total camera noob

[Ace]

Hi guys, just been flicking through some of these threads and there are some amazing pics, pics that i could only dream of taking.

At the moment we only have a basic digital camera, the point and shoot variety, but have been wanting to get a decent camera and start taking some better shots, photography has always interested me but there have always been bigger priorities which have meant i have been unable to get decent equipment and have a real go at it.

I have read Fenian Eel's Digital SLR thread and some interesting information, alot of the lingo etc is like russian to me but I'll get there.

im a bit of a way off getting something just yet but have been looking around and as people have been saying the nikon's appear to be the weapon of choice for most people.

Just wondering what people reckon a good starter kit is for someone who has as much talent in terms of photography as turning a camera on, making sure it is on auto and pointing and shooting.

Matt

[bblaze]

Even the top of the range Nikon have an auto mode, turn on, point and shoot. You can progress from there. Something like the nikon 5000 gets some good reviews. Do a google on that one. There is some good links out there for training purposes or maybe better is join a camera club thats members have mostly the breed of camera you have.
cheers
blaze

[Ace]

thanks blaze, yeah i figured they would all have a point and shoot mode. Just wondering is any one brand is more user friendly with fiddling with setting to get the most out of photos or if its just a much of a muchness in that respect.

[Cap]

What I think you need is a D3 or D700 with a 500mm f/4 nikkor lens, a 12-24mm wide angle lens, an SB800 with gitzo tripod and wimberly head - add some filters and your away... should set you back only a mere 25k or so, small change :p

[Ace]

What I think you need is a D3 or D700 with a 500mm f/4 nikkor lens, a 12-24mm wide angle lens, an SB800 with gitzo tripod and wimberly head - add some filters and your away... should set you back only a mere 25k or so, small change :p

LOL, no worries Stooge, put me down for 2 of everything :D

Been looking at the nikons.

What is it that makes the cameras more expensive. For example what does a $5000 model do that the $1000 model doesnt do. Is it just better image quality, more functions?

[Chucaro]

The Nikon 3100 (http://www.nikon.com.au/productitem.php?pid=1379-926225e57b) will be a nice and simple camera to start shooting without big layout of money.

The D90 (http://www.nikon.com.au/productitem.php?pid=1281-86d7b52026) is going very cheap and is excellent as well.

I would get the body only and select good lens.

Nikon USA have now in especial very good refurbished lens with warranty.

I suggest the 70-300VR (http://shop.nikonusa.com/store/nikonusa/en_US/pd/productID.213464000'resid=TKZPmgoHAisAAEzgpToAAAAf&rests=1286019276949) for U$A 400.00 as a very good bargain

The 50mm F/1.8 (http://shop.nikonusa.com/store/nikonusa/en_US/pd/productID.213468400) is excellent for U$A 100.00

You also can get the Nikon 5000 (http://shop.nikonusa.com/store/nikonusa/en_U/pd/productID.213427800) camera refurbished for U$A 504.00 which with the above lens will be an awesome to start :cool:

[Ace]

thanks Chucaroo, gives me something to aim for.

Been looking on here at some of the new Nikon models,

Browse Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/store/browse.asp?idCategory=20&brand=4)

looking at the D90 and the D5000

then i need to look at some quality lenses, the ones you have listed above sound good.

[Chucaro]

Ace, I am very impressed with the Nikon 70-300VR, I use it a lot for my birds photography and for close-up shots.
The images have a very good reviews in the nature photography forum and compete with images taken with very expensive equipment.

The performance of this lebs @ 200mm is as good as the very expensive Nikon 70-200mmVR at the same focal lens.
You will be not disappointing with it.


For landscaping I am using the Tokina 12-24 f/4

If you need any help just send me a PM

[ozscott]

LOL, no worries Stooge, put me down for 2 of everything :D

Been looking at the nikons.

What is it that makes the cameras more expensive. For example what does a $5000 model do that the $1000 model doesnt do. Is it just better image quality, more functions?

Mate - often is stuff that even top amateur guys wont get use from - higher photos (ie higher battery life); slightly more frames per second max shooting; portrait grip as part of the camera; full frame - perhaps the biggest thing is better low light performance at very low light - ...and really not a LOT more that I can see. The D5000 kicks butt for value and sheer photo quality (including in low light).

[Chucaro]

IMO the importance for achieve a good image is like this:

1) A good tripod for a sharp image.

2) The best lens that you can afford

3) with the money left over get a good body.

I have found big difference in performance and quality in the images between my D200 and my D300s.
Also in my case. I am selling enlarged photos so the D300s allows me to have a larger prints.

[Bushie]

Matt, Don't ignore the other makes either, after all if we all just followed the masses we would all drive Toymotas.

Have a look around at the Canons, Pentax and Sony stuff etc.

Get a hold of the cameras and get a feel for them see what feels right for you, if you find it clumsy and uncomfortable you either won't use it or you'll sell it off.

Personally I think all the main breeds can take exceptional photos, and all will need some degree of post processing. What you are seeing on the forum is not necessarily what came straight from the camera (if fact rarely would be straight from camera).

As most have eluded to you will be buying into a system, where in all likeliness the camera body will end up being the cheap bit.


Martyn

[Chucaro]

I do not dispute that the quality of the other brands but only Nikon offer you the advantage of using old lens so you only need to upgrade the body.

If you are considering other brands like Pentax and Sony I would suggest you to do a good research about them in the well know forums where the advanced amateur and professional photographers are posting images for critique.
You will able to see which brands are using these photographers
There a few forums like
Naturescape (http://www.naturescapes.net/phpBB3/index.php)
Naturephotographers
(http://www.naturephotographers.net/rf.html)
Birdphotographeres
Fredmiranda (http://www.fredmiranda.com/)

[big guy]

Agree with Bushie
I worked as a pro snapper for some time in my twenties and solely used nikon and canon because of the film days, they were ultra reliable, had great external battery drive for motor winder etc.
Things have changed and will be for some time to come.
Do not get carried away with the chase for pixels, 10-12m is huge.
Lots of brands are peeling back now and are getting the software right that records all the zillion pixels.

Basics are one thing you have to master like what heppens when you open the aperture(hole) and decrease shutter speed or vice versa.

A good starting point I believe is go to your local shop and have a good feel.
Handle them and see which model sits better, the menu makes sense to you not the sales person and you find intuitive.
You be amazed how much they differ.
I much prefer Nikon and their products and how even old style lenses can be uitilised.
I like their layout and the feeling of quality.
If you only want one lens only get a Nikon to match Nikon and spend on it.
My fav is their 18-200mm.
Wicked all round lens and not too heavy.

Thats enough from me but seriously, the gear alone does not take good shots, its the operator mainly.
Just like when you read this post, you don't wonder what sort of computer I used, just the end product.

Go and have a fiddle, buy before xmas and end of months if you buy local.
Better deals.
A good card is also a must. Don't skimp there otherwise you will loose info and download time is challenged.

Also, 2nd hand is very good as specs change so quickly, many people update just because they can and good nikons are good for 250000 shots easily.

Happy days mate.;)

[Ace]

thanks for the help guys, really appreciate it, looks like I have alot to learn.

I will go down to a camera shop and check out some of the bodies and I might take Chucaroo's advice and buy some of the older refurbished lenses as i can get a better lens at the same price as a new lower quality one. Is that right Chucaroo, thats how I understand it to be.

Matt

[Cap]

Lots of great advice here! Certainly looking at other makes is also a smart thing to do. The only thing I got caught up in (if you can see a negative to it) is that I bought my D80 (very happy with it) and then move to the D300s recently as I started wanting a few more features (mainly high continuous shutter speed (D300s is like a machine gun!) and better noise reduction for low light shots).

So its a gamble, do you buy something to do what you want now, OR do you take the gamble and buy something a bit better in the hope that it will be used to that level once you get really into photography.

Either way, have fun with it and im looking forward to your shots ;)

[Chucaro]

thanks for the help guys, really appreciate it, looks like I have alot to learn.

I will go down to a camera shop and check out some of the bodies and I might take Chucaroo's advice and buy some of the older refurbished lenses as i can get a better lens at the same price as a new lower quality one. Is that right Chucaroo, thats how I understand it to be.

Matt

Matt, they are not old lens, they are current models refurbished by Nikon.
Perhaps you have to get them from USA which it is not problem because purchasing under A$1000 does not pay tax.

Have a look the D90 in DWI (http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/store/product.asp?idProduct=1792) or the D5000 (http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/store/product.asp?idProduct=2199)

Members from this forum bought gear from DWI and they are good. Ask stooge ;)
DWI is here in Oz

[Ace]

Sorry, maybe old lenses wasnt the right term to use, i more meant not new ones.

Yeah at the moment the D90 or the D5000 are the two that I like.

Im thinking along the same lines as Stooge said above, i dont want to spend the cash and get something that after a few months I will want to upgrade to something with more features. In which case for the $200 odd extra straight up the D90 might be a better choice.

Wanting something that will take sevaral fast shots of an event to show as a sequence is something that I would definitely want to do. i guess i need to narrow my options down and then look at the functions/features of each one and then eliminate the ones that wont do what I want them to do.

My biggest problem is is that the cameras will do alot of stuff that I dont even know now, so how will I know thats a feature I might think is awsome in 3 months time.

[Chucaro]

I like more the viewfinder and screen of the D90 than the one in the D5000.
The material used in the D5000 is superior to the D90.
The D90 cost 1/2 of the cost of the D5000, money which can go towards a lens or a good tripod.
Which type of photography you would like to do now?

[Ace]

I like more the viewfinder and screen of the D90 than the one in the D5000.
The material used in the D5000 is superior to the D90.
The D90 cost 1/2 of the cost of the D5000, money which can go towards a lens or a good tripod.
Which type of photography you would like to do now?

Probably landscape shots and stuff like that. But I also want to have the ability to go to motorsport events, off road and on road, and take some quality pictures.

I want to work on building my website up and utilising my own quality photos of off road landscapes, actions shots of 4wd's that sort of thing.

Do you mean that the D5000 is less costly than the D90? On that site the D90 is $752, and the D5000 is $548.

Matt

[Chucaro]

Probably landscape shots and stuff like that. But I also want to have the ability to go to motorsport events, off road and on road, and take some quality pictures.

I want to work on building my website up and utilising my own quality photos of off road landscapes, actions shots of 4wd's that sort of thing.

Do you mean that the D5000 is less costly than the D90? On that site the D90 is $752, and the D5000 is $548.

Matt
Ops!! sorry I got mixed up with the D7000:(

Ok, my choice of lens will be Tokina 12-24 f/4 (http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/store/product.asp?idProduct=2277) for landscaping

For sports if indoors I would go for a f/2.8 lens in there is money available.

The 70-300VR will be a good choice for outdoors sport and wild life photography

Cheers

[dmdigital]

I like more the viewfinder and screen of the D90 than the one in the D5000.
The material used in the D5000 is superior to the D90.
The D90 cost 1/2 of the cost of the D5000, money which can go towards a lens or a good tripod.
Which type of photography you would like to do now?

Huh? :confused:

I think you are getting confused with the D7000 that is the replacement for the D90.

I might as well throw my two cents worth in...

What ever you get make sure it has scene modes (like the P&S). This is very helpful in learning the camera techniques. Shoot a scene mode, set the camera up manually with the same settings and replicate the shot. The next step is to improve on the scene mode settings.

As mentioned, ergonomics plays a big part in selection. Don't be too choosy with the initial lens setup. An 18-200 or even the kit lenses are fine to start out with. Once you have a better idea of the lens limitations and your requirements you can expand on your lenses with something better.

My suggestion would be Nikon D90 or D7000, Canon EOS 500D, 550D, Pentax K7 or a Micro-four thirds from Olympus or Panasonic.

[Ace]

thanks Chucaroo and DMDigital.

Im liking the D90 at the moment, the D7000 hasnt had prices come out on that site yet, will it be prices similarly to the D90?

[Bushie]

I do not dispute that the quality of the other brands but only Nikon offer you the advantage of using old lens so you only need to upgrade the body.


Incorrect - at least in the case of Pentax, you can use any lens produced for a pentax. Even back to the M42 screw threads, with adapter, obviously there will be some loss of functionality with the older lenses (very hard to get auto focus if the original lens didn't cater for it). :D



Martyn

[Ace]

Ok, so googled the D7000, looks like it will be available for around $1200 US, and doesnt replace the D90, its filling a spot in the model range just above it to compete with the Canon 60D.

mmmm, so much choice. Gotta get stacey's car sorted and sold, first, then start saving the pennies for a nice new camera.

[Ace]

Incorrect - at least in the case of Pentax, you can use any lens produced for a pentax. Even back to the M42 screw threads, with adapter, obviously there will be some loss of functionality with the older lenses (very hard to get auto focus if the original lens didn't cater for it). :D



Martyn

I have a pentax 35mm SLR at the moment, rarely gets used now because we just use stacey's run of the mill digital and I cant be arsed getting film developed. Its only a cheapy though, was the one they sold for a while, was $300 in a kit with 2 lenses.

[dmdigital]

Ok, so googled the D7000, looks like it will be available for around $1200 US, and doesnt replace the D90, its filling a spot in the model range just above it to compete with the Canon 60D.

mmmm, so much choice. Gotta get stacey's car sorted and sold, first, then start saving the pennies for a nice new camera.
The D90 is being phased out, the D7000 is seen as it's replacement. The closest cameras in Nikon range to a Canon EOS 60D are probably the D90 and D5000. Canon hasn't got anything to rival the D7000 and D300s apart from the EOS 7D.

Whilst I'll admit to being as one eyed about Nikon as I am about Land Rover's, the EOS 60D is almost a backward step in Canon's EOS x0D range given that it's origin the EOS 30D was considered better than the Nikon D200 (now replaced by the D300s). The EOS 60D is almost a consumer entry DSLR.

[300+]

Matt, Don't ignore the other makes either, after all if we all just followed the masses we would all drive Toymotas.

Have a look around at the Canons, Pentax and Sony stuff etc.


Speaking as a Sony owner... Don't touch them with a bargepole. They have now announced that they will make no more SLR cameras. Every new model will be a SLT. Now it is good that they are shaking up the market with new technologies, but they have not resolved all the issues yet - such as ghosting on the images. They are a few years too early to be killing off the SLRs. Leaving those of us with Sony lenses to upgrade the the newer technology which Sony have chosen for us, or buy something else.

So my gear is going on ebay come upgrade time and I'm switching brands. I'm glad I held off buying my new lens. I'd be really annoyed if I sunk another $1,000 into it.

Cheers, Steve

[WhiteD3]

Ok, so googled the D7000, looks like it will be available for around $1200 US, and doesn't replace the D90, its filling a spot in the model range just above it to compete with the Canon 60D.

Ace, have a look here. Browse Nikon Digital SLR Cameras (http://www.dwidigitalcameras.com.au/store/browse.asp?idCategory=20&brand=4)

They're saying the D7000 is not available as yet.

Myself (500D + Sigma 10-20mm) and others on the forum have purchased from DWI with no dramas to date that I know of.

[dmdigital]

D7000 is available this month. ECS have it listed as being available late October.

[Cap]

My biggest problem is is that the cameras will do alot of stuff that I dont even know now, so how will I know thats a feature I might think is awsome in 3 months time.

Mate, do what I did and read up on the stuff. See Cambridge in Colour - Photography Tutorials & Learning Community (http://www.cambridgeincolour.com)

Its a great site and you will learn heaps in just a few weeks!

[Ace]

Thanks guys, yeah i've been looking at the DWI site and saw that the D7000 isnt available yet.

I check out those tutorials, thanks Stooge.

Matt

[blitz]

LOL, no worries Stooge, put me down for 2 of everything :D

Been looking at the nikons.

What is it that makes the cameras more expensive. For example what does a $5000 model do that the $1000 model doesnt do. Is it just better image quality, more functions?

Probably the biggest single difference apart for wizzbang techo stuff as you mentioned, is the construction.

the D300s, D700 and the D3 series have a magnesium frame as opposed to a plastic frame and are much better sealed for dust water humidity etc, making them much more robust and able to be used in conditions that would otherwise bugger an amature camera.

Also the "Proffesionial" models can take many more photos before they run out of steam err photos.

Unless you are going to be taking photos regularly in hostile conditions, are going to blow the photo up to an A3 size or above, take photos in low light with no flash, or just be rough with it, then a D3000, D5000, D3100 D90 etc will perform outstandingly for you. also if you wanted the award winning 18 - 200mm VR zoom it doesn't work on the D700 or the D3. I personally am chosing the D300s as I will be doing some of the above even though it will be my first digital camera.

The Cannon range is also very good as are many of the others, I am going Nikon as I already have several bloody expensive lenses for a nikon and my personal preference is Nikon so that takes the chosing brands out of the equasion for me.

[Ace]

Hi blitz, thanks for the help mate.

Im thinking of getting the D7000 when its available, sorry, when I have the cash and then looking at the types of lenses I will need.

Matt

[blitz]

Hey dont be sorry - the whole thing about asking here is to get advise, hell I have pestered everyone before making my desision and yes the D7000 will be a top piece of kit. A friend of mine has the D3000 and it takes photos as good as she can point it and I dont think she has taken it off of auto, I am only going for the higher level one because I am such a rough bugger :D (according to my missus)

I also went into camera shops and asked to have a feel of all of the models I was looking at to make sure it was a comfortable fit in my hand - you get a strange look if you ask to feel a camera :angel:

The D300s is a bit heavier than the D5000 / D90 and I presume heavier than the D7000 so that is a concern if you are doing a lot of walking and lugging it over hill and dale, even if I could justify the D3 it is just to heavy for my situation.

[dmdigital]

Ummm... 18-200 works on a D3s :confused:

DX lenses work fine on FX Bodies, just have to watch the settings for DX cropping of the sensor or if the lens wants to vignet on FX.

[austastar]

Hi,
An interesting read, and thanks for the links.
I'm researching the DSLR market after working as a photographer for 30 odd years and then doing I.T. for the last 10 years.
So I have not used a DSLR professionally.
Now retired, YEA! and looking at all the new stuff is amazing.
Guess I will start with a couple of my favourite lenses, add a flash, tripod, eye level viewfinder and see what we have left over for a body.
I am so sick of the limitations of my little Coolpix 5700 when it won't do what I tell it.
cheers

[blitz]

Ummm... 18-200 works on a D3s :confused:

DX lenses work fine on FX Bodies, just have to watch the settings for DX cropping of the sensor or if the lens wants to vignet on FX.


yes it does but not all of the features on it will work apparently? unfortunately after looking at about a zillion site about them all I'm not sure who / where it was that said that?

[Chucaro]

D3s

Compatible Lenses
Type G or D AF NIKKOR: All functions supported
DX AF NIKKOR: All functions supported except FX-format (36x24)/5:4 (30x24) image size
AF NIKKOR other than type G or D*2: All functions supported except 3D Color Matrix Metering II
AI-P NIKKOR: All functions supported except autofocus and 3D Color Matrix Metering II
Non-CPU AI NIKKOR: Can be used in exposure modes A and M; electronic rangefinder can be used if maximum aperture is f/5.6 or faster; Color Matrix Metering and aperture value display supported if user provides lens data

[dmdigital]

yes it does but not all of the features on it will work apparently? unfortunately after looking at about a zillion site about them all I'm not sure who / where it was that said that?
I have both and have used them together. What else can I say.

[Cap]

Hi,
An interesting read, and thanks for the links.
I'm researching the DSLR market after working as a photographer for 30 odd years and then doing I.T. for the last 10 years.
So I have not used a DSLR professionally.
Now retired, YEA! and looking at all the new stuff is amazing.
Guess I will start with a couple of my favourite lenses, add a flash, tripod, eye level viewfinder and see what we have left over for a body.
I am so sick of the limitations of my little Coolpix 5700 when it won't do what I tell it.
cheers

Have a look at what I got to give you some ideas, just drop me a PM or call me when you have some time. Happy to show-off, errr I mean show you what I have :D

I agree 100% with Blitz on this Ace, were all here to get suggestions/ideas/advice and happy to return the favour too.

[Ace]

Hey dont be sorry

I meant sorry, not available more like have the cash.

Thanks for all the advice guys keep it coming.

Seems as though im going to have 10 times the trouble deciding on which lenses to buy once i get the camera.

[blitz]

I have both and have used them together. What else can I say.

That totally answers it then what ever I read was BS, interesting I will try to find it as I thought I was reading from a reputable site

[blitz]

That totally answers it then what ever I read was BS, interesting I will try to find it as I thought I was reading from a reputable site

here is the URL to the article:
Nikon D300 vs Nikon D700 Compared | Digital Photography Notes (http://www.dpnotes.com/nikon-d300-vs-nikon-d700-compared/)

[dmdigital]

Yes you will see vignetting as it mentions but it will work and if you use the DX crop factor on the sensor it works perfectly normally. If I have time I'll take some sample shots with the two DX lenses I have and post them up.

[Cap]

Agreed, when I was 'thinking' about the d700 one of the things I needed to consider was lens use. My Tokina 12-24 would only be usefull between 18-24 which meant it would be a ripple effect and more lenses would be required (not withstanding the crop factor shooting mode).

[dmdigital]

Yes but the other side is that my 14-24 f/2.8 is absolutely brilliant on the D3s compared to on a DX body.

[PSi]

Whatever camera/lens you decide on, make sure you keep it clean ... :D

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/10/1000.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/10/1001.jpg

[dmdigital]

:Rolling:

Nice Coffee Cup!

Are they as good to use as the sound in the ad's been really tempted to get one now the price has come down.

[PSi]

They're cool, a bit pricey for mugs but very cheap for f2.8 lenses :D

I paid about AUD25 equivalent ordering online from a vendor in Malaysia (where I am living).

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/10/999.jpg

[dmdigital]

Is that the new one that actually "zooms" or the original one?

[PSi]

This one "zooms" but I got the other one as well.
The non-zoom one has a screw-on cap that is more leak-proof, the zoom is bayonet type that does leak if shaken.

[PSi]

Upon further investigation ...

The zoom version (left) holds just a shade under 300ml (filled to the brim). It has a transparent window that shows focusing distance, and focusing ring actually turns. But distance scale does not turn.
The M/A and M slider also moves.

The non-zoom version holds 400ml.
The focus distance window is printed, and the slider does not move.

My conclusion, the non-zoom makes a better mug.
The moveable bits on the zoom one do not inspire confidence as far as longevity is concerned.

Tea tastes the same in either, but non-zoom holds more, and does not spill.


https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2010/10/998.jpg

[Ace]

pretty cool mugs, but i dont drink tea or coffee so they'd be useless to me.

If i was to get 2 lenses to start off with and planned on doing some landscape photography and then something for a bit closer photos of 4wd's and stuff off road what would be a decent compromise for price and quality and do a reasonable job?

Matt

[dmdigital]

Sorry about the hijack ;) But they are pretty cool.

As for two lenses...

Disregarding price, the 24-70 f/2.8G is a fantastic lens, as is the 70-200 f/2.8G VRII and the 14-24 f/2.8G.

You could also go with the one of the wide zooms from Sigma or Tokina in the 10-24 range and there is a new Nikkor 24-120 f/4 which I think looks very promising and is less than $'s the 24-70 f/2.8.

A 24, 35 and 50mm prime set would also cover the landscape and car aspect.

[blitz]

Bloody hell Ace why did you have to go and talk about the D7000. I checked it out and now once again I am buggered if I know which camera to buy???????

The amount of angst and deliberation over deciding on the D300s only to now hunt down a comparo on both of them and I'm lost AGAIN!!! both have the magnesium body and the D7000 has higher resolution.......... Maybe I should just take up chess

[300+]

Bloody hell Ace why did you have to go and talk about the D7000. I checked it out and now once again I am buggered if I know which camera to buy???????

The amount of angst and deliberation over deciding on the D300s only to now hunt down a comparo on both of them and I'm lost AGAIN!!! both have the magnesium body and the D7000 has higher resolution.......... Maybe I should just take up chess

My vote would be D7000 and keep the saving for some better glass or a trip somewhere really nice to take pictures. Or knight to king pawn if you take the other option.

I'm hoping that DPreview will soon do a full review and include comparison pictures against the D300s. The numbers on the spec sheet are largely irrelevant these days.

Of course I've very high hopes for the D400 when it comes out in a year or two.

Cheers, Steve

[blitz]

unfortunately it's a bit like buying a computer - no matter how long you look there is always a better one coming out

Tax check isn't back yet so I have a bit of time, once I get that then it will be a burning issue

[Steinzy]

If you are looking for camera gear check out this site...some great stuff for reasonable prices

Camera Market - Classifieds | Used Cameras | Second-hand Lenses | Buy and Sell (http://www.cameramarket.com.au/)

[Ace]

Sorry about the hijack ;) But they are pretty cool.

As for two lenses...

Disregarding price, the 24-70 f/2.8G is a fantastic lens, as is the 70-200 f/2.8G VRII and the 14-24 f/2.8G.

You could also go with the one of the wide zooms from Sigma or Tokina in the 10-24 range and there is a new Nikkor 24-120 f/4 which I think looks very promising and is less than $'s the 24-70 f/2.8.

A 24, 35 and 50mm prime set would also cover the landscape and car aspect.

Hi DMDigital, thanks for that. Im hoping to have the cash to buy the camera before Christmas, then start looking at getting a collection of different lenses together.

I like the combination of having the 24-70 f/2.8G and the 70-200 f/2.8G, that would give me a range of zoom options.

Matt

[Ace]

If you are looking for camera gear check out this site...some great stuff for reasonable prices

Camera Market - Classifieds | Used Cameras | Second-hand Lenses | Buy and Sell (http://www.cameramarket.com.au/)

Thats a good website Steinzy, thanks, just joined up.

Matt

[dmdigital]

The Nikon holy trinity: 14-24 f/2.8G, 24-70 f/2.8G and 70-200 f/2.8G.

Works very nicely :D

[Chucaro]

The Nikon holy trinity: 14-24 f/2.8G, 24-70 f/2.8G and 70-200 f/2.8G.

Works very nicely :D

Add the 200-400 and you have the cream :)

[dmdigital]

Working on it:angel:

[300+]

Hi DMDigital, thanks for that. Im hoping to have the cash to buy the camera before Christmas, then start looking at getting a collection of different lenses together.

I like the combination of having the 24-70 f/2.8G and the 70-200 f/2.8G, that would give me a range of zoom options.

Matt

If you are getting a crop body (which the D7000 you mention is) then you want a wider zoom. A 24mm on a crop body is not very wide. I'd get a 17mm-50 or 70mm.

Steve

[Steinzy]

Thats a good website Steinzy, thanks, just joined up.

Matt
No worries mate. Mostly pros gear that they sell when upgrading...so you know it's been looked after

[Ace]

If you are getting a crop body (which the D7000 you mention is) then you want a wider zoom. A 24mm on a crop body is not very wide. I'd get a 17mm-50 or 70mm.

Steve

whats a crop body?

[Chucaro]

whats a crop body?

The ones that are not full frame :D
D90,D300s, D3000, D5000, D7000 are crop bodies (factor 1.5 in the Nikon models)

D3, D700 are full frame.

HERE (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/canon-lenses/field-of-view-crop-factor.aspx) is some good read

Cheers

[Ace]

Thanks Chucaroo, god I have alot to learn.

So is this Field Of View Crop Factor a good thing or a bad thing.

Why is it a feature on some cameras and not others?

[Chucaro]

I like the D200 and D300s for my wildlife, avian, flora and close up photography because the subject fill the frame without do a crop compared to a full frame image.
This type of photography do not require big prints so these cameras are ideal.
With the D200 I only can do prints enlarged up to 15" the shorter side without "manipulate"the pixels and with the D300s I can enlarge the images for print to 20" because the files are larger than the D200.
For landscaping and big posters a full frame camera like the awesome D3x will be ideal but the demand for big images are not there so I manage to do vertical or horizontals panos when it is needed.
IMO the D300s is an awesome camera which fulfill my requirements very well.
If it is a out of your reach go for the D7000.

Cheers

[Ace]

I like the D200 and D300s for my wildlife, avian, flora and close up photography because the subject fill the frame without do a crop compared to a full frame image.
This type of photography do not require big prints so these cameras are ideal.
With the D200 I only can do prints enlarged up to 15" the shorter side without "manipulate"the pixels and with the D300s I can enlarge the images for print to 20" because the files are larger than the D200.
For landscaping and big posters a full frame camera like the awesome D3x will be ideal but the demand for big images are not there so I manage to do vertical or horizontals panos when it is needed.
IMO the D300s is an awesome camera which fulfill my requirements very well.
If it is a out of your reach go for the D7000.

Cheers

Thanks Chucaroo, appreciated it.

Matt

[Cap]

Thanks Chucaroo, god I have alot to learn.


and... you will have a lot to spend too :D

Just remember, smaller the number listed in the product the higher the costs - eg D3 as opposed to d5000, f2.8 as opposed to f5.6 etc

Maybe you should have gone for a cheaper wedding (elope) and saved the $$ for the photography gear :p :angel:

[Ace]

and... you will have a lot to spend too :D

Just remember, smaller the number listed in the product the higher the costs - eg D3 as opposed to d5000, f2.8 as opposed to f5.6 etc

Maybe you should have gone for a cheaper wedding (elope) and saved the $$ for the photography gear :p :angel:

The wedding only cost $2000, couldnt have been cheaper. We had the reception at home and got a Marquee, I did all the cooking, then we had a huge bonfire.

I guess I just need to start with the basics and add to my list of photo taking tools.

[cartm58]

I have bought two cameras from DWI in the last 12 months, the last one arrived yesterday via Fedex and you could follow the progress of the camera from China to Perth on the Fedex site including it had been placed on the delivery van that morning in Belmont.

Shipment commenced on 8/10 and camera arrived morning 11/10, Fedex was $40 on top of camera price

Both cameras were purchased for about 40% less than the cheapest Australian camera supplier

Both were Panasonic TZ range cameras

Would continue to buy from DWI based on price and service

[Ace]

I have bought two cameras from DWI in the last 12 months, the last one arrived yesterday via Fedex and you could follow the progress of the camera from China to Perth on the Fedex site including it had been placed on the delivery van that morning in Belmont.

Shipment commenced on 8/10 and camera arrived morning 11/10, Fedex was $40 on top of camera price

Both cameras were purchased for about 40% less than the cheapest Australian camera supplier

Both were Panasonic TZ range cameras

Would continue to buy from DWI based on price and service

Anyone know how they go if you need to claim on warranty?

[Chucaro]

DWI is the Australian based importer and by Australian Law it have to provide the warranty.

[Ace]

DWI is the Australian based importer and by Australian Law it have to provide the warranty.

Ok, so they have an australian office then. I wasnt sure when you said China.

Matt

[Chucaro]

Ok, so they have an australian office then. I wasnt sure when you said China.

Matt

Matt, for your peace of mind you can contact
Australian local warranty service and technical support agents


ATECH Distribution Pty Ltd
Email:
Phone:

sales@dwinternational.net
(02) 8005 6499
(03) 9015 7714
(07) 3102 3599
Email:
Monday - Friday: enquires@atechdistribution.com.au
9:00am-5:00pm (AEST)

[dirtdawg]

im also new to slr's and was using a friends canon slr on the weekend its nothing flash just the $1200 model that comes with two lens's it was very easy to use and i took some great shots, i have a fuji atm that has decent zoom and most of the adjustable features of an slr its basically the same as a low end slr but having a fixed lens it takes good shots and will be good to learn on till i get an slr

[Ace]

im also new to slr's and was using a friends canon slr on the weekend its nothing flash just the $1200 model that comes with two lens's it was very easy to use and i took some great shots, i have a fuji atm that has decent zoom and most of the adjustable features of an slr its basically the same as a low end slr but having a fixed lens it takes good shots and will be good to learn on till i get an slr

We just have a general digital camera, whilst its not bad, and probably has more settings than i'll ever know about, Im keen to get into something serious.

What are you thinking of getting Dawg?

[blitz]

Hey Matt if you look at fleabay adn search for a D300S nikon Australia only there is one on there for $1543-00 from EasyFast Shop the same as DWI an aussie company or at least they trade here their speel covers warranty etc.

Oz trading centre has one at $1546, with much cheaper memory cards etc that you can buy at the same time

Which is an outstanding price because of the high aussie dollar - right now is the best time to buy as the dollar is at a 20 year high

[Cap]

Which is an outstanding price because of the high aussie dollar - right now is the best time to buy as the dollar is at a 20 year high

I know!!!! But I dont have the $$ to buy my lenses just yet! Lets hope it stays high (yes im being selfish :p) for a while longer.

[blitz]

I know!!!! But I dont have the $$ to buy my lenses just yet! Lets hope it stays high (yes im being selfish :p) for a while longer.

Me too, I'm bleeding about it - just hurry up tax returns

[Ace]

Hey Matt if you look at fleabay adn search for a D300S nikon Australia only there is one on there for $1543-00 from EasyFast Shop the same as DWI an aussie company or at least they trade here their speel covers warranty etc.

Oz trading centre has one at $1546, with much cheaper memory cards etc that you can buy at the same time

Which is an outstanding price because of the high aussie dollar - right now is the best time to buy as the dollar is at a 20 year high

Hi Blitz, thanks for the info mate, im not in the postition to take advantage of the high aussie dollar at the moment unfortunately. Im gunna have to wait untilI get all of our car problems sorted now, when ever Im fixing one I find another one.

Matt

[Cap]

Hi Blitz, thanks for the info mate, im not in the postition to take advantage of the high aussie dollar at the moment unfortunately. Im gunna have to wait untilI get all of our car problems sorted now, when ever Im fixing one I find another one.

Matt

But Matt, you may need the camera/lenses to take macro shots of parts to email suppliers, so the camera is another tool, just like a spanner or screw driver :angel:

[dirtdawg]

We just have a general digital camera, whilst its not bad, and probably has more settings than i'll ever know about, Im keen to get into something serious.

What are you thinking of getting Dawg?

i have had a play with the entry level nikon's and canon's and found the canon nicer to use so prob that

[Ace]

But Matt, you may need the camera/lenses to take macro shots of parts to email suppliers, so the camera is another tool, just like a spanner or screw driver :angel:

Dont worry, I've thought of that to :D