DSLR opinions please

[Nana2Callie]

*$749 after $150 Tech Savings* Nikon D3300 24.2MP HD-SLR Camera Bundle with 18-55mm VR II Lens, 55-200MM Lens, Camera Bag, 16GB SD Card, & WiFi Adapter

or

*$899 after $250 Tech Savings* Canon T5i 18MP Digital SLR Bundle with 18-55mm IS Lens, 55-250mm IS Lens, 300DG Gadget Bag, and 16 GB SD Card

Can I get some opinions on these 2 cameras and the price value? Looking for my first DSLR camera.

Thanks,

 

[havoc315]

They are both excellent cameras and good packages. It becomes a bit subjective as to slight differences in feature set, and just in-hand comfort.

Though, within each brand, the Canon T5i is considered a bit more mid-level, while the Nikon D3300 is Nikon's entry level offering. Still, that's not a huge difference.
Actually, in many ways, the entry level Nikon can outperform the Canon -- Higher resolution, better low light performance.
But the Canon has some additional features, like better live view, touch screen, etc.

 

[photo_chick]

The pricing on these cameras ins't going to vary a whole lot. The manufacturer has pretty tight control on that.

As to which one.... it depends on what you want and need from a camera. Any DSLR on the market is a "good" camera, but they meet different needs. Check out sites like dpreview.com so you can compare features and see which one fits your needs and wants the best.

Just a note on the Canon T5i... you can get the same sensor for less in an older model. If you're looking to save some cash it's a consideration.

 

[SkaGoat]

*$749 after $150 Tech Savings* Nikon D3300 24.2MP HD-SLR Camera Bundle with 18-55mm VR II Lens, 55-200MM Lens, Camera Bag, 16GB SD Card, & WiFi Adapter

or

*$899 after $250 Tech Savings* Canon T5i 18MP Digital SLR Bundle with 18-55mm IS Lens, 55-250mm IS Lens, 300DG Gadget Bag, and 16 GB SD Card

Can I get some opinions on these 2 cameras and the price value? Looking for my first DSLR camera.

Thanks,

They're both good buys, I'd find a Best Buy or camera store or someplace you can actually pick up, and try out both cameras. The feel in your hand is very important.

 

[cobright]

The general Canon vs. Nikon debate usually distills down to which one feels best in your hand, UI preference, and whether you plan to shoot video. The Canon has always led the pack with digital video (though maybe Nikon has caught up by now)

 

[havoc315]

The general Canon vs. Nikon debate usually distills down to which one feels best in your hand, UI preference, and whether you plan to shoot video. The Canon has always led the pack with digital video (though maybe Nikon has caught up by now)

You mean Canon has caught up
Nikon was the first to incorporate video into a dSLR, with the D90.

Since that time, Canon caught up and surpassed in video features. Feels like Nikon has tried to focus on still image "purism" where Canon has latched more onto video, as well as other consumer friendly features. (Touch screens, etc).
With newer Canon dSLRs and appropriate lenses, you will get better video AF abilities with Canon.

But yeah.... Overall, for most shooters, there isn't going to be a huge difference between basic consumer level Canon and Nikon dSLRs. A few differences in features that may or may not matter. A slight difference in terms of feel in the hands (though you would likely get used to whichever you chose).

 

[photo_chick]

A slight difference in terms of feel in the hands (though you would likely get used to whichever you chose).

There's a huge difference to some in how they feel in your hands. Nikon's feel really awkward to me and I tried but just couldn't get used to it. Likewise I've heard many say the same about Canon.

 

[wdwmom2]

Personally, I would get the T5i with the 18-135 IS STM lens for $839.20 from Canon Refurbished. I would probably wait to see if they run a sale soon. They seem to do that frequently.

http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/c.../eos-t5i-18-135mm-is-stm-lens-kit-refurbished


I have the T4i with this same lens that I purchased from Canon Refurbished a little over a year ago. I could not be happier!!! Refurbished have the 1 year manufacture's warrenty, same as new. The 18-135 STM is an excellent kit lens. It is a very capable walk around lens.

 

[havoc315]

There's a huge difference to some in how they feel in your hands. Nikon's feel really awkward to me and I tried but just couldn't get used to it. Likewise I've heard many say the same about Canon.

I think that's true of any brand, once you get used to it. If you have never held any dSLR before, I really believe that the handheld ergonomics won't feel tremendously different. (It is subjective, so if to 1 person, they do feel 1 camera is much more comfortable, then they should go with that).

And if you were forced to shoot with nothing but a Nikon dSLR for a year, I bet you'd get used to it and then the Canon would feel awkward.

Obviously, I've mostly shot Sony. When I handle a Canon or Nikon dSLR, there is always a bit of, "ok.. where exactly is the ......"
But to ultimately pick up the camera, focus and shoot.... They are all pretty similar in size, the shutter button is in the same place, you adjust the focal length the same way, etc.

 

[KCmike]

There's a huge difference to some in how they feel in your hands. Nikon's feel really awkward to me and I tried but just couldn't get used to it. Likewise I've heard many say the same about Canon.

Funny you should say that. I felt the same way. Went to the store and felt both in my hands and Canon just felt more natural to me. I had previously some nikon point and shoots and wanted to stay brand loyal but switched and been happy ever since. Like EVERYONE else has said it really boils down to getting them into your hands and the confortability factor. Both brands are wonderful.

 

[Gianna'sPapa]

The ergonomic factor, menus and controls placement can't be overstated. I have been shooting my brand (Pentax) for so long that anything else feels totally uncomfortable. When I pick up my cameras its like an old friend that becomes an extension of my hand!

 

[cobright]

You mean Canon has caught up
Nikon was the first to incorporate video into a dSLR, with the D90.

Since that time, Canon caught up and surpassed in video features.

Okay, fair point. For a year, seven years ago, Nikon had video and canon didn't. I chose my words poorly when I said canon 'always led the pack'. That said, Nikon put video on their cameras in the same way cell phones do, as a value added feature.

Canon seems to have jumped in and developed their capability as a serious cinema camera. Their glass in this respect is good enough to have the EF mount offered as an option on the BlackMagic cinema camera.

Nikon might be catching up to this, I don't know if they even care to try, but it doesn't seem to be their direction.

For practical purposes, If you are buying an entry level dslr and are also even a bit serious about using it as a video capture device, canon has an edge.

Personally I might place how you like the user interface at the top of the priority list. I switched from Nikon (a D90 even) to Canon and while I love the two canons I bought, I'm not thrilled with the UI.

 

[Nana2Callie]

Well since I'm truly a beginning I found at canon rebel t3 yesterday on clearance at target for $225 it was hard to resist. I know it need to buy another lense but still thought this was good deal. I know if us an older model and video really isn't a concern. I'm still in my return window so your thoughts?

 

[bob100]

Well since I'm truly a beginning I found at canon rebel t3 yesterday on clearance at target for $225 it was hard to resist. I know it need to buy another lense but still thought this was good deal. I know if us an older model and video really isn't a concern. I'm still in my return window so your thoughts?

if it included the 18-55IS that's not too bad a deal but if you ask in a Canon forum many would tell you to take it back. There are better deals in the Rebel line that cost only $150 more, e.g, the T4i (refurbished that includes a one year warranty) with features such as a higher "burst rate". megapixels, AF points, etc. - - sometimes it's better to spend a little more than getting a bottom of the barrel bargain
http://photography-on-the.net/forum