SteveR Loc: Michigan

I can't speak about the top of the line cameras, but as far as affordable crop cameras go, I've compared Canon's dx cameras versus Nikon's dx cameras and Nikon's come out on top, esp. when looking at low-light capability. I ended up buying the D7500 for my daughter to take photos of the grandkids in sporting events over the D7200, but the D7200 is also a good camera. The one big advantage of the D7500 for softball is more frames per second. I think that you'd get more bang for the buck from the 7200. What you will want is a good lens to go with that camera. I've always felt that the Nikon 28-300 is a sharp lens on a dx camera and will provide all the coverage that you will need. I suggest going with the 28-300 which is full frame rather than the 18-300 which is a crop sensor lens. Reason? On a crop sensor body, you shoot through the sweet spot of the 28-300 and don't get the chromatic aberrations from the edge of the lens. Couple the 28-300 with a 10-24 (Tamron has a new version) and that's all the kit you would need.

If you question my analysis of Canon vs. Nikon crop cameras, pull up the specifications for both Canon and Nikon crop cameras for comparison.

Brucej67 Loc: Cary, NC

I would say your assessment is pretty much spot on, the only thing I would mention is that the 28-300 on the crop frame will yield a 1.5 times crop factor ( 42-450mm equivalent).

SteveR Loc: Michigan

Which is why it is such a great combination....the 28-300 on a crop sensor camera. When I've had the choice of using my D7000 or my D800 for a swim party birthday party....the D7000 was the choice because of the "reach" factor. I could sit in my chair and capture the action all around and in the pool. It really does get out there.

Let me not lead the O.P. astray. "Reach" is actually a result of the "field of view" in a crop sensor camera. It's in no way because a 300mm lens suddenly becomes a 450 mm lens. 300mm is always 300mm.

Brucej67 Loc: Cary, NC

Agree it is just the field of view (crop factor).

insman1132 Loc: Southwest Florida

Probably a wise way to start, sheadle. A good bridge camera will offer you many of the features you find in a high quality DSLR as you learn more about camera's and photography. And then, when you are ready to take the leap to a DSLR, your bridge camera becomes a great backup camera. You might take a look at the Canon SX60 and the Nikon B700. Both are outstanding in their own right. You will love either one. Either one will give you great pictures. And their lens reach will prove useful if you decide to start photo'ing nature - - and I bet you will!!

Welcome to the forum. Keep us posted as you progress.

SteveR Loc: Michigan

Most of all.....have fun!!