What Camera?

[rosey123]

Hi everybody,
Just joined the site and am amazed at some of the beautiful pictures on here. Going to ask a really stupid question... I am hoping to upgrade from my point and squirt camera to something a bit better, like everyone funds are limited and I would appreciate some advice on a good entry level camera/lens for wildlife photography. My local camera shop are not that special and I find most internet sites a minefield! Any advice would be gratefully received!
I live close to the Chilterns and can see Red Kites all around me but can't get any decent pictures of them.

[pammosley]

Hi Rosey, Welcome to WAB. It is full of friendly helpful people.
I started photography a year ago. Me & hubby both have Nikon D40X. I use a 200mm lens & he uses a 300mm. I think you can get some good deals at the moment on various caneras. If you look on the phography board there have been similar posts to yours

[squishy]

depends exactly what your budget is... also, photographing birds takes alot of experience and knowledge (trust me, my 'pictures' folder is full of rubbish attempts ).

i use a 'bridge' type camera, not a DSLR, but a high end 'compact'. fuji and panasonic do a good range of them, and although the zoom wont be as sharp or good, you dont have to splash out on a large zoom lens, plus they can go to macro mode for flowers at the touch of a button most of them have a large zoom (mine (the fujifilm S9600) goes up to 300mm) so if you dont want to spend alot on a DSLR plus lenses, bridge cameras are a good alternative (that was exactly the reason i bought mine )

here are a few photos from it (some quality is lost when i downsize to upload )

[Geoff F]

Hello Rosey, this question has frequently been asked so if you have a wander through some of the previous posts you will discover a lot of information. As a starting point try this one What SLR for wildlife photography?

The most important question is what, exactly, do you want to photograph? Also, do you want interchangeable lenses and how far do you expect to increase your desire for bigger and better equipment over time.

Remember that if you decide on an interchangeable lens system you will be 'selling your soul' to that brand unless you get rid of everything and start again.

Canon and Nikon are the most popular DSLR brands but some people like the alternatives, such as Olympus etc. That is why I said think about how far you are likely to want to go in terms of extra equipment.

Finally, I would advise against getting a 'will do for now' camera which will work out dearer in the long run. If you see the ideal camera/lens but can't afford it now, it is better to wait and get what you really want.

So have a look around and a good think then come back for more detailed suggestions, everybody is keen to help here.

Geoff.

ps. If you want good photos of Red Kites I fear that you are starting on a long, addictive and expensive road!

[rosey123]

Hi Geoff, thank you for taking the time to answer my question. I totally agree that it is best to go for a good camera first as last! At the moment I want to photograph everything. My brother gave me good advice by saying go out and photograph everything until something clicks and you will know what rings your bell, so to speak!! I am particularly interested in the Kites and willingly go to my addiction, look for me in the bankrupcy notices soon!

[rosey123]

Hi Pam, thank you so much for your advice, I apreciate you taking the time to answer me. I will try to remember everything everyone has told me but I suspect I will listen to my heart in the end! Hopefully you will see some results in the near future. x

[rosey123]

Hi Squishy, thank you for the prompt reply to by cries for help! I will try to take all advice on board and hope for guidance from above when choosing. lol ps. smashing photos' love the Robins.

[squishy]

robins are the only birds i'm really any good at they're so friendly and photogenic though

Geoff is right, you dont want to skimp on photography equipment, and it can end up leaving a big hole in your time as well as your bank account

Ps.

if you start asking what DSLR to buy, you are going to be inundated by people, all swearing that their model is the best
thats not really bad though, it gives you plenty of models to look into