I am desperate for a decent camera, and I know NOTHING about photography. At least, the more technical aspects. At the moment I use a point-and-shoot, a Canon Powershot, and it kind of stinks, frankly. I know it’s meant to be one of the best digital cameras for a reasonable price, but I want more, especially because I now have this blog and it’s embarrassing putting up less-than-excellent photos.
So, I want to upgrade to a DSLR. I borrowed the camera I use at work, which is a Nikon D80, so I could use it over the weekend and see how it does. It’s currently running for $850 on Amazon (eep), so I am curious if anyone has recommendations for a less expensive model?
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personally, i’m a canon girl all the way. i think they’re really the best for digital. however- nikon is the best for lenses, so if you think you might want to expand the range of lenses you own, Nikon is probably the way you go. the D70 is a great camera, to be honest, i don’t know of any HUGE differences between the 70 and the 80 and Amazon is showing D70s from like 400$.
i do prefer Canon, but it’s really a matter of personal preference and i know a lot of people like nikon better. i have a Canon 10D, which i’m getting around $250 on amazon. i’ve had it about 3, 3 1/2 years now so it’s definitely an older model but i love it. the 20D is a newer model and seems to be running about 350$.
maybe the best option would be to find a place that might let you try out a camera a week or something, even if you have to rent it? so you could get a good feel for the cameras and their interfaces and stuff. i hope that helps, sorry it was a little vague! i’m not as up to date on the new cameras as i should be, because i’m really happy with mine and not looking to upgrade. let me know if you have any other questions though and i can try to answer them!
For one, you can find a D80 way cheaper somewhere else on the way, next the D90 (the successor to the D80) is a way better camera. runs $900 (body only). handles ISO significantly better than the D80. And is just hands down a better camera in every way.
As you can tell, I am a Nikon user myself. I like the way they feel and the durability over Canon. But whether buying a canon or a nikon, both are great cameras.
Penny, you should take a look into getting pre-owned or refurbished SLRs or DLSRs. Phil and I did that before our trip to Europe for the summer and got a $500 Canon SLR something or other (honestly, I can’t remember the specs) that was worth a LOT more and a really good camera according to our photographer friends. We got it at B&H and they have really good warranties too. I believe they offer a similar program online, but I’m sure a good photo store around you does the same.
I appreciate the input on cameras. I am going to start saving up from eBay sales! I am hoping I can buy one by the summer.
Ah….so many things I desire, so little moola.
I currently only have a SLR (Nikon N65) but I am looking into saving for a DSLR. I am tired of regular digital cameras and really want a nice DSLR. One of my friends who is a photographer suggest the Nikon D80 when I asked him about cameras. He basically said that it is a good camera for someone who wants to take good pictures but is not looking to do anything professional. I’m sure with some searching you can find a less expensive D80 (and if you do let me know)