Absolute, bottom line newbee: I've been a digital snap shooter for a while but never actually took controlled/formatted photographs. I'm looking for my first DSLR. What do you folks...

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Absolute, bottom line newbee

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Dec 23, 2011 10:56:35 #

azredwinger

I've been a digital snap shooter for a while but never actually took controlled/formatted photographs. I'm looking for my first DSLR. What do you folks recommend? I'll be doing some photography from my motorcycle (mounted to the handlebars) as well as hand held shots of the group, scenery, etc... I'd also like the camera to be able to take video. It should be something I can use for a long time and upgrade as I progress. Under $800 would be nice too.
Thanks :-D

Dec 23, 2011 10:59:32 #

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

Sounds like the Nikon D5100 is exactly what you are looking for. $799 right now at Costco with the 18-55mm VR lens kit.

Dec 23, 2011 11:03:53 #

RTR Loc: West Central Alabama

I bought the Nikon D5100 in October. I like it. Now I just need to learn to create great photograpsh instead of just 'taking pictures' :)

Dec 23, 2011 11:08:26 #

MWAC Loc: Somewhere East Of Crazy

Going to ask what will sound like a crazy question, but do any of your friends or family have a DSLR? If so what brand?

The reason I am asking is if someone you know already owns one, it's nice to beable to borrow lens, talk shop, etc.

Dec 23, 2011 11:56:59 #

azredwinger

Unfortunately I'm by myself in Arizona so no one to borrow from.
Thanks for the reply and Happy Holidays :D

Dec 23, 2011 12:10:53 #

MWAC Loc: Somewhere East Of Crazy

azredwinger wrote:

Unfortunately I'm by myself in Arizona so no one to borrow from.
Thanks for the reply and Happy Holidays :D

I know the feeling, my family (including the in-laws) are all back in Canada, we live in Texas.

Since you are just starting out and don't have any ties to any brand, the best thing to do is head on over to your local camera shop (try to not go to the big box stores like Best Buy, Walmart, Target, etc) and talk to the staff there. Tell them your budget, what you want to shot, etc and they will give you a few options. Hold each camera and see which one feels the best in your hands.

There isn't a right or wrong answer to which is best, the answer is finding what works best for you.

Dec 23, 2011 12:35:10 #

azredwinger

Thanks for the suggestion.
I made the decision to approach photography from an educated angle for several reasons. Bad results being the main one. I want to take a course in the local area as soon as I get a good camera and learn how to use its features.
Happy Holidays
:)

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Dec 23, 2011 12:37:38 #

azredwinger

MT Shooter, suggested the same one. I'm going to see if they have one still in stock this evening.
Thanks
Happy Holidays

:-)

Dec 23, 2011 12:40:54 #

azredwinger

Good idea...I'll see what's available for camera shops

Dec 23, 2011 12:42:31 #

1eyedjack

Some PENTAX models are water resistant and have the features
you are looking for. Any brand, i would hold in hand to check
for comfort first before buying..

Dec 23, 2011 13:14:07 #

Roger Hicks Loc: Aquitaine

How are you going to secure the camera to the 'bars? Vibration is going to be a significant problem, and a DSLR with its high mass and moving mirror may not be the best camera for this application.

Cheers,

R.

Check out Video for DSLR and Point and Shoot Cameras section of our forum.

Dec 23, 2011 14:58:28 #