camera buying advice?

[schoelzel312]

I am trying to get into outdoor portrait photography. I am going to buy a camera soon. It will be my first DSLR. Does anyone have any advice on what kind of camera and lenses will be good? Thanks!

[Samanax]

What's your budget?

Do you have a preference on the brand?

How to Choose a DSLR Camera

Digital Photography Tips For Beginners

[schoelzel312]

I am looking at a nikon brand camera. I dont really know what I will spend yet. I just want an idea of what the best camera would be for me. Thanks

[PowerPix]

Originally Posted by schoelzel312

I am looking at a nikon brand camera. I dont really know what I will spend yet. I just want an idea of what the best camera would be for me. Thanks

Well, you kind of have to explain that to US!!! What kind of features do you need? What type of shooting do you mostly do? Do you need high shutter speed? Low light capabilities? That sort of thing...

[Seltzer]

Honestly, whatever camera that has menu system that you like and fits in your hands should do just fine for portraiture. If you are getting into other things where you need lighting setups and such you want to get out of the "beginner" cameras and into the ones with some way to use a remote for lighting, but this is not required. I have been fine with my "entry level" DSLR cams for a variety of uses. The real trick is to find a brand you like, get a camera that fits your basic options and price range, and spend your money on lenses.
There will often be people saying this brand is better than that one but really, get what works for YOU. It's a bonus if you have friends that shoot one brand or another if they are nice enough to let you borrow their lenses as that increases your options without costing you extra right off.
The best way to test cameras is to get out to a store and actually get them in your hands, take a few pictures, and overall just get a feel for your options before digging further for reviews and such.

[schoelzel312]

Thank you! I will try that. Looking at all the different types, brands, and lenses is a little overwhelming.

[LoveDSLR]

Nikon:
Start from the D90. Go up (D300s, D700, D3, D3x) for better models and go down (D5000, D3000) for more affordable bodies.

Portraits:
You should think about which portrait lenses (now or in the future) you would like to have. For example, Nikon doesn't have Canon's 50 f/1.2 and 85 f/1.2.

Lenses (f/1.2 - f/2.8):
Cropped or DX: 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, 105mm, 135mm, 200mm
Full frame: 50mm, 85mm, 105mm, 135mm, 200mm, 300mm