Suggestions... First DLSR

[njacq51]

Hi everyone,
Me and my fiance are in the market for our first DSLR, we do have a little experience using them. After doing hours of research I am still as undecided on which camera to get as when I first began looking. We mainly will be using the camera for wildlife, landscapes, and flowers... so basically anything outdoors. We won't be using the video very often so that is not a major factor in our decision. We've narrowed it down to
Sony A55 Cannon T21 and the Nikon 3100 or 5100
Our budget is $900-$1000

Can anyone please share their experience with any of the cameras and help guide us to making our first purchase.

Thanks for any feedback.

 

[chaosrealm93]

i would say Nikon D5100. it offers more features than the 3100 and nikon preforms a bit better in low light.

 

[Cedar]

Honestly my advice has always been go to a camera shop, and try them out yourself. My first DSLR that I owned was a d40, and although I loved that camera, it was not right for me. I got my hands on a Canon xsi and I was hooked on Canon's interface and glass every since. It's all perspective. There are better camera with more features, but in the end it's how it feels. Start with an entry level Nikon, Pentax, or Canon, stock up on your glass (that is where your money should be going) and learn everything you can until you can't learn any more about that body, then move up. Think of it as a leveling system.

I hope this somewhat helped. Let me know if you have any questions.

 

[analog.universe]

Totally agree with going to a store and playing with some. The main difference between canon and nikon at that level is the interface, I don't know much about sony... Unless you have very specific technical requirements, the right camera for you is the one you like to use!

 

[zbo2408]

Also google reviews and comparisons of the models you are interested in ...3 years ago I was interested in either a Canon or Nikon and all the reviews I could find the canon I was interested in was superior to the Nikon I was interested in ... that made my decision ... there are TONS of reviews out there with sample photos

 

[AUG19]

I agree with Cedar and A.U, the Nikon's better ISO performance at higher sensitivities accepted, the differences between these cameras are very minimal for the wants and needs of most leisure users. Handling them in a store will probably be the deciding factor. All three systems have lots of lens choices on the used market too. (Sony uses Konica Minolta's legacy A-type mount).

 

[mrpink]

With that budget, make life easy with a D90. You will have plenty of room to grow in that body. The others will leave you wanting more in a short period of time (I speak from experience.)




p!nK

 

[njacq51]

Thanks every one for the replies, I took your advice and went to a shop to check them out. After talking with the guys at the store I am pretty sure I am going with the Nikon 3100. It has all the features I am looking for and being lower in price it will leave me with extra cash to buy a second lens, extra battery, PS Elements and other accessories.
Thanks again for the advice!

 

[Cedar]

You are very welcome! I'm glad you chose one. Happy shooting!

 

[Patrice]

I'd like to shake the OP's hand.

Did a bit of research first. Came to the members and politely asked for advice and indicated his requirements and a budget. Followed up on his own. Made a choice. Reported back and said thank you.

Goes to show that adult behavior is still being practiced in some circles.