A good dslr for a beginner?
I'm getting a camera for christmas, just i'm not sure which one to get. I would like an entry level dslr, not a pro one yet. I'm no expert just more of a beginer needing more practice. I've been told by friends to get a nikon or canon but i'd like some other opinions. I'd mainly be using it for nature and people portraits and in the future some macro. Also if i should buy any additional lenses that would be of use to me or just to stick with a kit for now. Cost isn't a worry right now so i'm open for anything. I've been told to get a D3100 and i've checked it out but i'm not sure if i'd be better with a more recent version or not. So any help is appreciated.
The d3100 is a current camera in Nikon's lineup. It's nikon's very base entry level camera.
If price isn't a big concern I'd upgrade that to the D5100. THere are quite a few improvements between the two. The D5100 is still entry level, but has better handling, better video, better image quality…
Canon's very base entry level right now is the T3. If possible I'd upgrade from that to the T2i at least. Same scenario: Better, better, better.
Canon are the leading two in the DSLR field right now. Neither is any better than the other one, so that doesn't much matter. One will be right for you and one won't. Look at the features and specs for each one and decide which one has what you want and need. Then go to a store and hold and play with each one.
As for lenses start with the kit lens and begin learning. If you purchase a bunch of lenses now before you know what you are doing the chances are you will purchase something you wouldn't have purchased had you any knowledge. That's a waste of money.
If you do purchase anything make it the 50mm f/1.8 For it's price the lens is amazing. It will give you a taste of what a good lens looks like in the images; what a prime lens is like; low light ability; and lastly it will make learning how to use the settings on your camera easier because it is a fixed aperture that never changes. The kit lens changes as you zoom.
If you purchase a Nikon D5100 or D3100 you will need to purchase the AF-s version of this lens. It's the more expensive one. The D3100 and D5100 do not have an auto focus motor in the body. You have to buy the more expensive lenses for them or you will not have auto focus.
Also make sure you purchase the Magic Lantern Guide for your camera. The manual that comes with it will tell you where everything is, but it does not do any explaining of the features, gizmo's and gadgets. The Magic Lantern will explain every thing in detail.
Canon and Nikon are the best brands on the planet. I happen to be a Canon guy so I always recommend what I own and therefore know.
In the Rebel line I'd suggest the t1i (which I own).It's very nice for stills and video. About $650 at retail.
The Canon EOS Rebel XS would be a great camera for a beginner
it has all the features a beginner needs to get started and more
this would be a great buy
best of luck