Entry Level DSLR for Beginners

[phaseshift]

Hey guys, its been a long time since I visited this forum. I started with a d80 and sold it and unfortunately haven't been in the DSLR scene since 2008 and I am still a beginner as I didn't have the d80 for long. I do remember having a 50mm 1.8f lens with it and I loved it so for the short time I had it.

Anyway, I want to get a new DSLR w/lens kit, what would you guys recommend? I don't want to spend more than 600 dollars.

I like to shoot close ups and portraits sometimes outdoors so...a well rounded setup I guess.

 

[Crash477]

You can get a D3100 with kit lens for $550, or look at used too

 

[phaseshift]

is there a used setup that can be had that is better than the d3100?

 

[Patrick]

is there a used setup that can be had that is better than the d3100?

maybe a D5000 set or a D90 set if you look very closely... (don't count on the last one!).

truth be told the d3100 smokes your d80 in general IQ and ISO... Handling will be a bit off compared to the bigger bodied D80.

 

[Crash477]

is there a used setup that can be had that is better than the d3100?

Maybe a D90 or D200. You could get a D5000 body

 

[phaseshift]

what characteristics would make those suggested better than what the d3100 currently has to offer?

where can I get a used body nowadays, adorama still a great place?

 

[Joseph]

Get a used D40 for around ~$200, or even with 18-55 and 55-200 kit lenses for $400. Then wait for the upcoming 50 1.8G for $219 and you're set.

 

[phaseshift]

Get a used D40 for around ~$200, or even with 18-55 and 55-200 kit lenses for $400. Then wait for the upcoming 50 1.8G for $219 and you're set.

there's this right now

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/pho/2351099034.html

with less than 3000 shutter counts how does that sound?

how much shutter count should I be looking for, I just remember it should be something to consider when buying a used cam

 

[Ryan_T]

These things are rated for 100,000+ shutter count, so 3000 is barely used.

Get a used D40 for around ~$200, or even with 18-55 and 55-200 kit lenses for $400. Then wait for the upcoming 50 1.8G for $219 and you're set.

This.

Honestly, if you're just starting out, getting a brand new entry-level body is rather pointless. Might as well get a used mid-level or used entry-level and put more money into glass. And since a lot of people has tendency to get an entry level, and realize quickly that they want/need (justifiably or not) a better model, there are lots on the used market you can take advantage of.


I'm still using a D70s I got 5 years ago.

 

[bnk190]

My dad just picked up the 3100 and likes it. If you are looking new and need a lens with it I think that is your best bet. The D40 in your link also fits your price range. Why not just look for anothe D80 that is used? If you look enough you may be able to find a D90.

 

[GH41]

You should be able to find a D90 and 50-1.8D for close to your budget. For me the D40 tech is a step too far back in time. GH

 

[phaseshift]

what's the main difference between the d90 and d80?

d80 vs d3100?

 

[Pupator]

Check out the reviews and camera info at dpreview.com - they even have a comparison chart you can insert any camera into.

 

[phaseshift]

I started to consider a used d3100..but I'm not sure if I'm going to want a built in motor..when I can just buy lenses that have motors right?

so the ones with an AF motor are the D80 and D90? the D5100 and D3100 do not?

 

[GH41]

I started to consider a used d3100..but I'm not sure if I'm going to want a built in motor..when I can just buy lenses that have motors right?

so the ones with an AF motor are the D80 and D90? the D5100 and D3100 do not?

You mentioned a 50mm lens. The 50-1.8D can be had for $80-100 used but doesnt have a focus motor. The new af/s (with motor) version will cost you $320 (estimated). The savings on that lens alone will pay for the D90 over a 3100! Why limit yourself? There are many of yesterdays lenses that are as good as the new G versions but cost less. I don't understand why a person would buy an entry level body like a D40 and use anything other than kit lenses with it. I defeats the purpose of having a small/light package. GH

 

[phaseshift]

the d90 used is still kinda expensive...I really don't want to spend more than 600

 

[phaseshift]

I'm leaning more towards my old d80 again...the only thing that I'm on the ball with is everything else they've added with the d3100.

Besides the d3100 not having the AF motor, what else would be a con compared to a d80?

 

[Ryan_T]

the d90 used is still kinda expensive...I really don't want to spend more than 600

If you're serious about this, upping your budget to $1000 might be a good choice. You don't have to buy latest and greatest, but it'll give you more room to breathe in terms of growth.

Better to save a bit and get a better, longer lasting kit. If I were starting out, I wouldn't get a body without a drive motor. There are too many good old (and cheap) lenses.

 

[phaseshift]

so say I upgrade my budget to 1000, where do I go from here?

 

[Crash477]

Used or refurbished D7000 body would be my pick