Pentax K20 DSLR for coins

jessewvu

Anyone have experience/recomendations with using the Pentax K20 for photographing coins? I want to purchase my first SLR camera and with the MSN Live and eBay coupon, I can get it for about $700 (normally a $1000 camera). I am purchasing it to photo coins and general use.

notwilight

I like pentax. My first SLR many years ago was a pentax (remember film?). But I would go with canon or nikon for more available accessories. Both are also available on ebay at good prices. that's where I bought mine. Many of the bulk sellers have them and you might find one that would swap a macro in for the packages they have. you'll need a macro. --Jerry

mgoodm3

Should work fine with a decent macro lens. There is at least one person around here using a Pentax SLR.

jessewvu

Does anyone have a suggestion for a quality SLR camera in the 900-1000 range? The Pentax camera I was looking at came with 4 lenses and some other stuff... I am interested in finding a package to take full advantage of the MSN Live and eBay coupon discounts. I was reading reviews on http://www.dpreview.com/ (the best review website I could find) and the Pentax was in my price range with really good reviews.

Link to DPreview Website K20 Comparison

mgoodm3

You can pretty easily find SLR bodies (sometimes with a lens) in the $400 - $500 range.

100 mm Macro lenses can be had in the range of $200 - $800. The lower end of that range will typically be used (I have used lenses). Nw lenses typically $350 and up.

Any of the major brands should be fine: Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Olympus, Sony

mgoodm3

Another thing to think about are the extras that you will need (hidden costs). Things like a copystand/tripod, memory cards, lighting. These will add to the costs a bit. expect somewhere from $50 - $300.

BECOKA

Mark has it right, for coin photography just about any SLR body will work, you want to get the best lens you can within your budget. 100-150mm seems to work the best for leaving enough distance to let enough light in.

Copy stand is a must, lights fixtures with flexible or adjustable necks are a must. I got mine at Ikea pretty cheap.

drwstr123

I love the Pentax w/100mm Macro. User friendly, great pidcs.