Camera Reccomendations

[xerodok]

So, I'm going to Japan for a month in May. One of the things I've put off until now is purchasing a camera to use. I want something high quality that I can take pictures of all of the places I'll be visiting. I have a SG3 that I'll be using probably randomly for whatever, dumb pics, times I won't have my larger camera, etc.

I have a little camera & Photoshop knowledge (as far as refining photos goes), so something that can shoot in .raw simultaneously with another format would be perfect for me. I don't want to have to worry about lenses, flash attachments, conversions, something that I have to put together, all of that shit. I want something that is self-sustaining, not terribly large, and something that is going to be worth it in the long run. I know I don't want a little point and shoot camera.

I was looking at a few Nikon DLSRs last time I went shopping. Not sure if you guys have any woes against Nikon or not but they seemed the best quality to me. Price range I'd say would be, $600 maximum, but I could probably be flexible.

Before I made this post, I was looking at this on NewEgg: Nikon D3000 Black 10.2 MP Digital SLR Camera w/ 3x 18-55mm Zoom-NIKKOR VR Lens $369

I know some of you have to be camera nerds, help me out!

[Xerlic]

First off, I'm a casual photographer, but BG does have some professionals. You might also want to bump the Photography thread with your question. http://www.bluegartr.com/threads/687...ography-Thread

The D3000 is actually the first model in Nikon's lowest level consumer end DSLRs. The most current model is the D3200, so the D3000 is actually 2 models behind. For that reason, I would advise against picking up the D3000 unless it's the the best you can afford.

I currently have the D5100, and really like it. It has the same sensor as the D7000, which a lot of people really like. You can get it for about $600 with the kit lens. I paid $800 for it about 2 years ago, but it's since been updated to the D5200.

Also, the D7100 is supposed to be released within the next month. If you're not against buying used, you might be able to pick up a used D7000 for ~$600 as well.

As far as Nikon vs Canon (vs. Pentax vs. Sony), I would go to a camera store and see how the camera feels in your hands and how much it weighs. You think that it's only a few pounds, but it makes a difference when you're lugging it around for an entire day.

[xerodok]

Thanks for the advice.

Just got an email for this from Buy.com:

Nikon D3100 14 Megapixel Digital SLR Camera with 3x Optical Zoom, 3" LCD, Full 1080p HD Cinematic Video, VR Image Stabilization, Split-second Shutter Response, Black - 25472 $399

[Mayareira]

I hope I'm not late

Nikon D3100 is a good starting camera but that's it, d3100 will likely not satisfy you once you step up your game.

I'd strongly recommend going with D5100 at least, I currently own a D5100 and very pleased with its overall performance. Its was my first body upgrade in 8 years.

[xerodok]

Thanks for the suggestion, Mayareira. I'm going to wait a little bit still, I plan on purchasing something in mid-April. So if you see any deals anywhere, new or used, let me know.

[Xerlic]

You might want to check out this deal on the D3100: Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera w/18-55mm VR Lens, Refurbished by Nikon #25472B

Adorama is a large and reputable camera store in NYC, so I wouldn't be too worried about it being refurbished.

[xerodok]

You might want to check out this deal on the D3100: Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera w/18-55mm VR Lens, Refurbished by Nikon #25472B

Adorama is a large and reputable camera store in NYC, so I wouldn't be too worried about it being refurbished.

Sold out. D: