older dslr?

[lucid.]

hey guys, first post here, what up
im not exactly brand new to photography, but dont have that much experience. I know a lot more about theory and more how to shoot than actual cameras. I would like some advise on what type of camera to buy. my budget is under 400 for the body alone(i accept the fact im going to have to buy used/refurb/older models.)
I have a decent film background and thats why I want to purchase a dslr. This is where I need some advise. I have no idea what track to go from here. Should I get an older model dslr? what are some good models? I will probably split photography and film on it 50/50. Any input or help would be extremely appreciated and I will give anything a look. Thanks in advance

 

[Light Artisan]

Do you have a film camera now? Bodies such as the Nikon can use older film lenses as well, just a thought. If not, you could pick up a D50 or D70 for cheap - even a D80, that would be a really good start actually. I saw one on the local Craigslist for $375 tonight, almost wanted to buy it myself.

 

[lucid.]

I don't anymore, I had to sell. Thanks for the reply though, ill definetely look into those. Also your sig is great..so true

 

[lucid.]

also, are bodies like the d50 out of date? of can i still use lenses that are coming out on it?

 

[Light Artisan]

You can still use the new lenses on it... out of date? Kind of... there's been a lot of improvements over the years.

That said, a lot of people upgrade but still keep their D50/D70 bodies because they enjoy them so much.

 

[djacobox372]

Nikon d80 would be my recommendation, they can be had for around $350 on ebay.

You can even get a better deal if u buy one with a grip, the nikon brand vertical grips sell used 100 or more, because they fit the d90 as well. Resell the grip and the d80 only cost $300

 

[djacobox372]

also, are bodies like the d50 out of date? of can i still use lenses that are coming out on it?

With nikon you can use just about any lens made in the last 40 years on any body!

Try to make sure u buy a body with an af motor if u want autofocus with older "af" lenses.

 

[djacobox372]

You can still use the new lenses on it... out of date? Kind of... there's been a lot of improvements over the years.

That said, a lot of people upgrade but still keep their D50/D70 bodies because they enjoy them so much.

The one thing that hasn't really improved much is optics, newer lenses might focus faster, but prime lenses from 50 years ago are just as sharp; as are zooms from 10 years ago.

 

[RyanLilly]

If you go the Canon route, a 20D can be had for $250-300, that what I am currently using, and they still hold their own pretty well. Skip the 30D, its just a 20D with a bigger but crappier screen, it does have a real spot meter though.

Either way, Keh.com has a continuous flow of used inventory, their prices very quite a bit on the same item, but usually there are some very good deals, and their bargain grade(BGN) rating, is what I would call good, if not very good condition.

Always check craigslist, often people just sell things without ever reserching the going price for an item, and some great deals can be had.

 

[scotch59]

I love my D40! Cheap, lightweight and simple, yet very functional, but one draw back... no AF motor built in, so lenses are more limited unless your ok manually focusing every time, but if im not mistaken the d80 and D50 have a built in Af motor, so maybe i would recommend those instead