Need a new camera

GMaquarium · Jan 17, 2009

I am on the market for a new camera. My Nikon 5400 is just not doing it for me.

I know this question has been asked before but I can't seem to find the threads about it. What is a good new camera today. I need something that is semi professional SLR camera. Something that would be good to use right out of the box with a nice focus lens. I would like to keep my budget upto 500 bucks. WHat do you guys use? what cameras do you like and why.

Thanks

Poseidon · Jan 17, 2009

You won't get a "semi-professional" SLR for anywhere near $500 with a lens, unless you look in the used section.

I would look at the 40D, the 50D, and then the Rebel Xsi and XS camera's. The XXD series is considered "prosumer" where as the rebel series are considered "consumer".

You may look for a 20D, you could get one of those with a kit lens for the $500 range you are looking to spend. It is an older camera, but will blow the doors off the 5400 you have now.

AquaWorldPSC · Jan 17, 2009

Go with the 50D I have one and it's great I just gotta get the 100mm Macro for it. It's well worth the money.

Nate82 · Jan 17, 2009

you can get a d40 with lens for 449 and i bought my d60 for 549 with a lens circuitcity bestbuy and rowe photo and video all have them for that price g

returnofsid · Jan 17, 2009

You can get a Rebel Xti with decent lens for well under $500.00. If you want to stick with Nikon, look into a D40 or D70. Both Canon and Nikon offer decent "pro consumer" cameras with these options. Some wouldn't consider them "semi-pro," however, some pros use them as back ups.

If you wanted to move up into the next bracket, I'd consider the Canon 40D. That's next on my wish list, after the 100mm Macro.

If you go with Canon, pay the money to get a 100mm Macro or Sigma 150mm Macro. I'm sure Nikon also offers comparable lenses. I think Sigma makes the 150 for Nikon as well.

Another option is to watch the photography forums for great deals on used cameras. I like these two in particular.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/
http://www.fredmiranda.com/