What about a macro-only camera and lens?

[somewherre]

I've been reading (and reading, and reading...) about the different cameras and lenses available for aquarium/reef photography, and had finally found myself torn between the D80 and the D300, both with the Nikkor 105mm lens. Of course I want the D300 , but then I started to wonder if I'd be buying way more than I need with one or both of those. I want a camera stictly for macro shots.

I have an older Nikon (Coolpix 950) that I quite like for point and shoot camera usage, so I really don't care about being able to get good people or sunset pictures with the new one. I would use the camera for more than just corals, and would most likely use it pretty often, so in one sense I can justify buying a D300 - like everything else in the reef hobby, I prefer to buy things only one time. But I'd also like to make sure I'm not missing out on something more appropriate since macro is my only concern.

Thanks!

-S

Oh, and just for fun, below are 2 pictures taken with my 10 year old 950 Not perfect by any means, but not too shabby I don't think, for a P/S.

 

[dapettit]

I have a D80. I would love a D300 (out of my budget). Either would work especially with the 105. I'm no expert but I don't think you can go wrong here.

Oh, once you start using it you'll forget all about the coolpix.

 

[sccrcoach]

I have a D300 and it works great with that lens...a little pricey but I feel it is well worth it..overall a great camera for any purpose

 

[cmm1970]

Here is something to think about. I currently own a D70(precursor to the D80) and a D2x Nikon back. The 105mm lens works fabulously with both cameras. Focus speed is much faster with the D2x, but that is the only difference in the two other than file size and sensor resolution. That issue is another debate on its own, but suffice it to say that if you are interested in publishing non-action photography to the web, which is a 72Dpi resolution file, the D80 is the way to go and save $600 or more. If you have interests outside of macro photography as most folks do, then consider the d300. If you have not ever used a DSLR, then buy the D80, use it for 2-3 years, and then upgrade. The 105mm Macro by Nikon is a timeless lens and will work fantastically with all Nikon DSLR backs and most of the film backs also. You can't go wrong with that lens. The camera backs, however, do become outdated and you throw them away after 3-5 years. I know I am starting to think about shelving my D2x when the remodeled D3x comes out sometime in the future.

Final note...if you are not experienced with DSLRs or SLR cameras, the D300 will be a lot of camera to learn how to use. The D80, because it is an entry level camera, will be less complicated. This may make a huge difference in how happy you are with your purchase. Complicated is not always better.

 

[somewherre]

Thanks for the responses. Turns out I know someone who has a D80, and they're kind enough to let me borrow it for a while to see what I think of it. Going to get a 105mm lens and put it through the paces against my tank and other subjects for the next couple of weeks.

I do have experience with SLR's, just not DSLR's. And also not for some years, but am hopefull that the re-learning curve won't be too bad. I do want the camera for more than just online publishing - could never justify the cost of either camera if I just wanted to post pictures in here or on some other site. There are several features that the D300 offers over the D80 that I find very attractive. Unfortunately it's been too long of a day to recall exactly what they are at the moment

At any rate...thanks again. Once I get the lens I'll post up some shots and see what the critics have to say