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Photography Question 

Raymond M. Veran
 

what cam to buy canon 350d,400d,nikon d70 or d80?


hello!!! I'm planning to buy a camera but I don't know what bramd/model to buy. I have a prosumer cam but like to change to dslr. have been talking to photogs but they all have their different opinion on it. I tried the 350d,light,easy to use,etc. held a d70s also and I like the weight compared to the 350.the 400d and d80, I haven't tried it yet. I know I don't need a high mpixel cam so I guess 400d and d80 are just an option but not really a priority for a begginer.so what do you think would be great for a begginer and would still be good to use if I decided to be serious in photography. Lastly, are the 70-300 canon or nikon lens that are priced $150-$200 worth getting rather than a sigma or the likes? thanks!!!


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September 17, 2006

 

Tareq M. Alhamrani
  Canon 30D all the way.


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October 02, 2006

 

Sandra
  I have the canon rebel xt, great camera. A friend has the D70, I LOVE IT. I had 3 canon lenes, so thats why I went with the rebel xt.


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October 04, 2006

 

Kerry L. Walker
  If you talk to other photographers, they are going to recommend their favorite line of cameras. My recommendation is to buy the one that feels best to you since either one would be a good choice. Which one is laid out the way that is most comfortable to you? Believe it or not, that is probably the most important criteria.

I will give you my observations from what I have read, not from personal experience since I don't own a didital camera. Canon has the advantage at higher ISO - less noise than from Nikon. If you don't plan to shoot beyond ISO 400, I don't think it will really make much difference. Nikon has the better flash system. If flash is not important to you, again, it shouldn't really matter.

In regard to the cheap 70-300 zoom lenses, you get what you pay for. They will be made much cheaper with a LOT of plastic, including probably a plastic lens mount. As far as Nikon lenses are concerned, the older (but still available on the used market) 75-300 lens is much better than the newer 70-300 lens. (Of course, if you had deep pockets, the 80-200 f/2.8 is awesome!) Really can't comment on the Canon offerings. Perhaps Jon Close will chime in here since he is the resident Canon expert. Personally, I would go with a better built lens with a shorter zoom range. You will probably upgrade the camera sooner or later but you will still be able to use your lenses.


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October 05, 2006

 

Luke Eberbach
  Any of the cameras you have listed are capable of taking great photos! My advice would be to get your own CF/SD card, get out and try some of those cameras. Make notes about what you like, or dislike about the handling and use of each one. Then take your card home and whilst the camera's feel is fresh in your mind, look at the shots you took. Decide which photos you prefer.

Then buy the one you like most, and get out and take some great photos with it.


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October 10, 2006

 

Noel Z. Yuseco
  Hi Raymond,
My first DSLR was a D70s since I already owned several nikon lenses and film SLR cameras. I sold my D70s and am waiting for my d80. The canon and nikon ranges you are choosing from are all great cameras with only subtle differences. But for small dslr's, I like how the nikon feels in my hands. Put them side by side and just pict what you like. My only disappointment is that I think Canon outsells Nikon twice as much so there is a bigger second hand market for Canon gear. This is important when looking for really good expensive second hand lenses which are just too sinfull to acquire brand new for hobbyists.


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October 17, 2006

 

John P. Sandstedt
  None of the above.

Canon 30D [I own one]

Canon 5D [only digital SLR without a lens factor isuue

Nikon d200 [storekeepers can't keep them in stock.]


I'm not sure which Canon camera coresponds to the 300d and 400d, probably the Rebel XT and XTi. Of these two, of they're you're only choices, go with the XTi.

A friend has the Nikon D70. It was discontinued because it was too hard to use. He trade up or down if he had the cash.

I'd look to Pete Turner's negative review of the D80 - in his view, it ain't no D200.


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October 17, 2006

 

Luke Eberbach
  Hi John,

I heartily disagree with the appraisal of the D70.

The D70/D70s is a dream to use and a great camera!

I can't comment on the D80, as I haven't shot with one.

The D70 was replaced because of product evolution, not because it was fundamentally flawed.

There are reasons why it's one of the most popular DSLR's ever, not the least of which are it's great price point, excellent performance, and ease of use.


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October 17, 2006

 

Raymond M. Veran
  Thanks guys for all your input. I decided to get the d70s kit. hope its a good choice. I'll soon be posting some of my practice shots.hope you could comment on it or something.

thanks again,
raymond


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October 18, 2006

 

Luke Eberbach
  Congratulations Raymond!

Fantastic choice ;-)

You'll love it, I'm sure.

I look forward to seeing some of your shots with it.


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October 18, 2006

 

Philip Prowse
 
 
 
Great choice! I researched for a long time before buying my D70s. The Canon just seemed to be too soft in my opinion. I then came to this site and just looked at photos from all of the camera's, and time and time again the D70s and the D50 pictures were way better. It's just really your taste, Canon and Nikon are both great camera makers, but I have not been anything but impressed with the Nikon D70s. I am currrently debating on upgrading to the D80 or D200 for more pixels and options. Good luck, and post some pictures when you get them. Oh, and the Sigma 70-300 is a great lens for the amount of money that you spend.
Philip


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October 25, 2006

 

Philip Prowse
 
 
  GQ
GQ
aperture f/1.8, shutter 60, lens 50mm f/1.8, Natural lighting.

Philip Prowse

 
 
Great choice! I researched for a long time before buying my D70s. The Canon just seemed to be too soft in my opinion. I then came to this site and just looked at photos from all of the camera's, and time and time again the D70s and the D50 pictures were way better. It's just really your taste, Canon and Nikon are both great camera makers, but I have not been anything but impressed with the Nikon D70s. I am currrently debating on upgrading to the D80 or D200 for more pixels and options. Good luck, and post some pictures when you get them. Oh, and the Sigma 70-300 is a great lens for the amount of money that you spend.
Philip


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October 25, 2006

 
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