Best semi pro DSLR to buy?
I'm looking to buy a new DSLR camera. I want to know what is the best buy for my money. I don't want to spend more than $500 for a new camera. I would like to stick with Canon since I have all the assesories… But if you have any input on a Nikon that would be a better camera let me know.
The best DSLR in its class is the Pentax K-50, but you'd be amazed how few people have heard of the oldest SLR manufacturer in Japan.
I don't know what you mean by, "Accessories," but if you're talking about lenses and a flashgun, then sticking with Canon makes sense.
If you already own a working Canon DSLR, you don't need a new camera.
If you want Canon, your can still get the T5i for $599.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/...l_t5i.html
Oh, but that's $99 too much!
Spend it. If you cheap out you will get a bottom model without STM lens, chromatic aberration correction, hybrid live view autofocus system, articulating LCD, or external microphone outlet. Don't waste money on the model that lacks what you need when you discover why you need it.
When you ask for a "semi-pro" digital SLR, you are talking about a camera whose body costs in excess of $1,000 (no lens). These are the cameras a professional photographer may use as their backup to their pro level cameras ($3,500 to $6,500)
That list would include the Nikon D7200, D610, Canon 80D, 6D and Pentax K-500
At your budget, you are looking at an entry level camera like the Nikon D3300, D5200, Canon T6, T6i (these two camera exceed you $500 budget but are close enough) or Pentax D-50. All those cameras come with a 18-55 mm lens
No one can know what's the better camera for you because you haven't mentioned what type of work you want to do. If you're heavily into sports or wildlife, or if you're into landscapes, each one will require a different set of features & specifications.
Without question, the best-for-your-buck camera is the Pentax. Their entry-level K50 and advanced K-3 II have features that are either not found on any Canon or Nikon. Pentax is the only brand of DSLR that has in-body image stabilization. This allows you to use any lens and get stabilized stills or videos. Throw on a fast prime like a 50mm f/1.8, and you've got a super-low-light kit that will allow you take hand-held shots at night.
The downside to Pentax right now is that they don't have the lens selection of Canon or Nikon. So make sure that the glass you need is available by whichever brand you go with.
The Canon 80D (just released) is among the best APS-C options, as are any of the Nikon D7xxx series. The Pentax K-1 (to be release April 28th), Canon 6D and Nikon's D610 and D750 are all excellent full-frame cameras.
If you can afford a full-frame body and lens setup get it. You'll get 2.5x less noise than any APS-C format camera. If you go with either Canon or Nikon, you will have more lenses to choose from, especially in the pro-level and ultra-wide angle types of lenses. Pentax is just now coming out with their first full-frame DSLR, so their lens offerings are few, but they do have a series of f/2.8 pro ultra-wide, standard, and telephoto lenses. If that's all you need, plus a few primes, then the Pentax K-1 should be on your list.
To review features, go here: http://www.dpreview.com/...f=mainmenu
To find out which lenses are sharpest, go to photozone.de and choose the brand and format that you're interested in. Don't compare APS-C results with those using full-frame cameras.
I consider cameras such as the Nikon D3200/D3300 and Canon T5i/T6i very capable "semi-pro" cameras because they include features for beginners as well as more advanced features normally seen on professional cameras. Once you get past the beginner stage, you'll have access to full manual controls and options such that the camera can be used in the same way as a more expensive professional camera -- with essentially the same quality photo results.
It's either a dSLR or not. There's no semi-dSLR.
Pro refers to the photographer. The camera is only a tool. It does not matter what tool a pro uses as long as he gets paid.
Semi-pro is self-contradictory. Once you get paid, you turn pro. Before that you're not.
The most popular BRIDGE cameras are from Fujifilm. They're cheap and they're easy to use. Just take very good care of them since they break easily. If you want the same ease of use but last longer, see Sony. If you want to add great optics to that list, try to hunt down a Pentax X-series. If you are just after great optics and don't mind the cumbersome control layout, get Lumix.