Best DSLR Camera

[AraB.]

Hello,

I am new to DSLRs, but I want to buy one cause I love its functions that Digital Cameras Lack.

My budget is less than $1000 and it will be more perfect if less than $600-800.
Which brand do you recommend and which brand has cheap lenses?

I came across Nikon D3200 and Canon T3i, but if any new suggestions I would be happy!

Thank You,
Ara

 

[JohnnyRebel]

The D3200 has some great reviews and a super new sensor.

However, starting out you should start cheap. For under $800 get everything you'll need for a long time...

Go to Adorama and get the refurbished D3100 w/ 18-55 VR kit lens.
http://www.adorama.com/INKD3100KR.html

the 55-200 VR lens - refurbished
http://www.adorama.com/NK55200VRR.html

the SB-400 flash - refurbished
http://www.adorama.com/NKSB400AFR.html

35mm f/1.8 prime lens
http://www.adorama.com/NK3518U.html

Join Adorama VIP for free, buy the extended warranty benefit for a one-time $7.95 and add one more year warranty to everything you ever purchase from Adorama.

 

[iGas]

IMHO, the best DSLR is one that is comfortable in your hand, and one that is simple to use.

 

[Kanalua]

Used T2i/Kit 18-55mm lens, Canon 50 mm f/1.8, Canon 55-250mm telephoto.

Really, best DSLR is the one you use. Don't be these guys: http://youtu.be/gW9alBidf3w?hd=1

 

[elitejp]

Definitely go with Nikon. Im a canon shooter and already have canon glass but recently nikon has been giving out better cameras for better prices. The lens selection is about equal while canon has a slight lead and shooting off camera flash with nikon is cheaper and simpler. But nikon really has been killing canon with their sony furnished sensors. Absolutely amazing. If you can afford a used full frame camera then do it. But a crop sensor wont really be too much different. As for lenses, primes will give you the best look but I would wait to first learn what focal length you like shooting at before just recommending a prime lens out of the blue. The sigma and tamron 17-50 vc or whatever its called are both great lenses for a crop camera.

 

[Throckmorton]

Sony because they have in camera stabilization and SLT. Also the zoom ring turns clockwise. Canon zoom is backwards

 

[Throckmorton]

Definitely go with Nikon. Im a canon shooter and already have canon glass but recently nikon has been giving out better cameras for better prices. The lens selection is about equal while canon has a slight lead and shooting off camera flash with nikon is cheaper and simpler. But nikon really has been killing canon with their sony furnished sensors. Absolutely amazing. If you can afford a used full frame camera then do it. But a crop sensor wont really be too much different. As for lenses, primes will give you the best look but I would wait to first learn what focal length you like shooting at before just recommending a prime lens out of the blue. The sigma and tamron 17-50 vc or whatever its called are both great lenses for a crop camera.

I just returned a Tamron 17-50 (no VC because it's for Sony) because images were so soft. I couldn't photograph trees against a blue sky because of the blue bleed.

 

[JohnnyRebel]

I just returned a Tamron 17-50 (no VC because it's for Sony) because images were so soft. I couldn't photograph trees against a blue sky because of the blue bleed.

I bought the Tam 17-50 (no VC) for the D7000 and had soft focus. Sent in to Tamron (who guarantees less than 3 days to service lenses) and it returned very sharp.

If you buy Tamron, just plan on sending it in for calibration as part of the process.

JR

 

[Throckmorton]

I bought the Tam 17-50 (no VC) for the D7000 and had soft focus. Sent in to Tamron (who guarantees less than 3 days to service lenses) and it returned very sharp.

If you buy Tamron, just plan on sending it in for calibration as part of the process.

JR

Maybe they should set them up right before sending them out from the factory then

 

[JohnnyRebel]

Maybe they should set them up right before sending them out from the factory then

They should, but they continue to have QA issues. However, when I considered price, their outstanding service (especially compared to Nikons declining service) and 6 year warranty I chose to give them a try. The Nikon 17-55 is ever so slightly better at double the price, bigger and heavier.

JR

 

[gevorg]

There are many great DSLR cameras, and there are also mirrorless cameras that quite competitive to DSLR and in certain aspects even better.

Start your research for a great body and image sensor here:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/studio-compare
http://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM

And for lens performance here:
http://slrgear.com/reviews/showcat.php/cat/2

Also use flickr and other photo sharing sites for real pictures of different cameras and lens combos to get an idea of what is possible.

 

[Anteaus]

If money matters but you want a solid camera, I think the D5100 is right there. It has the same sensor as the D7000, albeit with less manual controls and a pentamirror viewfinder instead of the pentaprism. If your willing to get closer to the $1000, you can get a used D7000/lens combo which is an amazing camera and will give you a solid foundation.

That said, which of the two I would get depends on what you expect to do with them. If your just looking for something that can take better pictures than your compact yet still want to mostly rely on auto controls, then buy the D5100 or even the D3200.

If you are serious about learning learning photography, I'd seriously consider going to the D7000. What the extra money gets you are better controls, a superior viewfinder, an extra card slot, and overall more in-camera options. None of it is mandatory, but it's opens alot of doors in regards to creativity and useability.

 

[blastingcap]

There is no best. You gotta figure out what matters to you. AF tracking? Weight? Lens selection? Cost? Size? etc.

 

[Gintaras]

"Best" camera - the one, that has "Instant Masterpiece" button....

 

[Anteaus]

Lol you guys are sensitive. I think we can all agree that the OP used a bit of hyperbole when he said "best". Next thing you guys are going to argue that the next time someone says "epic fail" that what they are describing can't possibly be the worst thing that can happen to a person.

The OP obviously doesn't have Nikon's and Canon's DSLR catalog memorized so lets throw him a bone and give him some options. While there is no "best" DSLR, there are optimal choices based on how much he wants to spend.

 

[Gintaras]

Lol you guys are sensitive. I think we can all agree that the OP used a bit of hyperbole when he said "best". Next thing you guys are going to argue that the next time someone says "epic fail" that what they are describing can't possibly be the worst thing that can happen to a person.

The OP obviously doesn't have Nikon's and Canon's DSLR catalog memorized so lets throw him a bone and give him some options. While there is no "best" DSLR, there are optimal choices based on how much he wants to spend.

Optimal choice?

Any Entry Level camera, preferably kit w/ 2 lenses.

That's why Entry Level cameras are made for - for beginners.

 

[Kukag]

Definitely check out the T3i it's got a lot of neat features and shares the same sensor as the 7D, T4i, and T2i. I just saw a deal on ebay for this weekend only it was $699 for the t3i 18-55 kit + bag + memory card + 50mm 1.8 + 55-200 don't think you can beat that

 

[randomrogue]

The one that feels right in your hand. Go to a store and feel them. Canons don't feel right in my hand while Nikons do. They're both good. Sony might work for you but they have a completely different system with digital view finders.

 

[JohnnyRebel]

"Best" camera - the one, that has "Instant Masterpiece" button....

That's on the Nikon V1. You put the little dial on the white camera icon...

 

[Scooby Doo]

Hasselblad

 

[AraB.]

I appreciate all your valuable answers.

Can you guys also help me with which brand sells cheaper lenses/accessories? Nikon? Canon? ...

I'm going with Nikon/Canon cause they have a variety of accessories and lenses and I can upgrade my camera anytime I want and use the same accessories!

Thank You Again,
Ara

 

[randomrogue]

What kind of lenses do you need? I don't think there is much of a cost difference. It really depends on what you want though. Nikon's 300mm f2.8 for example is $1000 cheaper than the Canon version. There is however 3rd party for both iirc. The 70-200 2.8 is a bit cheaper for Canon right now due to a rebate.

This is not really a reason to go for either brand. When it comes to lenses you should probably figure out which lenses you need and just make sure the brand you choose offers it.

 

[JohnnyRebel]

I appreciate all your valuable answers.

Can you guys also help me with which brand sells cheaper lenses/accessories? Nikon? Canon? ...

I'm going with Nikon/Canon cause they have a variety of accessories and lenses and I can upgrade my camera anytime I want and use the same accessories!

Thank You Again,
Ara

If you will tell us a bit about what sort of shooting you do, you can get more real help. As an example, I primarily shoot snapshots. I do occasional landscape and events and want to get into portraits. I have chosen my camera and lenses based on these things along with my meager hobby budget.

I try to buy a good lens once a year ($1k-2k), or (as I did in 2012) a new system to play with (Nikon V1) and a cheaper lens ($600 for a like-new 12-24 f/4). The V1 is awesome for snapshots and fast action. The 12-24 is being used for a project on local commercial art paired with the D7000.

JR

 

[blastingcap]

You should be aware that Canon's cheaper lenses don't come with lens hoods, whereas Nikon's do with almost no exceptions. Just one more cost to think about.

 

[AraB.]

@blastingcap: What do you mean by lenshood?

Sorry I'm new to this forum and to DSLRs!
So I couldn't quote your text

Thanks again,
Ara