 Tammy L. Newcomb |
What Level of Camera Should One Start With? I am still trying to figure out the best camera for myself. I have searched and read and tried many resources here to figure this agonizing question out. I am currently using a Kodak Z740 and now want a more professional camera. I am most likely going to pick something within the Nikon line of cameras. I see that there are many to chose from and I feel very confused since I do not really know the differences in cameras other than the price. It seems to me, the more you pay the more features and possibly quality of photographs. My question is? Since I have had no experience with a digital SLR and have a lot to learn when I do finally find the camera I want, should I start on the lower end of the Nikon chain or should I just start with the D80? Of course D80 is the highest I can go price wise. Comments would be helpful!!!!!
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Corinne M. Thompson |
Hi Debbie, Have you tried this: http://www.betterphoto.com/digital/camera-calculator.php I'm sure others will chime in to help too. Good Luck!
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Mark Feldstein |
You know Tammy, this is a lot like someone taking drivers ed asking what kind of car they should buy. The answer is really one of personal preference and rather than using an online guide, I recommend you find a larger camera store, go there, tell them your knowledge level and where you plan to go with your photography. Then, start handling cameras, see which one fits your hands and how the controls feel for you to operate with and without having to look at them. Find a comfortable price range and one that accepts a range of accessories that fit your present and some future needs including flash, lens shades, interchangable lenses, etc. Then ask the sales person if you can rent one for a weekend to actually try before you buy. A lot of stores offer that service. If you find a model you really like that meets your needs and you feel comfortable "driving", check out the prices at Bhphotovideo.com for excellent prices or deals. OTOH while a local camera store may not offer you the best prices, but they can provide you with additional services locally including some degree of instruction or help you if problems arise. Lastly, I always recommend that the more serious photographic newcomers start with a 35mm film camera and learn photography that way first then switch to digital but I'm old-fashioned and still shoot commercially using film cameras. There's tons of info here on buying cameras. Do a key word or phrase search or just post more questions.
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R K Stephenson |
Hi, Tammy, Not sure why you would limit yourself to Nikon right up front if you're not familiar with DLSRs. ;^) In addition to Connie's link, you might want to check out this comparison site: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/sidebyside.php Unlike Mark, I'm not a "pro", but I don't see much utility in starting out with film. Digital offers some advantages for learning, not the least of which is instant feedback and a distinct cost advantage per image over film. All that said, there are a couple of other considerations for your quest that others have not hit on: 1. What type of photography will you be doing? The "best" camera depends on what you will be doing with it. 2. When you're talking about high level photography, lenses are at least as important as the camera body. (Maybe more important!) I selected Canon due to the lens technology, but you can also make a case for Nikon and even the new Sony for assortment and quality of lenses. Have fun! RK
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William Schuette |
Hi Tammy, like RK I think Mark's fossils are showing. There is no need to start with film and actually the immediate feedback of the back LCD on digital SLRs can be a wonderful teacher. I am going to repeat a piece of advice from Vincent Versaci which is get the most camera you can afford. My only addition is to remember to factor in what lenses and accessories you want immediately in figuring out your budget. The only disagreement I had with RK was that I selected Nikon for the lens technology as Nikon is the only camera company that still makes its own glass. I am not running down Canon, they make excellent equipment as well and I am sure you would be happy with either. Bill
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Tammy L. Newcomb |
Thank you so much for all the advice. After reading many opinions and researching, I came to the conclusion that I still have alot to learn. I went to my local Ritz Camera and they had more Nikon than anything so I went with a package deal on a Nikon D40X. This was not what I wanted but it's a great start since I have alot of new settings to learn that the cheap camera lacked.
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William Schuette |
Tammy, the D40x is a good choice in a Nikon. It will give the options to shoot automated, manual or various modes in between. It is capable of producing great images and any lenses or accessories you get will work on any other Nikon DSLR if you chose to upgrade at some point. For Nikon specific resources, you may want to check out nikonians.org. Bill
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- Dennis Flanagan Contact Dennis Flanagan Dennis Flanagan's Gallery |
If you think you will jump in with both feet and be serious about it, buy the best you can afford. You don't want to shell out hundred's of dollars for something you will outgrow quickly.
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- Gregory LaGrange Contact Gregory LaGrange Gregory LaGrange's Gallery |
"This was not what I wanted ..." Outside of reasons due to being able to afford something, I'd say this needs a little deeper looking into.
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R K Stephenson |
Small side-bar in the interest of complete information in this thread: >> (quoted from William S.) I selected Nikon for the lens technology as Nikon is the only camera company that still makes its own glass. I was a little surprised about this statement so I contacted Canon. What William says is true; Nikon still manufactures their own raw glass and is the only major company to do so. That said, the only thing Canon does not manufacture is the _raw_ glass. They do design and manufacture their and lenses and the optics that go into them. For me, not manufacturing the raw glass is not an issue. Their glass is obviously high quality and I like their lens technology. These are two fantastic camera companies and I don't think anybody can go wrong with a kit from either one. Cheers, RK
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Tareq M. Alhamrani |
You can start with any camera, as simple as it is. The camera is just a tool, whether it is Pro the best or just simple cheap you can learn and work with you, no camera in the world will reject to be used by even a kid, so pick whatever camera you can afford and start using it, you desire or love for photography will force you to learn on any camera in proper time, be patient and read the manuals and read a lot about photography everywhere. Good luck!
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