Looking To Upgrade

[lmpphoto]

So I am thinking of changing cameras, I have been using an olympus E-520 with the kit lenses. Being that this is a four thirds format there isn't a lot of options for lenses out there, hence the reason for changing. I was looking a going with either the Canon 50D (body only) or the Nikon D90 (body only) and then picking my lenses. I would need a good portrait lens and a good zoom lens both being fast lenses.

I am looking for suggestions on lenses for both the Nikon and Canon. Also not sure if it would be better for the time being to go with a bit less of camera such as the Nikon D5000 or the EOS Rebel T2i and put a little more money into the lenses.

Thanks in advance for your help!

[candleman]

on the Nikon side, dont go any lower then the D80/D90.

the reason being the others below this level have a much more "menu based" system, and i find it slow.

plus, anythig lower than that wont have a built in focus motor, so any lens that is not 'AF-S" will not autofocus. AF-S lenses are a good deal more expensive and it then limits you in what you can buy.
AF-S means the lens has a built in focus motor.
So, that means you cant make use of the excellent older glass Nikon has made.
so spending a bit more now, will save you alot in the price of lenses later.

also, the lower level bodies wont have the built in ability to control flashes off camera, and if you are planning to do portraits.. this is a very useful tool.

If you go Nikon, IMHO the D90 is the best value for money right now,

which brand should you go for?
the biggest decider wil be how they feel in your hand.
i found canon quite uncomfortable and awkward to reach the dial above the shutter release and hurt my finger (thanks to my RSI )

every hand is different.. so give them a tryout and see how they feel

[Dr Nick Riviera]

Here in Germany the price for the EOS 50D is almost the same as for the new T2i - so i would suggest the 50D - if you don't need video.
What lenses you will buy depends on your budget - if you can afford it:

Canon 50 mm f/1.4 USM + Canon 85 mm f/1.8 USM for Portrait
Canon 70-200 f/4.0 IS USM as Telezoom

Cheers
Dr. Nick

[TFord.LTTP]

Agree with the no lower then the D90 for the simple fact of what lens will auto focus on it. Depends on what you're doing beyond portrait work though. The D90's a bit better at higher iso for noise but the 50D has the better body, faster shooting rate, higher MP if you need it. The 50D uses CF as well which I see as a positive since even if you don't have them, though I believe that's what you're currently using, will provide the better performing option that will accommodate any future upgrade path as well.

Ultimately depends on which is most comfortable to you and if you need a specific feature.