What is the best type of professional camera for a beginner?

Question

I photograph bands; usually in dark smokey bars,clubs, etc. what is the best model of camera i should buy. I was thinking a Nikon but I want to hear other's opinions.

Answer 1

I just bought a starter camera (I'm mildly OBSSESSED with photography). Mine was a Rebel XT (XTI?) with a Tamron lens. I ordered it out of the Popular Photography and Imaging magazine when there were having a special. I love that camera!!

Answer 2

I would recommend a used Nikon D50 digital SLR, fantastic camera with good low light performance. Compatible with the Nikon AF lens lineup, unlike the newer D40x which requires lenses with a built-in lens motor.

So, you can pair up a used Nikon D50 with a good low light lens like the 50mm f/1.8 (at $125 new, a fantastic bargain and one of Nikon's sharpest/best performing) or a 35mm f/2.0 and get great available light shots.

If you have to get a brand-new camera, then I would recommend the D80 over the less expensive D40x or D40. That's because of the lens compatibility issue--the D40x/D40 won't autofocus with some of Nikon's best lenses (including the aforementioned 50mm f/1.8, but also other lenses like the 85mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.8, 50mm f/1.4, etc.) because they don't have built-in motors.

For Canon, you can try the Canon Digital Rebel EOS XTi. Forget the kit lens (18-55mm) though, it's crap. Nikon's version is better, but it's in the Nikon F-mount which would require some adapters to work in Canon (which are available, but not worth the trouble in this case). If you go for the XTi, you'll have to pick a good low light lens.

Get a good monopod along with the low light lens. It'll make your shots sharper.

Good luck finding a D50 for sale though. I think those cameras are golden for a starter camera.

Answer 3

I agree with the above answer. Nikon cameras are a part of a great system and will not disappoint. The D80 is compatible with a huge selection of Nikon mount lenses made since the 1960s and has great abilities in the situations you are describing.
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d80.htm

If you are close enough, just get a 50mm f/1.8 lens, and you'll be amazed what you can do in those dark smokey rooms.

I hope this is helpful for you.

p.s. It's "Nikon" with one "k" just like it's "Canon" with one "n". But, if you've been using one for as many years as I have, you know that. :)

Answer 4

The camera body is the least important part of this equation. Canon and Nikon both offer excellent DSLR's that allow you to use full manual control. Buy a used body from KEH or B&H or Adorama.

For your needs your money should be directed towards glass. Its the lens that will make or break your efforts. Get the fastest lenses offered - the 50mm f1.4 (the 50mm f1.2 if your budget allows) and the 85mm f1.4. Don't worry about autofocus - do it yourself. With a modest ISO of 400 and those two lenses you should get outstanding results.

Answer 5

I would get a camera that you interchange lenses to. I've had a Minolta for 10 years and I use it all of the time. You'll want to use a zoom lens, wide aperture, slow film, and a slow shutter speed. If you can get close to the bands, use a flash. Get a flash that can also point at the ceiling. Check used camera shops for cheap parts. If the lense isn't scratched, why not save money. I'd get a wide angle, zoom, and regular length. Also, grab a Kodak book from the library. Study it, so that you get great shots and don't waste money. Walmart has cheap film developing prices.

Answer 6

The best model would be Nikon D300 and a 58 f1.2 Noct-Nikkor (NOCT means Nocturnal) this lens was design for shooting in dark places, but you are looking at big bucks. D300 around $1,700 & 58 f1.2 NOCT is around $1,000 +.

Here are some photos that were taken with that lens.
58 f1.2 NOCT AI-S lens.
http://www.flickr.com/groups/nikkor/pool/tags/58mmf12noctais/

Answer 7

Nikon D40, D40X, or D80

Answer 8

cannon powershot is he best best best

Answer 9

ill say CANNON