Hi, all;
Am new to posting on this forum but have been lurking and reading trying to absorb from the wealth of experience. Used to have a 35mm back in the film days. Took a lot of photos strictly as an amateur and enjoyed using the different lenses, for different types of shots in all kinds of situations. The camera went the way of all things mechanical and we got rid of the whole kit. With the advent of digital I can see that the technical end of this has changed dramatically. I would like to get back into the amateur end of photography and must make a decision on what to buy, where to buy it and what is the final price. We are approaching retirement have grandchildren of all ages and interests and live near the water. The opportunity and desire for wildlife shots as well as shots of grandchildren from infants to high school athletes are available. The budget is set at $1,000 max. If I can get an occasional shot that can be blown up and printed, we would be thrilled. I’ve looked at a few cameras and a friend has a Canon Rebel T3 and takes nice shots at the zoo. Some of the cameras I’ve been considering are the Canon T3i, the Nikon 3200 & 5200. Whereas we have no remaining 35mm equipment we are also considering one of the kit packages. Pricing some of these out at the local big box stores eats up $1,000 pretty fast with none of the extras like a variety of lenses, bags, tripod, additional battery, charger, filters, lens hoods, etc., etc. I see there are several suppliers who sell packages online that look pretty economical. A few of the features that I like on some of the cameras are the articulated viewing screen, the higher mps on some, the auto focus feature and at my age the image stabilization. I will go again to one of the stores and try to hold a camera and work the menu. With the camera wired to the display counter it is a little difficult to get a true feel for it.
1. Has anyone had experience buying one of the all inclusive kits from an online seller? Were you satisfied? Can they be dealt with in terms of returns, or an item that is not as advertised?
2. Is there a best way of locating refurbished equipment as some of the forum members recommend it; I don’t see many ads for these items.
3. Is there any item or dealer we should avoid?
4. Finally, any suggestions/opinions as to which camera and set of lenses. The reviews from this forum appear to be more genuine, authentic and based on experience.

Thanks in advance,

Efrank460
I just ordered a Canoon 60D body only from Canon refurbished department of their Retail online store. I am waiting for delivery but found heir prices very good. They have a loyalty program which gives you 20% off the refurbished price and I turned in an old, point and shoot film camera to qualify for the loyalty program and saved $100.00. This is my first refurbished purchase, Others in my camera club have gone this route and been very pleased. I told them what model I was looking for and it was not in when I called last week but they told me that they do get them in and would let me know when one arrives. It was 3 days later when they called back to tell me the model was available. If I don't like the camera I have until January 15th to return it. This info may be helpful to you.
Anne

I also do calenders for Christmas, I giving them to friends and use them as gifts when going to parties etc during the holidays. One year we did a calender shots of our town where we live. Not many family members come to visit due to age, health etc. so this gives them an idea of our surroundings. It was fun acting as a tourist in our own backyard.
A

I have a shoulder strap made by Boss, got it about a year ago and I love it. It attaches to the camera on the side where the neck strap is attaches to the side of the camera which leaves the bottom free for your tripod. Price was in the $40.00 range. I use a Canon T1i with a Tamron lens attached. My friend who bought one uses a Nikon D70 camera I think with her strap and a Tamron lens.

I have a shoulder strap made by Boss, got it about a year ago and I love it. It attaches to the camera on the side where the neck strap is attaches to the side of the camera which leaves the bottom free for your tripod. Price was in the $40.00 range. I use a Canon T1i with a Tamron lens attached. My friend who bought one uses a Nikon D70 camera I think with her strap and a Tamron lens.

Jeanne, This forum always has such wise and sage advice. I have learned a lot, coming here as you an amatuer. My suggestion is that in addition to going to a camera shop see if you can find a camera club or photography club in your area. I live in a rural NC area and we are devoid of Camera shops, only big boxes with lots of stuff in a mock camera department, We also did not have a camera club and with 6 friends we started one. Our membership is near 100 and it is a valuable resource. Good luck in finding what is just right for you.
A

I live in NC and have taught children from the age of 9 and up to use a point and shoot camera and basics of photography, ie composition, lighting and basic editing. I was a volunteer of the 4H organization. You might try some of the children's groups, 4H, girl scouts, youth groups at churches and also check if you have a camera club in your area. Many members of my camera club volunteer to help with groups.
Anne

Anne,
I have taken courses through a program called EDtogo. It is a nationwide program affiliated with community and 4 year colleges. They offer curses on PSE, different versions and other photoraphy related subjects. They are 6 week programs, 2 lessons a week and very helpful.
You might want to check out what is available in your area.

Great scenes, love it when spring blooms
Anne

I was in SD 2 years ago and am going back in late May or mid June. One of my favorite places was Bear Country. I have some awesome pix of bears, fox, elk, racoons and other wild life. It's a great place to visit. People stay in the car and animals have run of the area. However there is an area for safe walking to view animals in protected areas.
Anne

Love the flowers. Looks like you have a great aim. Hit the target right on.
anne

Welcome to the forum and what a great idea for a friend. Before you run to the bokstore to buy a book or Magazine try your local library. Our library keeps 2 subscriptions for photographers to enjoy, Outdoor Photography and Shutterbug. Additionally check to see if you have a local camera club, the members can be a great source of info.
Anne

I have used Vista print for 4 years to print calendars. I use their premium paper and have been very pleased. They do have bulk prices, I usually get 20 - 25 to use as gifts at Christmas for friends and family and as hostess gifts. This past year they had a special on Black Friday, 1/2 price and no shipping. this may be of help to you. Anne

Thanks to all who sent me great ides. I am printing out the info, sitting down with a map and beginning the plan. I like small towns also and off the beaten track kind of places. My companions are like me, just want to roam and not interested in a marathon freeway trip. We all lived in the northeast before retiring in NC so we have visited north of the Mason-Dixon line frequently and lived there. The dream trip sounds great. We have alreaady decided that if we run out of time we will reschedule what we missed for another trip. Being retired means very few committments to hinder our plans. Our only scheduling restriction is weather. None of us enjoy the winter season anymore.
Again thanks to everyone for all their input. I will keep in touch as the plans matarilize and hopefully will get some great shots as I travel.
Anne

I am planning a trip across the country, from North Carolina to California and would like suggestions for great places to stop for photography. Four of us are traveling together, taking 6 weeks, leaving in early May via a northern route to begin with and returning via a southerly route. Any ideas. We are very interested in National Parks, historic areas and great landscape, any help would be appreciated. We are just going to raom, no set itenary.
Anne

I have used Kirkland's glossy photo paper in both my canon printer and my epson printer and with great results. I was also told that the paper was made by Ilford paper which is a fine quality paper. I am not sure if they only use that manufacturer or if they change with a new contract to the most competitiely priced company. I have used it for over two and a half years. My photography is mostly for local sale and competition. I have had both sales and won ribbons for my images printed on this paper so I feel satisfied about using it. My only wish is that they would have larger then 8.5 x 11 and more variety in finishes.
Anne