So I've been shooting with my Sony Cyber-Shot DSC‑HX300 for about a year and a half. It's not a DSLR camera, but it does have manual controls that I've been using. But I'm finding that it does have real limitation especially when shooting wildlife, which is my real interest. It doesn't have lens to reach longer distances and I find myself frustrated that I miss great shots because of the limitations. SO...I'm looking at upgrading to a DSLR with a telephoto lens. Budget is still a HUGE factor. I don't feel the need for multiple lenses yet (but if I can find it within my budget- even better). I can use my current camera for close range shots, and the new camera w/telephoto lens for further one. But I don't want to just rush out and buy something then regret it. So I wanted to get some feed back here. This is what I was considering. http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-D3300-18-55mm-55-200mm-Accessory/dp/B00YDQ9EG8/ref=sr_1_1?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1463883347&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=Nikon+D3300&psc=1
I like this not only because it comes with the lenses and body, but it also has the other accessories I would want/need. I have also been wanting to get a tripod, filters, and remote trigger. But I don't know about the quality of any of it. Thoughts?
Teresa, I have been using a Nikon d5100 for around 4 years now, the first 2 years I just used the kit lenses. As I live in South Africa, I am able to visit many game reserves. Two years ago I got a Tamron 16-300mm lens which I have been very happy with. I have recently returned from spending just a week in Kgalagadi National Park and I am currently posting the wildlife pictures that I took there using only the Tamron lens. One of the things I really like about this lens is that I can do wide angles and close ups with having to change lenses. On some occasions I do think it might be nice to have more than 300mm. My husband has a Canon PowerShot SX60 HS which has a longer zoom and he's very happy with it. I'm sure others on the site can give you much more technical answers and information. Good luck in finding a new camera.
A first DSLR recommendation? If you are buying new, the Nikon D3300, or the D5300 for quite a few extra features than the 3300, but basically the same sensor and image quality. Realize I have shot Nikon cameras for a long time and might be considered unduly prejudiced, but truly I would start with them if you have no investment in any brand, they are excellent even at the entry level models...
Yes, the one you cite is the D3300, (Nikon). The lens is "adequate" but not as good as the Sigma I mention below. This kit does have the benefit of price of course, but as you said you'll be changing camera/lens if you want to shoot wide.
But I would look to start with a used Nikon D5100 for a lot less than the MSRP for the other two. It is an excellent camera, still, and you can find a "body only" on eBay or similar for under $300.
For a "general purpose" zoom lens, I would look for the Sigma 18-250 lens with the Nikon F mount. Of the "super zooms" that are available, it remains one of the best values, and I personally think its image quality compares most favorably with the newer Sigma (the 18-300) and Tamrons (18-270 and the heavier and quite expensive 16-300 Sally mentions), and certainly the 18-300 (heavy and expensive) Nikon. This will let you shoot wide and long (out to 250mm) without changing cameras/lenses. The lens is not "professional" quality, none of these "super zooms" are, but still more than adequate for an enthusiast. You should also be able to find good copies used on eBay. Here's one from a reputable dealer, new even, for less than $300. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sigma-18-250mm-F3-5-6-3-DC-Macro-OS-HSM-for-Nikon-F-w-Cleaning-Kit-/201310490731?hash=item2edf0a506b:g:YBoAAOSwpDdVCKAN
But as Sally @salza did mention above, there are compact fixed lens cameras that have a long zoom if you care to look. Here's one I would recommend. I've tried it for a day. Small and compact too, the DSLR options are significantly more bulky. http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/power-zoom-panasonic-lumix-dmc-zs100-tz100-review
Less expensive compacts (with smaller sensors) I would stay away from, even though they might have longer zooms. I think you might be disappointed in image quality. The DSLR choices though will give you significantly better image quality than any compact.
I agree with frank, find a used Nikon on eBay. I just helped my daughter buy a used d40 from eBay....it was $200 and came with a kit lens! What a great way to enter the dslr market! And it had a low shutter count. Can't beat the price!
Think Frank has it pretty much covered! :) My only note would be that I noticed the second kit lens is a 55-200mm, whereas I know the Canons at least used to come with a 55-250mm. Perhaps some of the Nikons do too? Or perhaps it's different retailers that offer either a 55-200 or a 55-250? Or just a Canon/Nikon thing. (I'm a Canon user but have absolutely no bias against Nikon!) I'm not sure but it may be something you want to look out for. Only relevant because it's the reach of the longer lens that you are after, and that extra 50mm is reasonably significant.
I would also recommend going into a shop and holding different cameras to see what "feels" right for you. Most brands are great cameras. I personally started off with a low grade Canon because I liked how it felt .
@chapjohn@quietpurplehaze For sure, a really nice camera still, video is significantly better than a DSLR, and the 6300 has come out for $1,000 just for body. The 6000 is still about $1,000 for a reasonably complete kit though. You could check used on eBay for less...
I did have promotional material sent to me via email to induce me to 'upgrade' to the a6300 but I could only see that the improvements were minuscule over the a6000 which is now available here with kit lens in the UK for around £500.
@quietpurplehaze Under the covers the 6300 has a lot of excellent stuff that smooths out some of the rough spots of the 6000. It has 4k video nicely implemented. But not enough for you to consider it I would say. The lenses are (still) the issue I feel, there are not enough high quality "cropped APS" ones. Yet. If I were buying the camera, or the 6300, I am afraid I would settle for the full frame 24-240 general purpose lens. Trust you are still having a ball with the 6000.
Frank, please can you explain: "Yet. If I were buying the camera, or the 6300, I am afraid I would settle for the full frame 24-240 lens." Yes, I love the a6000. I have never been interested in a DSLR because of the weight. I'm currently looking to buy the Sony RX100, Mark iii or Mark iv to take on hols. But I noted in one review that Sony have brought out a newer version each year in June so I am hanging about for the beginning of June to see if there is Mark v.
@quietpurplehaze I don't like the a6000 kit lenses very much, the 16-50 is OK especially as it collapses. And there aren't many APS-C ones anyway. There is only one other reasonably priced E mount zoom and that is the full frame 24-240 Sony.
I have the RX100IV and it is a great camera, SUPERB VIDEO including super slomo at 700 fps and 4k with all the trimmings. It's why I bought the camera basically. But I think you would find it limiting on holidays at only 24-70 "full frame equivalent." Actually that limited zoom range is what makes the lens superb for the compact camera. It does not have PDAF, only contrast detection, but it seems to work well and fast with the 1 inch sensor. Nice and bright at f/1.8-2.8 and very sharp. You'll be right at home with the typical complex Sony menu system.. :)
If budget is a limitation, I also recommend looking into second hand. I'm currently in the process of selling my old 500d canon and let me tell you there are some bargains to be had! On the page that I am using to sell (gumtree.com.au), I have seen quite a few DSLR kits for around the $200 or $300 mark.
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Yes, the one you cite is the D3300, (Nikon). The lens is "adequate" but not as good as the Sigma I mention below. This kit does have the benefit of price of course, but as you said you'll be changing camera/lens if you want to shoot wide.
But I would look to start with a used Nikon D5100 for a lot less than the MSRP for the other two. It is an excellent camera, still, and you can find a "body only" on eBay or similar for under $300.
For a "general purpose" zoom lens, I would look for the Sigma 18-250 lens with the Nikon F mount. Of the "super zooms" that are available, it remains one of the best values, and I personally think its image quality compares most favorably with the newer Sigma (the 18-300) and Tamrons (18-270 and the heavier and quite expensive 16-300 Sally mentions), and certainly the 18-300 (heavy and expensive) Nikon. This will let you shoot wide and long (out to 250mm) without changing cameras/lenses. The lens is not "professional" quality, none of these "super zooms" are, but still more than adequate for an enthusiast. You should also be able to find good copies used on eBay. Here's one from a reputable dealer, new even, for less than $300.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sigma-18-250mm-F3-5-6-3-DC-Macro-OS-HSM-for-Nikon-F-w-Cleaning-Kit-/201310490731?hash=item2edf0a506b:g:YBoAAOSwpDdVCKAN
But as Sally @salza did mention above, there are compact fixed lens cameras that have a long zoom if you care to look. Here's one I would recommend. I've tried it for a day. Small and compact too, the DSLR options are significantly more bulky.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/power-zoom-panasonic-lumix-dmc-zs100-tz100-review
Less expensive compacts (with smaller sensors) I would stay away from, even though they might have longer zooms. I think you might be disappointed in image quality. The DSLR choices though will give you significantly better image quality than any compact.
Good luck!
I love mine!
That's a really good point. I got rid of a Panasonic bridge camera because the mode of operation between using the EVF and screen drove me mad.
I did have promotional material sent to me via email to induce me to 'upgrade' to the a6300 but I could only see that the improvements were minuscule over the a6000 which is now available here with kit lens in the UK for around £500.
Frank, please can you explain: "Yet. If I were buying the camera, or the 6300, I am afraid I would settle for the full frame 24-240 lens." Yes, I love the a6000. I have never been interested in a DSLR because of the weight. I'm currently looking to buy the Sony RX100, Mark iii or Mark iv to take on hols. But I noted in one review that Sony have brought out a newer version each year in June so I am hanging about for the beginning of June to see if there is Mark v.
I have the RX100IV and it is a great camera, SUPERB VIDEO including super slomo at 700 fps and 4k with all the trimmings. It's why I bought the camera basically. But I think you would find it limiting on holidays at only 24-70 "full frame equivalent." Actually that limited zoom range is what makes the lens superb for the compact camera. It does not have PDAF, only contrast detection, but it seems to work well and fast with the 1 inch sensor. Nice and bright at f/1.8-2.8 and very sharp. You'll be right at home with the typical complex Sony menu system.. :)