What's a good camera for coins?

frnklnlvr · December 26, 2008 3:29PM

Can someone tell me what a good camera for shooting closeups of coins is? I'm looking to spend around $250-$300. I don't know anything about cameras or lenses and I'd appreciate any help I can get.

Bochiman · December 26, 2008 3:34PM

There are many different ones and they change all the time as the manufacturers are always creating new models.
I use a Nikon S-10 and it works for me. Was ~$200 just over a year ago.

There are people (Russ) that use old cameras that they got off ebay for $50-$100 and take great shots. There are people who get $1000+ DSLRs and don't get good shots.
A lot is the set up and a lot is knowing how to use what you have (and the lighting, etc).

Search for some old posts, visit Mark Goodman's site, etc for tips.

DUIGUY · December 26, 2008 3:34PM

start here

have fun!

Bochiman · December 26, 2008 4:53PM

Let me also add.....get a good (small) tripod....not too cheap as the really cheap/small ones fall over with a lot of the cameras (I got a $8 one from staples a few years back and had to hold it to keep it from falling). Or, get a copystand. I bought one on ebay and it is great. Raise/lower the camera. Use the timer so it stays steady. Nice surface (black and about 12"x18") for putting coins/items on. Came with 2 lights and a whitebox (something to put the items in, shine the lights on from outside so it diffusing the light to reduce the glare on the items).

micmt · December 26, 2008 5:22PM

I found a great feature with my Canon Rebel that I use more than the timer now. There was a program that allows me to plug my camera into my comp and take pictures with a mouse click and i get to see the shots right on my screen. Great for easily adjusting picture qualities. DSLR's in the 1000's only take great shots with a great Macro lense. if you are not into buying an expensive macro lense don't bother. There are many great cheaper cameras that have the macro built in that take great shots.

frnklnlvr · December 26, 2008 8:44PM

I'd like to get a nice macro lens but I can't afford to right now. My brother let me take some pics with his cam which had a macro lens and the quality was amazing compared to what I've been taking. I know I need to get a tripod because I can never keep the cam still and using the mouse to take the pic is a cool feature.

IrishMike · December 26, 2008 9:00PM

I would suggest you look for a used or older nikon, olympus or canon capable of macro shooting, 5 megapixels is fine. You can pick up a heavy duty tripod for around $20 at places like staples. That combo should give you all you need plus a gooseneck lamp with an Ott light. That should fit into your budget nicely. However the key is to practice and read the manual.

frnklnlvr · December 26, 2008 9:08PM

Thanks for all the helpful suggestions and advice. It's given me a pretty good idea of what to look for.

What's a good camera for coins?

Comments

Leave a Comment