New D-SLR
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- mbr
I am looking to get my father a new digital slr for xmas (he's still using some 4mp Olympus that weighs 10 lbs).
I am looking at the Nikon D300 and the D80.
Is the price difference worth it for a novice/beginner? It looks like the D300 will be twice the cost.
Will there be a D90 anytime soon?Any thoughts/opinions would be great. I need to get myself something too ;-)
- scoops0
I always say go canon, but if you're set on nikon then the D80 is a solid camera
- mbr0
I've always liked Nikon, but that's about it. I'd welcome any other suggestions in those price ranges.
- slappy0
I own a Canon 30D and I love it. I have also shot with a Nikon D80 and can say I would also be extremly happy own a Nikon.
As far as value for money goes I think the Canon 40D is a awesome but not with the kit lens, maybe the 17-40L or 17-85 IS.
If money is not such an issue I would take the Nikon D300. The D80 is a decent camera but not if you want to get serious with your photography.
If you you are going to get a prosumer body be sure to get a decent lens.
- linearch0
the D300, while rife with bells and whistles, still does not have a full frame sensor....if you are going to spend that kinda money, go with a canon 5D....it has a full frame sensor, is cheaper, and arguably has better glass.
- rafalski0
Did you mean D3 linearch?
- TheBlueOne0
D40 is a good basic camera too for the $. I bought mine in Japan and got a much better basic kit lens then they have in the States though...
- mbr0
$3k for a body is far beyond my price range.
$1k for a body is more reasonable, but the D300 is new (I tend to think buying something that just came out is a better investment, long term, than something 2-3 years old that could be replaced any day).
- mbr0
How much should I could on spending for the lens?
Bang for the buck is important, but quality/value is also very important.
Are there any kits worthwhile, or is it better to buy separately?
Starting with something flexible would be the best.
Thanks!
- linearch0
no raf. i was talking about the canon 5D. the nikon D3 is rad, but pricey as shit and all the DX lens will not utilize the full frame sensor.
- Rand0
5D isn't cheaper than D300
- linearch0
just about the same price for both bodies: ~1799.00 you can find the canon body for cheaper because it has been out longer.
- calcio0
Since your dad has an Olympus (and i presume glass). you might want to check out the very awesome Olympus e510. Features like inbody image stabiliser, the only reported working anti-dust feature, a great pair of kit lenses and plenty of features, besides the Live View.
Keep in mind that since both the Canon and the Nikon mentioned are much more amateur cameras than 'beginner'. The Olympus has amateur level features, but a price range below the Canon/Nikon mentioned. It depends all on how serious your dad is taking up photography really, and if he intends to buy expensive glass with VR.
At www.dpreview.com you can check reviews and user experiences till you see blue in the face.
- rafalski0
If you can find the 5D below $1800, that's a no-brainer. Mind that this baby requires quality glass, no point getting one without an L grade lens, at least 24-70L or 24-105L IS, going for +/- $1K each.
- calcio0
Too many novice users buy a machine with the misconception that the more features and pro stats make them a better photographer. In the end most people never use the full potential of their camera. Or pro cameras with cheap ass glass.
- mbr0
I've been reading dpreview, but I'll be honest, most of it is way above my head.
I woudl like my father to get more into it. He takes tons of pictures (lugs that damn thing everywhere!). A light and fast camera would be good and I doubt he'd be buying anything new for many years.
I agree that most will never get past the surface (including myself), but I also know the last slr I had (a Nikon 6006) took just amazing pictures, even on auto.
Getting a quality lens or two looks like will be the killer, cost wise.
Any suggestions for a beginner lens? Something flexible that coudl be used for a long time?
- Rand0
d40 might be a good choice
- rafalski0
d40 might be a good choice
Rand
(Oct 2 07, 06:30)Or even a d50 + an extra 50mm lens
- Mimio0
Maybe a D80 with the Nikkor AF-S 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED DX?
You could find used D80 bodies out there to save some money.
- material-10
I bet some people who sold their non-dx lens are going to be pissed that the d3 is coming out.
- rafalski0
You could find used D80 bodies out there to save some money.
Mimio
(Oct 2 07, 06:47)I'd say, get a new one with extended warranty. A camera is nothing but fragile optics and electronics and if it breaks it's absurdly expensive to fix.