DSLR help

[Palmer Segner]

So here's the deal. I "need" a dslr for my commercial photo class but since I kind of don't care about digital cameras I don't know much about them. So basically I'd like to hear some opinions as to whether I should buy a newer low-end camera like a rebel or something or an older pro camera like a 1d. I really don't want to spend a ton of money either since I won't use it very often. Thanks.

 

[sreed2006]

On Craigslist in my area, there are always used DSLR cameras for sale for fairly cheap. Quite often, people buy the cheaper models from Canon and Nikon, and then move up later, leaving them with a camera they don't use anymore.

If Craigslist has a lot of listings in your area, that is an option. You also have the chance to check out the camera and lens before purchase.

 

[rover]

The best advise may be to ask your professor. What is his/her expectations and what equipment will satisfy that?

 

[lilmsmaggie]

The best advise may be to ask your professor. What is his/her expectations and what equipment will satisfy that?

I 2nd this advice as your first move. Also, check the postings around campus especially in the photography department for similar reasons as the first post mentions. Advanced students sell/trade older gear as they gain more experience and skill. There may be another student thinking about trading-up to a camera that offers more features, offers more lenses, or going from APS-C to Full frame, etc.

Also, look at KEH for used DSLR's. Sometimes their bargain cameras are in better condition than someone offering a similar camera on evilBay claims is in mint condition. You should be able to pick up a used Canon 30D, 40D, or even Canon 5D at a good price at KEH. www.keh.com

After exhausting these areas, if you still feel you want to go the "new" camera route, a Canon EOS Rebel T2i might be a starting point.

Another option would be a used Canon Powershot G9. This camera might fit the bill if your instructor doesn't require you to have a camera with interchangeable lenses.
I was able to do this in one digital photography class and I've seen other students do the same. It allows you to shoot in manual mode and RAW.

 

[Palmer Segner]

Thanks guys, I already know about keh and I'll talk to my teacher next week. What I'm trying to ask though is this: Would a raw file from an older dslr like a 1d, 10d or an older rebel even come close to a file from a newer low end camera? Not just resolution but things like dynamic range too? Oh and I don't really need great high iso performance because I'll mostly be shooting at around 1-400.

 

[lilmsmaggie]

Thanks guys, I already know about keh and I'll talk to my teacher next week. What I'm trying to ask though is this: Would a raw file from an older dslr like a 1d, 10d or an older rebel even come close to a file from a newer low end camera? Not just resolution but things like dynamic range too? Oh and I don't really need great high iso performance because I'll mostly be shooting at around 1-400.

10 megapixels seems to be the sweet spot.

Unlike the 1D, the 10D and Rebel's have a crop factor they are not full-frame cameras. They have APS-C sensors.

If you feel the need to go full-frame, a used 5D Mark II will more than meet your needs. It is not as large and bulky as the 1d.

The newer cameras offer better noise reduction and possibly a larger sensor, better ergonomics, and other features you may not want or need such as HD movies.

 

[Keith]

A Nikon D70 fits the bill perfectly IMO ... probably the best 6 megapixel DSLR ever made!

 

[al1966]

It is not worth getting any pre a Canon 400d (10mp) and a ok camera, 10mp will probably be the minimum. But as others have said ask at the college, though you may be better off asking the photo tech as they tend to be the most gear headed guys in the place.

 

[Brian Levy]

I agree used is probably the better way or at least the least cost. Also, ask classmates as some of them may have a spare they could loan you to shoot with for a small fee or free. As for used, I'd recommend the 4/3rds based cameras as they are excellent as a general rule or at least as good as many. The Olympus kit lenses are very good and as good and better than similar lenses from more expensive competitors. With the intorduction of the micro 4/3 rds format, a number of owners are flocking to the format and used Olympus dslrs are extremely reasonable pricewise. Also, the supply is quite good as many owners of the E series seemed to trade up as the newer models came out in huge numbers for some reasonn including me.

Do you really need a dslr? I can not imagine an instructor requiring a student to purchase one for a class. Could you get away with a bridge camera such as a Fujifilm with a fixed zoom lens that has many of the dslr abilities but not the interchangeable lenses. These also are readily available and can be had for nearly pocket change.

To some degree the question is answered by what is the largest print size you'll make. If not required to make larger than 8x10 you do not need the latest and greatest. Look at dpreview for reviews of potential candidates. While there may be better reviews out there, this is a good site to learn from and it has some interesting user forums that can help in pointing out weaknesses and strengths in a camera.

 

[Palmer Segner]

we wont be printing much and i dont think itll be anything bigger than 8x10. So like i said earlier its not resolution that im worried about, its dynamic range. (unless this really is a non issue) it doesnt have to be dslr but it has to be slr. Ill be using my rb67 as well.

After thinking about it more i dont think im going to bother buying a digital. Thanks for the help though guys

 

[Frontman]

As Keith said, the old D70 (or D70s) is probably the best thing you will find. On a computer screen the D70 cannot easily be outshone by newer and far more expensive cameras. A good non-SLR alternative would be something like the Lumix LX5, which offers a variety of operating modes, including full manual. After getting used to my LX5 I dumped my D300.

 

[al1966]

we wont be printing much and i dont think itll be anything bigger than 8x10. So like i said earlier its not resolution that im worried about, its dynamic range. (unless this really is a non issue) it doesnt have to be dslr but it has to be slr. Ill be using my rb67 as well.

After thinking about it more i dont think im going to bother buying a digital. Thanks for the help though guys

Dynamic Range; Fuji S3 the S5 has the same sensor but will cost more and has a stronger AA filter, I miss mine.

 

[gavinlg]

If you can spend a little and want something that will last, look at the Canon 5d - the original version. it's everything you need and nothing you don't, solid and reliable, and still has some of the best IQ in the business.

 

[Neare]

If it's a class you can get away with anything. 6mp is more than enough to work with in reality. I'd say go with something cheap, but whatever floats your boat and your wallet is fine.

The camera you use is not what defines your skill as a photographer, nor does it make a photo 'great'.

 

[keytarjunkie]

<$500: used Nikon D50 or D70 with 18-70 lens

For $500 - used Nikon D80 with 18-70 lens and money in your pocket; new Nikon D3000 with kit lens

For $750 - used Nikon D200 with 18-70 lens

For $1000 - used Canon 5D with a beater lens or a 50/1.8; Nikon D90 with 18-105VR and money in your pocket

You can't go wrong, you might even enjoy it 😱

 

[LKeithR]

Earlier Pentax DSLRs go pretty cheap nowadays. Excellent IQ and the range of good older lenses that will mount on them is outstanding. You'll get a lot of bang for your buck and the ergonomics of the Pentax cameras can't be beat...

 

[delft]

Two more things to concider:
- Some (cheaper) dslr's have REALLY small viewfinders; like looking through a tunnel. Try before you buy.
- Think about the lens(es) you might want to use; quality, price, speed...
Since I don't know my way in Nikon-land, I can only tell you that a used 5D is a very nice camera and a used 20D is also quite capable. I think the rebel-types have a viewfinder that is too small.

Enjoy your photo-class,

Dirk

 

[peter_n]

Dynamic Range; Fuji S3 the S5 has the same sensor but will cost more and has a stronger AA filter, I miss mine.

Exactly. The S3 is the less expensive option, the S5 is a D200 with the Fuji sensor and is built like a brick. In case you need something like this in the future both will give you outstanding dynamic range.

 

[sojournerphoto]

I wrote a long reply explaining that:

- a 5D mark 1 is the best second hand dslr you can buy. It will be better in most ways than any crop sensor camera and any pro model up to (and some would say including) the 1Ds2.

- A bridge camera is probably a bad idea for a commercial photography class. You need better raw files from a bigger sensor.

- If it's really commercial don't muck about with film until you have a client who will pay you for it. You need to earn enough to eat.

Mike

 

[peter_n]

How about the S2?

I've not used an S2 but talking with people who have it's a good camera. Very sharp and great for architecture and landscapes. Later models were better for people and have the film modes whereas the S2 really gives you one look, but for the OP it would be a great choice and is inexpensive. I bought my S5 a couple years ago and still have only 2500 clicks on it as I only use it for family snaps and such. Great camera though. Bulletproof. 🙂