Would love some buying advice

[WestonP]

Howdy

I don't know much about nice cameras since I've been dealing with cheap compacts all of my life but I need one now and would appreciate some advice.

What I'll primarily use it for:

1) I need to scan art work using a camera and copy stand, everything from 8.5 x 11" sketches to 20 x 30" posters.

2) I'll need to photograph interesting textures up close

3) My wife is a dancer and I'd love to capture some of her moves without blur.​

My budget: Around $1,200 for the camera. Obviously more for an additional lens if it's needed.

Thanks

 

[jrizal]

All my recommendations will be the popular entry level models categorized by budget

For around $700

Canon T2i w/ 18-55mm kit lens and 55-250 mm lens bag with video bonus (rule out the T3)
Nikon D3100 w/ 18-55mm kit lens and 70-200 mm lens bag with video bonus

For around $900

Canon T3i w/ 18-55mm kit lens and 70-250 mm lens bag with video bonus
Nikon D5100 w/ 18-55mm kit lens and 70-200 mm lens bag with video bonus

For around $1200

Canon 60D w/ 18-135mm or 18-200mm at Costco
Nikon D7000 w/ 18-105mm but at sale price (often higher but arguably the best in the lot)

You may also want to consider diopter filters for close-up shots (macro photography) and a prime lens (35mm F1.8 at $200 for Nikon and 50mm F1.8 at $120 for Canon)

I ruled out the Canon T4i and Nikon D3200 as they are not bang for the buck in spite of them being good cameras. Also a used Nikon D90 is still highly recommended.

 

[KmH]

For the art work and textures you'll also need lighting. Photographic lighting is a lot like shooting pool, it's all about the angles.
Here is a good book that covers the lighting fundamentals you will need to know:
Light Science and Magic, Fourth Edition: An Introduction to Photographic Lighting

 

[jrizal]

My budget: Around $1,200 for the camera. Obviously more for an additional lens if it's needed.

Thanks

Factor in a decent speedlight $275 for Canon (480EX) or $330 for Nikon (SB-700), or a basic no-frills ttl flash for around $50 to get started at least in bounce photography if budget is already a concern.

The book mentioned by KMH is a good one if you want to be serious in lighting. Also, http://www.strobist.blogspot.com/ is also a good resource.

 

[WestonP]

Canon 60D w/ 18-135mm or 18-200mm at Costco
Nikon D7000 w/ 18-105mm but at sale price (often higher but arguably the best in the lot)

I appreciate the recommendations though I am having trouble deciding between the two. I checked them out today and prefer the D700, it feels more durable and is weather proofed which is a bonus for me because I love hiking in the mountains every summer and would certainly take this camera with me. Only thing holding me back is the flip out screen on the 60D, it seems vital for use on a copy stand.

Those lighting resources look great as well.

 

[KmH]

The D7000 is not weather proof, and though it has weather seals is only weather resistant.

 

[jrizal]

Please do not confuse weather proof and weather resistant the former more synonymous with being waterproof and the latter being able to handle a light drizzle. Rain sheets and underwater housings are available. Do note the housings are expensive.

 

[KmH]

But Rain Sleeves aren't - Op/Tech 18" SLR Rainsleeve for Digital & Film Cameras with Lenses up to 7" Diameter, 18" Long

 

[WestonP]

Does Plastic vs Magnesium Alloy effect the durability much?

Also, I noticed the Pentax K-30 is in my price range. Is Pentax on the same level as Canon and Nikon?

 

[WestonP]

Well I let myself go off subject, the weather sealing and durability are only secondary issues. I'll primarily be using this in my studio, safe and sound.

The situation I am in now after visiting several camera stores and forums is that I want the Nikon D7000, I can afford it and I appreciate it's quality, feel and capability. What holds me back is when working with a copy stand and tripod, I feel like the articulating LCD on the Canon 60D is going to be a must. How vital of a feature do you all think that will be? Should I let it be the deciding factor?

 

[nmasters]

The Nikon D5100 has the same exact sensor as the D7000, which means roughly the same quality . The D5100 has an articulating screen that can be very useful in your case. The only compromise would be that the D7000 has a broader range of features, like more focusing points.

If I were you, I'd get the cheaper D5100, and spend the rest on some really nice glass.

 

[skieur]

But Rain Sleeves aren't - Op/Tech 18" SLR Rainsleeve for Digital & Film Cameras with Lenses up to 7" Diameter, 18" Long

The only problem with rainsleeves is that you still get condensation inside the sleeve making it difficult to read/adjust settings or compose through the viewfinder.

skieur