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Which Camera? **Please read OP first**

1679111236

Comments

  • Registered Users Posts: 8 daz2003


    Im looking at getting a new DSLR, im looking at either the nikon D3100 or D3200, depending on how much patience i have to save lol, any advice on these cameras??? weather they are good or any other suggestions in around the same price???


    p.s any good places to buy??


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,574 ✭✭✭dharn


    i have being researching the same cameras the biggest gain i can see with the 3200 is better video performance so if photos is your priority then the 3100 is good enough


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 255 ✭✭vic20


    http://www.denismacsweeny.com/store/
    daz2003 wrote: »
    Im looking at getting a new DSLR, im looking at either the nikon D3100 or D3200, depending on how much patience i have to save lol, any advice on these cameras??? weather they are good or any other suggestions in around the same price???


    p.s any good places to buy??


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,574 ✭✭✭dharn


    that 3100 sells for 550 in any bricks and mortar shop in ireland, conns cameras etc my local camera shop will match that price when pushed 50 euro less online


  • Registered Users Posts: 102 ✭✭GhanGee


    I am currently looking for a decent dSLR camera, could be 2nd hand as well. My budget is around 300, or up to 400 for a kit (with 2 lenses).

    I checked few options and would like to hear opinions: Lumix G1, Nikon D80 (quite old I know, but still solid and price is great) or D3100

    Can anyone suggest an alternative within the budget? What's your experience with those cameras?

    Thanks in advance.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,445 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    I own a D80 and I love it. As you said, it's a solid piece of kit. I've had it for 5 years now and by no means have I outgrown it, it offers a lot.
    The good thing about older models like the D80 is that there is more opinion and books/manuals out there on them.

    If you do decide on the D80 you should consider getting Thom Hogan's brilliant guide on it, here

    I can't speak for other cameras as I've never used them.


  • Registered Users Posts: 102 ✭✭GhanGee


    I own a D80 and I love it. As you said, it's a solid piece of kit. I've had it for 5 years now and by no means have I outgrown it, it offers a lot.
    The good thing about older models like the D80 is that there is more opinion and books/manuals out there on them.

    If you do decide on the D80 you should consider getting Thom Hogan's brilliant guide on it, here

    I can't speak for other cameras as I've never used them.


    thanks, D80 is my preference as it's older and it's lots of them on 2nd hand market and are available for good money too. Also there are tons of lenses for it and all 'tweaking' can be done with buttons, that's the thing about 3100 they moved some of those hardware buttons to the LCD menu settings.


  • Registered Users Posts: 9 butterycup


    Hi , thanks for the advice vic20 and cnocbui. I already have a bridge camera and want to upgrage it mainly for the lens and the better settings available in these. I understand completely where you are coming from cnocbui in saying that a small camera may suit me but think it would be easier to get lens second hand and on the net for a nikon or canon.
    Vic20- I'm thinking about going for either the Nikon 5100d or 3100d, like you Im getting more confused with reviews. Thinking I might go the same route and get one of these cameras and then be able to build on lens quicker than an expensive camera. What do you think of your camera? Have a Nikon at the minute and have to say that I like them, haven't had a chance to use either camera yet-camera shops are not plentiful where I live but going to look tomorrow at them, just wondered what you thought of yours and how you are finding it.
    Thanks again
    Butterycup


  • Registered Users Posts: 102 ✭✭GhanGee


    I own a D80 and I love it. As you said, it's a solid piece of kit. I've had it for 5 years now and by no means have I outgrown it, it offers a lot.
    The good thing about older models like the D80 is that there is more opinion and books/manuals out there on them.

    If you do decide on the D80 you should consider getting Thom Hogan's brilliant guide on it, here

    I can't speak for other cameras as I've never used them.

    so it is D80 I decided for, I am far from being a photographer and am still playing with it trying to figure out what is what, but I love its function buttons and knobs on the body of the camera that allow me to quickly change everything I need when I want to go manual. 2 lenses, 15-55 f3.5-5.6 VR and 70-300 4-5.6 (at least does Autofocus on D80 it wouldn't on D3100 :D) , not the best ones but good for learning.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 255 ✭✭vic20


    Looking at the D5100 review http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikond5100/ the two differences I spot straight away compared to the D3100 is that there's a hinged screen and AE bracketing. (Mind you, I didn't know what AE bracketing was/what it was used for until I read "Understanding Exposure")
    Got one of these http://kenrockwell.com/nikon/35mm-f18.htm secondhand which is a huge difference from the 18-55mm kit lens.
    I'm happy with my D3100 but having said that I'd also be happy to upgrade if I had the spare cash to blow on a hobby.
    butterycup wrote: »
    Hi , thanks for the advice vic20 and cnocbui. I
    <snip>
    Vic20- I'm thinking about going for either the Nikon 5100d or 3100d, like you Im getting more confused with reviews. Thinking I might go the same route and get one of these cameras and then be able to build on lens quicker than an expensive camera. What do you think of your camera? Have a Nikon at the minute and have to say that I like them, haven't had a chance to use either camera yet-camera shops are not plentiful where I live but going to look tomorrow at them, just wondered what you thought of yours and how you are finding it.
    Thanks again
    Butterycup


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  • Registered Users Posts: 60 ✭✭shadowgirl


    could anyone recommend a decent camera?
    have a lumix, but it doesn't take long distance shots,

    i would be so grateful if someone, anyone could recommend something, cause i am starting a photography course in September and would like to have something that will do the course work.


    thanks
    sg


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 304 ✭✭J_A_F_A


    Does your course not at least give some basic recommendations?
    "a decent camera" means different things depending on what you want to do with it.

    This one is fairly decent to some :D
    http://us.leica-camera.com/photography/m_system/m_monochrom/
    shadowgirl wrote: »
    could anyone recommend a decent camera?
    have a lumix, but it doesn't take long distance shots,

    i would be so grateful if someone, anyone could recommend something, cause i am starting a photography course in September and would like to have something that will do the course work.


    thanks
    sg


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,988 ✭✭✭dirtyghettokid


    what model is your camera? do you know what focal lengths the lens on it covers?


  • Registered Users Posts: 562 ✭✭✭artvandelay48


    We've just become new parents and are looking for a camera to take pictures of the little one. We're specifically looking for one that takes pictures of high enough quality that we can print and frame them.

    I guess what I am trying to figure out is if we really need a dslr or if a bridge or compact digital camera is enough. We would like something that is easy to use and get the hang of. We're not looking to take sports or low light photos (but maybe will have to as bubs grows up). Our budget is approx 300 euros and I see that Argos have the canon Powershot sx40 for 370.

    Would this be a decent buy or should I go for a second hand dslr on adverts or a new compact digital? Also, is the dslr tricky to get the hang of?


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


    We've just become new parents and are looking for a camera to take pictures of the little one. We're specifically looking for one that takes pictures of high enough quality that we can print and frame them.

    I guess what I am trying to figure out is if we really need a dslr or if a bridge or compact digital camera is enough. We would like something that is easy to use and get the hang of. We're not looking to take sports or low light photos (but maybe will have to as bubs grows up). Our budget is approx 300 euros and I see that Argos have the canon Powershot sx40 for 370.

    Would this be a decent buy or should I go for a second hand dslr on adverts or a new compact digital? Also, is the dslr tricky to get the hang of?

    You don't need SLR camera. Compact will do. You can easily get Powershot Gxx series for approx €300 and it'll be better idea in my humble opinion, nevertheless question is - are you going to point and shot or you'll use manual mode too?


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


    +1 to that.

    my recommendation would be to also look at the Olympus xz-1. It has a fast lens for a compact which can allow for more blurred backgrounds than most compacts can offer as well as having advantages for low light situations. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Olympus-XZ-1-Digital-Camera-i-Zuiko/dp/B004G8QSTY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1346272495&sr=8-2


  • Registered Users Posts: 562 ✭✭✭artvandelay48


    sebphoto wrote: »
    You don't need SLR camera. Compact will do. You can easily get Powershot Gxx series for approx €300 and it'll be better idea in my humble opinion, nevertheless question is - are you going to point and shot or you'll use manual mode too?

    Excuse the ignorance, but you mean manual mode as in focusing the camera manually, right? Initially we will definitely be using it on a point and shoot basis but maybe over time we will use it manually. However,if we're mainly using it for the baby, I'd say we won't want to mess around focusing the picture.

    So, how does the canon gxx series work? I see canon g1 advertised on mazon for 600gbp, g12 for 340; is it a case of the lower the number,the better the camera?


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


    Excuse the ignorance, but you mean manual mode as in focusing the camera manually, right? Initially we will definitely be using it on a point and shoot basis but maybe over time we will use it manually. However,if we're mainly using it for the baby, I'd say we won't want to mess around focusing the picture.

    So, how does the canon gxx series work? I see canon g1 advertised on mazon for 600gbp, g12 for 340; is it a case of the lower the number,the better the camera?

    Sorry I didn't express myself clear enough. I meant manual mode in terms of shutter and aperture settings. I've seen G11 second hand for approx €300 on adverts.ie recently. G10 is also excellent camera. I believe you won't get brand new G10 or G11, but second hand. G1X was released in this year, so it's expensive - there's different processor (Digic 5) and much more features.

    For more info click here or here and here to compare these cameras.


  • Registered Users Posts: 2 m1894


    Hi, I want to upgrade my point and shoot camera and I am just wondering should I go for a DSLR or would I be better with a bridge camera? I have an interest in photography but I would just be using the camera for personal use and landscape photos. At the moment I am using a canon ixus 130 and I don't find it great for landscape/long distance. I don't have a lot to spend and it is just a hobby. Does anybody have any advice?


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  • Registered Users Posts: 562 ✭✭✭artvandelay48


    Thanks for the replies folks. One last thing, the quality of a camera isn't judged solely by the number of megapixels, right? Looking at the g12 it says that it has 10 megapixels but I assume that it takes better pics than a bog standard compact 10 mp camera. Is that correct? Is this determined by the size of the camera's light sensor or something?

    Also, if I want to print quality pictures, should I try to get a camera that saves in RAW format? Or is RAW format only for post-processing images?


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


    You are right to a certain extent, pixels are not the only important metric but all else being equal more means higher definition. The pixel count above a certain point is only relevant to how large a physical print you are likely to ever want to have made.

    My phone has a 5mp camera and at 300 dpi I could print up to 8.5 x 6.4 inches. If I was making prints that size or smaller using files taken with a 10 MP camera I wouldn't be gaining anything (all other things being equal), but if I wanted to print larger sizes than that, 10MP images would be advantageous.

    The size of the sensor is generally more closely related to image quality than pixel count and the quality of the lens probably more than the sensor size.

    RAW is advantageous if you are post-processing the images to get the most out of them. Some cameras have really good JPEG engines in them that reduce the advantages of tweaking images taken in RAW as photos are pretty good straight out of the camera.

    I would say that the criteria that determine 'quality photos' would go in this order: photographer, subject, lens, sensor, post processing (RAW), pixels.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,250 ✭✭✭pixbyjohn


    GhanGee wrote: »
    so it is D80 I decided for, I am far from being a photographer and am still playing with it trying to figure out what is what, but I love its function buttons and knobs on the body of the camera that allow me to quickly change everything I need when I want to go manual. 2 lenses, 15-55 f3.5-5.6 VR and 70-300 4-5.6 (at least does Autofocus on D80 it wouldn't on D3100 :D) , not the best ones but good for learning.
    Great tutorials on youtube
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IP10qcgLIfs&feature=relmfu


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 687 ✭✭✭megapixel


    Just got myself Nikon D3100 & I want to get a lens that will work for rugby/hurling games & photos when i'm in Glendalough for example.
    I'm probably asking for too much..
    Thanks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,574 ✭✭✭dharn


    18-300 if you can afford it ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 255 ✭✭vic20


    +1 for dharn's suggestion of a 18-300 if within budget.
    Other options are 18-200 or 55-300
    Enjoy :)
    megapixel wrote: »
    Just got myself Nikon D3100 & I want to get a lens that will work for rugby/hurling games & photos when i'm in Glendalough for example.
    I'm probably asking for too much..
    Thanks


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  • Registered Users Posts: 30 ZippyDee


    Hello all! I need to upgrade from my bridge camera - want to take higher quality shots and low light etc and was wondering if anyone had any advice? I want to make sure I get a good quality body that I can keep using and upgrading lenses with over time. I was hoping to find one for under 600e and maybe then get a portrait prime lens later? A bit lost with all the brands etc!


  • Moderators, Music Moderators Posts: 23,361 Mod ✭✭✭✭feylya


    I've got the option to upgrade to a Canon 60D from my 550D. Is it worth the extra cost and hassle of selling my 550 to upgrade?


  • Registered Users Posts: 565 ✭✭✭DoBhrionn


    I'm looking into a reasonably good macro lens with suitable range in it.
    I have looked into the Sigma DG APO 70-300 f/ 4-5.6, but after reading a few reviews it seems to be bad in low light conditions.
    Any thoughts on this? and any other similar lenses to be recommended?


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


    Macro lenses are usually fixed focal length, not zooms.

    So are you after a real macro lens or a zoom that just focuses fairly close?


  • Registered Users Posts: 565 ✭✭✭DoBhrionn


    cnocbui wrote: »
    Macro lenses are usually fixed focal length, not zooms.

    So are you after a real macro lens or a zoom that just focuses fairly close?

    That, I didn't know.

    Probably the latter. Yet I don't mind fixed focal.


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  • Registered Users Posts: 920 ✭✭✭Ron Burgundy II


    as the above title suggests I'm looking to buy my first DSLR. But as there are so many types and variants out there I'm completely lost!!.
    I have a Nikon Coolpix S8000, got it a little over two years ago when it first came out, a great little camera
    So have decided to go into the world of DSLR, always had an interest in photography.
    Can anyone recommend a good camera for upper limit of €500-€550. Would like to stay with Nikon but would look at other brands if the quality was better.

    Thanks in advance.
    Ron


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 400 ✭✭tagoona


    Just looking for a bit of advice re a camera purchase.
    Reason for puchase are
    1: better zoom (take photos of kids performance from back of hall)
    2. better general picture quality (coming from 5mp point and shoot )
    3. Experiment with taking better photos (manual focus maybe)
    Requirements
    1. Not a dslr. Camera is to be used by wife as well, and I can't be dealing with the complaints about changing lenses.

    So after searching around, I came to the
    cannon powershot sx 40 hs http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/reviews/compactcameras/129197/1/canon-powershot-sx40-hs-review.html
    and sony cybershot hx200v http://www.whatdigitalcamera.com/equipment/reviews/compactcameras/129301/1/sony-cybershot-hx200v-review.html.

    Both around the same price.
    Are there any recommended sites for purchases ; read recently about dodgy cards on ebay?
    Thanks for the opinions


  • Posts: 0 ✭✭✭ Brynlee Old Ballerina


    I have an old Canon A530 and I'm just wondering if somebody could suggest a replacement? We only take about fifty photos a year. Mostly while on holiday during the summer and of birthday parties, festivities etc. Very mild use to be honest. Don't know what that says about our family but if someone could proffer a suggestion I'd be very grateful lads! Thanks for any replies! :)

    Oh cripes I should have posted in the sub-forum! Sorry...can a mod please move it?


  • Registered Users Posts: 301 ✭✭the_tractor


    It all comes down to your budget. How much do you want to spend?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,463 ✭✭✭loveisdivine


    Looking to buy a bridge or entry level digital SLR. Argos currently have this on sale - http://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/5594827/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7CPhotography%7C14419436/c_2/3%7C19780865%7CDigital+cameras%7C14419441/c_3/4%7Ccat_14419441%7CDigital+SLR+cameras%7C14419500.htm
    Nikon D3100 14mp with AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

    Reviews on photography websites seem to be all good.

    Just thought I would check in here for any opinions.


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 10,518 Mod ✭✭✭✭5uspect


    It's a perfectly fine entry level SLR. However I would recommend you try one out before you buy, you might not like the ergonomics of a particular model or brand.

    Don't be afraid to go into a camera shop and haggle.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 255 ✭✭vic20


    I have one and I'm happy with it.
    I agree with 5uspect's comments about try before you buy and haggling. Argos will not allow you to do that whereas a camera shop will.

    Looking to buy a bridge or entry level digital SLR. Argos currently have this on sale - http://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/5594827/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7CPhotography%7C14419436/c_2/3%7C19780865%7CDigital+cameras%7C14419441/c_3/4%7Ccat_14419441%7CDigital+SLR+cameras%7C14419500.htm
    Nikon D3100 14mp with AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

    Reviews on photography websites seem to be all good.

    Just thought I would check in here for any opinions.


  • Posts: 0 ✭✭✭ Brynlee Old Ballerina


    It all comes down to your budget. How much do you want to spend?

    Up to a hundred euro. Was looking at the canon a2400 on Amazon.


  • Registered Users Posts: 301 ✭✭the_tractor


    Up to a hundred euro. Was looking at the canon a2400 on Amazon.

    When looking at the low price range you can't go far wrong with Canon.

    But maybe the Canon PowerShot SX150 would suit better - much wider zoom range - a bit more, around ~£100


  • Registered Users Posts: 68 ✭✭chrisr


    Hi,

    Im looking to buy a digital camera for a Christmas present and I am just looking for some advice on what make/model to buy.

    Nothing too expensive but a good one all the same.

    All suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

    C


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 120 ✭✭Cardex


    If you're looking for something bigger than a handbag compact camera, then you can't go wrong with this.

    Bought one just recently for a wedding at the weekend. Pics are great quality and it's easy to use.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 304 ✭✭J_A_F_A


    You've read this I suppose http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=77520428&postcount=1

    Define "Nothing too expensive" ie. what's your max spend?
    chrisr wrote: »
    Hi,

    Im looking to buy a digital camera for a Christmas present and I am just looking for some advice on what make/model to buy.

    Nothing too expensive but a good one all the same.

    All suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

    C


  • Registered Users Posts: 68 ✭✭chrisr


    less than 400


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 304 ✭✭J_A_F_A


    Nice budget! You looking at a compact, bridge or a DSLR? A few posts up they're discussing a Nikon D3100 that would be within your budget.
    chrisr wrote: »
    less than 400


  • Registered Users Posts: 920 ✭✭✭Ron Burgundy II


    Cardex wrote: »
    If you're looking for something bigger than a handbag compact camera, then you can't go wrong with this.

    Bought one just recently for a wedding at the weekend. Pics are great quality and it's easy to use.

    Whats the difference between the bridge (see link) and a slr?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 304 ✭✭J_A_F_A


    http://bit.ly/SJuBib
    Whats the difference between the bridge (see link) and a slr?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,882 ✭✭✭Macker1


    Looking to buy a bridge or entry level digital SLR. Argos currently have this on sale - http://www.argos.ie/static/Product/partNumber/5594827/c_1/1%7Ccategory_root%7CPhotography%7C14419436/c_2/3%7C19780865%7CDigital+cameras%7C14419441/c_3/4%7Ccat_14419441%7CDigital+SLR+cameras%7C14419500.htm
    Nikon D3100 14mp with AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

    Reviews on photography websites seem to be all good.

    Just thought I would check in here for any opinions.

    It's a very good camera and at that price a great bargin. In fact I picked one up today for my daughter. Last year I had decided to get this DSLR but due to lack of availabilty it could not be got anywhere in time for Xmas. I made a promise to get it this year if she was still keen on getting into photography and when I seen the price in Argos I jumped on it. I got the last one out of the Liffey Valley store this afternoon for €365.....:D
    Still selling in most Bricks & Mortar shops for €500 plus. The wife is giving me grief for splashing cash we did not have but it was a no-brainer to me. I will gladly go short till payday to get this Xmas present out of the way. The money saved will easily allow for a nice camera bag and memory card.

    For the more knowledgeble folks in here are there any other items I should be on the look out for. Someone in work mentioned about getting a UV Filter which would help improve shots and protect the lens. ?????

    Any suggestions welcomed


  • Registered Users Posts: 920 ✭✭✭Ron Burgundy II


    Anyone have any thoughts on below. First camera, and Conns cameras have some good deals with each camera. Also anyone have any problems dealing with Conns Cameras. Opinions/Advice much appreciated.

    Thanking you in advance.

    Regards
    Ron

    http://www.connscameras.ie/canon-eos-1100d/p-8714574570044pd.html

    http://www.connscameras.ie/nikon-d3100/p-018208919529pd.html


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 255 ✭✭vic20


    I've a D3100 with the 18-55mm kit lens and a 35mm f1.8 prime lens. Very happy with it.
    (Can't comment on the Canon or Conns.)
    Anyone have any thoughts on below. First camera, and Conns cameras have some good deals with each camera. Also anyone have any problems dealing with Conns Cameras. Opinions/Advice much appreciated.

    Thanking you in advance.

    Regards
    Ron

    http://www.connscameras.ie/canon-eos-1100d/p-8714574570044pd.html

    http://www.connscameras.ie/nikon-d3100/p-018208919529pd.html


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


    chrisr wrote: »
    Hi,

    Im looking to buy a digital camera for a Christmas present and I am just looking for some advice on what make/model to buy.

    Nothing too expensive but a good one all the same.

    All suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

    C
    An Olympus XZ-1 (the new 2 is too expensive):
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Olympus-XZ-1-Digital-Camera-i-Zuiko/dp/B004G8QSTY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1349856245&sr=8-3

    or the Panasonic Gf5 http://www.laskys.com/cameras_and_camcorders/cameras/digital_slr_cameras/panasonic_dmc_gf5keb_k.html?cm_mmc=Affwin-_-Feed-_-Digital_Slr_Cameras-_-543391&refid=affil&referred_site=aw&_$ja=tsid:6094|prd:73258


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