kybill1252 Loc: Ky

I've used 35 mm film camera, a Fuji Finepix digital with zoom lens. Im wanting up upgrade to a better camera. Im not wanting a top of line but im thinking about 2 different cameras from Sams. I love to take pics of wildlife, Birds, deer, horses, and sunsets etc. I am pretty much a self taught photographer. I have no training whatsoever except what I've did on my own. I have taken some great shots. So which camera would be the best buy. A Nikon D3500 24.2 mp DSLR 81- 55 MM EXTRA lens.
Or a Canon EOS Rebel T7 24.1 digital SLR. Both come with extra lens. Both are comparative in price around 450.00. I like the idea of the extra lens so I can really reach out and bring the object to me. Any help would be appreicate. I havent decided on either one but just starting of really getting involved into photography. If you have a better idea please let me know. Ive been told to stay away from used cameras buying from someone I dont know.

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

I'm a Nikon, among others, fan. So, my opinionated suggestion would be Nikon. Others will agree or disagree. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
--Bob

robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

I am a Canonista so I recommend the Canon. Canon does have a slightly larger world of lenses and accessories. (the T7 is an EF-S mount but can use the EF lenses made for Full Frame cameras also) Plus Canon has put the focus motor in the lens since the 80s so any AF lens works on any body whose mount it fits. With Nikon not all lenses, esp older ones have a focus motor and only the 7000 series cameras and up have an AF motor in the body for the ones that don't.

That said, both companies, and others make fine cameras and you can not go wrong as long as you know what lenses, accessories etc go with your body.

Birds and wildlife - oh my - you are in for a ride. I foresee many new lenses whispering "buy me" to you. With those subjects there is seldom "long enough" and no such thing as a lens that is too long. for landscapes and interiors (old churches etc on vacation) then is no such thing as "too wide". I have bought and used lenses from 10 mm to 600 mm. And on the long end I day dream about even longer lenses.

kybill1252 Loc: Ky

Thanks for the responses back. As far as the model number, on each of them, is it a recommended good camera or one of the models to stay away from? Like I said, I don't know hardly nothing about the model's which one is junk and which one is good. They both might be good, I just don't want to get something, only to fine out later, I could have bought a better camera for less money

Old Timer Loc: Greenfield, In.

Either camera would probably fit the need but the kit lens? I would probably go with a good used body and then as time went by and I got some experience start getting some good glass. I found out that there is not a short cut when it comes to good glass. For that reason as stated above I would probably go with the Canon as the lens availability for them seems to be easier to acquire. If you want to photograph wild life you will need some glass with some reach. Birds are especially challenging with short focal length. You need more that kit lens for your interest.

dhroberts Loc: Boston, MA, USA

My suggestion is to look at the B&H website before you buy anything locally. They feature legendary service, often offer extras such as memory cards and/or bags with their deals, and won't charge you sales tax for (free) shipping to most states. Plus their return policy is second to none.

I'd recommend a Nikon, but that's just because I'm a longtime, satisfied user of their cameras. Canons are fine instruments, too.

For about twice what you're considering paying you could get a much better body, such as a Nikon D7500, & two lenses. Over the years I bought each of my three kids a D7100 or D7200, the forerunners of the D7500, and all are thrilled with them.

Another thing to consider is that if you get really serious about wildlife (and especially bird) photography you will eventually want a longer lens than any kit can provide. The usual wisdom is to spend your money on good glass; it will outlast your camera body and work even better on the next one (!).

Finally, don't forget to get a UV filter to protect each lens. I use B+W filters, but there are other good brands such as Hoya.

Good luck making your decision!

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Welcome to our forum!

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

Either will do well for you.
(I'd go with the one that fits you better ergonomically and the controls are easier for you to use.)

kybill1252 Loc: Ky

Thanks to all that responded back.

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

I'm a Nikon guy too. I don't know if it's important to you but the 5XXX series has an articulated view screen so you can shoot above your head or way low for flowers or insects etc. Without looking through the viewfinder. If you're serious about birds and wildlife the kit lenses aren't going to do the job for you.
I suggest that you look at B&H, Adorama or some of the other on-line camera stores. You don't have to worry about buying used from these stores. I've done it and been very happy with the results. Their ratings on used gear are low ball in my experience, meaning that the cameras and lenses I've bought were in much better shape than I expected, including some pretty high end equipment.

kybill1252 Loc: Ky

Thanks, I'll check them out

Earnest Botello Loc: Hockley, Texas

Welcome to the Hog, enjoy.

repleo Loc: Boston

Any camera introduced in the last five or six years is capable of taking excellent photos - even cell phones. The key to quality is the lenses and learning to use the the camera you have.

Be forewarned, your interest in birds could end up being an expensive venture. I think birding is one of the most demanding subjects for beginner photographers - for both equipment and skills. As far as I am concerned there is no middle ground with bird shots. They are either excellent or not worth the trouble.

FredCM Loc: Central Illinois

Longshadow's advice is really important. Find a store that will let you handle both the Canon and Nikon. See how comfortable they are and go with the one that feels best. Like so many here say, you really can't go wrong, both companies make great cameras. The Nikon/Canon arguments are like the old Ford/Chevy ones from when we were kids.

agillot

either one , you could do a google and read about each one .