Thanks for all the input. I'm really considering a factory refurb of the 5200 and some lenses other than the standard 18-55mm. If the used and reconditioned market is as good as reported, I should do well for what I will need. I'm not shooting 7 days a week but more on the event based or occasional basis. Thanks again for all the input.
Efrank4160
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. Ive looked at a few cameras and a friend has a Canon Rebel T3 and takes nice shots at the zoo. Some of the cameras Ive 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 dont 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