Hey all, I am looking at getting myself a decent quality Digital SLR Camera and wanted some advice from the more camera savy people out there. I have found this Nikon D3200 and wonder if this would be good entry level camera or is there something else you would recommend?

I will be using the camera mostly for everyday use but would like to use it next year for my trip to Northern Minnesota to photograph wolves in the wild so having a decent zoom or the ability to add an extra lens would be great.

I have also had a look at Kogan and they are very cheap compared to the local product so would be interested in people's experiences regarding the whole grey import thing too. These two in particular D5300 & D5200

Also interested in peoples thoughts regarding the Canon v Nikon debate.

Thanks
Phillip

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[I]and then we discovered it wasn't the Robot King after all, it was the real one. Fortunately I was able to reattach the head.[/I]

The 3200 is a great starting point for getting into DSLR photography. If you're going to get one, it's worth getting in the twin lens kit, or the one you're looking at. The benefit of the twin kit is, you're going to get a little more versatility.

I personally think I will be buying a camera grey market next time, as it's so much cheaper and you're still covered by a warranty. Nikon D3200 Digital SLR Camera Body ::Nikon: D3100 igital SLR Cameras - eGlobaL Online Store

Oh, and the 3200 has an intuitive guide mode, which will really ease the transition from point and click,


Good luck!

Thanks Goosey, I just added a part regarding the grey import thing. Would love to hear other peoples experiences about it.

Also should say I am looking at spending up to $1000 if that helps.

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[I]and then we discovered it wasn't the Robot King after all, it was the real one. Fortunately I was able to reattach the head.[/I]

Canon... /thread.. lol

But on a serious note, The Nikon 3200 is a great "starting" camera along with the D5200. As Goosey said go for the twin lens kit if funds permit.

70D, 700D are Canon alternatives I would also recommend for a beginner.

Try using Compare digital cameras - Snapsort to compare features for Camera Bodies. Nice reviews for both bodies & lenses can be found @ The-Digital-Picture.com features Canon DSLR Camera and Lens Reviews, News, Deals and Tips. Other sites on the net but I quite like TDP..

I started with a 60D twin lens kit (Crop Sensor). Loved it to bits & was a great learning camera with excellent features. I still use it as a backup body, however I now have a 5D MK III & as they say, once you go Full Frame, you never go back to crop..

My advise is to buy a Camera Body with the features & tech that spring out to you. Then focus funds for lenses. Always put your money into lenses. This is because lenses have far more to do with picture quality and ease of use, and lenses tend to retain their monetary and photographic value indefinitely, while camera bodies lose significant value.

I own:

Canon EOS 60D With Canon Battery Grip
Canon EOS 5D Mk III With Canon Battery Grip
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM (To be sold as updated to the 2.8 today)
Canon EF 70-200MM f/2.8 L IS II USM
Canon EF Extender 2.0x Mk III
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II (60D Kit Lens)
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II (60D Kit Lens)
Canon Speedlight 430EX II
Manfrotto Tripod

Few other things also.

Regarding the Grey/import debate, nothing beats local Manufacture warranty. Typically if you buy grey, the item should it have a problem needs to be sent to the Original Location. This is typically Hong Kong 9/10.

I can state however for a few of my purchases, that I have not had a single problem being a grey item. (Battery Grip & 1 lens). Price is awesome & I receive better service than if i were to walk into a brick & mortar location. Just be aware of the risks & if you can over come those, there is no issues with Grey items in my honest opinion.

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2018 Nationally Accredited Silver CAMS Photographer

Having a modern day PC without an SSD is like hiring a hooker for hugs.......

Thanks Trav, I will have a look at the sites.

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[I]and then we discovered it wasn't the Robot King after all, it was the real one. Fortunately I was able to reattach the head.[/I]

Updated Regarding Grey imports to my post mate..

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2018 Nationally Accredited Silver CAMS Photographer

Having a modern day PC without an SSD is like hiring a hooker for hugs.......

how close can you get to the wolves?

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There's a hoon in every Typhoon

I was there around 6 years ago and was about 15 meters or so from them.

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[I]and then we discovered it wasn't the Robot King after all, it was the real one. Fortunately I was able to reattach the head.[/I]

wow that close. Maybe look at getting a prime protrait lens which will give you better quality pics and better in low light , but you won't have zoom.

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There's a hoon in every Typhoon

I'd say go with Nikon for the sake of a better sensor (according to DxoMark, no offence Canon fanbois "cough" Trav "cough"). That said, Canon has been concentrating its efforts on video recording instead of taking stills, so you might wanna consider that if you want to use it to shoot videos as well.
you can probably get away with the kit lens for everyday/travelling use, a prime wide angle for landscape (if you are into it) and a dedicated zoom lens for shooting wildlife.

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