amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

Under $1000?

You're only going to find entry-level cameras and lenses, with that limited budget. Still, even entry-level cameras are capable of making fine images.

Canon and Nikon have the most extensive and comprehensive systems. That's why pros and amateurs alike tend to choose one or the other of them. Sony, Pentax and Olympus are excellent, too.... but there's less selection among them.

Go to a store and handle some different brands, to see if one or another "feels" better. Hopefully you can turn the camera on and check out the menu, see if it seems intuitive and easy to use. While you can probably learn to use any brand, it will be easier if you feel comfortable with the camera and have a head start with easier access to the controls and features it provides.

Lenses are actually a more important consideration, than the camera they are used upon. The quality and features of the lens determine how your images look... while the camera just captures what the lens is "seeing". Even the most entry-level Canon or Nikon camera is highly capable. But fitting it with the most entry-level "kit lenses" can be very limiting. Most people get it backwards, spending too much money and effort on the camera and not devoting enough of either toward their lens selection.

I'm going to recommend some Canon lenses and camera primarily because that's the system I use and so are what I'm most familiar with. You can probably find something pretty similar in Nikon. Comparing the two in a very broad sense, a Canon camera w/kit lens(es) typically will cost slightly more than a similar Nikon kit initially.... But if you look beyond that first purchase, you'll find that Nikon lenses and accessories you want to add in the future will tend to cost a little to a lot more.

Canon Rebel SL2 is one of the smallest and lightest DSLRs available, yet it's pretty full featured: 24MP, . The body alone sells for about $550, but if you are open to buying factory refurbished (same warranty as new), it's available for $440 right now at the Canon USA website. The SL2 is avail. new "in kit" with EF-S 18-55mm IS STM and EF-S 55-250mm IS STM lenses for $995. Same camera with the same 18-55mm is avail. refurbished for $560. It's not being offered refurbished with a 2 lens kit. The second, telephoto 55-250mm is offered separately refurbished for $240... so you could put together a two lens kit same as new, but refurbished for $195 less. That would leave you some money towards an EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens, which would be particularly good for portraiture. That lens sells for $125 new, or is available for $90 refurbished.

Instead of the two kit lenses mentioned above, an slightly upgraded alternative is the EF-S 18-135mm IS STM, to serve as your general purpose, "walk around" lens. It's doesn't have the more powerful telephoto, but still is pretty darned good and more than enough for most portraiture work.

A lens you may find in more entry level Canon kits is the EF 75-300mm "III". I recommend avoiding it. It's Canon's cheapest zoom, simply not one of their best and not to be confused with several 70-300s Canon offers, which are much better, but more expensive. The EF-S 55-250mm IS STM mentioned above is a little more expensive but a MUCH better lens. The EF 75-300mm lacks uses slow, noisy micro motor focus drive, lacks image stabilization, and simply doesn't have all that great image quality (especially toward the 300mm end of the zoom range).

Now let me briefly explain why I'm making these recommendations....

There are cheaper and more entry-level Canon cameras.... The T6 is the most basic and least expensive. But that has 25% lower resolution (18MP) using an older sensor design. (note: a new T7 model is now coming available, a minor upgrade from T6, mostly just an upgrade to a bigger sensor... new model that's not yet avail. refurb'd or discounted)

Besides the differences in their sensors, the T6 lacks a number of other features that the SL2 has:

- Articulated LCD Touch Screen (T6's and T7's screens are fixed and not Touch type).
- Self-cleaning sensor (T6's requires manual cleaning).
- Dual Pixel AF in Live View and Video (much faster than contrast detection the T6 uses).
- 5 frame per second continuous shooting rate ( versus 3 fps in T6 and T7).
- ISO range 100-25600, expandable to 51200 (versus 100-6400, expandable to 12800 in T6 and T7).

All the lenses I mention above are slight upgrades too... They all use STM or "stepper motor" focus drive. That's faster and quieter than the basic "micro motor" focus drive used in the most entry-level models. Canon has a offers a third type of focus drive: USM or "ultrasonic motor", which is even faster than STM and may be preferable for sports/action photography. But STM is quieter and smoother, better for video and STM should be pletny fast for portraiture. All but one of the lenses I've suggested also have IS or "image stabilization". That helps you get steady shots while hand-holding camera and lens at slower shutter speeds. The EF 50mm f/1.8 STM doesn't have IS, but has less need for it by having a larger aperture. While it's nice to have IS on any lens, it's especially useful on longer telephoto focal lengths.

In time you might want to add other lenses and/or further upgrade from the ones you have. You just don't have the budget for it now... with your limit of $1000.

For example, other Canon lenses great for portraiture on a camera like the SL2 (with it's "APS-C" size sensor) include:
- EF 50mm f/1.4 USM ($350), EF 50mm f/1.2L USM ($1450)... these are "short telephoto" on an APS-C camera, ideal for portraiture... the less expensive EF 50mm f/1.8 STM will get you started.
- EF 85mm f/1.8 USM ($350), EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM ($1600), EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM ($2000)... a slightly longer telephoto, also ideal for portraiture, tighter shots or standing a little farther away for more candid shots.
- EF 135mm f/2L USM ($1000)... a longer telephoto for portraiture.... gives a somewhat compressed look that's popular for fashion photography.
- EF 200mm f/2.8L USM II ($750), EF 200mm f/2L IS USM ($5700)... very long telephotos for portraiture w/APS-C, but popular on "full frame" cameras.
- EF 28mm f/1.8 USM ($509), EF 28mm f/2.8 IS USM ($549), EF 24mm f/2.8 IS USM ($549)... slightly wide lenses that can be used for "environmental portraits" but too close with them will cause distortions.

All the above are "primes"... not zooms. They all have moderate to large to very large apertures that make it possible to blur down backgrounds to make subjects stand out.

Zoom lenses can also be used of course, but those with the largest apertures are going to tend to be bigger, heavier and fairly expensive. Few zooms offer any larger than f/2.8, too. Many of the above primes offer one or two stops larger apertures in smaller, lighter, less expensive lenses. Some possible zooms for portraiture. For example:
- EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM ($880)
- EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II ($1900), EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM ($1000)
- EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM II ($1100), EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (recently discontinued, but widely avail. used for about $200).
- EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM ($1350), EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM II ($2100), EF 70-200mm f/4L USM ($650), EF 70-200mm f/4L IS USM ($1100).

There are also "third party" lenses from makers like Tokina, Tamron and Sigma. Some of those might be good for your purposes and less expensive than the OEM lenses like the above. Third party lens manufacturers make a lot for Canon and Nikon, usually the same item is available to fit either. They tend to offer considerably less for use on other brands of cameras. Sometimes a 3rd party lens is available that the OEM companies don't offer. For example, I use a Tamron 60mm f/2 Macro/Portrait lens on my Canon DSLRs. It costs about $550 new and is a "crop only, Di II" lens (designed for APS-C models like SL2). What I like about it is that it not only serves as a good macro lens, it's also got a stop larger aperture than most, which makes it better than them for portraiture. Plus it's 60mm focal length is right in between 50mm and 85mm, so it can take the place of both of them and a macro lens. One lens instead of three in my camera bag! Drawback with it are that it's comparatively slow focusing (uses a micro motor, though it's not very noisy). OTOH, it's a compact, "internal focusing" design, which means it doesn't grow longer when focused closer (some macro lenses double in length).

You also may need other things such as an extra battery, memory cards, image organizing and editing software, lens hood for any that don't include them, perhaps some specialty filters, flash or other lighting gear, reflectors and flags, etc.!

With your interest in portraiture specifically, if you haven't done so already you might want to get a book or two for ideas and inspiration. One author who's books I'd recommend is Monte Zucker... he was a true master of portraiture by available light. He did a lot of family portraits and was one of the best and most sought after photographers, in his day. I'm not sure if his books are still in print, but if you find any of them used, don't hesitate.

Canon USA refurbished cameras: https://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/cameras/refurbished-eos-digital-slr-cameras
Canon USA refurbished lenses: https://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/lenses-flashes/refurbished-lenses

In addition, I recommend Adorama and B&H in NYC for both new and used gear... KEH.com in Atlanta is also good for used gear. Amazon Direct can be good, but there's no one to ask questions, like there are at those other retailers. Same with discount chains like Costco and Walmart (who also tend to have little choice, mostly just some specific kits). There are other good retailers online as well as brick & mortar.... But there are also a lot of shysters on the Internet, so be VERY careful (if you see prices significantly cheaper than the above stores and websites... be VERY suspicious... "too good to be true" usually is!)

Hope this helps.

P.S. And I'm glad to hear you aren't considering shooting weddings as yet. Not only are they stressful, they also require a considerably bigger investment in gear. I'd say about 5X or 10X what you have to work with. No one should ever take on a wedding gig without at least two cameras, two flashes (we didn't even discuss lighting above, which also can be important for portraiture... though it also can be done by ambient/available light), and some of the pricier lenses listed above. There are no "do overs" with weddings... so you need to be prepared with backup gear, just in case something happens (which, for some reason, it often does). In time you might build a kit that's up to the task. But you certainly won't be anywhere close with only $1000 budget.

RWCRNC Loc: Pennsylvania

I agree with everything Repleo says here.

tinkerbell2 Loc: Charleston, South Carolina

I have a Canon 80D. I know some naysayers will tell you that it is a beginner’s camera, as it’s not full frame. However, the weight of the camera is an issue for me, so it is perfect for me. I love the features it offers. I started with a lower end Canon Rebel, and upgraded when my son told me he needed to “borrow” my camera for art school. Lol! I knew I’d never see it again, and that’s been the case. I was able to buy this camera 2 years ago with 2 kit lenses for $1,100. I have other lenses, and invested in an Sigma 18-300mm last summer. If you are going to be photographing people, there are other prime lenses that are better for this. I’m more of a landscape person myself, although I have used the lens for street photography and have been pleased with the results. If you have any questions, feel free to pm me.

hj Loc: Florida

I like most everything you had to say. Very thorough and helpful.

dougbev3 Loc: Pueblo, Colorado

Look at your camera store. Whatever camera that you like that you think will work for you, keep it in mind. Then go home and look at used camera sites like KEH, Adorama, B&H; but there is more. look at how they are graded, then make up your mind. Most times you can save lots of money and still have excellent gear. But when you go down this road you have other expenses too. Flash, lens, lens, computer programs for your pictures. Good luck to you and take your best pictures always....

Mspgolf2000

I started out with a small 250.00 canon that has a lot of options that I could use like f stop but it was small there were no way to change lens. It took good photos some I even sold. But I wanted a nice camera so I got a canon sl1 with two lens and bundle deal EF and EFS lens work on this camera. I then found out about some low cost class at a local camera store, there were 15.00 per class for a hour long but they gave you you money back to you In a gift card for there store. I also found that they rented camera and lens to use so that’s where I stared using EF lens only I have now bought two lens. A canon EF 24-105 I bought it used for 350.00 and a sigma 50mm art lens I bought it new for 600.00 also a good tripod new for a 100.00 and fillers. I keep try to learn as much as I can about this hobby and I have my eyes set on a new camera. I shoot in raw I rent flashes I use photoshop I like to shot wildlife and young kids and homeless folks, there faces tell a story. Go rent before you buy. It helped me

hainesr007

I understand all the love for Nikon and Canon...I get it. But most of these people have been shooting for years and have tons of money tied up in bodies, lenses, and accessories. But just starting out, I promise you mirrorless technology is the way to go. If you can find it, look for the most recent copy (Jan-Feb, I think) of a magazine called Photopreneur. There is a remarkable article called "The Death of the DSLR". It also gives you other great resources to refer to. This should lay to rest the debate. Remember, if you go to a camera store, they will almost certainly point you to a Nikon or Canon because that is what they have always used. Ask for their mirrorless camera expert to get balanced advice. Nikon and Canon are both rapidly moving towards better quality, if not professional quality, mirrorless cameras, and there are predictions they may here before holiday season 2018. Why? Because they have to! I made the switch to mirrorless and have never looked back. Best wishes!

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

Renting can be helpful, if the rental cost is not a budget buster. Here the rental cost for a Sony body in the mid range is going to be close to $100. Add a lens and we are at $150. The budget of $1,000 for the purchase is now $850.

hainesr007

Most Best Buys, for example (maybe not the best place for advice, although the staff at my store are very knowledgeable) will spend lots of time with you, especially during off-peak hours. Ours has a free 2 hour class every Saturday morning. I don't think you need to rent. I addition, they have great no interest payment plans...

Alb Loc: Lehigh Valley area, Pennsylvania

Pamela, welcome!

You are right to go to a camera store and check out all the cameras. I get so weary of the “Canon vs Nikon” stuff here on the Hog - you’d think there are no other cameras.

That being said, most manufacturers have great cameras. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t stay in business. Personally, I use an Olympus EM1 mk II. But that is just what I chose. It worked for me. And bottom line, that’s what you have to do.

Find the one that is right for you. With a good camera store and finding someone who’s not pushing something on you because that’s what they need to sell, you will do well.

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

Pamela,

Biggs is respected by members of UHH familiar with the store. You should get great advice there.

jack schade Loc: La Pine Oregon

Hello Pamela and welcome to the forum. Nikon Canon and Sony are all great cameras.its good that you are getting a hands on experience before buying. Ask lots of questions. If you have a local Camera club in your area join it.

Jack

halraiser

If budget is an issue (Isn't it always, for all of us?), start with good glass. Go to the camera store and try different brands, then get the best lenses you can afford for that brand. DSLR cameras are advancing and coming down in price but lenses are not progressing that quickly. The lenses you get will still be useful when you can afford to move up to a better camera.

sxrich

All the answers were good. it will kind of depend upon how much work and study you wish to do. All the cameras whether Nikon, Sony, Canon are all good. Even the Panasonics if you wish to add video. But, bottom line IMHO, learn how to read light, add an external flash and spend as much time as you can in that area. Learn to use Lightroom or Photoshop really well. I did learn one thing though that helped me when I shot
weddings and events without flash. A camera that handles low light well ie can shoot high ISO without a lot of noise. Then, fast glass ie 1.8 to 2.8 (or lower) on constant aperture. So, you can buy anything you want and get some great images 9 times out of 10. It's when you stress the situation that the better sensor and glass seems to make a difference. I bought used glass in some cases. I do shoot with a Nikon d750 which is a low light animal in many ways. Just know it had issues with shutter replacement but I had it fixed for free. There are others out there that are strong with high ISO shooting too. Others on this site will have great advice. Regardless you can't lose with the quality of today's cameras.

Dennis833 Loc: Australia

I shoot landscapes images professionally with a Sony A7R. I had to shoot some portraits recently with my back up camera the Sony A6000. The results where exceptional. I would recommend this camera for some one starting out.