Whether to buy an entry level DSLR or Compact

[joyphoto]

Hi,

I am new in this forum and I am posting this thread to get your advices on my specific needs. I was thinking about buying a compact camera within the price range of $300-400 with manual control. My preference was Nikon P100. But, I learnt that the model is now discontinued by Nikon. Subsequently, I learnt about FujiFilm HS10, but got different feedbacks. Some are saying it's a good camera while others are telling me not to look for anything beyond Nikon or Canon (as they don't produce good pictures). Now, the choice that is left is Nikon P500 which is marginally less affordable than D3000. So, now, I am confused as to which camera to buy. Should I trust Fuji or should I buy P500? Will it be a good choice to buy D3000.

I don't have a lot of experience in photography; but I am really passionate about it. I am reading a lot of articles to learn about the different aspects. The DSLRs will not be too complicated to me. At least, I will enjoy playing with it. However, I am a bit worried about the baggage. Also, I can't invest on a good lens; at least not now.

My interest are in general travel photography, occasional night shots/ low light photography, wildlife, sports, etc.

Please help me!

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[Ant]

I'd always go for a DSLR over a prosumer/compact if you're really serious about photography. They're far more flexible in terms of lens options and they usually perform better in low light and fast action situations, although, some of the higher end prosumer fixed lens cameras are getting pretty good.

If you're on a really tight budget you may look at the used market. You can get some really decent DSLRs quite cheap because they're a few years old. Just try to find out how many actuations they've had and what kind of condition they're in. Of the cameras you're mentioned, however, I'd go for the D3000. I don't know anything about Canon cameras but there's no reason you shouldn't look at their entry level range cameras either. Don't worry about not being able to afford a lens. It'll come with a fairly decent kit lens and then you can gradually save for another one. In a few years time when you decide to buy another newer DSLR then you'll still have your existing lenses to use, and might only need to buy a body, which will save you money and is one of the biggest advantages with DSLRs

[jaymitch]

I would have to say to go with the DSLR If you are truly passionate about photography this is going to benefit you some much more than a point and shoot. Like ANT said check out the used market and try to pick up a used D3000 with a kit lens. Start with that and see how you like shooting with a DSLR. The only other advise i would give is that when you go to get new lens in the future don't waste money on cheap lenses, save your money and buy the better faster lenses. It will pay off with better results in your photos. Good luck

[jake337]

It going to be upto you but I would lean towards used body and lens. You could come out with two lens and a body depending on if you want AF and metering.

Just an example:

Nikon Digital D 40 6.1 MEGAPIXEL BLACK WITH BATTERY & CHARGER (SD CARD ) DIGITAL SLR INTERCHANGEABLE LENS CAMERA - KEH.com

Nikon Autofocus 50 F1.8 (52) WITH CAPS 35MM SLR AUTO FOCUS STANDARD ANGLE LENS - KEH.com

About $275 plus shipping

[chaosrealm93]

dslr, it leaves room for upgrades and it will take you further in photography than a compact would.

[Tomasko]

I don't have a lot of experience in photography; but I am really passionate about it. I am reading a lot of articles to learn about the different aspects. The DSLRs will not be too complicated to me. At least, I will enjoy playing with it. However, I am a bit worried about the baggage. Also, I can't invest on a good lens; at least not now.

My interest are in general travel photography, occasional night shots/ low light photography, wildlife, sports, etc.

That's really an easy answer then If you're really passionate about it, don't waste your time and money on a compact camera, get a DSLR. Getting at least some decent low-light photos with a compact is really a pain.

[joyphoto]

Thank you all for your advices. You guys really made it easy for me. Just two more things - how would I know that a used dslr is in good condition? and if I buy a new DSLR (probably D3000) is it a good camera in itself? I heard some people saying that a low level dslr makes a lot of compromise and you won't be able to use it after a year or so. Looking for your inputs. Thanks again for your support.

[Tomasko]

how would I know that a used dslr is in good condition?

Well, that isn't easy to explain on the forum. There are quite a few things to look for, so I guess your best best would be to check the camera with some of your friends, who is more experienced and who can recognize whether it's ok or not.

if I buy a new DSLR (probably D3000) is it a good camera in itself

It all depends on what you really want. Is there a chance you'll turn into semipro/pro after a year? Do you plan to shoot everyday or just occasionally? What are you hoping to achieve in photography? I believe, that for a beginner it's best to buy a cheaper body and get better lenses over time when you can afford them. Bodies come and go, but your lenses stay and if you bought them wisely, you can use them with whatever camera you'll buy in the future. I believe it's always better to have a cheap body and quality lenses than vice versa.

[jaymitch]

Tom is right on, it all depends on what you to do with the camera. Since this is going to be your first dslr the d3000 is a really good starting point, its cheap enough that if you happen to loose interest your not throwing a bunch of money away.

When buying a used camera you just need to be selective with who you buy from. I have bought camera bodies off ebay without any problems. You want to look for one with a fairly low number of shutter clicks (pictures taken) and just make sure it is in good physical condition. If it is in good physical condition there is a good chance it was well cared for. When I buy camera gear from ebay I look for sellers that have %100 feedback and been selling for awhile. If you find something your interested in and want an opinion send me a link and ill look at it for you. Good luck

[jake337]

Do you plan on getting into any Off Camera Flash portrait work? One advantage of the D40 is its 1/500 flash sync speed.