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DPChallenge Forums >> Hardware and Software >> Pickin' out a new camera!
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01/22/2016 02:51:25 PM · #1
Hey there!
I haven't been active on here in some time. I'm just getting back into the swing of photography (I'm a pretty big newbie when it comes to photography and for the longest time just got discouraged by lackluster results) but the only cameras I have available are a Nikon Coolpix L840 (16 MP fixed lens camera w/ zoom) and an old Canon 10D with 2 older model lenses.

I\'ve been looking online to upgrade the 10D, since at this point newer lenses don't fit it and it's just a bit dated all around. I also do a bit of video and, while the Nikon is a good bridge between a point-and-shoot and a DSLR in terms of zoom range, the lack of manual mode and limited video functions (as well as the back viewscreen not being on a swivel, so I can't see what's in view unless I'm behind the camera) makes me regret the purchase a bit. The 70D made me excited, but the pricetag didn't...but the 60D is more in my price range and the video/image output doesn't seem to be '$500 difference' worse.

So! Questions!
1) Since the 60D is decidedly older (5 yrs vs 2yrs), should I reconsider the 70D to future-proof a bit? Is it worth the $500?
2) The Canon 10D I have has two older-style lenses that came with it. Will these fit a newer body, or do I have to factor new lenses into my purchase price?
3) Are there any other cameras around the $500 pricepoint (or less) you would recommend given the previous information? I looked at some Nikons but all seem to have stationary back screens, and I really do need something that has a screen I can see from the front.
4) When buying a used camera, especially online, what should I be cautious of? Anything to look for or be weary of (other than broken sensors/lenses of course)?

Thanks in advance for the input!
01/22/2016 04:23:38 PM · #2
Regarding buying online, caveat emptor. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. Good equipment rarely varies too much from one reputable vendor to another. When you see a price that is 40% or more below what everyone else is asking, it's usually either gray market, or they will upsell you with a ton of things like batteries, grip, etc. I have heard many horror stories about such purchases, where when the buyer stayed firm and only wanted the camera, the seller would either take forever to send, or not send at all.

As for which to buy, have you considered refurbished equipment? Generally much better prices than new, and you can aim higher ;)
01/22/2016 04:24:24 PM · #3
Oh, and welcome back!
01/22/2016 04:48:18 PM · #4
Either the 60D or the 70D is going to be a tremendous leap forward from your 10D. Believe me, I know; my first DLSR was a 10D. The two lenses you have (the 28-105 and the 50/1.8 II) are both compatible with *any* current Canon camera, either APS-C or full-frame.
I would personally not buy a used camera from a private party that I did not know. I would buy from a well-known DPC member. I would buy used from a trusted business such as B&H, Adorama, or KEH.

Edit to add: The 50/1.8 is a good performer, and is well worth carrying forward. the 28-105 is probably going to be a little underwhelming on the newer cameras. The higher resolution of the new sensors will really show up the performance limits of this lens.

Message edited by author 2016-01-22 16:50:21.
01/22/2016 08:13:17 PM · #5
Originally posted by kirbic:

I would personally not buy a used camera from a private party that I did not know. I would buy from a well-known DPC member. I would buy used from a trusted business such as B&H, Adorama, or KEH.

Agreed most of the time. However I have bought some inexpensive lenses on Ebay and bought my Micro 4/3 Olympus at a pawn shop. It was too sweet a deal to pass on at $250 with 2 lenses, so I took a calculated risk that worked out great for me.

Newer cameras tend to outperform older ones due to advancing technology. My little Olympus has better image quality than my Canon 50d or Rebel T2i. The T2i is just slightly better than the 50D. It is possible, however, that my inexpensive Olympus lenses may be a bit better than my inexpensive Canon lenses.

Message edited by author 2016-01-22 20:13:45.
01/22/2016 08:52:15 PM · #6
Whilst you have a couple of Canon lenses don't let this be the deciding factor to stay with Canon.
I had heaps of Canon gear and sold it for Olympus M43 (have the OMD EM1 and quite a few lenses)
Mirrorless is on the rise.

Olympus and Panasonic micro four thirds (panasonic is excellent for video and olympus is great also with the em5II)
Fiji mirrorless (this is a crop sensor)
Sony for Full Frame and also their a6000 for crop

If you are wanting a small system with good quality images then look at the M43 mirror less systems

It's always worth some research at this time.

Good luck

Message edited by author 2016-01-22 20:53:05.
01/22/2016 09:39:26 PM · #7
Yep, mirrorless is worth a look. Depends on what your goals are. If you want to shoot wildlife or sports, mirrorless might not be as good as an SLR, but for general purpose use they are smaller and lighter. Not necessarily cheaper because of all the used but still good SLR gear out there.

02/08/2016 06:57:37 PM · #8
an update-- I took the plunge and got a 70d. I found one new for $770 and it works great, received it today.

As far as why I decided to stay with Canon, it was in part because of the lenses being compatible and also in part because I want to use it for film as well, and the pivoting viewfinder for film was a big selling point. I couldn't afford mirrorless at the moment, especially since I'd have to get all new lenses as well.

Thanks for all your feedback! It was very helpful.
02/09/2016 06:33:34 AM · #9
Superb choice! I love my 70D. I think you will be very happy with this camera.
02/09/2016 11:13:42 AM · #10
Great choice
02/11/2016 09:04:06 AM · #11
Very good choice. The 70D is much better than the 60D in my opinion (I've had both). I've been very happy with the 70D.
02/11/2016 10:44:26 AM · #12
you can win challenges with it:)
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