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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: EvanM on May 20, 2015, 08:23:35 AM

Title: Digital SLR advice
Post by: EvanM on May 20, 2015, 08:23:35 AM
I'm looking at replacing my 9 year old Canon 8MP point and shoot with something that can take a bit better of a picture. I've decided on going the SLR route instead of another p&s camera. A local store is having a sale on the Canon line of SLR's and I was looking for some advice.

The first bundle I was looking at was the Canon T5i with the 18-135mm lens and the accessory kit with spare battery for $899 cad, and the other is the same body and kit, but with an 18-55mm lens and a 55-250mm lens for $949 cad. What I'm hoping to find out is if the T5i is a decent camera, and what type of lens would be good. What is the difference in zoom, etc between the 18-55 a 15-135, and a 55-230 lens?

Thanks for the advice,
Evan
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: swalker on May 20, 2015, 08:39:06 AM
Hi Evan,

   I use a Canon T3i. I am no professional for sure, but love taking pictures...(Besides it helps me remember things now) lol. I have a 17-85mm lens that I use for an all around lens. I also use a 50mm lens for portraits, etc. I also use a 70-300mm lens I like. I guess it really depends on what you want to do with the camera. I have picked up some great lenses off eBay from camera stores too.

Good luck...
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: GuzziKevin on May 20, 2015, 08:39:48 AM
I have a Canon T3i and have been very happy with it. The T5i is the newer version although I don't know what has been changed. Mine came with the 18-55mm lens. The 18-55mm should be good for things like landscapes to portraits. The 55-230 lens will allow you to zoom in on far away objects. I ended up getting the 55-230, too, and while it was cool to be able to zoom in on far away objects I tended to get the most use out of the 18-55mm. The focus was a little slower on the 55-230 lens but it was still quite usable, just maybe not as good for action shots. I just didn't need that much reach.

It just depends on what you'll be taking pictures of the most. If you're taking pictures of dangerous wild animals then definitely get the 55-230mm. Otherwise, my opinion would be to go for the 18-55mm. There are other great camera out there but I've never regretted getting the T3i.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 08:50:37 AM
What is the difference in zoom, etc between the 18-55 a 15-135, and a 55-230 lens?

Evan

What do you mean?  Those numbers are focal length in millimeters.  Multiply x 1.5 for 35mm equivalent.

If you're just wondering what the zoom factor is, then divide.  Those would be 3X, 9X, and 4.2X, but the 55-230 is the longest lens and will provide to most telephoto.

For full coverage from wide to telephoto, you'd need both the 18-55 and the 55-230.

Don't cheap out on lenses.  Personally, skip the kit.  Buy the body of your choice and pony up for a quality (expensive) lens.  A good all-arounder in the 18-200 range, if you don't want to continually switch lenses.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: fotoguzzi on May 20, 2015, 08:55:59 AM
the glass in those kit lenses is on  the cheap side.. If your going to enlarge (11x14 or bigger) skip the kit lens and buy the very more expensive lens of your choice.
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y7/fotoguzzi/grand%20marias/IMG_0893_zpstlz8kkja.jpg)
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Yukonica on May 20, 2015, 09:02:53 AM
Silly first question: how much do you want to end up spending to get a better image? The camera body/sensor is far less important than the glass and the glass can get very, very expensive. The T5i is a decent little camera. If you are just looking for travel photos, family stuff and pictures of your bike... this camera will work fine.
All three lenses mentioned are basically kit lenses; produced with broader tolerances at less expense. Were these my only choices I'd pick the 15-135 as being most versatile.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: EvanM on May 20, 2015, 09:08:26 AM
Thanks for the advice. The kit I am listing is basically spare battery,  case,  strap,  etc. The lenses are all canon efs lenses,  and from what I've read,  not too low end.

May end up picking it up today
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 09:29:36 AM
  The lenses are all canon efs lenses,  and from what I've read,  not too low end.
 

Compared to what?  You'll be able to capture decent images with the lenses you've listed, but they're definitely entry-level.

Money is a good indicator.  If the zoom lens is $199, $249, or $299 list price, it's an entry-level lens, and for a few hundred dollars more, you can really improve image quality.

Good luck with your purchase.  Sounds like you made the decision before you posted the question, so not sure what you were looking for in this thread.  At least two of the respondents in this thread have professional photography experience and would not steer you wrong.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: AJ Huff on May 20, 2015, 10:21:42 AM
I have an 8 year old Rebel XTi. Great camera, I never plan on getting rid of it. But now it lives mostly in a drawer. Last year I bought a Canon 5D Mark I and a Canon 50D Mark I off ebay for $500 for both. Huge upgrade in my game without spending a lot of money. Both do everything I need and more.

Figure out what you really need. I didn't need video. I didn't need an LCD view screen. I would take a strong look at the mirrorless cameras. They are about 95% the quality of DSLR in a more compact size. Sadly that means not Canon. If you rule that out, I'd look at an older used DSLR that meets your needs. I bought two bodies and two EF mount lenses for what you are looking at spending.

 Good luck!

-AJ
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Gliderjohn on May 20, 2015, 11:00:39 AM
Concerning zoom, this shot was taken with an entry level Sony DSLR and 300mm lens form about 25 yards.

(http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww107/jpeters16/DSC00136.jpg) (http://s710.photobucket.com/user/jpeters16/media/DSC00136.jpg.html)

GliderJohn
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: NCAmother on May 20, 2015, 11:10:44 AM
Just be aware, the camera is an APS sensor which is smaller than the 7D.  The kit lenses I believe are proprietary only to APS canon cameras.  I like the 7D, mainly because the viewfinder is normal sized unlike the rebels.
Pro-sumer cameras like the 5D, 6D, and 7D have a sensor similar in size to 35mm negative.  Larger sensor cameras tend to have more tonal range and less noise, which might not matter if you just want a hobby camera.
Nate
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rocker59 on May 20, 2015, 11:34:38 AM
DX and FX digital camera formats.  All of the entry and mid-level digital cameras will be DX format.  FX is the 35mm equivalent and is usually seen on bodies starting around $1500 and up.  There are also DX and FX lenses to match.

A few months ago, I bought a Nikon D7100 body new for $999.  Then, I picked up a 17-55 f2.8 pro lens used for $749 (for about half of new).  D7100 was the top of the line Nikon DX format DSLR at the time.  Just after I bought it, they introduced the D7200.

I wanted to go FX format, but didn't want to pony up for a D610 or D750.  Just too much more money for the little advantage I'd gain, since I don't shoot for money anymore.

I also use a couple of high-end Nikon point & shoot cameras that work really well for most snapshot photography.

Anyway, if you're wanting quality images, spending money on the glass is the best place to start.

It's amazing what can be done with these things.  The latest DSLRs have fantastic high ISO / low-light abilities, which is always a big help for me.  And, the newest lenses have vibration reduction and coatings on the elements that really help with image quality.



Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rodekyll on May 20, 2015, 11:53:05 AM
To summarize --

Canon is a good brand.

Bodies are available in DX and FX frame sizes -- FX is closer to the old 35mm format.

As rules of thumb -- lenses that come bundled with a new camera are crap -- fake glass and high f-stops.  Lenses with more than 3x zoom are crap.  Zoom lenses are lesser quality than fixed-length.

Lenses come in DX and FX sizes as well.  DX lenses are generally lesser quality than FX lenses.  FX lenses cover a DX sensor but DX lenses don't cover FX sensors -- too small.  So if you can imagine yourself in a FX-frame body someday, put your $$$$ in good, full-frame glass.

Dx, since it is smaller, uses less of the 'circle' thrown by a given focal length lens.  So at say-- 50mm, you get less in the picture with DX (crop effect) than you would with FX.

I agree with the folks saying to skip the bundle and buy a bare body/cap/charger/battery.  At least get the specs on the lenses and check ebay for the going price of the glass.  I think that will tell you how much you're really paying for the camera.  The lenses offered in bundles are embarrassing.  Don't believe the 'savings' or 'value' claims of the bundles.  The savings is not there.

Don't be afraid to look at Tameron, Sigma and Tokina lenses.  They are a fair tradeoff of price and quality.  Don't be afraid to invest in really good FX glass even if you must buy a DX body at first.  Camera bodies come and go.  Glass is forever.  I shoot my modern digital through lenses over 100 years old.  It doesn't work the other way 'round.

$0.02
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Carlo DeSantis on May 20, 2015, 11:59:57 AM
Were I you, I'd opt for the camera and the 18-55 zoom and see how that works for you.

I'll bet that you will be astounded by the quality you get and find that 95% of your lens needs are covered by that zoom.  Remember you can always zoom with your feet (getting in closer or out farther away).  IF you have a special need for a longer zoom, then opt for it later on.

As for lens quality, there's no doubt that the pro-level lenses are better -- BUT will they make a difference in YOUR photography?  Usually the kit lenses will fail mechanically before they give you optical problems.

As for me, I have been shooting Nikon FF for years and mostly use prime (non-zoom) lenses.  I have a clutch of them, and they are pro quality.  However, when I just want to do some walking-around shooting I really, really like my consumer-grade 24-85 zoom.  The truth of the matter is that if you are hand-holding your camera, operator-induced camera shake will be more of a factor than the quality of the lens in most cases.

Get your feet wet with the camera and shorter zoom; you will be in a better position to answer your own question after a bit of experience.

Best,

Carlo

PS: I don't know the Canon line but honestly it's hard to find a bad camera these days.  The dogs have left the pound for the most part, so to speak.  Lately I've been shooting more and more with the Fuji X line and am gob-smacked at the quality these APS-C sensors are capturing.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: zedXmick on May 20, 2015, 01:28:05 PM
I have an older Canon Rebel XTI  with a pro spec lens. I have been very happy with the Lens. Spend the money and get the upgraded glass.

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41FER7HPR7L.jpg)

Just a couple of shots:

(https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xat1/t31.0-8/11270199_704343323021921_5369200044266986679_o.jpg)

(https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-8/11270068_704343973021856_743929533590872881_o.jpg)

(https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/t31.0-8/11078250_704344093021844_193476819265061425_o.jpg)

(https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/t31.0-8/11084218_704344143021839_889831189842927691_o.jpg)

Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rboe on May 20, 2015, 02:02:45 PM
Chech out the Pentax line. For a reasonable price you get weather sealing, best optical kit lens and shake reduction in the camera, not the lens. Like Nikon, all older Pentax lenses will fit it.

Image quality wise, like it was said earlier, it's the glass and good glass is not cheap.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: steven c on May 20, 2015, 02:52:16 PM
 Be honest with you self before spending big money on hi price len's,what are you doing with your photos mainly the internet? A good PS will do 28x36 prints spend the cash but even cheap len's the's days are very good around F8 F11 F16.
 Ken Rockwell gives a good honest reviews.
http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/00-new-today.htm
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: boatdetective on May 20, 2015, 03:18:29 PM
Some good advice here- I side with Rocker and RK.

First of all- this is a big step: so DON'T RUSH the decision. Do NOT buy today.

Secondly- you need to figure out realistically what you are shooting (don't say a little bit of everything- put a little thought into it.  Lanscape? People/street scenes? Family/kids? Pets? product/work/still life? Macro? They all will require different gear.

Great gear does not make great photographers. You need to think and decide on the best tool.

The advice RE kit lenses is generally correct. the Canon 18-55 is generally a dog. You can do a search on photozone.de or slrgear.com to get an idea of lens quality.

What will you do with the pix? If you are blowing things up and printing art size photos- larger sensor size may be critical (full frame format). Otherwise, DX format cameras still produce stunning images.

Don't fall into the hype that you need ten pounds hanging around your neck to take great pix. Yes- if you want Ansel Adams quality landscapes, long distance Audobon quality bird shots, or sports/ action- then the best of the best is better. However, I switched to micro 4/3 format some years back and my gear is half the weight of a comparable SLR- and my photos are killer.

You can't go wrong with any of the Canon or Nikon DX bodies. They are all excellent. I shoot Olympus m4/3 and it is a fine system. Once again- do a little research and you'll find that competition has left the consumer with some fabulous choices.

Buy the best glass you can. I might recommend buying a factory refurb lens- they literally are as good as new and have a warranty.

The best deals are always the bodies that are just about to be superceded. You will see a huge drop in price.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Xlratr on May 20, 2015, 03:24:17 PM
The argument that kit lenses are usually mediocre is frequently true. But not always! You may want to consider a mirror less interchangeable lens camera like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Olympus-Digital-Compact-M-Zuiko-12-40mm/dp/B00I3D8LEI/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1432152823&sr=8-6&keywords=olympus+om-d+12-40

I should say here that I'm associated with the brand, so you might say I'm biased. But on the other hand, I know what I'm talking about. The quality of this lens is remarkable, with a constant f2.8 aperture at all focal lengths. (12-40 in this format is equivalent to a 24-80mm lens in old film format language, which is a great working range). It's a beautiful but compact package, much less cumbersome than a big "conventional" SLR. Have a look at one!

John



Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rboe on May 20, 2015, 05:12:26 PM
More and more folks are ditching (or cutting their kit to the bare bones) and going to a mirrorless camera system. We want something better than a point and shoot or phone, but don't want to haul around a big heavy DSLR any more.

Choices are more limited in that market, but improving. Something to consider.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 20, 2015, 07:39:45 PM
Thanks guys,I just ordered a Tameron 18-200 (refurbed) $155.00.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rodekyll on May 20, 2015, 07:41:42 PM
They make a few classes of that lens.  I have one for my 'sacrificial shooter'.  What is the f-range?
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: LowRyter on May 20, 2015, 07:44:49 PM
actually, for a Canon the crop factor is 1.6 times the lens focal length, the 1.5 works for Nikon (and Sony and Pentax).

You can do some checking on the net regarding the quality of lenses. 

Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Joliet Jim on May 20, 2015, 07:48:18 PM
Chech out the Pentax line. For a reasonable price you get weather sealing, best optical kit lens and shake reduction in the camera, not the lens. Like Nikon, all older Pentax lenses will fit it.

Image quality wise, like it was said earlier, it's the glass and good glass is not cheap.
:+1
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 20, 2015, 07:48:25 PM
They make a few classes of that lens.  I have one for my 'sacrificial shooter'.  What is the f-range?

3.5 to 6.3 did I do OK?  I'm just upgrading from the one I got with my Cannon, It's a 18-55, I can't hold a candle to some of youz guys :-\  on $$ OR skill/experience but I do have fun!
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: pyoungbl on May 20, 2015, 07:52:27 PM
In the end, the very best camera is the one you actually have in your hands.  On my motorcycle (Guzzi content) trips I found that hauling a DSLR with lenses was just too much of a pain in the ass.  I missed lots of shots that I later regretted.  A camera phone...not enough quality.  Typical point and shoot...handy but just not enough options or quality.  I finally settled on a Fuji X-20.  It's larger than the typical P&S but small enough to actually grab from my tank bag and carry when I get off the bike.  I'm sure there are other, similar, options.  My photo skills won't rival any professionals.  I'm just capturing memories and trying to make them more memorable than a postcard.

Peter Y.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 20, 2015, 07:58:12 PM
In the end, the very best camera is the one you actually have in your hands.  On my motorcycle (Guzzi content) trips I found that hauling a DSLR with lenses was just too much of a pain in the ass.  I missed lots of shots that I later regretted.  A camera phone...not enough quality.  Typical point and shoot...handy but just not enough options or quality.  I finally settled on a Fuji X-20.  It's larger than the typical P&S but small enough to actually grab from my tank bag and carry when I get off the bike.  I'm sure there are other, similar, options.  My photo skills won't rival any professionals.  I'm just capturing memories and trying to make them more memorable than a postcard.

Peter Y.

Same here, I just have a BIG tank bag :D.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rodekyll on May 20, 2015, 08:13:04 PM
Yes, you did good.  It's a handy size for carrying and good enough glass for the focal range.

As you step up in lens quality, the zoom range and low f number go down and the bulk and weight go up.  It takes me 3 'good' zoom lenses to make up that spread.  Lower numbers are 2.8 on all of them, and two of them hold that number throughout the zoom range.  So for $150 you're covering ~$2200 of kit.  When I don't want to carry that much and/or the environment is a risk I use the same lens.

Here's a sample of what it can do at ~120mm, camera set auto and point-focus.  I set it up on a tripod and used a wireless remote to trigger it.

(http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd10/rodekyll1/misc/eagle7-1%2011-dumb_zpsljqznjyh.jpg) (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/rodekyll1/media/misc/eagle7-1%2011-dumb_zpsljqznjyh.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Guzzistajohn on May 20, 2015, 08:23:23 PM
Yes, you did good.  It's a handy size for carrying and good enough glass for the focal range.

As you step up in lens quality, the zoom range and low f number go down and the bulk and weight go up.  It takes me 3 'good' zoom lenses to make up that spread.  Lower numbers are 2.8 on all of them, and two of them hold that number throughout the zoom range.  So for $150 you're covering ~$2200 of kit.  When I don't want to carry that much and/or the environment is a risk I use the same lens.

Here's a sample of what it can do at ~120mm, camera set auto and point-focus.  I set it up on a tripod and used a wireless remote to trigger it.

(http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd10/rodekyll1/misc/eagle7-1%2011-dumb_zpsljqznjyh.jpg) (http://s226.photobucket.com/user/rodekyll1/media/misc/eagle7-1%2011-dumb_zpsljqznjyh.jpg.html)

Thank you for the learning experience RK, I bow to my sensi ;) My goal was to upgrade from my Cannon 18-55 and not have to pack and change to my big 'ol 70-300. (my tank bag ain't that big) Looks like I've done so for under $200.00 It's shipping from Illinois, maybe I can be shootin' by Friday   WOO HOO!!!

I took this shot in Montana last summer, good memories!
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag65/guzzistajohn/montana037_zps1031fae5.jpg) (http://s1299.photobucket.com/user/guzzistajohn/media/montana037_zps1031fae5.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Yukonica on May 20, 2015, 09:54:44 PM
 
In the end, the very best camera is the one you actually have in your hands.  On my motorcycle (Guzzi content) trips I found that hauling a DSLR with lenses was just too much of a pain in the ass.  I missed lots of shots that I later regretted.  A camera phone...not enough quality.  Typical point and shoot...handy but just not enough options or quality.  I finally settled on a Fuji X-20.  It's larger than the typical P&S but small enough to actually grab from my tank bag and carry when I get off the bike.  I'm sure there are other, similar, options.  My photo skills won't rival any professionals.  I'm just capturing memories and trying to make them more memorable than a postcard.

Peter Y.

 ;-T   been trying to work out that one too. My kit is pretty broad, close to $15k, but I still can't pick a short set for touring by bike.
Mirrorless is on the radar.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Zinfan on May 20, 2015, 10:30:09 PM
http://www.dpreview.com/articles/0450645720/consumer-dslr-camera-roundup-2014

A comparison review of several cameras including the T5i.  This site has tons of camera reviews and info if you want to look it up.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canon-eos-700d-rebel-t5i

A stand alone review of the T5i
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: EvanM on May 21, 2015, 12:35:53 AM
Thanks for all the replies.
I'm going to hold off for a bit, and look up some reviews. I like the look of the Pentax K-50, especially with it being "weather proof". If I were to forgo the kits, and just grab a body, would a Sigma lens be a good way to go?
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Xlratr on May 21, 2015, 01:41:31 AM
Thanks for all the replies.
I'm going to hold off for a bit, and look up some reviews. I like the look of the Pentax K-50, especially with it being "weather proof". If I were to forgo the kits, and just grab a body, would a Sigma lens be a good way to go?
The Olympus is weatherproof too! And the lens! Just sayin'! 😉



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: boatdetective on May 21, 2015, 07:55:47 AM
The Pentax line is good- but because you will not find the same market penetration, the lens selection will be somewhat limited from third party vendors.  Just sayin'.  Rather than compete head to head with the big boys, Pentax has positioned themselves as more of a niche brand. Their lens line has concentrated on prime lenses (not a bad thing- but if you want many zooms- it's not the brand to choose).

I hate to harp on this- but tell us precisely what you want to shoot. It does make a huge difference.

One other thing to keep in mind- don't get hung up on geting one lens to "do it all". Wide zoom range lenses generally are a compromise optically. If you are travelling and cannot carry the weight, well that makes sense. Otherwise, you are best advised to find the lens that will work best for what you want to do. I know it sounds backwards- but many pros will tell you to choose the LENS FIRST- then find a body that will fit your shooting style.   
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rocker59 on May 21, 2015, 08:30:08 AM
Thanks for all the replies.
I'm going to hold off for a bit, and look up some reviews. 

 ;-T
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: Yukonica on May 21, 2015, 09:03:36 AM
EvanM, While you are doing your homework check out B&H Photography; based in New York they ship into Canada Hassle free (I've bought several lenses from them) They also have a really good used department that is less risky than Ebay. ~ You can't tell if a lens has been dropped simple from a picture.
Second resource to check out is Photoprice.ca. A buying tool I use before every purchase.

My most versatile lens? 70-200. Available in F4 or 2.8 with stabilization on either (My kit is Canon). I shoot mainly outdoors.
The F4 IS is a really nice lens you can pick-up used because most advancing photographers end up upgrading to the f2.8. (check B&H)

Sigma et al are like the big guys: parts of their lens line is awesome... other parts are make to be flogged. Read... a lot. I have a Sigma and a seaming in the drawer. Both good pieces of glass.

Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rboe on May 21, 2015, 10:57:25 AM
The Pentax kit lens is worth it, not sure about a Sigma, Tokina or Tamron. So far, my experience has been Pentax glass being superior to third party glass (assuming one is buying the DA* level stuff. Pentax also makes some price point lenses. That said, the Sigma F2.8 70-200, especially if stopped down a bit, is pretty good. Not quite as good as my F4 50-260 pentax zoom. I have kept the Sigma because sometimes F2.8, for softening the background, is the way to go.

Pentax does not have the market penetration in the lens department like Canon and Nikon, but it has the basics covered just fine; I have yet to find a prime or zoom range they don't cover well. There is a new 150-400mm zoom coming out this year for the really long distance (the only area they really lack in) but its $2500. Expensive but in line if not cheaper than Canon and Nikon offerings. Sigma has their Bigma zoom - but I've never used it. Unless you like to collect glass, this is really not a big issue at all. But it does get annoying when Sigma or Tokina come out with a what appears to be a killer lens and Pentax is listed as "later".

dpreview.com is a great place for reviews. dxmark does sensor reviews - you'll see that Pentax, using Sony sensors, hangs with the best.

I tend to do dog agility shows, close ups of bugs and flowers so I need a good fast auto focus (Nikon, last time I really looked, had the best there) so semi-macro lenses and long zooms are my go-to lenses. I have a 12-24 wide angle (with very little barrel or pin cushion, really good for motorcycle shots) for landscape work, a fish eye zoom for dock diving dogs (fish eye zooms are like pickled herring, good in small doses, a very specialized lens), the 60-250mm getting the most use and a 300mm prime that is an absolute killer lens. Just a bit long for some work, and too short for a lot of wildlife work (Pentax has a new 1.4 teleconverter I'm dying to get). I have a bunch more, but those are the ones that get worked. I have this really nice 50-135mm pentax zoom that optically is very very nice, but the larger zoom seems to get picked (and if it was a fixed 250mm I could make do - many times I ditch it and just use the 300).

You will read that the 70-200 is very versatile but I find the 70mm is too much when I need to open up the field of view and the 200 is too short when I need to reach out. The Pentax 60-250 is better, 40-350 would be even better. :D I did keep the 70-200 at work for portrait work. Seemed to excel at that.

As you can see, what you shoot will dictate what lens you put on the camera or pack in your tank bag. Once you get a better camera you may find yourself doing some shooting that you held off on until better equipment came along, but try to get a focal range for what you like to shoot now.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: EvanM on May 21, 2015, 12:03:43 PM
The Pentax line is good- but because you will not find the same market penetration, the lens selection will be somewhat limited from third party vendors.  Just sayin'.  Rather than compete head to head with the big boys, Pentax has positioned themselves as more of a niche brand. Their lens line has concentrated on prime lenses (not a bad thing- but if you want many zooms- it's not the brand to choose).

I hate to harp on this- but tell us precisely what you want to shoot. It does make a huge difference.

One other thing to keep in mind- don't get hung up on geting one lens to "do it all". Wide zoom range lenses generally are a compromise optically. If you are travelling and cannot carry the weight, well that makes sense. Otherwise, you are best advised to find the lens that will work best for what you want to do. I know it sounds backwards- but many pros will tell you to choose the LENS FIRST- then find a body that will fit your shooting style.   

As to what I'm planning on shooting, I'm going to guess 90% of it being scenic shots, the 10% being people, animals, interesting things that catch my eye. Im mostly planning on taking it on trips, but I am not too concerned about size, as my point and shoot is too big to pack in any jacket pocket right now anyways, so I always budget the room to take it along. I have no intention to photograph professionally or anything like that, just want to have good quality pictures that I can print out if I ever decide to get a printer.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: rboe on May 21, 2015, 04:48:14 PM
Stick with the kit lens then. It's a very good all around piece. As you use the camera other focal lengths will suggest themselves as you "specialize" in some areas.

At this point we're strongly at risk of over thinking things. Between Pentax, Samsung, Sony, Fuji, Nikon, Canon, Sigma and who I missed it's tough to buy a POS. Although I think going to a brick and mortar store to handle them and see how they fit and how the user interface works for you is very important. If you "get" the camera and how it works you'll take better pictures than with a technically superior camera that you just don't get. And some fit your hand better than others.

You have choices out there, go grab some and see how they feel. If you're going to spend that much money on a camera I'd like to think that you should enjoy using it.
Title: Re: Digital SLR advice
Post by: boatdetective on May 21, 2015, 06:34:35 PM
If you really are travelling- do not discount weight. Prosumer grade DSLRs are waaay bigger than your P&S. There's a reason why you see former DSLR people (like me) moving down to mirrorless.

If you like doing scenics, then wide angle is an absolute must. I would say that 24mm (equivalent) is a necessity if you want an angle of view to give you sufficient drama. 35mm is great for street scenes. Portraiture requires something past "normal"= both for working distance as well as to help compress depth of field. The zoom range of 24-100 or so would cover all of that. Once again- a great piece of glass can cover that range and get the shot. XXX frames per second and some other whizzbang features in a body will not.   

If you are pretty sure you are goign to become a "system guy" who buys lenses, flashes, etc- then great. However, if you are pretty sure you're goign to stick with one piece of kit- then you really should consider some of the top end all in ones- the current olympus stylus comes to mind. Read the reviews- it's quite something for one package.

Focus speed, low light,  and dynamic range are still best handled by a DSLR- though the gap is being closed. If you'd like to shoot without a flash (or only use the flash for fill) in low light, then consider one of the DSLRs. Don't forget the mid grade cameras (I'm thinking of something like the 5000 series Nikons- they do a good job.