Which camera? D7000 or 50D or ??? ($1000-$1300 range)

[CharlieJ]

I'm trying to decide which camera to get. Before anyone starts groaning, please hear me out.

I don't care which brand. I've used all the major brands and realize all have their advantages and disadvantages. However, before I start investing in lenses, I need to decide which way I'm going.

My personal preferences have been narrowed down to Canon or Nikon. Currently, I have a Canon 350D (8MP), the kits lens and a 75-300mm f/4~5.6. No big loss if I change to Nikon (or any other brand), since I have very little invested in lenses OR other equipment that is brand specific. I just finished perusing the Snapsort.com comparison for the Canon 50D (which several folks here suggested for my desired use) and the Nikon D7000. In that comparison, the Nikon is favored.

I'd like to have real world opinions, though. I am NOT asking for BRAND opinions, but CAMERA opinions. Both Nikon and Canon functions make since to me, so that's not an issue. I'm asking more about the features, availability of good portrait, zoom and prime lenses, flash compatibility/function and overall toughness of the camera itself.

I have looked at the D300S, the D5000 (love the articulating LCD) and the 60D (cool factor is high on this one)... but I am less concerned with cool or the LCD than with developing an entire setup for shooting portraits (outdoor, more than studio), events and lifestyle photos.

Also, in the same $1000-$1300 range (for body only; pre-owned is fine), is there another option YOU would recommend?

THANK YOU in advance for your reply.

[inkista]

Yeah. A used 5D (Mark I). They're going in the $1000 range right now. Full frame might serve you better for portrait and indoors shooting, given the shallower DoF, and the ability to use longer lenses with a wider field of view. While the current crop bodies probably have a similar high ISO performance and higher resolution, the full frame advantage is still there.

[lil red bird]

Why not instead ask what is the better overall system nikon or canon? As a nikon shooter i am biased. I prefer to look at it this way the new bodies are the film of old.

[RichardTaylor]

Providing they both feel good in your hands, and look good though the viewfinder, I would get the Nikon mainly because of Nikon's Creative Lighting System.

[CharlieJ]

Originally Posted by lil red bird

Why not instead ask what is the better overall system nikon or canon? As a nikon shooter i am biased. I prefer to look at it this way the new bodies are the film of old.

Actually, I chose not to ask the question that way on purpose, primarily because I know that can lead to brand loyalty wars, etc. Neither overall system is better to all people and in an objective light. Therefore, all answers to that question would be subjective. I'm interested in the best camera functionally, etc - not the brand.

I've shot with both Nikon & Canon (and Pentax, Olympus... even a Kodak P&S) over the years. My current primary camera is a Canon. My former was a Nikon. My P&S shoots are both Canon. One I like... one I could drop & break... and couldn't care less. So, brand is not important.

[frydham]

I own a 40D and it's great. I assume the 50D would be similar. Anyway, I would go with the D7000, mainly for the video and better autofocus, but like Inkista said, if your mainly going to be doing portraits a used 5D would be a great choice.

[ravncat]

They're both capable cameras -

I think you should make the decision based on the system, and the ergonomics.

Which camera's ergonomics do you like better?

Which system offers the tools you need, and think you will need in the future?

Take a look at the prices and selection of the lenses as they are now, if that matters, for future purchases, and what is available. For instance, the mpe-65 macro that canon has, is one of a kind, and amazing.

Look at the flash options, and accessories.

That's how I'd make the choice. If you can't get a great image with a modern camera, i doubt too much it's the camera. It's really just what features do you need on the camera - and what is available for the system, and how it feels in your hand and operates. I don't think you make a mistake going with either canon or nikon.

[CharlieJ]

The more I have read and re-read the replies... and looked at cameras... and thought about the things I like to shoot (excluding my business plans for senior portraits), the more I really want the fully articulating LCD. My old Nikon E5700 had it and I miss it on all three of the current cameras I use. So, I went looking for cameras similar to the D7000 and 50D - but with articulating LCDs. The Nikon D5000 and Canon 60D both fit the bill.

I had been pretty much set on purchasing either the Canon 50D or Nikon D7000 up to now. But now, I'm leaning towards the D5000 and 60D because they offer the "flip out" LCD. So, any other thoughts on these models? Has anyone here owned a 50D (or D7000) and then moved to a 60D?

Again, I don't care which brand. I like both. I have used both. Features and ergonomics are fine on both. So... your help in deciding which of the four would still be appreciated. THANKS!

[OsmosisStudios]

Originally Posted by CharlieJ

Actually, I chose not to ask the question that way on purpose, primarily because I know that can lead to brand loyalty wars, etc. Neither overall system is better to all people and in an objective light. Therefore, all answers to that question would be subjective. I'm interested in the best camera functionally, etc - not the brand.

Irrelevant: lil red bird made an excellent point and you're ignoring a HUGE deciding factor. We don't know what you'll be using this equipment for, so it's hard to judge whether one body would be better over another. THe use also means we can give an informed argument as to which SYSTEM would be best. Shooting sports with long telephotos? Canon would likely fit the bill better as their telephoto lenses are legendary. Shooting landscapes and need super-awesome wide angles? Then Nikon's got Canon beat there

SLR cameras have less to do with a particular body and more to do with the other parts of the system. Yes, brand comes into this, but only because one brand has one functionality that another might not (like RichardTaylor mentioned, CLS).

Right now it just sounds like you're being pig-headed and stubborn and just want to spend money for the sake of spending money. Tell us what you need the gear for, what other gear you currently have (lighting, tripods, etc) and then we can help you. PICK A BODY is going to do more harm than good.

[CharlieJ]

OsmosisStudios, I think you missed my point. I am not being pigheaded... just didn't wanna get into the Canon is better than Nikon (and vice versa) conversation. I also understand where you're coming from... so, to answer your questions:

"We don't know what you'll be using this equipment for, so it's hard to judge whether one body would be better over another. THe use also means we can give an informed argument as to which SYSTEM would be best."

My primary business intention is to shoot lifestyle photos of families outside & indoors (but not in a studio, for the most part). Secondary to that would be shooting senior portraits (again, mostly outdoors) and event photography (school sports such as basketball, baseball, soccer & volleyball). My hobbyist intentions can be fulfilled by the body & lenses I have now, so that is not a factor in "upgrading".

"Right now it just sounds like you're being pig-headed and stubborn and just want to spend money for the sake of spending money. Tell us what you need the gear for, what other gear you currently have (lighting, tripods, etc) and then we can help you."

I wish I was in a financial position to spend money for the sake of spending money -- especially on photography equipment. I assure you that I am not -- and that is the reason I am asking for advice. At least for the next 2-3 years, the next camera I purchase will be my camera to use, period. There won't be any do-overs or just go get another one kinda mentality. I'm sorry if my post came across otherwise.

As for other gear, most of that was in the OP. I have since added an M42 135mm f/2.8 and an M42 50mm f/1.8. To switch from Canon to Nikon (should that be the best choice) would mean purchasing two new adapters ($40 total). The flash I use now is a Vivitar 2500 that can be used with either system (albeit on manual). I hope to be able to purchase Alien Bees or some other lighting system fairly quickly. In the meantime, I have limited access to a studio that includes lighting (centered on Alien Bees and Pocket Wizards).

I also have a Sony tripod with a standard head (non-replaceable), some off-brand tripod (a gift) and a 8' tall mic stand (for reflectors/umbrellas) that will accept any head system (via adapter).

Does that help you, help me? If not, what else do I need to include? THANKS again for your help!