Sunday, August 4, 2013

What type of Camera should I get for nighttime photography?

dslr camera with twin lens kit on Features of SONY NEX-F3 Twin Kits 18-55mm + 55-210mm Lens DSLR Camera ...
dslr camera with twin lens kit image



WolvesNdaw


I'm very new to photography, but need a high-quality camera to document some historical sites and places. I'll likely be visiting a lot of places for nighttime photography. I'm very new to the field of photography and have no idea where to begin camera wise. I'd like not to spend too much if possible (< $400). Thanks!


Answer
The problem with nighttime photography is that you can't get high quality without a tripod or possibly a high-end dSLR (eg a Nikon D700, D3s). An appropriate dSLR is out of the question but even a decent tripod chews up a quarter of your budget. That doesn't leave much for a camera.

Option 1 - film:
$235 Mamiya C220 medium format camera: http://www.keh.com/camera/Mamiya-Twin-Lens-Reflex-Camera-Outfits/1/sku-MT019990520150?r=FE
$105 Gossen Luna light meter (good in low light): http://www.keh.com/camera/Light-Meters-Light-and-Exposure-Meters/1/sku-GM7099902273905?r=FE
$89 Bogen 3021 tripod + head: http://www.keh.com/camera/Tripods-Complete-Tripods/1/sku-TR419991172950?r=FE
$50 for film + generic cable release + batteries for the light meter.
$479 Total. And some practice to use the light meter.

Option 2 - digital:
$205 Canon Rebel XT dSLR: http://www.keh.com/camera/Canon-Digital-Camera-Bodies/1/sku-DC029991014550?r=FE
$84 50mm f/1.8: http://www.keh.com/camera/Canon-EOS-Fixed-Focal-Length-Lenses/1/sku-CE06009033699N?r=FE
$89 tripod as above.
$40 memory card + electronic remote shutter release.
$418 Total. And a whole lot of post processing to stitch images together (free software).

You could cut costs with a 35mm film camera if you don't require large prints, but even then I can't put together a kit with a quality wide angle lens for under $400. Not by any brand.

For more options, either lower your quality standard or increase your budget.

Beginner photographer trying to convince parents for a affordable DSLR camera?




Timothy K


I'm looking for a camera that can take really clear, great pictures without the big cost of many DSLR's. I'm only 16 and just recently fell in love with the magnificent world of photography. What camera do you think would suit a beginner with not such a high price? I was thinking on the lines of Nikon d40. How good of a camera is that? Anyone want to recommend a really affordable camera that takes amazing pictures?
thanks
Price range: $300-$550



Answer
Hi Well I just did lots of research for our first dslr so im happy to share my thoughts. We chose an Olympus E520 for the following reasons:

With the twin lens kit its amazing value for the money.
It has good build quality.
It has image Stabilization built into the body which keeps the lens costs down. Whereas Nikon have IS built into the lenses (more expensive).

I figure the single most important factor when learning is to take lots of photos. That means having a camera on you most of the time. The olympus is just about the smallest and lightest DSLR on the market.

It also has anti dust features, and "depth of field preview" which i think you will find the D40 doesnt.

Having said all that...the D40 would be an awesome camera...and definitely don't need more than 10 megapixels.

I prefer the Nikon build quality to Canon at the entry level.

The pentax K200d also seems like a very good entry level camera. Its just a bit heavy for my liking.

They will all allow you you to take amazing pictures...its 90% photographer and 10% camera.

good luck!




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