My first DSLR

[giulio1993]

Hi!
I've read several topic about what should be the first camera and I figured out that both Nikon D3100 and Canon 550D would be a good choise, though 550D it's maybe a bit better if you don't mind about videos and more expensive.

I'd like to ask you some questions:

1- Are the type of objective of nikon and canon the same? What would happen if I ever decise to switch from Nikon to Canon or to another camera body? Will I still be able to use my objective?

2- What about the sensor cleaning system?

3- In some review I read that D3100 is very user-friendly, is It still adjustable and completly manual (if desidered)? Could that affect my learning process?

4- If I decide to get the nikon, should I get that with the VR objective or the normal one?

5- Provided a 600$ budget what do you think you'd do? (Please, consider also other DSLR, Canon could be a bit expensive for me)

Thank you very much for your attention

 

[bigtwinky]

1- Are the type of objective of nikon and canon the same? What would happen if I ever decise to switch from Nikon to Canon or to another camera body? Will I still be able to use my objective?

Both manufacturers offer similar lenses, but they aren't compatible with each other. If you buy a Canon body, you need Canon lenses. Same with Nikon. There are third party manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron and Tokina that make lenses as well for Canon, Nikon, Sony,... however make sure you buy the lens that fits your camera.

2- What about the sensor cleaning system?

Nice to have. Note that its not a full sensor cleaning but a dust removal.

3- In some review I read that D3100 is very user-friendly, is It still adjustable and completly manual (if desidered)? Could that affect my learning process?

I dont own one but i would think that the D3100, just as the 550D, have automatic and full manual settings. You can start with one and move to the other. Or start straight with the manual or semi manual modes

4- If I decide to get the nikon, should I get that with the VR objective or the normal one?

For longer lenses, I would (something over 100mm). For shorter lenses, its a nice to have.

5- Provided a 600$ budget what do you think you'd do? (Please, consider also other DSLR, Canon could be a bit expensive for me)

Save more money.

 

[giulio1993]

Many thanks for the answer!

5- Provided a 600$ budget what do you think you'd do? (Please, consider also other DSLR, Canon could be a bit expensive for me)

Save more money.

That's because you probably know that photography is what you like to do. I'm just starting and I woulnd't like to buy a 1000$ camera that i stop using in some month

About tha objectives: ... therefore is a big issue, deciding which manifacture I'll use... I should be sure before buying the camera and then the objectives

Thanks!

 

[enzodm]

That's because you probably know that photography is what you like to do. I'm just starting and I woulnd't like to buy a 1000$ camera that i stop using in some month

About tha objectives: ... therefore is a big issue, deciding which manifacture I'll use... I should be sure before buying the camera and then the objectives

Thanks!

any dSLR is good (at the beginning), any entry-level camera will be good for learning. Nikon and Canon (and not only) make both good cameras, so if you start with one of them, you will not be unsatisfied. Go in a shop, try both and even others, and see which one fits best in your hands. Both are sold with some equivalent kit lens good for learning. I think both are over $600. I would look for a Canon 500D, being substituted by 550D you may find it at good prices.
Regarding objectives, usually those specifically made for APS-C bodies cannot be used on full frame, so in any case what you are going to buy now will not be adequate for a major step like going full frame. On the other side, you could buy full frame lenses for you entry-level camera, but you would spend much, much more.

 

[bigtwinky]

Both Nikon and Canon make exceptional gear at the entry level AND the professional level. Don't fret too much over them. Head to a store and hold both cameras and see which one is more comfortable. Then look at the price, then purchase.

I started 2 years ago with:
Canon XSI + 20-55 + 55-200 (older lenses)
Within a year, I bought a 50 1.8, Tamron 28-75 and Canon 10-22.

So you can start with something cheaper and entry level and move on up. Specially when it comes to bodies. But when it comes to lenses, its worth putting down the extra cash on something nice. Not only will you enjoy it more, but it will often have a higher resale value

 

[giulio1993]

thank you for the answers!

I read that nikon d3100 doesn't support RAW format, but only NEF, that's a compressed RAW... and it causes troubles with photoshop...
Should I get something different, maybe like nikon d5000?

 

[giulio1993]

and what about SONY DSLR-A390L? It seems really good and cheaper comparing it to D3100

 

[guitar guy]

If you are willing to take the risk, check Craigslist. I scored a practically unused Nikon D3000 kit for $300.

 

[heyjoe]

You may want to research that raw/nef stuff some more.

 

[guitar guy]

thank you for the answers!

I read that nikon d3100 doesn't support RAW format, but only NEF, that's a compressed RAW... and it causes troubles with photoshop...
Should I get something different, maybe like nikon d5000?

I could be wrong, but I believe NEF is just the Nikon name for RAW?

 

[bigtwinky]

NEF is the extension for the RAW file for Nikon
CR2 is the extension for the RAW file for Canon

They are both RAW files

 

[CCericola]

I'm partial to Canon only because I like their glass better. Some smaller camera shops will let you rent them to test them out. What you buy depends on what you like and your budget.

 

[enzodm]

and what about SONY DSLR-A390L? It seems really good and cheaper comparing it to D3100

When I bought my camera, after the handling test, I was undecided between the Canon I actually bought and a Sony. Also Pentax makes good cameras, by the way. However, if you think at the future too, Canon or Nikon are a more conservative investment, because they are the market leaders, with lot of lenses, etc (more conservative, not speaking of quality in particular at this level).

 

[giulio1993]

thanks for the answers!
So no problem with the formats!

Another question that came out: Will my old 35mm film reflex lenses still work (bayonette)?

 

[giulio1993]

uh... sorry I forgot it! Which kit is best to buy? The 18-55mm or the 18-105mm?
Is the 18-105 absolutely better than 18-55 or the 18-55 is better in some situations? I mean, if i had the 18-105 would be pointless buy a 18-55?
I'd like to be sure expecially about the lenses because seem to be the most expensive part of the equipements and I'm not going to spend other money after the camera kit. :lmao:
Thanks!