Any Black Friday DSLR options

[adamwheel]

The goal is to do this right and be able to take pictures of my SPS (as well as my kids I guess).

I've read all the stickies but need direction.

Can anyone recommend a body that will grow with me but eventually still take great shots of my aquarium with lens upgrades?

Example: The Nikon D3300 seems to be a popular Black Friday deal bundle this year. It comes with the wifi adaptor, 55-200 telephoto lens and bag for $500. Would that body be a good start or no?

Enjoying lurking in this forum lately. Keep the pics coming.

Thanks and Cheers,

Adam

 

[Nodintree]

Check out Canon's refurbs on there web page

 

[sixpackgarage]

I've been watching some of the deals on Amazon.. unfortunately I'm like you..have no idea what camera and lens I should buy

 

[tc2007]

The general criteria for a good lens / camera combo is

1. Fast focussing 1:1 Macro Lens (Like Canon 100mm F/2.8 Macro USM)
2. Camera body with a swivel screen or remote tethering capability for shooting on a tripod at a lower angle.

You may want to get the macro lens from a used camera forum (like FredMiranda or Photography-on-the.net) etc. They normally go for $350-400.

Nikon D5300 ($419 new on ebay) which has a swivel screen great for shooting at a lower level.

 

[Misled]

Any newer DSLR with a dedicated macro will serve you well, once you learn how to use it. The kit lenses aren't really designed for close up aquarium photography, but will help you in learning how to use the camera. You can also look into used equipment. B&H dot com has lots of things to give you a little more bang for your bucks.

 

[deleau]

I have seen Nikon D3300 and D7100 kit deals so far.

Seriously considering a DSLR (and macro lens) for myself this year.

 

[rickztahone]

Try to buy a body only model and invest in a proper macro lens. Anywhere from 50mm to 105mm prime. For the kiddos, you are better off with a kit lens.

 

[adamwheel]

Thanks for the thoughtful replies. I have some direction.

Cheers,
Adam

 

[sixpackgarage]

any opinions on Canon EOS Rebel T5 Digital SLR Camera ?

Amazon has a 2 lens bundle and the camera for 399.. is this junk?

 

[rickztahone]

any opinions on Canon EOS Rebel T5 Digital SLR Camera ?

Amazon has a 2 lens bundle and the camera for 399.. is this junk?

That body came out in Feb 2014 and it had a price tag of $850. It is a great camera and will do everything you need to do with it and more. If it comes with 2 lenses, even better. They will more than likely be an 18-55 and 55-200 or something like that but it is better than nothing. Later, you will want to invest in a true macro which will run you close to what you would be paying for the camera and these two lenses.

 

[IvanTheTerrible]

any opinions on Canon EOS Rebel T5 Digital SLR Camera ?

Amazon has a 2 lens bundle and the camera for 399.. is this junk?

Other than reef tanks, what other types of photography would you be using it for?

I have a Rebel, but don't have either of the lenses in the bundle. Honestly, I wouldn't have much use for either one. I'm sure they are good kit lenses, but not they aren't what I would need for my photography. If you wouldn't use the lenses, you are probably better off just looking for a deal on a body.

Ivan

 

[sixpackgarage]

Any Black Friday DSLR options

I'd just use it mostly for my reef and some misc nature photography

 

[LinkinReef]

I ended up getting one of the Nikon d3300 bundle kits. What macro lense is a good option for that camera? I enjoy shooting pictures of everything else besides fish tanks and have been doing so with my trusty 8 year old canon point and shoot.

Can't wait to start playing with this camera!

 

[IvanTheTerrible]

I'd just use it mostly for my reef and some misc nature photography

You'll want to buy a macro lens for the reef shots, which will likely cost more than this camera bundle. That's not a bad thing, since glass is so important but something to keep in mind.

I don't know your experience level, but this looks like a decent entry level package to me. The lenses should let you get some nice shots and get use to switching lenses, adjusting camera settings, etc. If you decide you like it, you'll end up spending a lot more on camera gear. If it's not for you, you don't have a huge amount invested.

-Ivan

 

[rickztahone]

I ended up getting one of the Nikon d3300 bundle kits. What macro lense is a good option for that camera? I enjoy shooting pictures of everything else besides fish tanks and have been doing so with my trusty 8 year old canon point and shoot.

Can't wait to start playing with this camera!

I generally recommend this lens to beginners and advanced shooters alike because it is a great lens. It is the Tamron 90 f/2.8 lens. Find an older version, make sure you buy the right mount and you can probably get the lens for around $300 used on photography forums. DPreviews sale forum is very active.