Hartwell Loc: South Jersey...formerly all over

Shopping around and researching used cameras for teen & adult family portraits.
I currently do just fine with an LX7 when shooting smaller grandchildren who do not feel uncomfortable with the camera and myself being so close.
I never realized until recently that being in such proximity, even to a loved one, made me uncomfortable too.
I also just realized that instead of shopping for a camera I need to consider the price of lenses from a given manufacturer first.
I knew that lenses could get pricey, to say the least, but I see that some budget lenses from some makers are still beyond what I consider an acceptable range.
As an example, I found a used X-T30 that I was willing to consider but could not find an affordable lens for it.
My tastes are simple and my main focus is image quality, not glitz and bells and whistles that I do not have the experience to use.
A Nikon d3400-d5600 in the right range for the model would be fine if I could find an acceptable one and will continue looking.
But I am hoping that someone here will be able to guide me in the right direction.
I have also found a d600 & d610 but am terrified of the possibility of the dreaded oil marks and dust on the images.
I have no experience with Canon but would like to hear if the image quality is on par with Nikon.
My price range is a little flexible but I will not go beyond $800.
I have seen some incredible member images and I consider these an art form, but I do not need that quality; just good clear images that will seldom exceed 8x10.
Any help will be appreciated.
Is there a section of this forum for members selling cameras?
Thanks, Ken

jlocke Loc: Austin, TX

Check out the members buy/sell group... https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/s-6-1.html

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Yes, there is a section on the site for selling cameras, you can subscribe so it appears in your UHH feed by clicking the 'All Sections' link at the bottom of the page. Then, subscribe to "Members Buy/Sell/Trade -- Classifieds".

Your budget puts in you in the used market, where you should budget for both the camera and lens. A cropped sensor body like the D3xxx and D5xxx series coupled with a lens like the Nikon 18-140 VR should fit your needs for do-all photography, including with the family. Any camera with a 24MP sensor will be modern enough and ready for your needs for years into the future.

A source like KEH.com for items rated EX or EX+ will arrive seeming almost like new except there's no box and for used cameras, you'll have to go to ebay to find a new camera strap as these cloth-like items are never resold with used cameras.

Mac Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.

Used lenses from a reputable seller are a good way to save money. I have bought used lenses from KEH.com and the B&H used department and was very pleased.

47greyfox Loc: on the edge of the Colorado front range

Another good source for used equipment is MPB.com. Do have a camera brick and mortar close by to try different combinations? They often have used stuff, as well. Before buying, try Lensrentals and rent a candidate body/lens combination, who incidentally sell used as well.

Hartwell Loc: South Jersey...formerly all over

Thank you all.
Greyfox...I found a D5600 with a 154 shutter count in excellent condition for $539 at MPB.com.
Will decide before the day is over.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

You asked, "Is there a section of this forum for members selling cameras?"

Yes there is.

SuperflyTNT Loc: Manassas VA

If you like your Lumix have you looked at some of their other models. A bridge camera like the FZ1000 or even the FZ300 might be perfect for your needs.

wireloose

Some suggestions. A 50mm f1.8 lens is generally the best value you can find and ideal if you are doing group shots. The 85mm is generally considered a portrait lens, lots available used. If indoors an external flash, and in or out you can buy a reflector for a few dollars from Amazon. My daughter uses a battery grip for her Canon 7D which makes it look like a pro camera (ie big) to customers.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

Canon products Are as good as any and better than most especially the lenses.
That is why they sell more than any other system and have done so for years due to quality and word of mouth by knowledgeable people.
Here is a camera to get you into the system and budget.
Remember ALL your lenses are fully compatible with no loss of features on EF and R camera mounts, Unique to Canon.
https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/products/details/cameras/eos-dslr-and-mirrorless-cameras/dslr/eos-77d
And for smaller and lighter than most Mirrorless, Still capable and NO lens compatibility issues this is less and still gets you into the system.
https://www.usa.canon.com/internet/portal/us/home/products/details/cameras/eos-dslr-and-mirrorless-cameras/dslr/eos-rebel-sl3-ef-s-18-55mm-is-stm-lens-kit

The Nikon D3XXX and D5XXX are very good but lens compatibility is a big issue and be careful in buying lenses for these cameras.

RKL349 Loc: Connecticut

MPB is an excellent company to do business with, either selling to or buying from. I highly recommend them. Great service and fast turn around. Most of their equipment comes with a six month warranty.

Hartwell Loc: South Jersey...formerly all over

Go Airborne! My favorite cousin was 101 and did 3 tours in Nam.
He finally made the ultimate sacrifice.

As to your post reply, thank you for the input about Canon.
I am familiar with the statistics and quality of Canon.
I would not hesitate to go that route if it were not for past memories of a past life dealing with an ex-wife.
At my age, I should not allow triggered memories to affect my present life but that is one of the human frailties that is difficult to overcome.
I acknowledge Canon's superiority in certain areas, including customer service, but I am not yet ready to pull that trigger.
I did do some serious research on the 77D and was very impressed with it in that price range.
I have recommended Canon to my second son who is in the market but I suspect he wants a full-frame camera.

Dave H2

A fellow has a FZ1000 for sale within the last couple of days here on UHH for $375. Looked like a good deal

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

Choose as you are comfortable with.
Most all makers make great lenses including Pentax, Fuji, Olympus etc. Find the body that feels good, has a menu system that is very easy to navigate and has what you feel is important then go for it and do not second guess.
I am guessing your response is to me.
Use "Quote Reply" so we can be sure whom you are responding to.
CURAHEE.

Hartwell Loc: South Jersey...formerly all over

My response was to Architect1776.
I am still learning to navigate this site.
Things are not so simple any longer at my age but I still plod on.