I've been looking to venture into the world of DSLR cameras and have decided to go for it. I'm looking for a good all around camera. One that will do well from family vacations to kid sports to the parks. I found three bundles at one of the big box stores. Currently looking at these three:
1) Canon T5i kit with 18-55/55-200 STM IS Lenses
2) Nikon D3300 kit with 18-55II/55-200 VR Lenses
3) Nikon D5300 kit with 18-55II/55-300 VR Lenses
The 5i and the d3300 are more in line with my budget but I'd say the d5300 would be the end of my budget. Being able to use the touch screen on the T5i to make adjustments is very appealing. Any suggestions from everyone would be appreciated. Also any advantages or disadvantages from buying from local camera store vs big box stores?
Thanks!
As long as the seller is reputable, doesn't matter where you buy from. You do want to buy from an authorized seller, to make sure you get the full warranty. You will often find the best prices online, but still be sure you are buying from an authorized seller.
As to the differences between the cameras, most of the differences are subtle. If you are somewhat a novice, you may never notice most of the differences.
The t5i does have the touch screen which some people like. It also allows for smoother video autofocus with certain lenses.
Both Nikons have better image quality, particularly better low light performance. So if you were using both cameras to their top potential, you may notice that the Nikon is producing images with less noise, more dynamic range, etc. But in the hands of an inexperienced photographer and/or mediocre lenses, you are unlikely to be getting the maximum potential out of the camera, and therefore may never even notice the higher image quality.
Much of it really comes down to the feeling in the hands... You want a camera that is comfortable to hold, and that's subjective.
Comparing the Nikon D3300 to the D5300..... The D5300 adds features like a flip out screen, Wifi, and a more advanced auto focus system, particularly useful if you will be tracking action. (The Canon t5i auto focus system probably lies between the 2 Nikon models). So the question is, how much value do you place on these things. Many new photographers who are used to smart phones, really value wifi. For me, I don't much care about wifi.. but a more advanced auto focus system is important to me . So it's a matter of how much value you assign to those things.
Lenses really need to be considered apart from camera body. Decide what lenses you want/need. If they happen to come together as a good value package, all the better. But in many cases, you are often better off buying them separately, and getting a better lens than might be included in the package.
I haven't shot with any of those lenses, so I can't only speak about my general impressions based on what I've seen and read.
Both the Nikon 55-200 and 55-300 are good overall lenses. They are adequately sharp, especially in the center of the frame. For a beginner, they will likely serve you well. Obviously, the 300 gives you more reach. The 200 gives you enough reach if you are close to the action and just want to get in tight. The 300 is more important if you are shooting sports or wildlife from more of a distance.
Not sure what Canon lens you are referring to -- To my knowledge, they don't make a 55-200 STM IS EFS lens. They do make a 55-250... A pretty new lens, and I've seen good reviews of it.
If you want to shoot in low light without flash, none of these lenses will do though.
Anyway, you really can't go wrong. They are all very fine cameras.
