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Which Camera? **Please read OP first**

1246736

Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 559 ✭✭✭sebphoto


    jenno86 wrote: »
    Hey,

    Bought a 2nd hand Canon 400d during the week to get me started with DSLRs! It came with an 18-55 kit lense. Want to get something with a zoom!

    Any suggestions for me? I was looking at this one!

    Going to a wedding next week and want to try it out!

    Also need to get another battery! The one I got with it is shíte! What are battery grips like? Any good?

    Get 50mm 1.8 instead long and slow zoom lense, so it'll be perfect for your first wedding :)


  • Registered Users Posts: 823 ✭✭✭thatsnotmyname


    sebphoto wrote: »
    Get 50mm 1.8 instead long and slow zoom lense, so it'll be perfect for your first wedding :)
    I second that

    the 55-250 is grand in daylight conditions but terrible in low light situations
    I picked up a spare battery for my 450d a few week ago for €12 on ebay
    it's not Canon but work fine as a backup.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,634 ✭✭✭jenno86


    sebphoto wrote: »
    Get 50mm 1.8 instead long and slow zoom lense, so it'll be perfect for your first wedding :)

    Cool, cheers for the fast reply!

    How about this one?

    Do use a battery grip? Was thinking of getting one.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 559 ✭✭✭sebphoto


    jenno86 wrote: »
    Cool, cheers for the fast reply!

    How about this one?

    Do use a battery grip? Was thinking of getting one.

    Battery grip? You're pro or you'll be shooting over 800 photos per day? If not then it is not worth it. Get another battery and you'll have more free space in your backpack/bag.
    Yep the URL you give is correct, but you could get it cheaper second hand.
    Regarding battery, if you want to save some money go for hahnel battery instead of original one.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,634 ✭✭✭jenno86


    sebphoto wrote: »
    Battery grip? You're pro or you'll be shooting over 800 photos per day? If not then it is not worth it. Get another battery and you'll have more free space in your backpack/bag.
    Yep the URL you give is correct, but you could get it cheaper second hand.
    Regarding battery, if you want to save some money go for hahnel battery instead of original one.

    No, I'm as far from pro as they come!

    Just the battery I got with it was terrible and only lasted about 50 photos! I'll get another one and see how it goes! Thanks for the advice!


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  • Registered Users Posts: 823 ✭✭✭thatsnotmyname


    Just a bit of advice
    If you are ordering online
    try and do it as soon as possible

    it can take a while for delivery sometimes
    I was waiting over ten days for the battery:mad:


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,842 ✭✭✭dacogawa


    Hi Again,

    I'm going to buy one of these two today, as they are the same price I would really like if someone could tell me which is the better option

    Sony DT 75-300mm 4.5-5.6 (€129)
    Sigma 70-300mm f4-5.6 Apo Sony fit Lens (€129)

    I've heard that sigma is a cheaper alternative to 'own brand' lenses but it does have f4-5.6, and I've read that I'm better with APO

    As said I'm a complete newbie to this so any help would be appreciated, Thanks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 211 ✭✭djgaillimh


    jenno86 wrote: »
    Hey,

    Bought a 2nd hand Canon 400d during the week to get me started with DSLRs! It came with an 18-55 kit lense. Want to get something with a zoom!

    Any suggestions for me? I was looking at this one!

    Going to a wedding next week and want to try it out!

    Also need to get another battery! The one I got with it is shíte! What are battery grips like? Any good?

    Or better yet, buy that and the 50mm 1.8. The 55-250 is available for €124 from these guys:

    http://www.ebay.ie/itm/NEW-CANON-EF-S-55-250mm-f-4-5-6-ZOOM-LENS-55-250-mm-/110723532114?pt=UK_Lenses_Filters_Lenses&hash=item19c7a30552#ht_4293wt_1185

    I suspect these are dodgy Hong Kong sellers using a UK office (possibly to get around VAT?), but in my experience dodgy Hong Kong sellers are pretty great.

    Grab the nifty fifty with the money you save. Should be able to get it for €90 if you shop around.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,641 ✭✭✭zero19


    I've bought from that seller before, no issues and quick postage. Came from the Uk so no import tax.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 211 ✭✭djgaillimh


    Well there you have it.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 211 ✭✭djgaillimh


    dacogawa wrote: »
    Hi Again,

    I'm going to buy one of these two today, as they are the same price I would really like if someone could tell me which is the better option

    Sony DT 75-300mm 4.5-5.6 (€129)
    Sigma 70-300mm f4-5.6 Apo Sony fit Lens (€129)

    I've heard that sigma is a cheaper alternative to 'own brand' lenses but it does have f4-5.6, and I've read that I'm better with APO

    As said I'm a complete newbie to this so any help would be appreciated, Thanks

    I've used the Canon fit version of the sigma and it seemed pretty good for the price. Not image stabilised on the Canon though which is an issue (but I think Sony has in-camera IS?). You won't find a whole lot of Sony users around that can give you definitive advice though. They make great cameras but they don't sell anywhere near as many as Nikon and Canon.

    You might get a better (and quicker) answer on a Sony dslr forum


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,842 ✭✭✭dacogawa


    Thanks for the advice djgaillimh, very much appreciated :) I'll try a Sony forum


  • Registered Users Posts: 25 Jacob81


    sebphoto wrote: »
    Get 50mm 1.8 instead long and slow zoom lense, so it'll be perfect for your first wedding :)

    I'd 3rd this:)


  • Registered Users Posts: 5 kevn


    Hi ,
    I was wondering which is the better Camera;
    the Nikon-Coolpix-S6300 or the Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20.
    I'd just be taking some holiday Pictures nothing too fancy.

    Nikon-Coolpix-S6300:
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nikon-Coolpix-S6300-Digital-Camera/dp/B0071L3SBE/ref=pd_sim_sbs_ce_2

    Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20:
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20-Digital-Camera/dp/B004I1KOIK/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1336329243&sr=1-5

    Thanks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 19,585 ✭✭✭✭Lady Chatterton


    I'm hoping that this isn't a stupid question :o

    Here goes, I used to really be into photography a few years but with one thing and another I gave it up. I have an old Canon EOS (can't remember the exact model at the moment) with a nice range of Canon and Carl Zeiss lens for it.

    I now want to go digital and I'm wondering if any of my old lens would work on a digital Canon EOS? Thanks in advance :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 719 ✭✭✭calnand


    kevn wrote: »
    Hi ,
    I was wondering which is the better Camera;
    the Nikon-Coolpix-S6300 or the Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20.
    I'd just be taking some holiday Pictures nothing too fancy.

    Nikon-Coolpix-S6300:
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Nikon-Coolpix-S6300-Digital-Camera/dp/B0071L3SBE/ref=pd_sim_sbs_ce_2

    Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20:
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Panasonic-Lumix-TZ20-Digital-Camera/dp/B004I1KOIK/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1336329243&sr=1-5

    Thanks

    Going by this website I used for getting a camera, the lumix is the better choice, and from hearing from friends experiences of lumix they seem to be great cameras.

    http://snapsort.com/compare/Nikon-S6300-vs-Panasonic-TZ20


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,110 ✭✭✭✭cnocbui


    MrsD007 wrote: »
    I'm hoping that this isn't a stupid question :o

    Here goes, I used to really be into photography a few years but with one thing and another I gave it up. I have an old Canon EOS (can't remember the exact model at the moment) with a nice range of Canon and Carl Zeiss lens for it.

    I now want to go digital and I'm wondering if any of my old lens would work on a digital Canon EOS? Thanks in advance :)

    I believe the Canon ones will. Not so sure about the Zeiss.
    Introduced in 1987, the EF lens mount is the standard lens mount on the Canon EOS family of SLR film and digital cameras. EF stands for "Electro-Focus": automatic focusing on EF lenses is handled by a dedicated electric motor built into the lens. Mechanically, it is a bayonet-style mount, and all communication between camera and lens takes place through electrical contacts; there are no mechanical levers or plungers.
    In 2003, Canon introduced the EF-S lens mount, a derivative of the EF mount that is strictly for digital EOS cameras with APS-C sensors released after 2003. EF lenses can be mounted on EF-S bodies but EF-S lenses cannot be mounted on EF bodies.
    ...
    Third-party lenses

    Compatible third-party lenses with the EF lens mount are manufactured by Samyang, Schneider, Sigma, Tamron, Tokina, and Carl Zeiss. The manufacturers of these lenses have reverse engineered the EOS electronics. The use of these lenses is not supported by Canon. Sometimes compatibility problems arise, as no third party has access to Canon's specifications for camera to body communication.[3] These compatibility issues mostly occur when using a newer body with an older third-party lens. Over time, most of these issues have been resolved by the major third-party brands.
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canon_EF_lens_mount

    The lenses may not have the same effective focal length when used on a digital body with a APS-C sensor.:

    http://www.usa.canon.com/app/pdf/lens/EFLensChart.pdf


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 719 ✭✭✭calnand


    Yeah the old ef mounts will work, the fd mounts won't unless you buy an adapter


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 67 ✭✭Eugbug


    I'm thinking of buying a Canon 550D from Simplyelectronics.net. They are currently offering the best deal on this camera. Has anyone dealt with this company and bought equipment from them?


  • Posts: 14,344 ✭✭✭✭ [Deleted User]


    Bought a 24-105 L off them. No issues so far (about 6 months ago).

    Apparently if/when things go wrong they can be difficult as their warranty isn't with Canon. I bought off them via eBay.


    Make sure you're checking the German Amazon for pricing, too, though. Bit daunting buying from a non-english site, but the prices can be close enough (less than €100 in the difference when I bought my 70-200 f/4 IS a couple of months ago).


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,760 ✭✭✭Effects


    I bought a 600D from them. They ended up shipping 4 of them to me and they didn't bill my credit card at all. True story.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 760 ✭✭✭hbr


    Eugbug wrote: »
    I'm thinking of buying a Canon 550D from Simplyelectronics.net. They are currently offering the best deal on this camera. Has anyone dealt with this company and bought equipment from them?

    http://www.boards.ie/search/?q=Simply+Electronics

    My own experience:
    http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=74286264&postcount=1414


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 67 ✭✭Eugbug


    Probably a good idea to stay away from them so! What about Pixmania? They are the next least expensive with this model camera. Has anyone had experience with them?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,466 ✭✭✭mayo.mick


    Eugbug wrote: »
    Probably a good idea to stay away from them so! What about Pixmania? They are the next least expensive with this model camera. Has anyone had experience with them?

    I buy a fair amount of stuff from them and i find them ecellent. The ink and photo paper i buy comes from a partner site in england and they say allow 5/7 days for delivery (usually arrives on the 7th day) which is grand.
    The most expensive item that i bought off them is a nikor 55/300mm vr lens for €320 ( which was about €100 cheaper than anywhere else at the time:)) I ordered it at 6pm on a tuesday evening, it arrived 18 hours later at 12 wednesday morning:confused: ( via, paris, hamburg, dublin, shannon, to my front door:cool:)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,407 ✭✭✭✭justsomebloke


    Hi,


    I have a canon 400d and we have a baby on the way, so I'm looking for a budget potrait lens that would be good for taking pics of the new baby. Any recommendations?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,060 ✭✭✭Kenny Logins


    Hi,


    I have a canon 400d and we have a baby on the way, so I'm looking for a budget potrait lens that would be good for taking pics of the new baby. Any recommendations?

    50mm f1.8 is excellent and around €120.

    EDIT: €125 in Argos - http://www.checkargos.com/index.php?productId=569%2F2901


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,407 ✭✭✭✭justsomebloke


    50mm f1.8 is excellent and around €120.

    EDIT: €125 in Argos - http://www.checkargos.com/index.php?productId=569%2F2901

    Thanks for that, that was the one I'd been thinking of myself so will probably go with that


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,060 ✭✭✭Kenny Logins


    Thanks for that, that was the one I'd been thinking of myself so will probably go with that

    This may help - http://www.pixel-peeper.com/lenses/?lens=16

    :D


  • Registered Users Posts: 27 cocococo


    Ok im a complete amateur but have a keen interest in learning about Photography. Touched briefly on it in college but that is about 20 years ago. I want digital thinking along the lines of Canon EOS 550D . Can you experts help me. I don't want anything too technical but want a challenge and something i can build up on as i get better without having to get a new one. Thank you in advance.


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  • Registered Users Posts: 14 tractorist


    Hi folks,

    Any idea what would be the cheapest camcorder to buy in Argos that allows you to control the iris of the camera (aperture), shutter speed and bitrate (video quality - compression). Also with a sensor better than a 5 euro webcam (smooth color transitions in good light, no green murk in shadows).

    I need to buy something and get used to before Wednesday so I'm thinking of Argos as I can't wait for delivery.

    Thanks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 719 ✭✭✭calnand


    have you looked at their website? and i don't think any of the camcorders they have allow you to change the aperture or any of the features you'd want, why not buy a slr like the 1100d? only around €450. it has fairly decent video and would allow you to change the aperture, plus shutter speed. its 720p recording


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 535 ✭✭✭Mugatuu


    Any recommendations on a DSLR? I have a budget of €500-€600, really interested in macro and food photography. Any help would be appreciated!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 559 ✭✭✭sebphoto


    Mugatuu wrote: »
    Any recommendations on a DSLR? I have a budget of €500-€600, really interested in macro and food photography. Any help would be appreciated!

    Imho Tamron 90mm macro + any crop body will do.
    Also consider some strobes if you're looking for good results.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 535 ✭✭✭Mugatuu


    Any recommendations on brands / models? Nikon , Canon? Thank you for your reply also!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 719 ✭✭✭calnand


    cocococo wrote: »
    Ok im a complete amateur but have a keen interest in learning about Photography. Touched briefly on it in college but that is about 20 years ago. I want digital thinking along the lines of Canon EOS 550D . Can you experts help me. I don't want anything too technical but want a challenge and something i can build up on as i get better without having to get a new one. Thank you in advance.

    550d is a brilliant camera i have the 600d and theyre pretty much identical, besides the swivel screen,
    which i use for movies or getting photos in ackward angles. its very easy to use with the auto features which
    i used at the very start for seeing what settings the camera used and eventually ive moved on to full manual.
    only going back to auto when i'm in a hurry to get a picture or taking lots in quick succession. there is the
    nikon alternative of the d5100, my friend has one and its good as well. but me being a canon fanboy
    i would personally recommend the 550d

    hope this helps


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 559 ✭✭✭sebphoto


    Mugatuu wrote: »
    Any recommendations on brands / models? Nikon , Canon? Thank you for your reply also!

    You want to go cheap or semi-pro?
    I'd say go for Canon xxD models instead of xxxD. For example i'm sure you can get 30d in good shape or even 40d. Most important factor is photographer and good solution for light. Especially for macro and food shots.
    Imho spend more for better lens rather than 'better' body.


  • Registered Users Posts: 60 ✭✭Bavib


    Hi there,

    I am looking to buy a bridge camera a present for herself, shes into the photography scene. I personally take the worst photographs in the world, no matter what I try, and have no clue whatsoever about photography or cameras.

    I was looking around some photo blogs and camera review sites last night and the Sony DSC-HX100 seems like it has great bang for it's buck.:confused: I was just wondering if any boardsies have this one, and if so what do you think of it? Also is it worth waiting until I go to Spain in July to pick one up, price wise, or will it be six of one and a half dozen of the other? The camera in question is here http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00506E398/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE I know she'll use it primarily for long distance shots, with a lot of indoor shooting as well, thats why I focused in on this one. There are so many cameras. I'd love a dslr myself for the sake of changing the lenses, but as I said I'm an awful photographer!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,828 ✭✭✭unklerosco


    Looking for some suggestions with regards the purchase of a digital SLR.

    I've a sony NEX 5 at the moment and it's a great little camera, we've a baby on the way and I'm thinking about upgrading to a SLR (any excuse!). Now the thing is I rarely use manual settings on the camera, it stays in auto near enough all of the time. I do use some of the presets on the camera, ie. panorama, sunset, sport etc. but other than that I generally let the camera do all the thinking. What I'm looking for is a decent SLR that I can leave in auto for the bulk of the time, that has quick autofocus and takes cracking shots...

    Anyone any suggestions?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,060 ✭✭✭Kenny Logins


    unklerosco wrote: »
    Looking for some suggestions with regards the purchase of a digital SLR.

    I've a sony NEX 5 at the moment and it's a great little camera, we've a baby on the way and I'm thinking about upgrading to a SLR (any excuse!). Now the thing is I rarely use manual settings on the camera, it stays in auto near enough all of the time. I do use some of the presets on the camera, ie. panorama, sunset, sport etc. but other than that I generally let the camera do all the thinking. What I'm looking for is a decent SLR that I can leave in auto for the bulk of the time, that has quick autofocus and takes cracking shots...

    Anyone any suggestions?

    Doesn't sound like you need/want a DSLR. What's wrong with the Nex 5? Where is it lacking?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,557 ✭✭✭DotOrg


    unklerosco wrote: »
    LWhat I'm looking for is a decent SLR that I can leave in auto for the bulk of the time, that has quick autofocus and takes cracking shots...


    Cameras don't take cracking shots, people do

    all dslr cameras have fast autofocus and great auto modes.

    why do you want to upgrade, just for faster autofocus or do you have other things you want to use the camera for.

    canon 600D would be the best basic camera body and then just decide if you want to spend more money on a better lens than the standard kit lens


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,828 ✭✭✭unklerosco


    I find the autofocus on it at times can be a bit slow (no where near as slow as a point and shoot but I've had an slr before and can see the difference) and adding extra lenses is a pricey practice.. around €400 for a 55-200 lens which is something I've wanted for a while...

    I'm not madly pushed to change cameras, if I could get a decent SLR at a good price I'd go for it but I don't intend on spending big $$$$ for a small upgrade in pic quality..


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,557 ✭✭✭DotOrg


    unklerosco wrote: »
    if I could get a decent SLR at a good price I'd go for it but I don't intend on spending big $$$$ for a small upgrade in pic quality..

    buy second hand then, something like: http://www.adverts.ie/digital-cameras/canon-xsi-450-d-great-condition/1405500

    would be really fast, and not too expensive


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,110 ✭✭✭✭cnocbui


    Bavib wrote: »
    Hi there,

    I am looking to buy a bridge camera a present for herself, shes into the photography scene. I personally take the worst photographs in the world, no matter what I try, and have no clue whatsoever about photography or cameras.

    I was looking around some photo blogs and camera review sites last night and the Sony DSC-HX100 seems like it has great bang for it's buck.:confused: I was just wondering if any boardsies have this one, and if so what do you think of it? Also is it worth waiting until I go to Spain in July to pick one up, price wise, or will it be six of one and a half dozen of the other? The camera in question is here http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00506E398/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&m=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE I know she'll use it primarily for long distance shots, with a lot of indoor shooting as well, thats why I focused in on this one. There are so many cameras. I'd love a dslr myself for the sake of changing the lenses, but as I said I'm an awful photographer!

    Bridge cameras tend not to have very good sensors in them. They also have zooms that are overly ambitious which results in compromised image quality.

    Much better to get her an advanced compact like a Canon S95, Panasonic LX-5 or Olympus XZ-1. If she is going to do much low light indoor shooting, the Olympus is probably the better choice as it has a fast lens. Get her the white one.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,236 ✭✭✭deandean


    I have had two good Fuji Bridge digital cameras, and before digital I developed & printed my own film, so I have a fairly good knowledge of cameras and photography.

    I want in the first instance, a compact camera to bring to the O2 in June to take a few shots of my all-time favourite performer Tom Petty; I believe the crew get a bit unhappy if you're swinging a serious-looking camera in there (is this correct - are you OK with a compact camera for personal use?). Camera also for general use thereafter, of course.


    I also want
    - Form factor that'll fit into a man-size pocket; it doesn't have to be tiny but
    no SLR-type lens sticking out
    - full manual control option, incuding manual control of the flash
    - Good performance at high ISO, for that concert
    - a good, sharp lens; image quality is more important high zoomability
    - Wide angle lens for indoor shots
    - If possible, a PC flash socket or a flash shoe, but this is probably asking too much from a compact camera!
    - I would pay good money for the right camera, is a budget around
    €300 enough? I am flexible
    - Not too worried about HD video and the likes.
    - Prefer to buy locally, in Dublin.

    Your recommendations appreciated!
    deandean


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,234 ✭✭✭techguy


    Hi There,

    So the story is i've wanted to get try out photography and was considering the Canon EOS 450 a few years ago.

    I'm back at that stage again but not willing to spend as much money as before. Reason being I only want a decent camera now that will allow to get a feel for photography i.e. exposure times, focal lengths, ISO settings etc.

    I won't be attending any classes on photography or anything.. just doing a small bit of reading online and some trial and error with settings etc. I would like a full manual override.

    So my question is will the Fujifilm s 2950 provide the above for me?

    I have been looking at the Canon EOS 1100D and 550D models also. They are much higher priced. I know they offer everything I would require and then some. Along with better image quality (possibly?). But they are much more expensive.

    I guess the big question is, am I absolutely wasting my money with the Finepix and should I just jump in and get a DSLR or is the bridge enough for me to tip my toes into the photography?

    Also, any thoughts on the second hand market? Should I go for an older DSLR model that may only be a bit more expensive than the bridge camera above?


    Thanks for any opinions and guidance.


  • Moderators, Category Moderators, Arts Moderators, Entertainment Moderators Posts: 9,047 CMod ✭✭✭✭CabanSail


    techguy wrote: »
    Hi There,

    So the story is i've wanted to get try out photography and was considering the Canon EOS 450 a few years ago.

    I'm back at that stage again but not willing to spend as much money as before. Reason being I only want a decent camera now that will allow to get a feel for photography i.e. exposure times, focal lengths, ISO settings etc.

    I won't be attending any classes on photography or anything.. just doing a small bit of reading online and some trial and error with settings etc. I would like a full manual override.

    So my question is will the Fujifilm s 2950 provide the above for me?

    I have been looking at the Canon EOS 1100D and 550D models also. They are much higher priced. I know they offer everything I would require and then some. Along with better image quality (possibly?). But they are much more expensive.

    I guess the big question is, am I absolutely wasting my money with the Finepix and should I just jump in and get a DSLR or is the bridge enough for me to tip my toes into the photography?

    Also, any thoughts on the second hand market? Should I go for an older DSLR model that may only be a bit more expensive than the bridge camera above?


    Thanks for any opinions and guidance.


    As I do not know what it is you want to shoot it makes it hard to give advice. All the options above seem reasonable. As for the Finepix you have identified it seems fine, but I would opt for a model which has RAW recording as opposed to just Jpeg. This will allow you more room to grow in the area of Post Production of images.

    An option you did not raise would be the cheapest up front. Have you considered getting an SLR Camera as you can buy a lot for very little money. Some kits will also have lenses which you may be able to use later on a DSLR Body. A solid body and a 50mm Prime would be a great way to learn the fundamentals. There are plenty here who shoot film from choice to assist you.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,110 ✭✭✭✭cnocbui


    deandean wrote: »
    I have had two good Fuji Bridge digital cameras, and before digital I developed & printed my own film, so I have a fairly good knowledge of cameras and photography.
    ...
    Your recommendations appreciated!
    deandean

    Olympus XZ-1. I think it ticks all your boxes.

    Here's a review: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/OlympusXZ1/

    A step up from that would be one of the micro 4/3 cameras from Olympus and Panasonic like the Pen EP2 & 3 or the Panny DMC GX1 and GF5. Although they have interchangeable lenses, Being mirrorless, they have no pentaprism hump they are so compact they won't be mistaken for a DSLR and could easily be mistaken for being just a P&S. These will cost quite a bit more.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,234 ✭✭✭techguy


    CabanSail wrote: »
    As I do not know what it is you want to shoot it makes it hard to give advice. All the options above seem reasonable. As for the Finepix you have identified it seems fine, but I would opt for a model which has RAW recording as opposed to just Jpeg. This will allow you more room to grow in the area of Post Production of images.

    An option you did not raise would be the cheapest up front. Have you considered getting an SLR Camera as you can buy a lot for very little money. Some kits will also have lenses which you may be able to use later on a DSLR Body. A solid body and a 50mm Prime would be a great way to learn the fundamentals. There are plenty here who shoot film from choice to assist you.

    Well, I don't plan on shooting anything specific. Just regular stuff like people/things at home and the same outdoors during holidays etc.

    To be honest, I hadn't considered a film camera because i'm too much of a geek. It must be digital i'm afraid..

    Thats a good point about the RAW format.

    Would you advise buying second hand from adverts?

    Thanks.


  • Moderators, Category Moderators, Arts Moderators, Entertainment Moderators Posts: 9,047 CMod ✭✭✭✭CabanSail


    techguy wrote: »
    Well, I don't plan on shooting anything specific. Just regular stuff like people/things at home and the same outdoors during holidays etc.

    To be honest, I hadn't considered a film camera because i'm too much of a geek. It must be digital i'm afraid..

    Just think of Film as being a new Chemical Memory.

    It is still a really good and cheap way to learn.


    techguy wrote: »

    Thats a good point about the RAW format.

    Would you advise buying second hand from adverts?

    Thanks.

    Adverts is fine. You have to apply all the caveats when buying used gear but I have done so a few times and grabbed some bargains.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 144 ✭✭Dazzling D


    unklerosco wrote: »
    Looking for some suggestions with regards the purchase of a digital SLR.

    I've a sony NEX 5 at the moment and it's a great little camera, we've a baby on the way and I'm thinking about upgrading to a SLR (any excuse!). Now the thing is I rarely use manual settings on the camera, it stays in auto near enough all of the time. I do use some of the presets on the camera, ie. panorama, sunset, sport etc. but other than that I generally let the camera do all the thinking. What I'm looking for is a decent SLR that I can leave in auto for the bulk of the time, that has quick autofocus and takes cracking shots...

    Anyone any suggestions?

    You could go for a Sony Alpha 35 / Alpha 57 / Alpha 65. They have all the features that the NEX-5 has. I'm just about to upgrade from the NEX-5 to the Alpha65 myself.


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