CJSArt

I am in the "thinking process" of purchasing a refurbished Nikon D5300, body only. I have an older Nikon D70 and have several lenses that I would like to use on the D5300 if that is possible. The lenses are:
AF Nikkor 35-7mm,1:33-4:5. AF Nikkor 28-80mm,1:33-5:6, Quantary NF AF 50mm 1:28 macro. I also have a Prospec 75-300mm 1:45-5:6.
Would I be able to use these on D5300?
My main objective to this is to be able to photograph my painting and art and be able to obtain the detail to allow of reproduction of my paintings (prints).
If I went with the D5300 would there be a better lens to meet my objective?
Any advice on my pending purchase would be sincerely appreciated!
I respect your opinions and am open for advice.
Thanks!!!

DaveO Loc: Northeast CT

A little help hopefully: http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d5300/compatibility02.htm

Many start with Nikon G lenses. I'm sure you'll get more and better responses.

Cwilson341 Loc: Central Florida

The 5300 does not have a focusing motor so you have to use lenses that have a motor (AF-S) to get autofocus. If you want to do manual focus, the 5300 will be fine with older lenses. You could also consider a D7xxx series camera since that would have a focus motor in the camera. I have both a 5300 and a 7100 and the image quality is the same under normal circumstances. If you get the camera I would suggest trying your lenses to see if you are satisfied with the results before you consider purchasing more lenses.

CJSArt

Thanks so much for that info! I was told to use a manual focus for shooting art works, however, I am thinking I most likely should purchase the model ( which I do not know?) would give the capability of utilizing my lenses, why waste them. Until I can afford the higher dollar cameras.
Thanks so much for your info.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

The lenses will mount & work with the exception of autofocusing (as mentioned). The meter will work as well. As long as your subjects are not fast moving or you have rapidly changing light levels, the lenses should be fine. That said, I do agree that you would be better off with a body that was not a base model so as to retain the AF as well. I had a D70s that I gave to my oldest son. Besides refurbished, look at used bodies at KEH as they give you a 6 month warranty whereas Manufacturer refurbs are only 90 days ( I did buy a D610 refurb from Cameta & they extended the 90 OEM warranty out to one year)

CJSArt

Thanks Scott. I think I will do some shopping for the AF feature.

Mario22 Loc: Albany, NY

Having just tried to photograph some art work myself, my advice would be different. Photographing art is generally done inside, often not in well lighted areas. So, I would suggest that you need 2-3 pieces of equipment besides a camera body of choice.
First, a faster lens than the kit zooms you own, might be better. Say, an inexpensive nifty fifty (50mm f/1.8 or 1.4). That, with some natural light, might be enough. Better yet would be a flash or two, with diffusion to soften the light and prevent reflections on glass or shiny art surfaces.
You could start with your existing lenses if you can add enough light. The macro lens might be good with manual focus. Manual focus can be better at times to insure exact focus on a specific area of the art piece.
Just my thoughts after trying to photograph some art work for a friend.

CJSArt

Thanks for the info. I do have some diffused lighting and a decent tripod but that old D70s I had was only around 6mp. No where close to allowing a decent size reproduction print!