<< <i>...All the models you are comparing are considered entry level DSLR's and as everyone has said, the glass matters. BUT, if you are not a pro, you may not notice the difference in the subtle color variations caused by lens abberation, not the camera... >>
Not a pro and definitely not interested in the Pro prices either
BTW, Thanks for the Costco Link JungleFever.
I would say that although all 4 models I am considering are "entry-level", the Nikon D90 and the Canon XT1i 500D are just a step above, and the HD video would be the only reason for me to spend a few hundred more.
So far, this it what I have taken away from this thread:
1. Body's are less important than the glass, get a less expensive body and spend the difference on the lens(es) 2. For coin imaging you need a macro lens (not cheap glass BTW!) 3. You need to handle the body to "feel" how it fits in your hands. Go to Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Sam's or other retail outlets to "feel" the body before you buy. 4. Buy online for the best deals: B&H Photo (I've bought from them before); Costco online, Adorama, Amazon, Newegg, eBay, etc. 5. If you get the body that feels best in-hand, you cannot go wrong with the camera's listed in the OP. 6. Nikon cameras are compatible with every Nikon lens (more lens choices vis-á-vis Canon). 7. Definitely research and review what the online experts have to say (Steve's, dpreview, Cnet, pcmag, etc.) 8. Consider used equipment for better deals (esp. lenses) - see fredmiranda.com
Any other tidbits of wisdom re: dSLR purchase selection that I have missed?
Edited: didn't realize the combination of ":" + "D" rendered the happy face in my "reSLR" sentence. >>
A+ The student was paying attention during classes and made all his homework! You should be good to go, buy the one you like most, that will be the right one. (because you won't be able to compare it with others - unless you buy all of them )
Whichever you choose, put the bulk of your $$ into the lens. Personally, I am a Canon man - I have been since 1971 when I got my first FtB. Once you get used to a brand's interface, you generally stick with it. When I got my first digital (EOS 10D), I was using third party lenses for the most part (Tamron and Sigma). They work great and are good values for the money...that is, until you get a good look at really good glass. I upgraded to an L lens, 100-400 zoom two years ago (my main interest is wildlife) and the difference is like night and day! The sharpness and clarity of the L glass is unsurpassed. JMHO, but I'm sure others will agree...
Most pros still use Nikon, though sports photographers seem to prefer Canon. Here's some points to compare:
Nikon is by far the most durable -- I have used mine in the world's harshest conditions, dropped and bumped them and they still work. If you buy a Nikon, it will last for 20+ years no problem, and you can't say that about most other brands. Both my Nikon film SLRs are more than 25 years old and still work fine.
Nikon has the widest and best selection of lenses -- it's the only manufacturer that has maintaned a standard lens mount. You can use a 50-year-old lens on a new digital SLR and it will take pictures (though it won't autofocus or meter correctly). You can't do that with Canon or Pentax (contrary to what another poster said). Quality-wise, Canon glass is every bit as good as Nikon's, and sometimes better, but I like to be able to save money with a larger universe of used lenses to choose from. You should also watch out for the cheapo Nikon and Canon lenses designed to compete with the off brands -- they aren't as good as the manufacturers' other products.
Canon has a reputation for being faster when you need to shoot quickly -- that's why sports photogs prefer it -- but Nikon has worked hard to close the gap.
Nikon cameras have a better range of functions, giving the photographer more control over the shot. I like the ability to go fully manual when necessary.
Also, I would avoid the off-brand lenses such as Sigma and Tamron. There's a reason why they are cheaper -- they just aren't as good. I've used them in a professional capacity and, to put it bluntly, they suck. Better to go with used quality Nikon or Canon glass, depending on which brand you choose.
Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear.
OK, even after 58 posts, I feel obliged to add my .02c.
What everybody says about lenses being more important than bodies is mostly true. If there exists a lens suite that will meet your needs, then go with that. I will now list the reasons that I like my camera BODY.
I bought a D300. It's larger and fits into my hands better than those toy feeling D80s and 90s. Then again, I have big hands. I also bought the grip. It feels wonderful, and the controls are intuitive.
Speaking of controls, I personally like the "button-ey" controls on the Nikons better than the "dial-ey" controls on the Cannons. That one thing ultimately swayed my decision to buy Nikon, since I considered the lens compatibility issue to be moot.
The D300 is FAST! Blazing fast! The only things faster are the pro level D3s and a few of the pro level Cannons. 6 FPS standard and 8 FPS with AAs in the grip make this the first body I grab for almost everything. Lightning fast focus aquisition and seemingly magic 51 point AF system doesn't hurt either. Once you use a camera as fast as the D300, everything less than a D3 feels like junk in your hand.
As mentioned before, Nikon's legendary durability. I don't really plan on selling my D300 body ever. It's just too useful, and does it's job too darn well. 12.1 MP sensor design on the APS-C format makes for a fantastic balance of pixel density and size, which ultimately determine speed and noise at high ISO. One of the reasons the D3 is faster and has better high ISO performance is that it spreads 12.1 MPs over an FX sensor. Larger pixels makes for better noise compliance. One of the reasons the D700 and D3X are slower is that they have so many darn pixels. More pixels take longer to write to the buffer, decreasing the framerate. Until the electronics get markedly faster, I think the D3 and the D300 will reign supreme in the speed department.
And best of all, the D300 is a comparable steal. With consumers paying top dollar for whatever the latest version is, you should have no problem scoring a fast D300 for the same price, if not cheaper than a new D90.
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
The one big difference I've discovered in the off-brand lenses is in the mechanics -- they do not have the staying power of Nikon or Canon lenses. It doesn't matter how good the glass quality is if the focusing mechanism breaks down. As you can see, durability is a big issue with me. But my 55mm Nikon macro lens is still going strong after 20+ years -- long after the Tamron and Sigma junk I bought got trashed because they broke down.
Ironically, I took the plunge today and purchased a Nikon D90 (w/18-105MM lens for starters), based on the advice of many on this forum. I will purchase a micro/macro lens in the coming months. I cannot give you a hands-on opinion as of yet, since the camera has not arrived in the mail as of yet.
I purchased my camera @ Beachcamera.com. This is not the first camera I have bought on this site. They have been consistently been one of the cheapest out there. Plus, they are located in NJ, so no sales tax and free shipping for me. Last time I purchased a camera it was Fedex'd to my house the next day, which is a nice feature
Good luck with whatever purchase you choose.
Len
In Loving Memory of my Dad......My best friend, My inspiration, and My Coin Collecting Partner
<< <i>Ironically, I took the plunge today and purchased a Nikon D90 (w/18-105MM lens for starters), based on the advice of many on this forum. I will purchase a micro/macro lens in the coming months. I cannot give you a hands-on opinion as of yet, since the camera has not arrived in the mail as of yet.
I purchased my camera @ Beachcamera.com. This is not the first camera I have bought on this site. They have been consistently been one of the cheapest out there. Plus, they are located in NJ, so no sales tax and free shipping for me. Last time I purchased a camera it was Fedex'd to my house the next day, which is a nice feature
Good luck with whatever purchase you choose.
Len >>
So what was the deciding factor(s) for you? Why say the D90 over the D5000? or Canon, Pentax, Olympus, etc?
"Please help us keep these boards professional and informative…. And fun." - DW --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
I have the D5000. I am very happy with the photo quality. But the key thing for me was the screen on the back that is adjustable to any angle. I take lots of pictures of cars from high and low angles so it really made life a lot easier on my back. The one thing I wasn't happy about was a couple of my slightly older auto focus lenses that worked on my last Nikon don't auto focus with this one. Only the ones with the S on the end work. disgust; Richard
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
This advice is really spot on. For most of what you will be doing with the camera, it will not matter what you get. If you were going to do something that pushed the limits of your camera then you would need to worry. Until then have fun with it and just enjoy it for what it is.
I am waiting on my new Mark III from Canon, so I am excited!
I too am thinking about buying a DSLR, and I'm thinking i'll be getting a Nikon. Is the in body autofocus motor important? Because it seems like that's the biggest difference between the D90 and D5000. I'm just nervous that I'll buy the wrong lens and have to focus everything manually. Would you have to focus manually with a Sigma Macro lens on a D5000?
Also, I would want to take pictures other than coins with the camera as well.
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
This advice is really spot on. For most of what you will be doing with the camera, it will not matter what you get. If you were going to do something that pushed the limits of your camera then you would need to worry. Until then have fun with it and just enjoy it for what it is.
I am waiting on my new Mark III from Canon, so I am excited! >>
OOOHHH!!! I can't recommend a 1D series camera. Don't even hold one or even worse, take a picture with one. Once you do, nothing will ever seem as good. Years ago, I played with a 1D. Loved it so much that I saved and saved to purchase it. Years later, I saved and saved and got a used 1DsII. Amazing camera. Unless it dies or I do, I don't think I'll ever part with it.
Positive dealing with oilstates2003, rkfish, Scrapman1077, Weather11am, Guitarwes, Twosides2acoin, Hendrixkat, Sevensteps, CarlWohlforth, DLBack, zug, wildjag, tetradrachm, tydye, NotSure, AgBlox, Seemyauction, Stopmotion, Zubie, Fivecents, Musky1011, Bstat1020, Gsa1fan several times, and Mkman123 LOTS of times
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos shame j/k >>
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos.
Need a Barber Half with ANACS photo certificate. If you have one for sale please PM me. Current Ebay auctions
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos shame j/k >>
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos. >>
Those are nice discounts too...have a friend who has a father-in-law that works for Nikon in Oregon. I am tres jealous ... Well, if you don't use those discounts, I would be happy to help ya
<< <i>I too am thinking about buying a DSLR, and I'm thinking i'll be getting a Nikon. Is the in body autofocus motor important? Because it seems like that's the biggest difference between the D90 and D5000. I'm just nervous that I'll buy the wrong lens and have to focus everything manually. Would you have to focus manually with a Sigma Macro lens on a D5000?
Also, I would want to take pictures other than coins with the camera as well.
-Paul >>
The in-body autofocus is faster and also allows for a wider selection of lenses. If you buy the D5000 you will have to make sure that any lens you use has an internal autofocus motor, like the Nikon AF-S series.
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos shame j/k >>
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos. >>
Thanks for this most generous give-away Relicsncoins! PM me for details on where to send me your big Nikon discounts so that I can purchase the Nikon of my dreams!!
Otherwise, I'm going rogue on you, er rather Rebel, Canon that is!
"Please help us keep these boards professional and informative…. And fun." - DW --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
There is a little learning curve so be prepared for that. Also, once you get used to your camera, my best advice would be to shoot in RAW. IMO, I don't think you NEED it shooting coins but it can't hurt. However, taking pictures of anything else, people, animals, landscape, ect, it can make a big difference. There is a little more work involved but once you start playing with it, you might be pleasantly surprised.
Positive dealing with oilstates2003, rkfish, Scrapman1077, Weather11am, Guitarwes, Twosides2acoin, Hendrixkat, Sevensteps, CarlWohlforth, DLBack, zug, wildjag, tetradrachm, tydye, NotSure, AgBlox, Seemyauction, Stopmotion, Zubie, Fivecents, Musky1011, Bstat1020, Gsa1fan several times, and Mkman123 LOTS of times
<< <i>I ordered a macro lens for my new Canon T1i (aka 500D) It arrives tomorrow. I'll take a few shots of some coins with it and post them later this week. You can then try to 'guess the brand'. OEM or third party. Yes I know, that will be impossible to do, won't it? That was the point of this post.... Still going to do it however. >>
New lens arrived on time. Out of the box, onto the camera, overhead light and a halogen spot. No copy stand yet, no work on the lighting which will be the fun part. Held my thumb on the slabs and shot some at an angle, so these are not the best......just the first for fun.
Best Regards......... PS.......it's not a Canon Lens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wow! Other than a little white-balance issue, some very sharp, clear, crisp images!
After Christmas, I plan on pulling the trigger on my new dSLR camera body and lenses. But until then I remain open minded. PM me the lens you used, I won't tell.
Besides, it wouldn't be appropriate considering the OP question. Just some more info to digest before making the big plunge.
Nice pics BTW
<< <i>
<< <i>I ordered a macro lens for my new Canon T1i (aka 500D) It arrives tomorrow. I'll take a few shots of some coins with it and post them later this week. You can then try to 'guess the brand'. OEM or third party. Yes I know, that will be impossible to do, won't it? That was the point of this post.... Still going to do it however. >>
New lens arrived on time. Out of the box, onto the camera, overhead light and a halogen spot. No copy stand yet, no work on the lighting which will be the fun part. Held my thumb on the slabs and shot some at an angle, so these are not the best......just the first for fun.
Best Regards......... PS.......it's not a Canon Lens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>>
"Please help us keep these boards professional and informative…. And fun." - DW --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
PM received! And as advertised it "Ain't No Canon Lens, no how!"
Very nice images JungleFever!
Thanx for sharing!
"Please help us keep these boards professional and informative…. And fun." - DW --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
If you're going to wait until after Xmas, keep an eye out for specials.....cashbacks, store discounts, etc. You know the top stores to get from (to avoid tax as well).
If you are one of those "I want it in my hands NOW" types, then I agree that Costco is a great choice, though you will pay tax if you get from their store, or even online from them if they have a presence in your state and your state has sales tax.
I'm with Mark, it really does not matter for macro photos which camera you get. Sigma makes a very nice 150mm lens for either camera.
I am not as familiar with Nikon so if it has this feature fine but I would choose the Canon that has the Manual preview feature. You can zoom up to 10x to focus on the fields of the coin and then take the photo.
Personally I have a 40D, a very nice Canon camera and I love it. Takes awesome sports shots too. Great for my kids Hockey/Baseball games.
edited: to make a long story short, if you know more folks with Canon or Nikon go with that. It will be easier to get support.
"Please help us keep these boards professional and informative…. And fun." - DW --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
Comments
<< <i>
<< <i>...All the models you are comparing are considered entry level DSLR's and as everyone has said, the glass matters. BUT, if you are not a pro, you may not notice the difference in the subtle color variations caused by lens abberation, not the camera... >>
Not a pro and definitely not interested in the Pro prices either
BTW, Thanks for the Costco Link JungleFever.
I would say that although all 4 models I am considering are "entry-level", the Nikon D90 and the Canon XT1i 500D are just a step above, and the HD video would be the only reason for me to spend a few hundred more.
So far, this it what I have taken away from this thread:
1. Body's are less important than the glass, get a less expensive body and spend the difference on the lens(es)
2. For coin imaging you need a macro lens (not cheap glass BTW!)
3. You need to handle the body to "feel" how it fits in your hands. Go to Best Buy, Wal-Mart, Sam's or other retail outlets to "feel" the body before you buy.
4. Buy online for the best deals: B&H Photo (I've bought from them before); Costco online, Adorama, Amazon, Newegg, eBay, etc.
5. If you get the body that feels best in-hand, you cannot go wrong with the camera's listed in the OP.
6. Nikon cameras are compatible with every Nikon lens (more lens choices vis-á-vis Canon).
7. Definitely research and review what the online experts have to say (Steve's, dpreview, Cnet, pcmag, etc.)
8. Consider used equipment for better deals (esp. lenses) - see fredmiranda.com
Any other tidbits of wisdom re: dSLR purchase selection that I have missed?
Edited: didn't realize the combination of ":" + "D" rendered the happy face
A+ The student was paying attention during classes and made all his homework!
You should be good to go, buy the one you like most, that will be the right one. (because you won't be able to compare it with others - unless you buy all of them
<< <i>NIKON!!! >>
CANON!!!
I partial to Nikon and have a D90, good luck with your purchase you'll be happy with either one.
Bob
Lordmarcovan, WTCG, YogiBerraFan, Phoenin21, LindeDad, Coll3ctor, blue594, robkoll, Mike Dixon, BloodMan, Flakthat and others.
mbogoman
https://pcgs.com/setregistry/collectors-showcase/classic-issues-colonials-through-1964/zambezi-collection-trade-dollars/7345Asesabi Lutho
Nikon is by far the most durable -- I have used mine in the world's harshest conditions, dropped and bumped them and they still work. If you buy a Nikon, it will last for 20+ years no problem, and you can't say that about most other brands. Both my Nikon film SLRs are more than 25 years old and still work fine.
Nikon has the widest and best selection of lenses -- it's the only manufacturer that has maintaned a standard lens mount. You can use a 50-year-old lens on a new digital SLR and it will take pictures (though it won't autofocus or meter correctly). You can't do that with Canon or Pentax (contrary to what another poster said). Quality-wise, Canon glass is every bit as good as Nikon's, and sometimes better, but I like to be able to save money with a larger universe of used lenses to choose from. You should also watch out for the cheapo Nikon and Canon lenses designed to compete with the off brands -- they aren't as good as the manufacturers' other products.
Canon has a reputation for being faster when you need to shoot quickly -- that's why sports photogs prefer it -- but Nikon has worked hard to close the gap.
Nikon cameras have a better range of functions, giving the photographer more control over the shot. I like the ability to go fully manual when necessary.
Also, I would avoid the off-brand lenses such as Sigma and Tamron. There's a reason why they are cheaper -- they just aren't as good. I've used them in a professional capacity and, to put it bluntly, they suck. Better to go with used quality Nikon or Canon glass, depending on which brand you choose.
D3000
and
D5000
I see at costco?
Hoard the keys.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear.
What everybody says about lenses being more important than bodies is mostly true. If there exists a lens suite that will meet your needs, then go with that. I will now list the reasons that I like my camera BODY.
I bought a D300. It's larger and fits into my hands better than those toy feeling D80s and 90s. Then again, I have big hands. I also bought the grip. It feels wonderful, and the controls are intuitive.
Speaking of controls, I personally like the "button-ey" controls on the Nikons better than the "dial-ey" controls on the Cannons. That one thing ultimately swayed my decision to buy Nikon, since I considered the lens compatibility issue to be moot.
The D300 is FAST! Blazing fast! The only things faster are the pro level D3s and a few of the pro level Cannons. 6 FPS standard and 8 FPS with AAs in the grip make this the first body I grab for almost everything. Lightning fast focus aquisition and seemingly magic 51 point AF system doesn't hurt either. Once you use a camera as fast as the D300, everything less than a D3 feels like junk in your hand.
As mentioned before, Nikon's legendary durability. I don't really plan on selling my D300 body ever. It's just too useful, and does it's job too darn well. 12.1 MP sensor design on the APS-C format makes for a fantastic balance of pixel density and size, which ultimately determine speed and noise at high ISO. One of the reasons the D3 is faster and has better high ISO performance is that it spreads 12.1 MPs over an FX sensor. Larger pixels makes for better noise compliance. One of the reasons the D700 and D3X are slower is that they have so many darn pixels. More pixels take longer to write to the buffer, decreasing the framerate. Until the electronics get markedly faster, I think the D3 and the D300 will reign supreme in the speed department.
And best of all, the D300 is a comparable steal. With consumers paying top dollar for whatever the latest version is, you should have no problem scoring a fast D300 for the same price, if not cheaper than a new D90.
Ahem.
Empty Nest Collection
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
The one big difference I've discovered in the off-brand lenses is in the mechanics -- they do not have the staying power of Nikon or Canon lenses. It doesn't matter how good the glass quality is if the focusing mechanism breaks down. As you can see, durability is a big issue with me. But my 55mm Nikon macro lens is still going strong after 20+ years -- long after the Tamron and Sigma junk I bought got trashed because they broke down.
I purchased my camera @ Beachcamera.com. This is not the first camera I have bought on this site. They have been consistently been one of the cheapest out there. Plus, they are located in NJ, so no sales tax and free shipping for me. Last time I purchased a camera it was Fedex'd to my house the next day, which is a nice feature
Good luck with whatever purchase you choose.
Len
"La Vostra Nonna Ha Faccia Del Fungo"
<< <i>Ironically, I took the plunge today and purchased a Nikon D90 (w/18-105MM lens for starters), based on the advice of many on this forum. I will purchase a micro/macro lens in the coming months. I cannot give you a hands-on opinion as of yet, since the camera has not arrived in the mail as of yet.
I purchased my camera @ Beachcamera.com. This is not the first camera I have bought on this site. They have been consistently been one of the cheapest out there. Plus, they are located in NJ, so no sales tax and free shipping for me. Last time I purchased a camera it was Fedex'd to my house the next day, which is a nice feature
Good luck with whatever purchase you choose.
Len >>
So what was the deciding factor(s) for you? Why say the D90 over the D5000? or Canon, Pentax, Olympus, etc?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
You can then try to 'guess the brand'. OEM or third party.
Yes I know, that will be impossible to do, won't it?
That was the point of this post....
Still going to do it however.
The one thing I wasn't happy about was a couple of my slightly older auto focus lenses that worked on my last Nikon don't auto focus with this one. Only the ones with the S on the end work. disgust;
Richard
my car art & My Ebay stuff
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
This advice is really spot on. For most of what you will be doing with the camera, it will not matter what you get. If you were going to do something that pushed the limits of your camera then you would need to worry. Until then have fun with it and just enjoy it for what it is.
I am waiting on my new Mark III from Canon, so I am excited!
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos
Also, I would want to take pictures other than coins with the camera as well.
-Paul
<< <i>
<< <i>Since there is so much counter-productive "this brand is great, that brand is bad" stuff floating around here, I figured I would chime in again.
1) There is hardly any such thing as a "bad" macro lens. Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sigma, Tamron are all fine. You will be hard-pressed to tell a real difference in an image between the various brand unless you are pixel-peeping and even then it will be minimal.
2) The big differences in "glass" that most talk about are related to using large apertures. You can't single out any one brand as being "clearly superior" across the board. They all produce individually good lenses. When working at smaller aperture such as f8 the differences will tend to melt away. Secondarily, when the image is scaled down to a usable size the differences will also tend to disappear. >>
This advice is really spot on. For most of what you will be doing with the camera, it will not matter what you get. If you were going to do something that pushed the limits of your camera then you would need to worry. Until then have fun with it and just enjoy it for what it is.
I am waiting on my new Mark III from Canon, so I am excited! >>
OOOHHH!!! I can't recommend a 1D series camera. Don't even hold one or even worse, take a picture with one. Once you do, nothing will ever seem as good.
<< <i>
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos. >>
Those are nice discounts too...have a friend who has a father-in-law that works for Nikon in Oregon. I am tres jealous ...
Well, if you don't use those discounts, I would be happy to help ya
I've been told I tolerate fools poorly...that may explain things if I have a problem with you. Current ebay items - Nothing at the moment
<< <i>I too am thinking about buying a DSLR, and I'm thinking i'll be getting a Nikon. Is the in body autofocus motor important? Because it seems like that's the biggest difference between the D90 and D5000. I'm just nervous that I'll buy the wrong lens and have to focus everything manually. Would you have to focus manually with a Sigma Macro lens on a D5000?
Also, I would want to take pictures other than coins with the camera as well.
-Paul >>
The in-body autofocus is faster and also allows for a wider selection of lenses. If you buy the D5000 you will have to make sure that any lens you use has an internal autofocus motor, like the Nikon AF-S series.
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>Since I'm a Nikon employee, I guess you know what my answer is. >>
And you struggle with coin photos
The sad thing is, I get big discounts on Nikon products, and I use a coolpix 5700. I'm actually on the semiconductor side of Nikon's business, so I have an excuse for my lame photos. >>
Thanks for this most generous give-away Relicsncoins! PM me for details on where to send me your big Nikon discounts so that I can purchase the Nikon of my dreams!!
Otherwise, I'm going rogue on you, er rather Rebel, Canon that is!
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BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
There is a little learning curve so be prepared for that. Also, once you get used to your camera, my best advice would be to shoot in RAW. IMO, I don't think you NEED it shooting coins but it can't hurt. However, taking pictures of anything else, people, animals, landscape, ect, it can make a big difference. There is a little more work involved but once you start playing with it, you might be pleasantly surprised.
<< <i>I ordered a macro lens for my new Canon T1i (aka 500D) It arrives tomorrow. I'll take a few shots of some coins with it and post them later this week. You can then try to 'guess the brand'. OEM or third party. Yes I know, that will be impossible to do, won't it? That was the point of this post.... Still going to do it however. >>
New lens arrived on time. Out of the box, onto the camera, overhead light and a halogen spot. No copy stand yet, no work on the lighting which will be the fun part. Held my thumb on the slabs and shot some at an angle, so these are not the best......just the first for fun.
Best Regards......... PS.......it's not a Canon Lens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After Christmas, I plan on pulling the trigger on my new dSLR camera body and lenses. But until then I remain open minded. PM me the lens you used, I won't tell.
Besides, it wouldn't be appropriate considering the OP question. Just some more info to digest before making the big plunge.
Nice pics BTW
<< <i>
<< <i>I ordered a macro lens for my new Canon T1i (aka 500D) It arrives tomorrow. I'll take a few shots of some coins with it and post them later this week. You can then try to 'guess the brand'. OEM or third party. Yes I know, that will be impossible to do, won't it? That was the point of this post.... Still going to do it however. >>
New lens arrived on time. Out of the box, onto the camera, overhead light and a halogen spot. No copy stand yet, no work on the lighting which will be the fun part. Held my thumb on the slabs and shot some at an angle, so these are not the best......just the first for fun.
Best Regards......... PS.......it's not a Canon Lens ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
Very nice images JungleFever!
Thanx for sharing!
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BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES
You know the top stores to get from (to avoid tax as well).
If you are one of those "I want it in my hands NOW" types, then I agree that Costco is a great choice, though you will pay tax if you get from their store, or even online from them if they have a presence in your state and your state has sales tax.
I've been told I tolerate fools poorly...that may explain things if I have a problem with you. Current ebay items - Nothing at the moment
<< <i>IDK if you have already done this, but before you even decide, go to like Bestbuy and play with each of them. >>
You must be near the Best Buy that doesn't have all of the cameras missing from their displays.
60 years into this hobby and I'm still working on my Lincoln set!
I am not as familiar with Nikon so if it has this feature fine but I would choose the Canon that has the Manual preview feature. You can zoom up to 10x to focus on the fields of the coin and then take the photo.
Personally I have a 40D, a very nice Canon camera and I love it. Takes awesome sports shots too. Great for my kids Hockey/Baseball games.
edited: to make a long story short, if you know more folks with Canon or Nikon go with that. It will be easier to get support.
Text edited in the OP.
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BONGO HURTLES ALONG THE RAIN SODDEN HIGHWAY OF LIFE ON UNDERINFLATED BALD RETREAD TIRES