BIG ROB Loc: Princeton, NJ 08540

I have both the D7200 and the D3300 and I've never noticed any real difference between the two viewfinders in normal usage. Both are bright and clear. Perhaps under extreme conditions there may be a difference, and maybe if I compared them. But the D3300 has
a very bright viewfinder!

BIG ROB Loc: Princeton, NJ 08540

Both Canon and Nikon offer all of the lenses that you'd ever need and are the same quality.

BIG ROB Loc: Princeton, NJ 08540

Your name gives your preference away! I shoot with Both Canon and Nikon, and have lenses for each. I like, both of them!

BIG ROB Loc: Princeton, NJ 08540

Seriously consider my advice, I know just what I'm talking about! I live on the Internet shopping, and shooting pictures, both...

You will be very happy, and do well, with what i recommended to you.

If you desire to spend even less money, then, purchase the Nikon d3300, with the same Nikkor DX AF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED VR II lens, from B&H Photo, in NYC, over the Internet, for only $446.95! It also comes with: a SanDisk 16GB Ultra UHS-I SDHC Memory Card (Class 10), a Ruggard Commando 25 DSLR Shoulder Bag, and a Nikon WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, at no extra charge!

YOU CANNOT GO WRONG, WITH EITHER, OF THESE TWO PACKAGE DEALS!!!

The other deal, was for the newer model, D3400, Camera Body, which is a little better, overall, some ever so slight advantages, and the 3400 vs. the 3300...the 3300 is one of the very finest models that Nikon EVER built! The D3400 has an even better, image sensor, which is just unbelievable! It scores even higher than a D500! But the D3300, is also "Sky High" as well! Both, are just killer camera's, in every way!

For the extra $150.00, you get the latest body, which is a little better, and you get the Nikkor DX AF-S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 IF-ED Lens, which sells alone, for $496.95. (It has two, extra low dispersion, elements! The Telephoto Zoom Lens.)

Also, the 18-55mm Lens, is a "little bit sharper" when it is mounted on the D3400 body, then on the D3300 body; (not that you would probably, actually notice the difference, but, who knows?)

I would definitely, get the D3400 package, from B&H. It would be perfect fro you with your wildlife photography with the telephoto lens.

That is my honest opinion, and best advice to you.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

Any of the most entry level DSLR's can do what you need them to do. The less you pay for a camera, the fewer bells and whistles they have, hence the more simple they are to use and learn. The more expensive, the more they have and the more complicated. It's as simple as that.

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

I've never changed file size in the field. The things I do change - ISO, aperture, shutter speed - are one button actions on my Pentaxes, so personally I make all my changes by a quick glance at the back; other than mode, I don't have any reason to lower my camera to look at the top.

Jim Bob

Canon owners will undoubtedly recommend Canon and Nikon owners will push their brand. Does this really help?

Picture Taker Loc: Michigan Thumb

If you want to get into photography, you want to feel comfortable with the camera you camera. Go to a store and try them. you buy clothing by size. You test drive a car. Find a camera that fits.

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

D3300 has a sensor cleaning device (vibrator to shake the dust off). The 3400 does not.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

You will find fairly similarly capable DSLR cameras from all the major manufacturers.... especially at the more entry-level price levels.

I suggest you go to a store and handle some of the models you're considering. Be sure to power them up and play around in the menu, etc. One or another brand or model might stand out to you for "feel", ergonomics, intuitiveness and ease of use. Just for example, some people find the Canon menus easier to navigate and use. This might help with your decision, or at least to narrow things down a bit.

Also look beyond the camera itself, at the system of lenses and accessories offered to work with it. Canon and Nikon have the largest OEM systems, certainly. And there are more third party lenses and accessories made for use with Canon and Nikon, than any other brands. But, unless you have some fairly specialized needs, you likely could put together a good kit within most brands.

With Nikon's more entry-level models, you need to be aware of some limitations with lenses. Nikkors use a couple different autofocus drive systems... one built into the lens itself (AF-S and AF-P lenses), the other instead using a motor in the camera body (AF-D and a few other lenses). The more entry-level cameras (D3000 and D5000-series) lack the focus drive motor in the camera, so can only autofocus AF-S and AF-P type lenses. In recent years Nikon has converted many of their lenses to AF-S (or, now, AF-P) that are able to autofocus, so it's less of a concern than in the past. AF-D and similar lenses can be used manual focus, but you may want to look online for lens compatibility charts, just to be sure. The reason for this is that Nikon has used essentially the same "F-mount" since 1959, with various modifications over the years as new features were added (in-camera light metering, auto exposure and autofocus are the biggest innovations). The advantage of this is that there are literally millions of vintage lenses out there that can still be used on the modern cameras, though possibly with some limitations.

Canon took another route. They instead re-designed and replaced their mounting system in the late 1980s, with the current EF/EOS mount. Unfortunately this "orphaned" earlier FL/FD system cameras and lenses, but literally all lenses made since then are fully compatible with many of the Canon cameras. Particularly the entry level models ("Rebel" series in N. America), 77D, 80D and 7DII and all but the very earliest of their predecessors can use all EF and EF-S lenses made since the late 1980s, with no issues at all. So-called "full frame" Canon such as 6D, 5D-series, 1DX models are not able to use the EF-S lenses designed specifically for the smaller sensor models, but are able to use all EF lenses.

You mention some types of photography that may suggest what type gear you should be considering:

Most cameras are available with a general purpose "kit" lens such as an 18-55mm. That an serve as a "walk-around" lens.... slightly wide angle to normal to short telephoto.

You also sometimes will find two-lens kits.... usually the same walk-around lens plus some telephoto zoom such as a 55-250mm. That might be a good start for the wildlife photography you mention.

Kits can be a good deal, with some items nicely discounted. But you need to be careful. Some "fly-by-night" online sellers assemble kits of sub-par quality items that initially look like a great deal, but actually might not be. Major, long-established retailer or manufacturer-assembled kits are usually more reliable. Look at B&H Photo and Adorama websites. Check on Amazon. For used gear, those same places offer a lot, plus there's KEH in Atlanta. Canon and Nikon both now have online stores too, including refurbished items (open box, demo units, overstock) that can be very good deals.

You also may want to supplement a kit with an additional lens or accessory. For example, landscape and scenics shots often call for a wider lenses. Christmas decorations might call for a macro lens. Many cameras come with a built-in flash, but those are very limited so for indoor shooting you might want an accessory flash.

Be a bit careful about not getting too much gear... overwhelming yourself. Buy a little at a time and learn to use each item well, then add other things as needs arise.

Let me give you some Canon examples, since that's what I use and am most familiar with:

Canon SL1 (100D) or T6 (1300D) are their most entry-level and basic models.

Canon T6i (750D) and T6s (760D) are more capable and higher performance models. New models to supersede these have just been announced this week, so there will be clearance sales of the T6i and T6s.

80D and 7D Mark II are currently Canon's most advanced and high performance "crop sensor" DSLRs.

SL1, T6, T6i and T6s are often sold in kit with EF-S 18-55mm IS STM lens. 80D and 7DII are often offered with EF-S 18-135mm IS USM or STM lens. Those lenses might be offered as a possible upgrade with the more entry level models too.

Two-lens kits of these cameras from Canon typically add an EF-S 55-250mm IS STM lens, which is a good value. Sometimes these kits instead include an EF 75-300mm III lens, which is not a particularly good lens. I'd avoid it. The EF-S 55-250mm is much better. The Canon EF 70-300mm lenses also are much better, but are rarely offered in kit and are more expensive.

Truly wide lenses are usually a separately purchased item, not available in kit. Canon has one of the best deals with their EF-S 10-18mm IS STM... it's the smallest, lightest, only ultrawide zoom with image stabilization... and the least expensive at about $270. It's a little plasticky, but none-the-less has some of the best image quality of this type lens.

There are lots of macro lenses to choose among. Canon EF-S 60/2.8 is compact and costs about $400, for example. There are also other ways to do close-ups, such as macro extension tubes. Canon's or are only sold individually and are rather expensive. Kenko set: $120. More plasticky Opteka set: $40. These can be used with the 18-55mm or 55-250mm, to make those lenses focus closer than they are normally able to do.

And, Canon offers a number of easy-to-use flashes ranging from the very compact 90EX or slightly larger 270EX, to the mid-size 430EX and the large, powerful 600EX. There are also a number of third party flashes available, some of which work quite well. An alternative to using flash is a large aperture lens that's able to shoot in lower light conditions, such as Canon's affordable ($125) EF 50/1.8 STM.

There's lots more... but hopefully this gives you some ideas to work with. Again, I used Canon examples here because that's the system I'm most familiar with. No doubt you can find similar in from other manufacturers and should make comparisons.

Do plan on some "essential" accessories. You'll need memory cards (most cameras today use SD memory). You also might want an extra battery or two... or even an accessory vertical/battery grip for the camera that not only doubles the number of batteries, but also gives you a second set of controls that make vertical/portrait orientation more comfortable. All the Canon lenses mentioned above don't come with lens hoods... some (most?) other manufacturers' lenses do... but that's something to check, because I always recommend using properly fitted lens hoods to protect the lens both from oblique light and from bumps.

Many DSLRs come with some sort of basic software for your computer, but you still may want something better such as Photoshop Elements 15, which has a lot of built in support for new users.

All manufacturers offer good cameras, lenses and accessories. It will ultimately make more difference in your images how much effort you put into learning to use the gear well, than what brand or model you select. You also should plan to get some books to learn to use your camera and the software. Bryan Peterson's "Understanding Exposure" is a great starting point, a very comprehensive explanation of modern cameras in general. There also are "guide" books specific to many individual camera models, which sort of expand upon any manufacturer supplied user manual and can really help shorten the learning curve. Scott Kelby and others write some helpful books for various photography software. Just starting out with digital is a great time to establish efficient post-processing "workflow" and a safe, reliable system of storage (much easier than a couple years from now when you have tens of thousands of images to deal with). I found "The DAM Book: Digital Asset Management for Photographers" by Peter Krogh very useful. In addition to "how to" books... you may want to take a class or two locally. Or, join a photography group to get out, shoot and learn from others in your area. Also there are online tutorials (Youtube and elsewhere) or even more complete online courses that might be useful.

Hope this helps!

Reinaldokool Loc: San Rafael, CA

There are other options. I've shot mostly Nikon--but occasional Canon--for 40+ years, but recently saw the advantage of the MILC, mirrorless, camera. Both Fuji and Sony make great cameras. Take a look at Kenrockwell.com to get a fair comparison of these cameras.

I have transitioned from Nikon to Sony and now do most of my photography with a Sony a6300. The a6000 is almost as feature filled, and, as a three year old model has dropped in price.

In the DSLR family also look at Pentax. Pentax is an excellent camera with a terrible marketing department. But the product is great and may be somewhat more rugged than either Canon or Nikon

SusanFromVermont Loc: Southwest corner of Vermont

As others have said, both Canon and Nikon have excellent cameras and lenses. Buying a DSLR gives you the option of using it on "auto" (like a point-and-shoot camera) or having some control over how the images are taken. And you can use it both ways while learning the more challenging aspects. Regardless of what subjects you like to shoot, the camera is not the most important factor, it is the lenses. For scenery, you generally will want a wide-angle lens, for wildlife a longer focal length lens.

I saw your post saying you want to stay around $500-$600. My suggestion is to go to a website like B&H and find out which cameras are within your price range for both Canon and Nikon. Then read the specifications and the other information provided for different cameras. Learn to understand what they all mean. That will help you to make an informed choice. If still not sure which company you want to purchase, go to a store that carries both and hold the cameras in your hands, to discover which feels more comfortable to you.

You may find some cameras that come in a bundle with some basic kit lenses. They will be priced more than just the camera body, and comparison will show there is a noticeable discount over buying each separately. The kit lenses are good, as well as providing starter combination for you!

All DSLR cameras have some features in common. There will be a learning curve no matter which one you buy. So in a way it does not truly matter if you purchase an "entry-level" or a "pro-level" camera, outside of the purchase price. This is why some will say to buy the best you can afford and grow into it. That is what I did, and it worked well for me. I still have that first DSLR (crop-sensor) and use it regularly. I have replaced the first lenses I owned with faster ones, and just recently bought another DSLR (full-frame sensor) so I can have two lenses already mounted on a camera to use. Once you start researching individual cameras, you will see the features they have in common as well as the differences. Then you can decide which features you care about most, and purchase a DSLR that includes those. Between features and price, there is always a compromise, but with Canon or Nikon you are assured that the equipment is good and the available selection of lenses quite extensive.

If you decide you would like to have a camera that is more expensive than your limit, consider pre-owned or refurbished. But purchase them only from the manufacturer or a "trusted" vendor. B&H, Adorama, KEH, Cameta are all considered to be good ones to deal with. I deal with B&H and Adorama, and can vouch for them.

burkphoto Loc: High Point, NC

I've used them all with no problems. All four are fair, honest, and prompt in dealing with any issues, if you state your case calmly and thoroughly. KEH in particular sells better equipment than they rate it. I bought a lens from them that was supposed to be used... Neither a speck of dust nor a scratch were found on the lens, the caps, or the lens barrel when I opened the package... It works flawlessly.

DAMcCoy

Buy the best your budget will allow.

fullyexposed Loc: Illinois

I recently started to get back into photography and I had the same problem. I did a lot of research on the subject and found what was right for me. I had it down to the Nikon 7200 and the Canon 80D. I decided on the 80D because I have always owned Canon and I was use to it. You can't go wrong with either Canon or Nikon. Third party lenses also make prices of lenses equal for future purchases. I saw a video on youtube recently by DigiDIRECT about the Canon 77D. It seems like it could also be a learning tool but quality is still unknown. I, like so many others, recommend getting your hands on the different cameras and seeing what feels right to you. A good camera store will be able to answer your questions and help you reach a decision on your needs and budget.