meant to say BLING. (((blush)))
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07/12/2005 11:15:02 AM · #14 |
dpreview only has a preview with no evaluatin of the imaging quality yet
DCRP has a full review of the D50 here //dcresource.com/reviews/nikon/d50-review/index.shtml
Bob Atkins also has a nice table comparing all the sub $1500 dSLR here
//bobatkins.com/photography/digital/dslr_compare_2.html
The D50 seems like a nice camera, especially if you already have SD cards. More than the body, the lens will matter more. If you want to do macros, then you'll need to get a macro lens eventually, for landscapes, a nice wideangle, and so on.
Pick a body based more on lenses and accessories that you intend on getting. They can be much more expensive than the camera at the end. Generally Canon and Nikon's accessories are more plentiful even from third makers like Tamron, Tokina, etc.
Good luck
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 11:25:55.
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07/12/2005 11:23:30 AM · #15 |
Originally posted by asitv:
How much are you willing to shell out total... there was EDIT: PS: do not forget to keep some money away for a good bag for all your equipment. Something which you can carry easily with you. Look at Tamrac for the bags. |
I know this is crazy but the right bag is a big thing,. Since getting my D70 in November, I am on my 4th bag, and have settled on a backpack. I have broken the cardinal rule and do not have my camera with me today so I can not remember who makes the bag but it has plenty of room for my camera, all my present and future lens, cables, laptop and some spare places for a good size water bottle and straps for my tripod.
A good bag can cost you a few hundred (US) dollars so be prepared for that expense but it well worth every single penny.
Karen
Message edited by author 2005-07-12 11:23:48. |
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07/12/2005 11:29:10 AM · #16 |
All Nikons and Canons are great cameras. Choose what feels best in your hands and the company that can provide you with the lenses you want.
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07/12/2005 12:12:16 PM · #17 |
Originally posted by PaulMdx:
All Nikons and Canons are great cameras. Choose what feels best in your hands and the company that can provide you with the lenses you want. |
I agree strongly with this. You're making a comittment to a lens system, the body will surely be replaced long before the lenses. I would suggest getting a body that has all the creative control that you feel you will need, and then some, so that as you grow in knowledge you will not be faced with an upgrade too soon. I'd also suggest starting with good quality lenses, don't fall for the attractiveness of the consumer "super zooms."
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07/12/2005 08:58:48 PM · #18 |
Thanks to all of you! I know I need to go look at them now. I was hoping to get some tips and avoid pitfalls. So your responses have been invaluable. You're right, Karen; hadn't considered the bag thing.
We've got a lot of shopping to do before we make the final commitment, but it's looking like a Nikon D70,D70s or D50. And the lenses...Whew, this sounds like work. Can't wait to get it and start shooting!
Thanks again,
Roxanne
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07/12/2005 10:51:24 PM · #19 |
Hi Roxanne. I'm surprized nobody else mentioned this, but how serious is the hubby about shooting the stars? //www.dpreview.com/news/0506/05060101canon20da.asp
I thought this might be of interest. I do have the 20D, and yes, I am very happy with it, just for the record.
Either way you choose, I wish y best of luck with it.
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07/13/2005 09:16:11 AM · #20 |
Originally posted by BobsterLobster:
Expect everybody to recommend their camera. Mine is a Minolta... why not Minolta? |
LOL, Here is a recommendation for Pentax.
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07/13/2005 01:49:33 PM · #21 |
Originally posted by greatandsmall:
Check out my Portfolio
to get an idea of the things I like to photograph (lots of nature, macro, natural and low-light). I'd also like to get into journalism by writing and photographing some free-lance stories to submit to local newspapers.
My husband is into astro-photography.
Low noise is a must.
I'd like a good macro lense, and whatever else is necessary for these things. We are looking at the Nikon D50, but haven't found any reviews.
Canons are the other choice.
Any suggestions? Thanks In advance! |
This is what I have and why I bought it.
2 Nikon D70 Outfits with the 18-70mm kit lenses (1 for me, 1 for her) Roughly 1000.00 ea
so far we have purchased the following:
Lenses:
Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED (kit lens included with cameras)
Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6G (My first additional lens so I could see stuff far away...sort of)
Nikon AF Micro-Nikkor 60mm f2.8D (she wanted to take bug and flower pics)
Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm f/1.4D (after I realized what a "fast lens was and why you needed one, this was my first choice for indoor low-light)
Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED (she wanted to see far away too)
Nikon AF-S Zoom-Nikkor 24-120mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED VR (Bought and returned after I realized the whole VR thing is not worth the money unless you are using a f/2.8 or better)
Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 80-200mm f/2.8D ED ( bought used for 450.00. My first real (fast)lens...except for the 50mm. I use this almost all the time)
All of these lenses have a glass UV (type)filter for protection. they run around 20-30.00 each.
We each have (2) 1GB Ultra 80X CF cards that cost around 100.00 when we purchased them in November. You can now get 2GB for 150.00.
1 bogen/manfrotto monopod, plus entry level ballhead.( neither of which I use now)
2 cheap tripods 40.00 each(we dont use now)
2 aluminum bogen/manfrotto tripods (returned)
2 joystick ballhead (returned)
2 Bogen/manfrotto Mag-fiber tripods 280.00 ea (we like these and use all the time)
1 acratech ball head 285.00 (for me because I have to buy the more expensive stuff =)
1 joystick ball head (different style) for her 90.00
We both have dell D600 laptops (for work) but quickly filled the drives with pictures before really trying to archive and develop a real workflow)
1 Epson P2000 40GB Digital Media Storage device 500.00 (to download the CF cards without having to carry the laptops)
2 SB-800 Nikon Flash units. 325.00 each
1 Lastolite Cublite Tabletop light tent 150.00
7 different bags now though we have both found backpacks that we like.
Mine was 160.00 and hers was 120.00 (there I go again...always the more expensive stuff)
Epson R1800 Printer 550.00 (not really necessary)
Dont forget to include your software if you dont already own it , like Photoshop, Paintshop pro, etc.
I bought the D70 because it was named camera of the year. I did not research Canon or any other brand. We are pleased with our D70's but I just recommended my brother-in-law buy a Canon 20D only because it is newer and the next step up in Nikon is 3000.00.
So I guess when you break it down, you will (eventually) want all these items no matter which camera you choose. If you can bang it all out at once, I recommend getting a high-end long lens, a high-end wide lens, a nice tripod and head, a flash unit, media cards to last you while you are traveling or a device to off load them, A decent bag/backpack. Oh yeah dont forget the subscription to DPC...and if you can swing it, get one for each of you. As far as low-noise for astrophotography, from what I have read, those shots are composites of 10-20 shots with a "black" shot to handle any noise.We purchased this all from Ritz camera because of the return policy and we wanted a Brick & Mortar store to deal with (and they were nice)They also match prices. We have since gone to a Mom & Pop store that has a much better selection of toys and also sells online here: Kind of confusing website but great prices and very friendly service
This all seems like a lot of money but it is by far the best thing we have ever done together. We both work in the technology field so we are geeks/dorks anyway, but we really like hitting the road on the weekends and tromping through the little towns and whatnot. I didnt add it all up because it will make me ill...I will leave that to you all =)
Hope this helps...we like your pictures too!
Vince (& Karen)
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07/13/2005 02:00:15 PM · #22 |
Hmm, I'd have to recommend a Canon. :P
And, what do you plan on doing with your A80 when you get a new camera? I've been looking for a point and shoot to carry around with me at school...
-Brad |
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07/13/2005 04:12:44 PM · #23 |
Why I bought the Pentax *ist Ds:
-Fits my small hands (don't think I can hold the 20D all day)
-AA batteries (have lot's of them + AA works with flash too)
-Already own 2GB of Sd Cards
-Lot's of original lenses out there(older/cheaper lenses may not work for auto focus, but I usually use manual focus (main reason for upgrading) now anyways.
-Same sensor as Nikon d70.
-Cheap enough so I could buy an extra lens + teleconvertor and still can afford a new computer (pentium II is dying :( )
Message edited by author 2005-07-13 16:53:21. |
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