Hi, was just a look at some cameras that came up with eBay's 20% off sale. I just wanted to start to get into photography and am a beginner. Don't need anything too fancy. So, I was wondering if any of the two options are a good deal for the price and my needs or would I be better off getting something else?
Nikon D3400 + Lens Comes to around $480 after discount.
OR
Canon EOS 1300D + Lens Comes to around $400 after discount.
Thanks
Thanks for the reply. I was considering the 750D, but I have a budget for less than $500. So would I be better off getting one of these one's or waiting for a different camera?
Better camera always come out. For technology, the recommendation is always to wait for as long as possible then buy the best one in your price range. If you think this is the one you want, and you’ll start using it now or in the next few months (rather than let it sit) then pick it up. If not, wait and maybe borrow one off a friend to practice with for the time being.
I myself waited almost a year before I found a deal worth going for but I had my own (very specific) criteria. The ones that you listed are perfectly good cameras to work with and simple enough for you to step up from after a few years. If I was in your position where these cameras are suitable, I’d pick up the Nikon, learn and use it for a few years without buying any new lenses and then revisit what I need (whether to change brands or not) once I feel like I’ve outgrown the camera.
Thanks a lot for your help! Really appreciate it.
I disagree. Don't wait; buy a camera you can afford now. You can't go wrong between Canon and Nikon. Having more megapixels and extra features that you won't use won't make it more fun, nor is it likely to make your pictures look any better. Don't believe the hype.
And depending on your use / interest, I'd reccomend buying a cheap 50mm 1.8 early on.. as kit lenses are functional, yet limiting.
Good luck and enjoy :)
Both these cameras are very good for somebody looking to get into hobby photography (or who suddenly is taking a lot more pictures, e.g. baby on the way or holiday travels).
I don't think you would be disappointed with either one, and you could certainly spend a year or two without buying any more lenses or other gear just learning how to get the most out of what you have.
My suggestion would be to think about getting a fixed portrait lens (like a 50mm prime) once you feel you can really handle your camera. Canon has the more cost effective one, I think, but I wouldn't let that sway me (somebody can get it for you for Xmas).
Take a look at dpreview for both. They really, really thoroughly analyse and review every camera, and will pick out very esoteric pros and cons - which is why I think either will suit as an entry level camera, but you might discover one is better in, for example, low light, and you have a desire to photograph cityscapes at night or something, and that might be the deciding factor for you.
You will likely find your needs change in time. My DSLR sits in the cupboard a lot these days thanks to my fujifilm x100. If you told me 10 years ago I would choose a fixed lens camera 9/10 times I would have laughed in your face, but it suits the pictures I like to take now down to the ground (more candid people shots, travel street stuff, fewer landscapes). So don't get too hung up on which camera you start with!
The Nikon is a lighter and better camera with a longer battery life and would be a much more powerful first camera for a beginner, but if you anticipate that you’ll really get into it and end up buying more lenses then some people consider canon lenses better than Nikon ones in terms of quality and value.
I personally bought the Canon 750D last year with a 18-55mm lens and it ended up being around $600 after cash back.