SLR for Macro, which one to buy?

[Rom1web]

Hello,

I just discovered this forum

I couldn't find the "exact" answer to my question: my friend is looking to buy a new SLR camera. His main area of interest is focused on Macro pictures, if possible without the requirement of any lens. He has around 400-700€ (250-450£) to spend. Material from semi-pro to pro.
Which digital camera would you suggest him?

Thanks in advance

cheers,

 

[benhasajeep]

If he is looking into an SLR, he will have to buy a lens. Now they make normal zoom lenses that have a macro mode. They allow you to get a closer focus. But for true Macro where the output is lifesize, you either have to buy a dedicated macro lens or accessories to modify a normal lens to act as a macro.

With his price range and SLR he is definately in the used market. And for digital is the ammount listed probably too low. You listed British pounds so I am guessing you are in Britian. With 700euro you could get a Nikon D-50 or Canon XT and a lens with macro mode. But in Europe with the higher prices and VAT I would definately say he will be in the used market.

Now for a suggestion, I bought a Nikon D-50 for my wife. I already had a Nikon 105mm macro and it works great and she loves it. The body price for a D-50 in the US is down to about $600 at retail stores (demo or repaired ones from Nikon around $500 us). Could get an off brand zoom lens with macro from Sigma, or Tamron for about $200 but that lens would be nothing spectaciular. Again these are US prices and unfortunately the prices in Europe are a bit higher. Although I don't have any experience with it. The Canon Rebel XT will also be in the same price range. Either one would be a good camera. Either one purchased new would be pushing his budget.

 

[Don Simon]

Could get an off brand zoom lens with macro from Sigma, or Tamron for about $200 but that lens would be nothing spectaciular.

Actually the Tamron 90mm Macro lens is very, very good indeed. When looking for a lens I would always suggest looking at the offerings from Sigma, Tamron or Tokina, especially if you're on a budget. Other than that, I'd agree you probably won't get a new digital SLR and macro lens for less that £450. As has already been said, look for used ones or display models - Nikon D50, Canon 350D, Pentax *ist DS or DL, Konica Minolta 5D - all of these have been replaced by newer models (and in the case of the Minolta a new manufacturer too!) but all are still excellent 6-8mp dSLRs and will allow you to upgrade the camera body, lenses and accessories as and when you feel the need.

So your friend may be able to get a digital SLR and lens within his budget if he buys used... I guess the question is, is it worth it? Compact digital cameras (i.e. not SLRs) have a limited "macro" mode... has your friend tried these and found that they don't get close enough? Also, has he considered film rather than digital? I know it's not a very popular suggestion these days, but bear in mind that you'll be able to buy an older film SLR and macro lens for much cheaper than the digital equivalent.