Cameras & Camcorders

[jujube1597]

I'm trying to decide on which DSLR to get...I've never had one! I've heard that Canon is the best, so I guess I would prefer one. I  just have no idea which! 

Also, I know I would need lenses--I'm very into close-up nature photography and nature photography in general, so I know I will need a macro lens eventually. I'm just so unsure and really need help. Thanks!

[Rrrrrrr]

Best thing is to stick with Canon or Nikon for the shear selection of lenses, availibility, service (directly from Canon or Nikon) and proven performance.

Are you looking for just an entry level, advanced user, prosumer or pro DSLR? Price range you are looking towards? Also go to the store and handle the cameras. See which one feels more comfy to hold.

[jujube1597]

Probably entry level, but not too basic. I'm aware of how to use digitals, just not SLRs. Price range would be no more than $600 I think.

[Rrrrrrr]

Canon EOS Rebel T3 Heres one with 2 lenses for $600 on sale.

Nikon D3100 with 18-55 lens

Theres also Canon T2i, Canon T3i, Nikon D5100 if you are willing to go a bit higher than $600.

[jujube1597]

Thank you so much!

[xl]

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jujube1597 wrote:

Also, I know I would need lenses--I'm very into close-up nature photography and nature photography in general, so I know I will need a macro lens eventually. I'm just so unsure and really need help. Thanks!

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I like Nikon DSLR's....

With regards to Macro photography... in addition to dedicated lenses.... you can also use close up filters.

• I bolt a Canon 500d close-up filter to my Nikon 18-200mm for the occasional close ups.  Love it as I don't get dust in my camera.
• Another product are the Cokin filter system.  You can get close-up filters of varying strength for around $30.  Image quality will not be the greatest, but it's really affordable.

[beagle]

I'm eyeing right now on a Canon 60D at the mo. oh i'm on for the HD photography and cinematography at its best. Nikon's a pick as well as it's not that expensive and quality is also amazing. so i get to choose canon or nikon at this time which is kinda challenging on my part

[xl]

If you want to use a DSLR for video....

• do you plan to be using MANUAL focus???  Check out this Canon video and turn up the volume.  Can you hear the image stabilizer?  Can you hear the auto focus?  It's like listening to finger nails on a chalkboard!  Do you want the bulk of an external microphone?
  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AA1MnbwmsQ
• how long is your video?  Is your event less than 12 minutes long?  Some DSLR sensors will overheat when your video is too long.  Do some research on your camera model.

For myself, I got myself a Canon HD camcorder.  The smaller sensor and smaller lens does not generate as much AF noise when I want to use auto focus when a subject is in motion.

[beagle]

m uncle bought a Canon HD camcorder as well but i want both. photo and video. which i'm static to just imagining having one. ooooo...

[Rrrrrrr]

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beagle wrote:

m uncle bought a Canon HD camcorder as well but i want both. photo and video. which i'm static to just imagining having one. ooooo...

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Since you want one that does both, how much are you willing to spend? Which do you think will be more important quality wise? Photo or Video? The entry level cameras with video may do very good stills, but the video may be just adequate. Higher end DSLR's video is probably better.