Need help choosing..

[Electrobes]

I'm in the market for a new camera but know very little when it comes to them. I normally bought stop and shoots but would like a more serious camera for Reef shots.

Looking around I am thus far debating between soemthing like the following:

- http://www.beachcamera.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=CNDRXSIK1855 (Canon EOS Digital Rebel XSi Black w/ EF-S 18-55mm IS Lens (Black))

or

- http://www.beachcamera.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=NKD601855VR (Nikon D60 Digital SLR Outfit w/ 18-55mm VR Zoom)

What do y'all think about these choices?

If it helps any I am not camera savvy but am a computer/tech nerd. I've just never got into cameras or pictures and thought since we need a new camera might as well as get a decent one.

 

[TitusvileSurfer]

I vote for Canon simply because that is what I use.
Everyone other answer you get will be based on the same criteria. All you are asking here is a poll: Who uses Canon Vs. who uses Nikon. Lame...and not helping you at all.

Why don't you ask some specific questions instead of such a broad, "Should I buy Canon or Nikon"?

Here is an unspecific answer to an unspecific question:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/com...450d,nikon_d60&camuser=canon_eos450d&show=all

 

[Electrobes]

Thanks for the comparism on the two cameras!

 

[TitusvileSurfer]

Sure thing, now look over that chart to give us some direct questions and you will have your answer.

 

[Electrobes]

Well I did look over the chart and it seems the differences are pretty slight.. with the Cannon having slightly better qualities which is expected of the higher price. I plan on using it for: Reef shots, family photos (We don't take many but it will be used)... that's about it.. I am not an avid outdoor photographer or anything.

TBH I don't quite get everything on the chart, but I get most of it and for what I want it seems the D60 would be just fine.. the only I could ask about is whether the lens would be good for these close coral shots. I think the standard I've seen is the 18mm-55mm. I've seen some talk of poeple buying other lenses,, but I'm not sure how much of a difference it would make for a guy like me. Most of the pictures I would take will be for digital means meaning internet, forums, etc but not actual printing.

 

[TitusvileSurfer]

As a general rule...
If you are buying the Canon, add the price of the 100mm f/2.8
If you are buying the Nikon, add the price of the 105mm f/2.8

These lenses are what would be ideal for 90% of reef tank shots...including 99.99% of "close coral shots".

Arguably the largest benefit of having either of these cameras is the ability to change from lens to lens to lens. Each lens has a specific job to preform just like policemen do the shooting and the firemen fix the people shot.

If he HAD to, a policeman probably knows a little first aid to help someone who has been shot. I know my uncle who is a fireman and SWAT medic could do the shooting if he absolutely had to. Each however would much rather stick to their designated task.

You wouldn't use a 100mm f/2.8 or 180mm f/3.5L to shoot the NFL, and you wouldn't use a 200mm f/2.8L or 300mm f/2.8L to shoot a reef tank...even though their designated roles could technically be reversed.

The 100mm f/2.8, and for the super rich 180mm f3.5L, are however reef tank lenses...through and through.

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Now, while some are more importiant than others...every item on the list I showed you is importiant. You need to have a solid understanding of what each is and how they relate to eachother in order to make an educated decision. If you are confused about any specific one let us know so we can clear the fog.