Which camera to buy? Need opinions

November 26th, 2010
Hi everyone :))

I'd really like some feedback about which camera might be a better buy out of the Nikon D3000 or Canon EOS 1000D.....or possibly Canon EOS 500D.

Please don't just tell me its my decision etc etc, I realise that, I'm actually after some experienced users of hopefully both these types of cameras to tell me the stuff the specs don't say ... which one does what and which one doesn't etc etc.

My last slr was a Canon EOS 5, not digital, so its been a while as that got stolen around 8 yrs ago :'(( and I've only used point and shoot for digital photography. So yes I'm a fan of Canon EOS having owned 2 slr's previously, but could be swayed towards Nikon if I get the right info etc.

All 3 of the cameras above have a twin lense kit, with the Nikon D3000 being similar price to the Canon 1000D .... and I could stretch my funds to the Canon 500D which also has a twin lense kit, but can't go as far as the Nikon D3100 with twin lense kit (so don't tell me to get that one haha).

Okies, thanks for any help ppl :)))
November 26th, 2010
Do you have any lenses that will fit the Canon? I am not a pro and do not own a DSLR but from what I understand the money is in the lens.
November 26th, 2010
@cirasj yep, all the cameras i've mentioned come with twin lenses, up to approx 250-300 :)
November 26th, 2010
go to www.dpreview.com to read a detailed review of each of your cameras. click on reviews at the top of the page and it will give you a list of all the cameras they have reviewed.
November 26th, 2010
I don't know about those models, but I did recently have a positive experience purchasing my camera from CityWide (in Hong Kong) - saved boatloads in comparison to buying here in Brisbane.
November 26th, 2010
I'm going to commit Nikon blasphemy as a Nikonian, but... the Nikon D3000 is known as one of their worse DSLRs ever. Not sure why, as I don't really pay attention to the bottom consumer bodies, but everything I have read said it's bad. *shrug*

I'm not sure what your budget is, but have you considered looking into used? You could get a nice body, and even a few lenses for a good deal. Digital bodies tend to drop in price fast, but are still very nice even if they're a few years old, so buying used sometimes is worth it to get a body that's a bit higher up than what you can afford to buy new.
November 26th, 2010
If you go Canon, I'd advise skipping the 1000D. I can't give any specific reason, just that it's too fisher price, and you'd probably be better served by going for a proper dSLR.
November 26th, 2010
I agree with Steve; skip the 1000D. However I'd say a "proper" SLR begins at the 60D on ;) (and I have a 450D, which is like a toy - too plasticky and too small but might be okay for small girlie hands!) But seriously, the 500D would be a good beginner's choice.
November 27th, 2010
@hopeless @pizzaboy @hmgphotos @eyebrows @vikdaddy thanks all for your help :)) i went with canon, and got a 450D instead of either the 1000 or 500 lol. got a good deal, it was reduced, and then a little bit more, and both lenses have image stabilisation which the 1000 didn't. however ... after unpacking everything, and reading bla bla bla, i went to install the EOS Digital Solutions disk and it was missing, just some useless instructional cdrom, ggrrrrrrr. so freekin annoyed. the bag with the books/cds etc was sealed too, neveer opened, so someone in the factory was hittin the snooze button that day :((

now trying to get a download of it, if i can't, canon will be hearing from me haha.
November 27th, 2010
How much was it, if you don't mind me asking?
November 27th, 2010
@eyebrows just on 1k :)) they'd actually reduced it more than the one without the image stabiliser haha....but its 2nd lense went to 300, but i'm happy enough with 250 :)

its a good start anyway, maybe in a year or so i can upgrade .... wow i now realise how spoilt i was when i owned the EOS-5 eons ago :-/ and with all the bells and whistles too lol...bummer
November 27th, 2010
Just download the software from their website.
December 3rd, 2010
I would only ever go Canon (but that's just me) The 450D is a good choice. I started with a 400D before moving on to a 50D. The cameras today are so competitive and very similar in features but I think Canon have such a great range of lenses and accessories available. They are generally very good with problem solving too. Have so much fun with this new camera. Can't wait to see your new photos!!!
December 9th, 2010
@taidster my first digital SLR was a Canon 300D in 2007 for $A500 with extra's - it was second hand from an older fellow in a camera club so I know the gear was looked after. When that was loant to girl child for uni I upgraded to a Canon 5D with extra beautiful marco Sigma 150mm for $1200 - again 2nd hand from a fellow in a camera club who upgraded. My advice is to head to the camera clubs for deals ..... I know you bought already but pass it forward especially if you are looking for new lenses to add to your collection.
December 9th, 2010
@misschuff cool thanks carlita :)) i will keep that in mind for a macro for sure :) and i'm sure i'll be wanting to upgrade, i used to have a 5 once upon a time, wouldn't mind getting back to that quality in a digital :D
December 10th, 2010
I have the T2i (550D) and I absolutely love it. It's got the same sensor as the 7D and same HD video capabilities, only difference is a few bells and whistles and the construction material. The only other cameras I am familiar with are the 7D and 5D mark II. Good luck on your hunt!
December 10th, 2010
Didnt see that you bought the 450D haha I hear its a good choice ( :
Write a Reply
Sign up for a free account or Sign in to post a comment.