DSLR camera for a beginner?
I'm planning on purchasing my first dslr camera before christmas.read some reviews and got opinions from friends and i've narrowed my options to two:
Canon 600D or the Nikon D5100
I've went to the shop to try both but honestly i'm clueless as to what i should look out for. Suggestions? Like i said i don't have much knowledge in this field but i'm looking for something that is user friendly for a beginner.
NIKON D5100. Take tutorials, learn from friends, go on a course
As with all cameras you learn the controls and really even if you buy the canon there's no difference in how much knowledge you have. You learn.
If you get this one, it has an awesome screen
Have fun
Handle the cameras. See which grip feels right. See which is easier to:
- change an AF focus point
- set iso,
- set shutter speed
- set aperture
- change metering method
Those are the most common actions you'll perform
It really doesn't matter which you get - they are both as good as each other.
Friend of mine had similar dilemma - Canon or Nikon? Same price, almost identical spec. In the end he bought the Nikon - why? Because he thougt the little red flash under the shutter release looked really stylish. He still uses Nikon and is still delighted with it.
When I was making the choice I went Canon because my son had just upgraded from a Canon 50mm F/1.8 to a 50mm F/1.4 and said I could have the F/1.8 if I wanted it. Also has a couple of very nice L series lenses that I can borrow. I'm delighted with my Canon.
I've got the 600D and it's a great camera… Too many options for a beginner perhaps, but you've got a lot to try out and the "film" is free once you've got the SD card.
Both manufacturers make a wide variety of lenses and you should be happy with either.
Remember that a good camera doesn't make a good photographer. You've still got to learn about the effects of using different shutter speeds, apertures, metering, exposure compensation, how light changes during the day, when's the best time to take photos (midday can create harsh photos because of the direct light from above, for example)
And then you've got to edit the photos in a computer which is a whole other ball game.
Both are pretty much the same but i'd say the Canon is a little better. It has a higher true resolution, has a built-in focus motor, higher resolution screen and larger viewfinder. Read this review to aid in your decision:
http://www.amazon.com/...DCW73QB03/
You can find yourself some great deals for it here:
http://www.amazon.com/...004J3V90Y/
Check out the specs and details of the D5100 to compare the two:
These two are so similar it won't even matter. I recommend you to buy online for cheaper prices and better support.
The D5100 has no ISO button on the body, which is a big no for me. But it has 2 more AF points, which is nice. Just order one and shoot, all DSLRs have the same quality.
Here's a DSLR Buying Guide - http://www.the-dslr-photographer.com/2009/11/which-dslr-to-buy/