DSLR advice

[mike b.]

I’m in the market for a digital SLR, and would like some suggestions.  I’m looking for a camera that will give quality photos, and has basic features that an amatuer photog such as myself might need.

I’d like to stay below $800 or so, and I would like to stick with a Nikon or Canon due to past experience.

The only SLR I have is an old Canon EF..with lots of lenses!  Unfortunately, it looks like they would be difficult, it not impossible to use with an adaptor…so I’m willing to start fresh!

Thanks for any experience or advice.

Mike

[Brian Moffitt]

Mike,

Both Canon and Nikon make good DSLR bodies in that price range.

[M. Wood]

Ken Rockwell has a blurb that Adorama has d-5000 (refurbished) for around $525- worth looking into.

[Brett Colvin]

What type of photography do you prefer?

On a limited budget, I think the best thing going is still the Nikon D40, with a few lenses that fit your style.

Try to slant your funds towards lenses, and ensure that you get the glass that supports the intended purposes.

[mike b.]

Thanks for the information.

[Adam McDowell]

if you don’t mind used gear, then check out KEH.com

they have used 30d’s for under $400 and they should work with your older lenses as long as they are EOS autofocus

[Tim Angeli]

http://www.fredmiranda.com has a forum for used gear as well that I have bought through in the past.  Worth a look if you’re interested in buying used.

Tim

[Roy Conley]

For basic landscape and portrait use on a DX body I would suggest you start with a 17-55MM f2.8 G lens.  Not the cheapest, but a very good quality DX glass that should do well on the wide end for landscapes and the high end will give the perspective of about a 80mm for portraits. The f2.8 will also enable you to easily isolate the background on your portrait shots.

At B&H it goes for $1370.

Roy

[Chad Simcox]

I’d buy used. I shoot with a Canon 20D and 30D and have been published using both of them. Don’t worry about the megapixel marketing race. These are 8.2MP cameras and can produce 11×14 prints no problem.

Check and see what KEH has to offer, also look at the reputable dealers (B&H, Adorama) to see what they have used. Also take a look at craigslist, you can get great deals.

http://society6.com/grainfarmer Fly Fishing and Landscape open edition Photography prints.

http://grainfarmer.vsco.co/ iPhone photos
http://instagram.com/chad_simcox Instagram

[M. Wood]

If you are looking at a d-5000 the VR 18-55mm is standard and VR 55-200mm is great.

[Author]

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