Alphabravo2020

I didn't have anything deprecatory to say. I brag on the D7100/D7200 as often as I can. My thoughts were in response to someone bringing up a full frame option. Also, that for landscape, there would be no reason to spring for the D500 over the D7XXX if you were determined to use a crop sensor for landscape.

no12mo

On the single card option of the D7500 - I wondered when someone would bring up that feature (less) option.

I have my original D7000 and two D500s. I also don't stick strictly to the Nikon lens only. There are lots of non-Nikon lens (particularly Tamron) that I like and use

Al

stanikon Loc: Deep in the Heart of Texas

Keep in mind that everyone has their own preference when it comes to lenses. That's why I did not mention the lenses I use. People tend to recommend the lenses they use the most and with which they are most familiar. That may or may not be the right lens for you. My suggestion is to rent different lenses. Mess around with each of them, get familiar with the characteristics of each, then make your decision based on that.

Spirit Vision Photography Loc: Behind a Camera.

I’m finding the D780 to be superb. Two card slots and it is a combination of DSLR and mirrorless technology. When you employ the rear screen to shoot from, it’s a mirrorless camera. It’s great.

ELNikkor

Good to start with the D500 and your trusty 18-135 for now then. Take your time to figure out the specific needs for your telephoto choice. I always lean toward Nikon lenses for Nikon cameras, and a lot of nature photographers, (like Mark Smith) use Nikon's 200-500 lens on his D500 for his Birds-in-Flight (BIF) photos.

rjriggins11 Loc: Colorado Springs, CO

Go with the D500. I'm a camera repair technician and rarely see these in for repair. The local police department has a fleet of them and other than sensor cleanings, not one of them has needed repair since they were new and they've been used a lot.

neillaubenthal

A D500 is very nice…but if you’re serious about it then I would think a long time before upgrading to another DSLR vice a mirrorless model. That’s nothing against DSLRs…but they are at the end of their technology cycle and we are u likely to see any new ones or F mount lenses. Price wise…it’s probably cheaper…I haven’t really looked…to go with a DSLR…but that’s a lot like buying a non propelled lawnmower today. You can still make excellent images with one, but you won’t be getting many or perhaps any upgrades and you’re in a dead end cul de sac. Nothing wrong with that…but know you’re going there and why. Mirrorless has a lot of advantages…so do DSLRs but on balance today the pros and cons…outside of price…lean pretty significantly to the mirrorless.

As a lot of folks have said…the D500 is a great rig…and I got a lot of excellent images from my D7500 and Nikor 18-200 and 50pPF with it…but unless price is a big consideration or you’re willing to upgrade again in a year or 18 months…investing in a dead end while not a dumb idea depending on needs, wants, budget and a lot of other stuff…might not be the best idea. A Z50 is a pretty decent body as well…and cheaper than the D500 would be…and a used Z6 or Z7 with the latest firmware which brings it to basically Z6II/Z7II performance in a body that’s the same size and weight as either of the DX models, is full frame, and has all the advantages that come long with mirrorless might not be out of budget.

OTOH…the D500 is a very nice body…but one has to at least think about the dead end of DSLR development.

Just my $0.02.

Brenda_md Loc: Jefferson, MD

All good advice here, especially about renting a lens first. I know the mirrorless cameras are becoming popular with DSLRs on the decline, but having had the DSLR, guess it is just the "age" thing and what I have been use to using.

dwonnell Loc: 70124

Brenda_md

Your post indicates that you have done your research, as well as taken the initiative to begin educating yourself through DPS online classes.

If YOU decide to pursue the D500, you will not be disappointed with that platform.

With that 18-135mm lens, on your new D500, get out to practice, practice, practice.

Develop your skills with this setup by learning how to manipulate the D500’s capabilities with the lens you already have.

Practice until you develop a second sense of confidence in managing the camera controls and settings that you instinctively will use to capture the images that interest YOU.

Get out and shoot everything that interests YOU with this combo. Experiment with the settings, enjoy the sense of accomplishment capturing the keepers, and learn from the rejects for the next session.

Research and pursue basic lighting and composition techniques classes to fine tune your skills and image captures.

Then when it all feels natural, and budget allows, experiment with glass to compliment your new D500 platform.

Get out and shoot, shoot, shoot.

Keep safe and stay well.

—-x—-
Doug

Brenda_md Loc: Jefferson, MD

All good advice, thanks!

WillieWisconsin

Brenda, I know the two crop sensor Nikon’s are what you’re asking evaluations on, but I think the skills you possess as a photographer and your interests, would be better served by going full frame. A poster earlier did mention the D780, but only I suppose if you have the lenses to go with it, and if its within your budget. Just a thought.

Brenda_md Loc: Jefferson, MD

Thanks, will check it out.

TonyBrown

If you could stretch to a D850 that would be my recommendation. I shoot mainly wildlife and always used my D500 until I bought the D850. Initially I bought for landscape photography, but I now use it for everything. It’s my go to camera. The D500 is a great camera, but the D850 is on another level. With the march to mirrorless cameras there are some good deals around. Just a thought, but if you do end up getting a D500 you won’t regret it.

topcat Loc: Alameda, CA

I think that you should consider moving to mirrorless. I don't think that Nikon will make many, new DSLR's, it looks like everything is going to be mirrorless. It looks to be better than the DSLR's, certainly for edge-to-edge focus, among other things. There is a reason that mirrorless is taking over the camera market.
You should even consider moving to Sony before you get too many accessories for your Nikon. I believe that it is a better system.

If I didn't have so much Nikon stuff, I would change. But I am stuck until I what to sell everything.

Brenda_md Loc: Jefferson, MD

Much appreciate the responses. There is a very active camera club in my area that I plan to join and then see first hand cameras and discuss also.