Amateur Photographer In Need of Help

[Dinky]

Hello,

I know this question has been posted a few times but I am wanting to get a DSLR. But which one, as I am just starting out I need it in simple terms and try not to blind me with numbers as this wont help haha.

I am drawn to Nikons....

[ALwin]

If you are looking into Nikon, there is the D3100 and D5100 which sits at the beginner level amongst Nikon's range of DSLRs. Also if you want to save some money, see if a nice second-hand body like the D90, which is very popular amongst beginners and semi-pros, would be available at a trusted local photography store along with some very good used lenses.

Also, I would recommend you look into getting some photography books, such as the books written by Michael Freeman or Bryan Peterson to start you off.

[Troy]

Hi Dinky and welcome to the forum.

For starters, Nikon - excellent choice!

For beginners DSLRs, as ALwin said you are limited to the D3100 and the D5100. Both, in my opinion, leaders in their price range.

However, don't rule out second hand cameras, as there are some bargains to be had. A list of older, but still extremely capable beginner Nikons include: D40, D40x, D60, D3000, D5000, D90 among others. All of these im sure would be more than enough camera for a couple of years, if not longer.

Lenses are something to consider too, but try not to get yourself too bogged down on all the different types just yet as it is a mine field out there. If you buy new the camera will invariably come with the kit lens, 18-55mm. This is a good all purpose lense, and is suited to wide angle shots and some general shots. These lenses are pretty good quality, and will be ideal for the majority of your shooting needs when starting out. However, lens choice really does depend what type of photos you want to be taking.

A good idea would be to get yourself down to your local Jessops and ask to play with some cameras. They won't pressure you in to buying if you dont want to, and the people that work there are usually very knowledgeable. They will also let you try a selection of lenses on a camera so you can see what you like.

Giving you all this information is all well and good, but ultimately with a hobby like this it all comes down to your budget, because photography is not cheap!

[Dinky]

I have come to realise it will be somewhat expensive for me. I feel for a while photography will only be part time, while I work another job to build up cash. I would ONE DAY like to work in a studio but thats a long way away yet, good job am only 19! My goal is to do portrait photography (all age ranges included).

So far I have an old camera of my Dad's that am using which is a very out of date fujifilm but is good enough for now!

I have put some photography on your site Digital Photography...if you want to look my name on there is Rebecca Bamforth or you might also find me searching Dinky. I would love some critic.

I am also when I have a job subscribing to the magazines, especially the new one Photography for beginners!

I have ordered some books too...really trying to get stuck in!

Any more advise is more then welcome

thank you xx

[ALwin]

Photography can be an expensive hobby if your aim is to focus on the gear, however it can also be a fun hobby if your focus is on exploring your artistic side through a lens.

Maybe you can start out by checking the second-hand market as we mentioned, there are a lot of good cameras that are selling for low prices. But of course if you feel that the camera you have now is enough for the moment that's fine too.