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I’m a traveler and I love taking shots of scenery. I just use my iPhone for now and have gotten many positive comments on the quality of my photos and indeed with the new technology it would seem anyone can be a photographer and maybe everyone thinks their pix are the best. So I guess I’m wondering if it would even be worth it to spring for a “real” camera? Also what is a good beginner camera for a newbie like me?
The D3300 has been superseded by the D3400. So unless you want to buy used (which since you are a newbie I would not recommend), you'll need to step up to the D3400. The D3400 is a nice camera and Nikon has a nice bundle with a couple of lenses for a reasonable price. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...mera_with.html
However, since you are not used to carrying around an extra lens, or even knowing what lens to use, I might suggest that you look at something like the Nikon P900 or equivalent. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...al_camera.html
The benefit of the dslr (d3400) is that you have a lot of options for your exposures as well as being able to use all of Nikon's wide range of lenses. If you decide to take this road, my recommendation is to read through the manual completely (something most of us rarely do!) and then take a photo class to figure out what you can do with this camera. Most quality camera shops have classes for beginners. The negative to this type of camera is that for beginners it's pretty complex so takes a bit more learning to realize the full potential of the camera.
The benefit to the P900 is that it is all complete, no extra lenses to lug around--therefore a smaller package. The negative is that it is does not allow for lens changes. And it probably is a bit soft at maximum focal length. Also as you grow as a photographer, you might find yourself outgrowing the camera and wishing for a dslr anyway. Again, my recommendation is to read through the manual completely and take a class.
You may have noticed that the links I've provided direct you to B&H Camera which is a very large operation in NYC. However, I provided the links so you can see the different cameras. As a beginner, you would be better off purchasing locally. The price is the same and you'll be able to go to the shop where you bought the camera to ask questions which they will be happy to answer since you bought the camera from them.
Thank you John! I am leaning towards the dslr despite its complexity because I have the time right now to fool with it as I’m on a permanent road trip and I’m able to get out every day to take photos and I’d have time to read that manual as you suggested.
Also, I have a sort of unrelated question...I have some photos I’ve taken in the past with just a 35 mm point n shoot that I would love to have expanded to 8x10 and framed but I’m concerned that the quality of the the pictures won’t be very good due to number of pixels. Also have some really good Iphone pix. What do you think? Should I try it?
I would either keep using the cell phone for a while or get an entry level DSLR with a kit lens. I like the Canon SL1 and SL2. For many purposes, you can take good pictures with a modern smart phone IMO. I like my new iPhone XS a lot, especially because it has the 2X lens too - so I'm not restricted to wide angle photography. My SL2 is great too though.
Also, I have a sort of unrelated question...I have some photos I’ve taken in the past with just a 35 mm point n shoot that I would love to have expanded to 8x10 and framed but I’m concerned that the quality of the the pictures won’t be very good due to number of pixels. Also have some really good Iphone pix. What do you think? Should I try it?
You're more limited by the quality of the lens than pixels. If the p&s has more than 5 megapixels, you shouldn't have any problems making an 8x10 print. As I said, the quality of the lens may come into play since when you are looking at a small image on the computer screen or a 4x6 print, imperfections won't show too badly, but when you enlarge to 8x10, they can become an issue.
As PGH423 says, hang onto your cell phone. The newest versions can take really good photos and as has been mentioned before, the best camera is the one you have with you when you need it. Cell phones are always around and you may decide to leave the dslr at home or hotel because you don't want to carry it for various reasons.
Yes what you both say about keeping the iPhone are my thoughts as well and certainly I wouldn’t get rid of it lol. Was just trying to determine whether it would be worth it to upgrade. I’m traveling by van right now so would have this close to hand so I’m still teetering. Also maybe I’ll just try to have one of my pix made into an 8x10 to see how it comes out before I commit to more.
Yes what you both say about keeping the iPhone are my thoughts as well and certainly I wouldn’t get rid of it lol. Was just trying to determine whether it would be worth it to upgrade. I’m traveling by van right now so would have this close to hand so I’m still teetering. Also maybe I’ll just try to have one of my pix made into an 8 x 10 to see how it comes out before I commit to more.
As long as you have at least 5 or 7 megapixels, there should be no problem with an 8x10.
I’m a traveler and I love taking shots of scenery. I just use my iPhone for now and have gotten many positive comments on the quality of my photos and indeed with the new technology it would seem anyone can be a photographer and maybe everyone thinks their pix are the best. So I guess I’m wondering if it would even be worth it to spring for a “real” camera? Also what is a good beginner camera for a newbie like me?
Congrats on taking up photography as a hobby. I do it and LOVE it.
When I started with photography, I started with the Canon Rebel kit. Included camera, lens, charger, cables, etc. All you'll need is a memory card. If/when you decide you want more, you can very easily sell the camera, keep the lens (or sell it as well) to upgrade to a better camera. I upgraded from the "entry level" Canon Rebel to (at the time) was one of their most popular which is the 5D mark iii.
Also what is a good beginner camera for a newbie like me?
That can be a tough question. Depends a lot on what you are going to do. For example, a lot of indoor pictures might require a flash, which most cameras have, but most of those flashes are not the best solution...
There are so many variables it is difficult to say
Quote:
Originally Posted by stepka
I’m thinking Nikon D3300...why or why not for this one?
Quote:
Originally Posted by johninvegas
The D3300 has been superseded by the D3400. So unless you want to buy used (which since you are a newbie I would not recommend), you'll need to step up to the D3400.
I agree the D3400 is a good choice, however if you got a real good deal, I mean a "Super Deal" on the D3300 it might be worth getting...
I have been a Canon fan since the Canon F-1 came out, bought one in 1972 (as I recall)...
We (My wife and I) currently use a Canon EOS REBEL T3i , Canon PowerShot SX620 HS and a Panasonic DMC-FZ200. Each has a purpose. My wife also uses her Cell Phone, many times with good results.
Here are some best digital camera for 2018 articles:
I have always liked tomsguide, but I am old and cranky... All four review sites are valid.
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