Newbie Wanting His First DSLR Camera and Lens

Bourbon · May 8, 2011

Hello All,

As the title says I would like to purchase my first DSLR camera and lens. I own a Minolta Maxxum 7xi SLR with two lens which I no longer use.

What I want a DSLR for is to take HQ photos of my reef tank, primarily. And also just for everyday life.

So for the reef tank I'll probably need a macro lens, to quickly snap pics of fish and swift moving coral. For everyday life I will just need a _______ lens (help me out here).

I want to be able to take pictures like this:

And In total I would like to buy a camera body and lens (x1/x2) all together for $500 or less. So I will be buying off ebay. I would like a wider selection then besides Nikon and Canon, because I would never find a Canon w/ lens for less than $800 even on ebay (unless its broken).

Please help me out

Thanks

Bourbon · May 8, 2011

Wrong Section, sorry, moving it to Beginner Section.

480sparky · May 8, 2011

FYI: It's against forum rules to post a photo that isn't yours.

Also, it seems you have champagne taste and a beer budget.

kassad · May 8, 2011

What Minolta lens do you already have? Those will work work with the Sony Alpha series.

DSLR noob · May 11, 2011

Yes! Look at getting a Sony Aplha camera body only and you'll already have 2 lenses that work. Hope this helps you begin your search. And if you didn't take a photo, you have to post a link to it, not embed the picture in your post, forum rules. Best of luck with your photography.

violetbright · May 13, 2011

I'm still fairly noobie at photography myself

But at college we used the Nikon D40, which is a decent little entry level DSLR. You can pick them up second hand on Ebay or from a second hand retailer (you're in the US so I can't name any shops, being in the UK myself!). I got a Nikon D3100, which will set you back a bit more. The kit lens (usually an 18-55) that comes with the camera is worth having, and the only other lens I have is a 50mm 1.8 AF prime, and its a great little lens. Not sure about it's suitability for the kind of shots you are wanting to take, but as an 'all round' lens for somebody on a budget like myself, I can highly recommend it.

I've heard others say that it's more about the lens than the camera - and I'd agree. So get the best DSLR you can afford (whether that be new or second hand) and spend most of your cash on a nice shiny lens

Enjoy!

EPPhoto · May 30, 2011

Look on Craigslist and get yourself a Nikon D40 or anything up to a D80, that's in good shape. Someone stated earlier that the "kit" lens is good...he'll no, they're terrible lol. Pick up the 50mm f/1.8 for $120 and go shoot. You'll be setup great for a beginner.