A 20D goes for $275 on KEH but I personally woulnd't buy it for more than $200 for the body alone. If you want plenty of lens options just go with either Nikon or Canon but I would probably get the T3 or if you can find a used T2i that may be a better financial choice. The only problem with entry level NIkons is that they don't autofocus with older lenses so you have to use AF-S or G lenses which tend to be pricier compared to their older versions.
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The Official Camera Equipment Megathread
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A 20D goes for $275 on KEH but I personally woulnd't buy it for more than $200 for the body alone. If you want plenty of lens options just go with either Nikon or Canon but I would probably get the T3 or if you can find a used T2i that may be a better financial choice. The only problem with entry level NIkons is that they don't autofocus with older lenses so you have to use AF-S or G lenses which tend to be pricier compared to their older versions.
Instigator
Banned
You can get entry-level DSLRs from all those manufacturers with kit lens for under 500 bucks. Brand new.
Go to the used market and you save more and/or get better models.
20D is competent, but it's old. I'd say don't pay more than 200 bucks (for the body).
SnakeswithLasers
Member
Thanks guys---which cameras from Sony, Nikon, Canon qualify as "entry level"? And what are the real disadvantages of going "entry level"? I've been doing a lot of reading around the internet, but it isn't super clear (for a beginner) what they'd be giving up.
Also, I'm more interested in learning than having something do everything for me, if that counts for much.
Also, I'm more interested in learning than having something do everything for me, if that counts for much.
weatherproof; build quality; reliability; competibility to old lenses; bright viewfinder; etc.
The main difference between entry level and enthusiast DSLRs are the controls. On an entry level camera you will have to dive through menus to change allot of stuff, on an enthusiast model there will be a dedicated button/switch to do the same thing.
Beyond that you will get an upgrade in AF speed/accuracy more advanced stuff like mirror lockup, bracketing, faster burst framerates, faster card writes, more rugged weather sealed bodies, AF motors for older lenses (on nikons at least), the ability to wirelessly control flashes ect ect.
Mostly allot of stuff that you will not appreciate until you know what you are doing.
The 20d is a "mid-range" camera, but pretty old. They go for $100-200 on ebay.
IMHO you are better off getting a 20d to learn with and buying a few lenses than the latest entry level model with the kit lens.
SnakeswithLasers
Member
What about a used D3000 body and then just getting a 50mm prime? I don't want to only do portraits, but I was reading that starting with a 'nifty fifty' can be a great way to learn.
Edit: Thanks Flo--you were totally helpful in motorcycle threads when I was buying a bike, and now you've returned to help me get a camera too.
Edit: Thanks Flo--you were totally helpful in motorcycle threads when I was buying a bike, and now you've returned to help me get a camera too.
If you are going to go the prime route, I would get a 35mm before a 50mm for a crop sensor camera.
chaostrophy
Member
I'll be making a similar decision, but since I want to use an eye viewfinder rather than a screen, that's another added expense for the Panasonic and what might end up pushing me toward the Fuji.
BlueTsunami
there is joy in sucking dick
The optical viewfinder is definitely something that's worth it. I was recently shooting with my Rebel XT and found I spend more time composing via the optical viewfinder while the camera is sleeping than I do with it fully on. I've never owned a camera with an EVF but I have a feeling having to constantly wake the camera up via putting my eye to the EVF will be a bit jarring.
SnakeswithLasers
Member
Don't need video. =)
I like this, thanks for the idea. At least now I can hone my hunt to a D3000 and a 35mm lens.
- Larger viewfinderI'm curious, why is the 1Dx so much more expensive than the D4? Is there some feature that Canon is pointing to that will justify an $800 price premium over the D4? Can't be a larger sensor, I imagine. D4 is sold out already at Amazon.Can't imagine dropping that much money without at least seeing some real-world reviews first.
EDIT: comparison chart here. 1Dx offers more megapixals, a built in mike, and higher max continuous shooting speed, which I can see being worth 800 more.
Really interested in seeing what the D800 will offer
http://nikonrumors.com/2012/01/06/who-wants-to-see-the-nikon-d800-on-nikon-de.aspx/
Also, a nice guide for anyone thinking about picking up a camera this year:
http://www.theverge.com/2012/1/2/2663464/camera-buyers-guide
- ISO 25600 and 51200 are standard and not artificially boosted
- 12 FPS with AF and AE
The prices that Nikon and Canon give are all just suggested ones though. The two will fall within $500 of each other after a while on the market and at that point price isn't a factor for pros.
http://www.alinpopescu.eu/blog/lansare-nikon-d4-in-romania/
D4 - 100%crop iso12800, decent, but not impressive, IMHO.
D4 - 100%crop iso12800, decent, but not impressive, IMHO.
Yeah. Might as well buy 3Ds and save some money. Both 1DX and D4 are pushing the limit of high ISO.
BigJonsson
Member
Oldschoolgamer
The physical form of blasphemy
Quick Question: What are some decent "budget" wireless triggers for the 430 EXII?
Another thumbs up for the 35mm f1.8 here, been using it on my D3100 for a few months now and very happy with it. I think 35mm on a crop sensor is supposed to be the closest focal equivalent to a 50mm on a full frame / 35mm
Maximilian E.
AKA MS-Evangelist
So the Fuji Xpro-1 sounds more and more like all kinds if awesome. Latest is that Fuji will release an M-mount adapter for it..
http://photorumors.com/2012/01/07/detailed-fuji-x-pro-1-specs-you-must-read-this/
Seriously considering this one now..
http://photorumors.com/2012/01/07/detailed-fuji-x-pro-1-specs-you-must-read-this/
Seriously considering this one now..
BlueTsunami
there is joy in sucking dick
Confirmation that it can take M lenses via adaptation is fucking HUGE
BlueTsunami
there is joy in sucking dick
That's definitely one of the questions about the system. I'm not sure how the EVF works with the X100 but I hope the newer one allows for magnification. Not sure about peaking though but Ricoh along with the NEX provide this. Hopefully it becomes a standard feature.
Reading about the XP1 it states that the actual optical viewfinder allows for two magnification settings, one for wide angles and one for longer lenses.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Canon-EOS...Cameras_JN&hash=item1e6799e8fb#ht_9341wt_1141
Is this too good to be true? 2 lenses for <£500?
I was just about to buy, yet saw it on eBay, originally I was getting it from SLR hut, here:
http://slrhut.co.uk/product/ID287C5/google
At £480. Can I trust the eBay one? Any chance it's an older model/different in some kind?
I'm about to spend a large amount of money here, so advice is very much appreciated!
Help me out CameraGAF, am I missing some catch?
Is this too good to be true? 2 lenses for <£500?
I was just about to buy, yet saw it on eBay, originally I was getting it from SLR hut, here:
http://slrhut.co.uk/product/ID287C5/google
At £480. Can I trust the eBay one? Any chance it's an older model/different in some kind?
I'm about to spend a large amount of money here, so advice is very much appreciated!
Help me out CameraGAF, am I missing some catch?
Rentahamster
Rodent Whores
Compared to the D3s, perhaps.
But if you showed me this 5 years ago, I would have called you a fucking wizard.
So, I want to have a nice compact camera for taking pictures and some videos.
I want to get one of the Sony NEX camera's, but don't know which one. I am clueless when it comes to cameras, so please guide me.
Also, if there is another camera in the same price range ( $500-$800) That is similar in form and function, let me know.
I want to get one of the Sony NEX camera's, but don't know which one. I am clueless when it comes to cameras, so please guide me.
Also, if there is another camera in the same price range ( $500-$800) That is similar in form and function, let me know.
Forsete
Member
NEX5N
16MP sensor, best in class.
Advanced video functions, manual control and 1080p AVCHD 2.0.
Very nice feature set (same as on my NEX5), panorama mode, 3D picture mode, some pretty cool image filters, peaking for quick and accurate manual focus with old lenses.
I want one but I might get the NEX7 instead.
That's a fantastic deal, but there are two things that would concern me IMO. First is that it's not a UK model, so I have no idea how the warranty would work out. Secondly you'd have to hope with all your being that customs don't pick it up on the way in from Hong Kong, because otherwise you're gonna be paying taxes on that bad boy!
Why can't other camera manufacturers do this and launch a new system with the right prime lenses because that's where its really at!
Im thinking about picking up an Olympus EP-2 body for $300 with a Panasonic 20mm 4/3 lens for $330, putting my total price at over $600. Is this a good deal for the money? I currently just have a Lumix DMC-ZS1 point and shoot.
I'd love something for low-light indoor situations and portraits. I'm 25, I figure I'll mostly use it to take photos of my fiance, my friends during social situations and parties (hence the low-light), and potentially a child in a few years.
I've wanted a camera for awhile but just started researching for a few hours this afternoon. If you have better recommendations let me know.
Another option seems to be getting an old D20 on the cheap since I'm just getting into this. I don't want to throw a lot of cash (relatively speaking, I know these are on the low end of the price spectrum) at this if I don't have to. But I would like something compact that will last a long time if it's quality stuff.
I see someone earlier was looking at an EPL1 with kit lens for $250, but the lack of physical controls isn't something I want to deal with for years.
I'd love something for low-light indoor situations and portraits. I'm 25, I figure I'll mostly use it to take photos of my fiance, my friends during social situations and parties (hence the low-light), and potentially a child in a few years.
I've wanted a camera for awhile but just started researching for a few hours this afternoon. If you have better recommendations let me know.
Another option seems to be getting an old D20 on the cheap since I'm just getting into this. I don't want to throw a lot of cash (relatively speaking, I know these are on the low end of the price spectrum) at this if I don't have to. But I would like something compact that will last a long time if it's quality stuff.
I see someone earlier was looking at an EPL1 with kit lens for $250, but the lack of physical controls isn't something I want to deal with for years.
You can also get a Nikon 35mm/1.8 and spend 400-500 for a used body. You probably can get a D90. Or whatever crippled entry level Nikon body.
Or you can get a NEX-C3 plus the 18-55mm kit lens, plus a manual focus 50/1.4 lens for $70 ish.
Oh you want something compact? I guess that's that.
I'm pre-ordering the day it shows up. I won't even have to buy any lenses.
BlueTsunami
there is joy in sucking dick
Sounds like the Fuji XP1 is as large as the Leica M9. Definitely not pocketable (sans lens) but small enough.
Seriously I'd be so happy with a 35mm 1.4 for quite a while.
Not even same class. X10 is a point and shoot and the sensor is 2/3" while 5N is a APS-C.
Focusing will be a bitch. As someone who hasnt used these mirrorless/rangefinders from fuji, what sort of AF system do they use?
I am completely clueless as to what that means :0
I was just looking at some in-depth X10 reviews, and it seems like a camera for someone who is a beginner, but can use it to learn more professional stuff. Since it comes with so many setting and modes that you can customize.
I just want a camera that I can use as a beginner, but since I am gonna do more photography, I also want to be able to use it at a semi-pro level in a year or so.
if you want to learn, get the 5n. X10 is much smaller, its designed for people who already own a SLR or two.
Best way to learn is to buy a dslr or something close to it like the NEX-5.
I bought the Lumix LX3 like 3 years ago because of the high reviews it got and the manual controls it possess. Tried to learn photography from it, but it is so limited that I decided to try a DSLR(D300) and never looked back on P&S.
IMO an P&S-ish camera will just hinder you from learning photography the way you like it.
Instigator
Banned
Strongly disagree. If it has all the basic controls at your finger tips, you will learn. Bigger sensor and interchangeable lenses are not necessary (but still nice) for that purpose.
You were probably just duped into buying a camera you personally didn't like.
The only point and short that have enough SLR control are G12 and Ricoh GRD. Others don't really give you enough control. For exanple muy Fuji F200exr has "manual exposure." Do you know what kind of selection it has? F 2.0 and F 8. Yes! Thats it. Thats what they call a manual aperture.
Greetings Camera-GAF!
As part of my new years resolution I'm going to get more into photography (rather than simply owning a camera). So does anyone have recommendations for good introduction books to photography? Theory, composition, technical details, it would all be good.
I currently own a 1000d with the kit lens and a 50mm. I'm mostly looking to get into landscape and macro-style stuff. I do a lot of cycling so I want to document my various trips and I'm a industrial designer so macro stuff is my porn.
As part of my new years resolution I'm going to get more into photography (rather than simply owning a camera). So does anyone have recommendations for good introduction books to photography? Theory, composition, technical details, it would all be good.
I currently own a 1000d with the kit lens and a 50mm. I'm mostly looking to get into landscape and macro-style stuff. I do a lot of cycling so I want to document my various trips and I'm a industrial designer so macro stuff is my porn.
Instigator
Banned
Your Fuji doesn't have an A or S priority mode. Of course, it isn't really manual.
I had a Kodak P880 long ago and it was manual with DSLR-like controls. I could shoot in RAW, set it to A priority or go completely manual with it. Set ISO, metering, bracketing, you name, it had it. The move from that old camera to DSLR's (mirrorless too) was not for the sake of controls, but for the obvious IQ and general performance upgrade. Everything else was familiar.
And you underestimate the number of enthusiast cameras in the P&S market. There are more than two, including the successor of the camera that was mentionned before, the LX3.
Art Teitlebaum
Member
X10 is a great camera as such and it gives you enough manual control to learn the effects of all the parameters involved in the procedure of exposure. And it is quite compact, which makes it fun to carry it around.
BUT: If you grow up, it's some sort of a dead end, concerning the possibility of using different lenses.
So I would recommend you an interchangeable camera system, either cheap DSLR or CSC like NEX or M4/3 if there is a chance that you want to go deeper into photography.
It's easy, go with the 5n.
I used to have a Nikon D50, and moved over to a NEX-5, the camera is glorious. Just so much fun to use.
Here's probably the best photo I've taken with my NEX since I've owned it. You can take photos like this straight out of the camera.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/61264725@N07/6335197915/in/photostream
...another of my best shots. Again, no edits, straight out of the camera.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/61264725@N07/6335884334/in/set-72157627982097679/
Nice shot.
Well, I guess that's that. The interchangeable lens does make sense, and gives it the egde over the Fuji.
Thanks guys.
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