Best budget(ish) dslr for photos and video

[Elvis56]

Hi folks. I am looking to purchase either new or used, a dslr camera that shoots decent photos but also is designed to capture decent video as well. I know that some cameras can do this but some are also dedicated to making videos a much easier task. I know a camcorder is designed primarily for video but the ones I have tested were small and felt cheap. As i am just starting out I would like to keep my budget around $600, and then add items as necessary such as different lenses. I currently take photos on my iphone 6s, and my video camera is one that I bought new in 2000... a hitachi that takes the hi8 cassettes . Still works great though. My next camera will just need to take decent video for my personal use, and also of course pictures of a higher quality than a phone. I realize that top quality equipment is super expensive if you want the best but as ive never had a digital camera that takes video, id prefer to start small and then spend the big bucks if I enjoy the camera vs a new camcorder. Thanks

 

[AlanKlein]

What will you shoot? How do you plan on presenting it? 1080 and/or 4K?

 

[Elvis56]

Hi AlanKlein, strictly 1080p and shooting everyday family stuff and likely outdoor shots as i live not far from the Rocky Mountains

 

[AlanKlein]

Get a camera that has an articulating screen that faces up at least. With family, you want to get down low for more intimate shots and that kind of screen helps. Save some money for a good tripod for the Rockies so you can increase your DOF by shooting slow and shutting the aperture down. The tripod will also help with you getting into the family action.

There's loads of good cameras that are in that price range for what you want to do.

 

[chuasam]

forget DSLR
get the Sony A6000

 

[Elvis56]

Fair enough. I didnt know the difference between mirrorless and dslr until you mentioned the sony, and to be honest, after a little bit of reading, the mirrorless may just be the way to go. I like the idea of an external mic jack but the price jump to the a6300 is crazy just for that.

 

[KmH]

Until you hear to the audio recorded without a decent external microphone.

 

[Elvis56]

Thanks for the input to everyone. I am definitely gearing towards a mirrorless but recently was introduced to the sony a68. Its DSLT. Not aware of the difference in tech with DSLR. A family relative has it brand new in the box and is offering it for $700. He is a pro photographer and bought it to resell but I happened to see it first. The a68 seems to be a more obscure model but has a tilting screen, mulit, mini hdmi and mic input. It comes with the basic kit lens at i believe 18-55 sam ii. Should i give this model a chance or possibly go with the a6000 or maybe a t6i which is on par price wise (actually slightly cheaper and comes with a tripod) THanks for all the advice.

 

[cameraland]

The Sony A6000 is awesome. It IS a DSLR, just a mirrorless one. It is the best in its class for what you want. The video is outstanding as are the photos. It's terrific in low light. Give me a call and mention this forum. We are a sponsor and always do the best we can for its members

 

[KmH]

No Mirror, it's not a reflex camera - and can't be a DSLR - Digital Single Lens REFLEX camera.
Mirrorless camera users can't see directly through the lens (TTL). Today's mirrorless cameras use an EVF - electronic viewfinder .

 

[Elvis56]

I appreciate the offer, as a supporting member i commend you on your activity in a forum as it shows real initiative to not only sell stuff and make $$$ but to educate and simply to give buyers an avenue to shop with a dedicated shop. Unfortunately, canada and US buying policies are such the duties and other fees make it tough to buy across the divide.... Ive got a local opportunity that needs to be evaluated and then i can focus on a differnet option, but thank you. Folks, are you taking pretty pictures with the a68 or please tell me about your disappointments. The a6000 is not only smaller, which fits my wifes small hands, but seems that it takes better pics. Like i said, a68 is a beast that has a top display, similar optics and options, mic input, flip screen, and massive like a giant, ...not the best thing but it feels tough, not big and cheap...hey, the canon t6i is a good bet with most of my wants and needs. Is this a better compromise? Dealer says thzt the low light award is sony #1 and nikon and canon going 2 and 3. If you have $700, do you go a68 or choose the alternatives?