At what point did you reach your potential with your beginner DSLR and made the upgrade to a better body? Was it the Lenses? Features?
Basically how do you know when your ready to graduate to the next DSLR body?
At what point did you reach your potential with your beginner DSLR and made the upgrade to a better body? Was it the Lenses? Features?
Basically how do you know when your ready to graduate to the next DSLR body?
I had my Nikon E8800 and never really exploited the manual side of it at all. My pictures came out really good for a point and shoot... but I knew it was time for a dSLR after about 18 months of use and decided to make a choice between the D80 or D200 Nikon products.
I realized it was time to upgrade becuase of quality of the pictures, the challenge of getting better pictures and the desire to want to learn more about my hobby and getting a camera that would last me a while as I learned about photography.
Honestly, some may say that the D200 was overkill for me initially, but now I realize it was the best choice. It took me to a level beyond what I was hoping for in terms of knowledge and results.
My path is not for everyone, but it was the right way for me. :)
People mention more AF points as a reason to upgrade.
I only use one. I know LOTS of people that only use one. Don't any of you find it frustrating trying to get your AF points to cooperate?
one more in the club. in every non-action shot i only use one AF point.
For action shots in certain AF modes, more ("invisible") points close to the central means better precision.
but ... better AF can be a reason.
You do realize you can recompose after the focus locks, right?
Too slow for me I shift on the fly. I dont believe in recomposing. :lol:
i went from the rebel to the 20D.
more megapixels
far less noise
custom funtions
more durable
more AF points
more advanced controls
more fps
larger in camera buffer
need i go on?
I bought a Pentax K110D last February, and after a few months was lusting after the K10D, well, it's price has dropped dramatically in the past few months, and there is NO doubt it is by far the best bang for the buck in a digital SLR, i recd my bonus check, and cashed in 2 weeks sick pay a few weeks ago, and decided to take the plunge, bought the camera body, and battery grip, and after rebates it will cost me about $640. I love it so far !!! http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2015/2118873255_3b0b49b194_o.jpg Canon EOS 5D 12.8 MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)::
In my final thoughts, if you are thinking of an upgrade from a 20D or a rebel, To test if you need to clean (on any DSLR), put the camera on a tripod or flat
http://www.dslrcamera.com/1-3017941-B0007Y791C-Canon_EOS_5D_128_MSLR_Camera_Body_Only.htmlHOME |
I upgraded from a d40x to a d80 pretty recently. I was getting offers to start shooting back-up for my buddy when he does weddings, but I needed something compatible with his lenses. Not to mention the d40x would probably get pretty destroyed after a year or two of professional usage. The d80 also has a lot of important functions built into buttons on the outside of the camera, so you don't have to flip through 6 menus to get your white balance set correctly, or change your ISO.
For now the d80 suits my needs (basically a mini d200 without some of the professional features), but as I advance and start needing a second body for any reason, I'll probably save up and buy a d300 or a used d2x if I start doing more demanding work.
Really, the main reason I bought the d80 was the thrifty-fifty. The money I saved on this little lens easily necessitated a jump to an AF compatible body.
According to your sig, you only own an 18-70 lens and you would rather upgrade the body than purchase, say, another lens to get more range? Is 18-70 enough for you? Just curious...
I'll be getting a 70-200mm 2.8 at roughly the same time as my camera upgrade, I'm just still deciding between nikon or sigma for the lens. The lack of 70mm+ has been hurting me don't worry. ;)
I'm also grabbing the 50mm 1.8 in the near future.
Better ISO performance, more FPS (by far!) and image quality are going to make me upgrade from a S3 Pro to a D300. Luckily i can keep my nikon lenses :P
For me, it was faster speed, higher resolution and mainly on camera controls (without going through the menu screens). I was shooting a D70 and at the time, shooting a bunch of little league sports. I just needed a faster camera.
But in the end, it was the features of the D200 and in particular the ability to mount a battery pack to it (ala the MD-200). When I shot film, which like eons ago, I had (still have) a Minolta Maxxum 9000 with a motor winder/battery pack on it. The thing I missed the most was the ability to turn the camera to a portrait position without having to turn my wrist over to the top of the camera. My Nikon (with this attachment) has the second shutter button on the side like my 9000. Plus the external (outside of the menu) controls (like ISO, WB, Focal Points, Image Size and Quality and the list goes on are all switches and buttons on the body. I had to do most of these changes by scrolling around on my D70. I have a tendency to change focus areas often (from closest subject spot subject, blah, blah, blah) as well as the ISO and WB.
That's a David thing. and I'm looking forward to starting this all over with a D3 someday (which by the time I can afford one, it'll be a D8 or 9).
I upgraded to the D300 for a few reasons
1) My wife wanted a camera of her own (She now has my D70s)
2) ISO Performance (All I can say is WOW)
3) Higher FPS, it is a bit like a drug, now I want the Grip to get up to 8FPS
I need a PC Sync for my studio lights
Oh yes, I forgot the speed! I haven't utilized it yet, but I'm sure I will once golf season rolls around. Mmm, golf...
The ISO performance on the D300 is ridiculous, that alone was worth the upgrade in my opinion. It allow me to handhold shots I never thought possible. I can't imagine what shooting a D3 feels like, meow!
People mention more AF points as a reason to upgrade.
I only use one. I know LOTS of people that only use one. Don't any of you find it frustrating trying to get your AF points to cooperate?
Canon Digital Rebel XSI 12MP Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5 ::
I would prefer a sliding cover or, better yet, use the space next to the SD slot. You have the choice of buying a XSi for 800 dollars (body only) or buying a
http://www.dslrcamera.com/1-3017941-B0012Y6HC8-Canon_Digital_Rebe35_56_IS_Lens_Silver.htmlHOME |
The odd time it may take a couple tries and if it still doesn't focus on the intended subject, I just do a quick manual focus. It seems to work often enough to stick with it though, since a lot of the time the center isn't what I'm trying to focus on.
I'll be upgrading my D50 to a D80 shortly for 3 main reasons.
1. The option of ISO 100 (minimum 200 on the D50).
2. 10MP instead of 6MP.
3. More AF points. ;)
my only big step was to get my first digital SLR after using film SLRs for ages. that was not a "beginner" DSLR though. have not upgraded since.
so i am still with my first dSLR ;) ... and my film SLR is still with me as well.
for me, it was more frames per second and higher resolution. but lots of images that i still like are from my first camera. :)
My first DSLR was the ol'Canon D30 (purchased used when the 10D was the released)... It met all my basic needs at a good price and reliable. At the time, my interest was still with film (still is to an extent) but work and family were increasingly cutting into time spent with my camera. I wanted something that provided a bit more convenience without resorting to a P&S cheapo... the D30 filled that need wonderfully.
The combination of wanting more pixels to work with (cropping) and my friend's interest in the camera (She still uses the same camera to this day) convinced me to graduate to the 10D. The 10D was once again purchased used around 6 months after the release of the 20D. Again, I took advantage of rock bottom prices pushed by the general public's want for the latest and greatest. I was in heaven! To be honest... I could still be happy with this camera today.. There is absolutely nothing this camera was "preventing" me from being creative and enjoying my love for photography.
Nintendo DS hacked to control DSLR shooting - Engadget::
Much better than having to carry around a laptop. You cant even compare this to a body upgrade. The Simpsons TV makes it to iTunes. AT&T sells $99
http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/18/nintendo-ds-hacked-to-control-dslr-shootingHOME |
A year later, I discovered a photographer who was interested in moving to the 5D which was released 4 months earlier. After bargaining for a few minutes, I purchased both of his 1d-markII for a really low price. One was subsequently sold on ebay which equated to the 1d-markII costing me $1500 (still an unbeatable price even now). At this time, I was still in the business of flipping camera equipment for some pocket change and intended to sell both for a good profit. I ended up keeping it for my self and selling my 10D to my cousin for $400 (I was being a nice relative).
BTW.. that photographer is a journalist and needed something reliable with a good build that was just not there in Canon's "prosumer" line (10D, 20D, 30D). He had the 1d-markII as the next best choice but hated the bulk and weight. When the 5D was released, it was right up his alley and his eagerness to fund the 2 5Ds for work gave me a lot of negotiating leverage. IMO, the 5D is one of Canon's best decisions and products to date.
I've been shooting the 1D-markII ever since.... I see absolutely no reason to upgrade at this time as it is more than I need. I will probably stay with the camera for years to come (unless I jump the Canon ship).
I think most consumers buy cameras like cars... they want the latest and greatest or just something new. MOST cameras out there are more than any of us really need or leverage. This is the main reason why one of the most common questions asked by shoppers "Is Canon releasing any new cameras soon?" They are concerned with having the latest and greatest for only a few months.... rather internalizing their purchase to their needs. This is all fine... whatever makes people happy... I"m sure just as guilty.
So how do I know I"m ready for an upgrade? In the case of ElanIIe film to D30, I needed a quicker workflow to enjoy what little time I had for photography. In the case of the 10D, I needed the ability to crop and produce 8x12 or 11x14 prints. In the case of the journalist, he needed a professional Canon without the bulk of the 1DMII.
Except for me acquiring the 1dMII simply because I got a hard to pass deal, I first won't upgrade until my current body prevents me from doing something. I also found that there is no good reason not to take advantage of used equipment.... especially when the next best body is released.
Sorry for rambling... just felt like typing this morning...
More fps than point and shoot, no shutter lag, and more megapixels!
:heart:one more in the club. in every non-action shot i only use one AF point.
For action shots in certain AF modes, more ("invisible") points close to the central means better precision.
but ... better AF can be a reason.
He nailed that.
For action shots, the option of the numerous af points available today are so percise and accurate, its almost.. foolish not to use it. But for other scenarios like, portraits and when you have to use the TTL metering, single af is the way to go.
(if anyone hasnt checked the d300's 51 af point system.. check it, youll fall in love.. i sure did :heart:, im upgrading end of this summer. im getting a new glass first. :wink:
Well, I haven't upgraded yet (I have a 350D now), but when I eventually do it will be for high ISO performance and a bigger badder sensor.
I upgraded from a Canon 40D to a Nikon D300. :lol:
The features of the D300 and the additional megapixels was the deciding factor and I love the feel of the Nikon.
i'm upgrading from the sony a100 to the a700 for these reasons (some of which are the same as posters before me)-
-
-more af points
-going from 3.5-5 frames per second
-faster focusing
-better in body image stabilization
-more sensitive autofocus sensors
- comes with a free wireless remote
- better build quality
-more weatherproof
-a LOT better high ISO noise handling
- option for vertical grip
- better view prism
-just sort of sick of being on the same level as the canon rebel xti...
I upgraded to the D300 for a few reasons
1) My wife wanted a camera of her own (She now has my D70s)
2) ISO Performance (All I can say is WOW)
3) Higher FPS, it is a bit like a drug, now I want the Grip to get up to 8FPS
I need a PC Sync for my studio lights
Went from a D40 to D70s after 2 months of owning the D40. Reasons in order of most important
Wanted to use the fast primes for indoor low light
2 command dials
Dedicated buttons to quickly change WB, ISO, etc...
More AF points
Screen on top to see my settings without turning on back LCD screen (more handy than I ever could have imagined)
The odd time it may take a couple tries and if it still doesn't focus on the intended subject, I just do a quick manual focus. It seems to work often enough to stick with it though, since a lot of the time the center isn't what I'm trying to focus on.
Not at all. Im used to changing my AF points so much depnding on what Im trying to get out of it. While granted I use the center mostly, I do move it around alot.
You do realize you can recompose after the focus locks, right?
I will be upgrading to my next DSLR in about 2-3 years due to three main reasons: Higher resolution sensors, lower noise, and I want a full-frame sensor (so I'll be going for the 5D's successor). Better build, weather-sealing and various features that will be standard by 2010 that aren't now are secondary reasons, but assuming it still works, I'll be keeping my 350D as a backup.
I would also jump on a feature of being able to access the battery while on a tripod/mount because I do a lot of long exposures and I'd like to be able to put an AC adaptor on it while on the tripod.
You do realize you can recompose after the focus locks, right?
Bah.. all this pressure! I'll try center AF for a while just for you. ;)
It was when I reached my D50s' limitations.Now I see my D80 as being limited to me so, Im saving for a D3.
I upgraded from a D80 to a D300 for a few reasons. One, I wanted better high-ISO performance, because I shoot low-light a lot. Two, my dad wanted a dSLR and was willing to buy my D80 off of me so that gave me some money towards the D300. Three, I wanted a body that was more rugged and better-sealed as I shoot outdoors a lot and wanted to feel more comfortable doing so. The D80 is great, don't get me wrong. I just really wanted better high-ISO performance. I haven't looked back since. And once I can find a 70-200 in stock at B&H, I'll be all over that.
I'll be upgrading my D50 to a D80 shortly for 3 main reasons.
1. The option of ISO 100 (minimum 200 on the D50).
2. 10MP instead of 6MP.
3. More AF points. ;)
According to your sig, you only own an 18-70 lens and you would rather upgrade the body than purchase, say, another lens to get more range? Is 18-70 enough for you? Just curious...
People mention more AF points as a reason to upgrade.
I only use one. I know LOTS of people that only use one. Don't any of you find it frustrating trying to get your AF points to cooperate?
The big decision for me was the move to my first DSLR. The decision to upgrade was, for me, fairly easy since my lenses would all migrate with me.
Image stabilization
Weathersealing
Higher resolution
Faster operation
My original DSLR had 4+ years and was working fine but showing it's wear.
People mention more AF points as a reason to upgrade.
I only use one. I know LOTS of people that only use one. Don't any of you find it frustrating trying to get your AF points to cooperate?
Not at all. Im used to changing my AF points so much depnding on what Im trying to get out of it. While granted I use the center mostly, I do move it around alot.
The noise on higher ISO's made me upgrade from 10D to 5D - I still have the 10D, but love the 5D. Need to get more memory for it though - RAW eats memory cards :(
The film cost me way too much :-P
I doubt anyone can outgrow a decent SLR though. There's always improvements to be made. My beginner SLR was a Nikon FE, a camera where the centre weighted metre was the most advanced feature. 15 years later I think I can still get better using it.
Unless you own a D40x the limiting factor is probably the obsolescence that older digital cameras suffer after a few years. I can't think of anything the 350D or D80 has not got that is limiting and can't be somehow worked around.
I upgraded because the D300 has better high ISO performance, shoots faster, is more rugged, has better controls, yadda yadda yadda than my D80 did.
Honestly, if one can't see the intrinsic difference in real value of owning a D300 over a D80 for somebody who shoots in all weather conditions, then I can't explain it.
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What made you decide to upgrade to a better DSLR body?