Camera Choices ...

[stubbyd]

It's been a long time since I last posted here and since I had a "proper" camera as I like to call them with my last being an ultra cheap Pentax SLR.

Anyway, old point and shoot finally died on me and I've been given permission to upgrade to a prosumer (or thereabouts) DSLR.

I can't say why but I prefer Canon but am happy to be persuaded elsewhere if folks feel that is the better approach for the cash and my requirements.

I'm looking at the EOS 60D or 600D with a lens - I'm fairly settled on going with the D60 as best bang for buck (this will likley be the last camera body purchase for a loooong time) but don't know what general purpose lens to go with it.

Not bothered about macro photography at this stage - more people and landscape shots along with some portrait stuff and maybe a need for wider angle shots. Though this last is but a 'fancy' in my head at this stage.

So my questions are ....

- D60 or D600 and why?
- Or should I consider a Nikon (say the D3100 or D5100) or Olympus or ...?
- Based on answer to above, what lens given my above criteria? Is a "kit lens" ok for now or would I be better to shell out some extra moolah and get ... what?

Anything else I should consider?

Many thanks for all and any advice and should it help then the top line price I don't want to exceed is £900 though could poibly do so for the right combo.

[OsmosisStudios]

Canon 60D and Nikon D7000
Canon 600D and Nikon D5100.

Very similar, though the latter two are going to be more comparable. Either way, you get the same image quality within the brand (60D and 600D / D7000 and D5100). The thing really boils down to feature set and what you feel you need. The 60D and D7000 offer rougher-and-tougher bodies (made of partly metal), faster AF, faster continuous shooting, in-camera master pop-up flash to control external flash guns and, on the Nikon said, compatibility with older AF and AF-D screwdrive autofocus systems.

If youre going to compare the 600D/D5100, go to the store and try them out: the big differences between the two are NOT specs or image quality but the feel and organization of the menu. On the 60D/D7000 side, though, there may be one thing or another pulling you in one direction, though again the major differences are in the ergonomics and controls.

In any case, look into the system as a whole, not just the camera. The body is just the launch point: the lenses, flashes, accessories, etc are what really make a system that great. Your intended use may determine what's best for you, so if you can provide that we can better help.

From what I see here, however, you'd be well suited with either the 600D or D5100, but you're also the prime target for the mirrorless/Interchangeable large-sensor cameras. These use dSLR sensors and processing (so you get the same or similar image quality) but use a smaller compact body and compact-like control schemes. If you're just looking for better images with ease of use and small size, these are likely your best bet. The m4/3 (Panasonic/Olympus) have the greatest lens selection and may be your best bet, though the Sony and Samsung offerings are also very good: better image quality but fewer lenses to choose from.

[stubbyd]

Thanks for the detailed reply.

I do intend to go to Jessops or similar and get some hands on time with various models. But forewarned is forearmed (or some such).

Intended usage is for myself to improve from my old SLR days and play around and experiment but mostly day to day stuff will be as previously stated - groups, landscapes, portraits, etc and if I go with the canon then videoing will vey definitely a part of the intended use.

I plan to play with the settings but my wife will want point and shoot from it. The other systems you mention don't sound at all what I'm looking for.

[OsmosisStudios]

In the case the smaller cameras would likely be better choices (600D/D5100).

[veritasimagery]

Originally Posted by OsmosisStudios

In the case the smaller cameras would likely be better choices (600D/D5100).

Of the two, the 600D/T3i gives you the ability to have the pop-up flash control off camera flashes.

[inkista]

The 600D will also leave you with more cash to blow on lenses. The 60D is a hardier, larger camera, but is geared more for fast-action photography, and pretty much has the same sensor/processor as the 600D.