Nikon SLR Cameras

Canon G15 vs Nikon D3200 15-55mm kit for Jewelry Macro?

Anthony N
Anthony N

Thanks in advance to those who help with answering this question. First of all, I'm a beginner when it comes to photography, but I'm a fast learner. I'm looking for a $600 or less camera for macro shooting of Tungsten Rings and shiny reflective stainless steel rings. I have read that the Canon G15 does great in the macro department. But for $100 more a Nikon D3200 with 15-55mm VR len kit is so yummie. I have seen many good macro photo with the 15-55mm lens on D3200, but many still recommend a true macro lens (another $300 min) for D3200.
Can the D3200 with 15-55mm len still beat G15 for macro shots? Please give input as soon as possible.

Judas
Judas

The Nikon D3200 is a great camera, but the 18-55mm lens is disappointing for macro, and you would probably be better off with the G15 unless you can afford to buy an additional macro lens to go with the D3200. Nikon do several, and the cheapest one is the Micro NIkkor 40mm. They also sell a 60mm, 85mm and 105mm, getting more expensive each time. These are all great lenses.

In summary: if you can afford the macro lens too, get the D3200. If not, get the G15.

If you want to shoot macro, regardless of the camera, you will also need some kind of bright light. Flashes can be expensive and difficult to use but you can use any light source so long as you can position it. I bought a pair of JANSJO lamps from Ikea. They are cheap and convenient, and you can position them wherever you need - usually one on each side of your subject.