What's the biggest bang for the buck DSLR camera?
ALRIGHT…
I've done my research, looked through different lens types, where to buy, what the differences are between certain upgraded models. Before we spend the money, my dad wants to know ultimately pound for pound, ounce for ounce what is THE best DSLR camera to buy that is absolutely going to be worth every penny?
Things I'm looking for… I want a camera that can shoot great pictures, but also capture video. I like that the Nikon D5100 has the flip out view finder. That Rocks! However, I'm also looking for a camera that comes with an extra zoom lens (Is this really important to have or am I just crazy?) I feel like I like being able to get closer to my subjects and capture a shallow depth of field from further away, etc. Plus, D5100 is about 800 alone just for the body.
My other option is D3100, which doesn't have a flip out screen, but it cost just about the same as the D5100 would but includes memory card, and bag.http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Nikon+D3100+14.2MP+Digital+SLR+Camera%2C+Bag%2C+8GB+Memory+Card%2C+Extra+55-300mm+Lens/9999156300050033.p?id=pcmprd156200050033&skuId=9999156300050033&st=Nikon%20D3100&lp=6&cp=1
D5100 - http://www.bestbuy.com/...&lp=7&cp=1
So which do I get?
Added (1). Also, if you have cheaper suggestions, they are most certainly welcome!
Rule in photography: You get what you pay for.
You have compared the Nikon D3100 and D5100 based on the screen and accessories. You are on the right track!
I won't say that is wrong. But a camera is much more. The sensor and auto-focus plays an important part too. You have to look for how many focus points it has. The pitch on the sensor. The noise performance in low-light conditions. The continuous shooting modes, etc… Etc…
I did a lot of research on cameras before I bought mine. I'm an electrical engineer so I also knew what is actually happening inside the camera from an engineer's point of view. Transistors, inter-pixel interferences, focus issues, algorithm speeds and stuff like that.
I strongly support that Nikon D5100 is worth every penny. D3100 is good but lags behind in few features. I use a Nikon D7000.It is awesome and Nikon's fastest selling DSLR ever! However, D5100 has the highest value-for-money.
Don't worry too much about a memory card. It is like $30 or so. An 8GB kingston would do good. Another $26 for a Lowepro camera bag.
Even in my other posts, I have strongly recommended Nikon D5100. You can skip the kit lens if you don't like it and buy a better zoom lens of your liking.
My Lenses:
On my Nikon D7000, I use:
1. Nikon 35mm f/1.8G (Awesome all-rounder and very fast - love it!)
http://www.amazon.com/...B001S2PPT0
2. Nikon 55-200mm f/4-5.6
http://www.amazon.com/...000O161X0/
Planning to buy:
1. Nikon 10-24mm ultra-wide
http://www.adorama.com/...4AFSU.html
Cheaper suggestions:
Compare the features Sony Alpha a580 to the Nikon D5100 and Nikon D7000!
… And then compare their prices.
These days it is the lenses that are the investment and the camera body is more 'consumable'
If you like Nikon then D5100 with flip out LCD would habe plenty to recommend it. Flip out LCDs allow gimmicky shots but also let you engage with the people better if you're using a remote and not hiding behind a big black camera on a tripod.
Just remember that if you get a DSLR with the anti-shake/VR mechanism built in the camera body (Sony, Pentax) then EVERY lens will have VR and be a lot cheaper to buy than those in which it has to be incorporated every time.
Consider a Tamron 18-270 as your walk-about lens.