Hello from NC

fedfireman · Oct 17, 2012

Hello all,

My name is Evan and I'm in Harnett County, originally from the Bay Area, CA. I have been a hobbyist photographer with very little actual knowledge for a while. I currently shoot an old canon AE-1 program but only have one lens and it broke. So... I am in the market for a DSLR to start shooting with. My wife is a model and my passion is for vehicles. My dream is to become a good car & model photographer but am also interested in urban landscape and street photography. I also love working with effects, filters, and doing graphic design work.

The camera I am currently looking at is the Pentax k-5. I love composing shots with my AE-1 and manual focus so I figure I can buy a cheap Pentax 35mm bundle with good manual lenses. But, I am still open to the big two if it would be wiser.

Anyways, I look forward to learning and hopefully one day having something to add.

terri · Oct 17, 2012

Welcome to TPF!

It sounds like between your lovely wife and your interest in vehicles you will have plenty of subject matter to get you going. Keep posting and asking questions - lots of talented folks on the forum who are only too happy to chat. Enjoy!

Mully · Oct 17, 2012

Welcome to TPF ...I too like in NC and moved here 15 years ago from So Cal. You will enjoy this site.

kathybrotherton · Oct 18, 2012

Hi and Welcome, I am also new, and look forward to getting to know you and everyone here. Good luck with your photography

Big Mike · Oct 19, 2012

Welcome aboard Evan.

Derrel · Oct 19, 2012

Welcome to TPF Evan! The d-slr world is filled with GOOD cameras that do not cost too awfully much money these days. Nikon D5100, Nikon D700, Canon T3i, Canon 60D...any one of those four oughtta be good, and get you well on your way. KNOWLEDGE is power. Get a book or two on photography techniques from the library.

fedfireman · Oct 19, 2012

Thank you all for your replies.

I am looking forward to learning from TPF and maybe eventually having something to teach.

Derrel- Do you think the T3i belongs in the same line-up as the rest of those cameras? I feel like the T3i would be the easiest to use but am afraid it will be limiting once I get going.

kundalini · Oct 19, 2012

Greetings from a native Tarheeler. I think we're a minority now.

The best advice I can offer is to go to a local camera shop and put the models of your short list in your hand to get a feel. Thom Hogan can off some good Nikon reviews and accessories.

Thom Hogan's Nikon Camera, DSLR, Lens, Flash, and Book site

fedfireman · Oct 19, 2012

were we once the majority? With so many beautiful things in this state it's hard to believe our numbers would dwindle. And yes, I do need to get into a shop for sure!

MonicaBH · Oct 19, 2012

Welcome! I'm one county over from you.

I'm a Nikon girl myself. I started with the D5000 and moved to the D90 within a few months. It's a great camera to learn on but it's not something I feel like I will outgrow any time soon.