hirejn
No longer a newbie, moving up!
- Joined
- Mar 13, 2013
- Messages
- 636
- Reaction score
- 96
- Location
- Wisconsin
- Can others edit my Photos
- Photos NOT OK to edit
Your notion to an entry-level DSLR is a good one. I wouldn't even recommend spending $600, more like $200 to $350 on a used or previous generation model. The D200, for example, will give you a feel for pro-level design and features for just about $200 to $250. If you're worried about quality, take a look at this gallery and this gallery, where all images were taken with a D200, and all will easily make a 16x24 print if not 20x30. You may even step up to the D300 for under $500 if you scour eBay.
Avoid falling for hype or the idea that you might accidentally outgrow it too quickly or suddenly "need" a high-end feature. Outgrowing equipment takes understanding, work and practice. By the time you're ready to move on, you'll have made good use of the entry-level and can sell it to offset the cost of newer equipment. While you're mastering the fundamentals, equipment scarcely matters.
If you want to spend or just want a certain feature, then go ahead. Just understand there's no correlation between price of equipment, or equipment itself, and the merits of your photography. With skill, a photographer can make a professional image with a D3100, but without skill a D4 in the hands of an amateur is little better than a Coolpix. All DSLRs, even the first generation ones, are capable of producing professional images in the hands of a good photographer, but today's entry-level camera is much improved over the high-end first generation models, so the entry level like a D3200 is a good place to start. Still look for used or refurbished models to save money. And if you save money on a camera, think of what you'd have left to invest in more important stuff like lenses and education, which can transfer as you advance.
Avoid falling for hype or the idea that you might accidentally outgrow it too quickly or suddenly "need" a high-end feature. Outgrowing equipment takes understanding, work and practice. By the time you're ready to move on, you'll have made good use of the entry-level and can sell it to offset the cost of newer equipment. While you're mastering the fundamentals, equipment scarcely matters.
If you want to spend or just want a certain feature, then go ahead. Just understand there's no correlation between price of equipment, or equipment itself, and the merits of your photography. With skill, a photographer can make a professional image with a D3100, but without skill a D4 in the hands of an amateur is little better than a Coolpix. All DSLRs, even the first generation ones, are capable of producing professional images in the hands of a good photographer, but today's entry-level camera is much improved over the high-end first generation models, so the entry level like a D3200 is a good place to start. Still look for used or refurbished models to save money. And if you save money on a camera, think of what you'd have left to invest in more important stuff like lenses and education, which can transfer as you advance.
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