Sail_Away

Fast shutter speed will be important though....

Of course having a pretty subject helps too

When you're talking about Canon vs Nikon it's much of a muchness. The idea of choosing a single lens and basing your camera purchase around this seems insane to me unless you're wanting something really specialised like $12,000 lens or something. I think if you go for one of the other brands it's important to have a look at their overall lens line up to make sure they have a big enough range to meet your needs and/or that third party brands like Tamron makes lenses with mounts for that brand but choosing a specific lens first would be mind boggling for most people let alone someone starting out. Plus, most people end up owning more than one lense for different purposes. I'd hazard a guess that at least 99% of professional photographers couldn't tell you if a photo was shot with a Canon or a Nikon body or lens. Choose the camera you like best that's within your budget and a lens that meets your needs right now. Over time you will no doubt want to add different lenses but I honestly wouldn't worry about that at the moment. You've done loads of research and I think you're set to make a good decision. If you want a second opinion once you think you've nailed the camera and lens combo you're going to go with for reassurance that it's a good choice you can always post it here and see what we think. :) Yes good points thank you. I do tend to get too engrossed in my 'research' that I lose sight of the basic points... I need to remember that yes I am a beginner, albeit willing to improve my skills in photography, and pretty much any camera is going to do what I want. I should start small and build up my gear. I have lots to learn and I do appreciate everyone's time & effort on here helping me get a better understanding of photography. I will come back on here soon & let everyone know the camera & lens I have decided on... heading to shops tomorrow for one last look

I have the 7D and love the fps I can get for things like birds in flight, dogs on the move and surfing shots. Just be aware a new 7D came out a few months ago, the 7D Mark II, but this could mean there are some good deals out there on old stock of 7Ds if anyone has them left. The 7D doesn't have the greatest iso performance, but I have pushed mine and its been acceptable. I've found it a very capable camera for everything from bugs to birds :) Examples from variety of lenses - https://www.flickr.c...5770@N02/albums Have fun with whatever you choose :D Thanks for sharing this link! I was wondering how to search photos on Flickr via lenses!

Thanks everyone! Really helpful info!! Just another Q (sorry)... I'm hearing people say 'choose the lens you want first' before selecting the camera & even brand, but how do you do this? I know what I will be shooting but can't understand how to know if the canon or nikon lenses would be best for me...?

Have been reading some more reviews specifically on the Nikon D7100 and Canon 70D. So far I'm leaning toward the Canon... but some reviews mentioned the sharpness of the Nikon is superior and the Canon pictures can be grainy when enlarged... I do plan on blowing some images up to canvas or large print to frame so I can display at home so it's important the image looks crisp & sharp. However I guess this comes down to the lens again? I think it was mentioned the Nikon doesn't have the filter, therefore making better quality images. Some reviews mentioned the new Nikon D5500 is also a nice option. Why is this so hard?

So I understand its very important to select the appropriate lens but what happens if the body of the camera I choose is then limiting... so for example the ISO on the Canon 750D is 100-12800 but only shoots 5 fps with max shutter speed 1/4000, 19 autofocus points... vs say the Canon 70D that has same ISO, 7fps, max shutter speed of 1/8000 and 19 autofocus points... to me these seem similar... so even if you have quite a basic camera with great lens you can still be quite limited depending on limits with the body? - Hope this makes sense, just coming off night duty shift!

I had a read through some of the other threads here and this helpful link was posted http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=414088&page=1. Has really helped me understand the features better and what I should be looking for when buying my next camera. Although I'm still finding it hard to get my head around all the photography lingo ... I went into a local specialist camera store today and they were really helpful.. He suggested three cameras: Olympus E-M1, Nikon D7200 and the Canon 70D or 7D if $ wasn't an issue. He suggested buying the body only and a good quality telescope lens such as the Tamron 70-300mm. He was quite certain the Olympus E-M1 should be high on my priority list as it is smaller, plenty of lens options and would produce similar quality quality shots for my needs i.e. action/moving subjects etc. I preferred the way the Olympus felt in my hand to the Sony, more substance and similar grip to the SLR's. He said he wasn't a huge fan of mirrorless but this model Olympus is the only one he would recommend. He told me to rule out the Nikon D5300/D5500 and Canon 750D which I was considering earlier... I want to thank everyone for their input, it's been really helpful and I'm learning a lot! I think I can see myself getting really into this and making it a great hobby to have, so I feel it important even though I'm a 'beginner' to start off on the right foot with good equipment that I don't outgrow too quickly.

STUNNING! What camera do you use Persephone?

I find it a bit confusing with which model is better with Canon - the lower the number the better yeah? So those cameras which are not full frame, does that mean if the photo is enlarged and then cropped the quality is not as sharp? I think I will end up cropping some images because of the type of pictures I'll take - wildlife etc where I can't always get the close up. Reading a bit more about Sony A6000 and a lot of reviews comment on how sharp the photos are plus the fps is more than some DSLR's... I'm just hesitant about swaying from DSLRs because I feel Mirrorless might limit me in the future.. Even though they are significantly smaller than DSLRs I think they are difficult to 'grip' correctly but again, might need time to get comfortable as they are different set up.

SO helpful Snook! On paper the Nikon D5200 seems the better camera.... 39 focus points is a lot - excuse my ignorance but I assume this is what allows the camera to focus in the frame, so more the merrier? I would imagine for fast moving/action shots more would be best? I see there is a big jump in inclusions with the Canon models so the newer version seems better value for money here. A few friends have the 70D which has great reviews but possibly just a bit more than I wanted to spend...I'll continue doing some research The number of focus points doesn't make the camera focus better as such, it just gives you more points within the frame for choosing where you want the focus to land. So when you're looking at only 9 points for example, it means you have less options for composing your shot in camera if the spot you want it to focus on doesn't match up with one of those nine points and you need to change your composition or shoot a bit wider and crop the way you want it afterwards. So in that sense, more focus points is an awesome thing and makes life a lot easier and shooting a lot faster but it's independent in a way from how well the focus tracking works or how quick the camera focuses. When you look at how many focus points a camera has I'd be looking at how good the auto focus system is as well, not just the number of points. That being said, I really think it would be much of a muchness between the 750D and D5200 in focus systems but I'm only basing that on reviews and not first hand experience with either of them. Yeah, the 7D is a nice camera and perfect for sports/action photography. Thanks Snook. That makes sense now. Lots of things to consider then. I'm slowly understanding it more now What is everyone's thoughts on purchasing online from places like Amazon, Kogan or even second hand from eBay? I've read a little about these 'grey sellers' and how it can affect warranty plus then there is the issue of the camera being genuine... I don't particularly want to get a second hand one (body) from eBay but it would allow me to get a much better model for less $.

One of my agility friends whose photos I have admired for a long time, just told me she uses a Canon 7D.... dammit, I LOVE her pictures, why does it have to be the expensive camera! hahaha

SO helpful Snook! On paper the Nikon D5200 seems the better camera.... 39 focus points is a lot - excuse my ignorance but I assume this is what allows the camera to focus in the frame, so more the merrier? I would imagine for fast moving/action shots more would be best? I see there is a big jump in inclusions with the Canon models so the newer version seems better value for money here. A few friends have the 70D which has great reviews but possibly just a bit more than I wanted to spend...I'll continue doing some research

HN was definitely not my first choice for camera advice but they were the closest I took what he said today with a grain of salt - when he mentioned 'Canon will fit your needs better' I was skeptical because I have no doubt in my mind Nikon will do just as good a job and in fact have read more positive results about Nikon than Canon... Lots of my dog friends have Canon's though.... I'm still intrigued by the Mirrorless cameras and disappointed with how it felt in my hand today but maybe I need to test some others out. I keep reading good things about them. Just had a quick look at CameraPro's website - they are in Brisbane? Unfortunately a little far for me but I'll check out their website further. I'll make the effort to go into a proper camera shop soon. I'm finding everyone's input really really helpful. Just clearing up things more for me. I'm just cautious about the decision and want to make sure I get the best camera for my needs. That's why I asked on this forum too as I don't feel silly when I say I want to take pictures of my dog!!! Snook it would be great if you could check out the specs or at least tell me 'yes go for the new model or no the previous one is just as good' etc .... that's the hard decision as within the brands there are so many models! The ones I have my eye on for both brands are: Canon: EOS 700D EOS 750D Nikon: D3300 D5200 But open for suggestions.... What happens about protecting the lens when whale watching etc? I imagine sea spray is difficult to avoid....

Snook thanks so much for this informative post!!! So I went into Harvey Norman today just so I could hold some of the different cameras. Initially I couldn't feel much difference between the Nikon (D5200) & Canon (750D) I held but after awhile swapping between the two etc I did feel the Canon was a better 'fit' in my hand... not by much, the Nikon would be great if I knew no different. I am a small female, smallish hands and the Canon just seemed to mould to my hand better - where my thumb rested it sat in that spot perfectly whereas the Nikon my thumb covered some of the buttons up top... This was the only real difference I noted. Maybe the Canon was slightly more comfortable where it rested on my left hand too - the body felt more 'curved' so rested on my wrist better... The guy I spoke with at HN was very helpful he said for what I wanted to use it for - whales, wildlife, 'action' shots - agility etc that the Canon would be my best bet because of the FPS and AF abilities? Said the Nikon would be better for your landscape... not as quick as the Canon?? He was also a Nikon 'specialist' so the fact he was recommending Canon made me trust him more! I also held the Sony Mirrorless camera - not sure of model - and although small I actually felt it really awkward to hold. I couldn't get a comfortable position - felt like I couldn't decide between holding a point & shoot vs DSLR grip... maybe I need to try some others or just adjust grip though..

What excellent pictures!!! Even though conditions weren't great for the whale watching (I can picture doing everything to hold on to the boat whilst trying to get the best shot!) the photos you took look great! I will be going out in a charter company for whale watching on the Gold Coast this year, so hopefully will be quite close to some to get good shots.

Thank you both. It seems I am best to go in store and hold the various brands to get a feel for which is more comfortable. I'm sure any of the entry level DSLR's will be suitable for my needs - hopefully I can capture some great images!!

Hi DOLers, I'm sure this Q has been asked many times but as technology is constantly evolving I was hoping still ok to ask... I am looking at buying my first DSLR camera which I would like to use for agility photos, portraits of my dog, wildlife shots - whales in particular, scenery pictures etc... I have a GoPro which is great for videos & pics at the beach/water however, no zoom and I think the quality isn't as sharp especially if I want to print to canvas to display... So, doing some research it seems to be between the entry level Canon & Nikon's - most people say once you start with a brand best to stick with them, I imagine because you 'invest' in the lenses etc which are not interchangeable between the brands? I have friends with both brands, so I'm none the wiser as to which is best for my needs... I can't separate the two brands in terms of quality or what fits my purposes best. It is a fair amount of money so want to make the right choice. Willing to spend up to $1000. I know for whale watching I would need a lens 55 - 300 or similar. I have also read a little about Mirrorless cameras... any input on these? Are they the new DSLR of the future? Thanks everyone, any help appreciated!!

The vebo soft crates look like the same ones advertised on crazy sales or catchoftheday... or similar? From what I read they are only about 3.5kg so yes half weight of K9+ although I guess that means less sturdy.. but for a dog that just lays down when waiting around at agility I don't think it matters how 'sturdy' it is...? I do like the material flaps that come down the sides with K9+ and that is why I thought the Puppy Power ones on Ebay looked good... http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/PUPPY-POWER-PORTABLE-PET-HOME-SOFT-CRATE-COLLAPSIBLE-DOG-KENNEL-LARGE-91CM-/201334809188?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_15&hash=item2ee07d6264

They are the exact combo of crates I have here already I have a wire from Vebo! It's very good! Lol I bought my puppy pen from Vebopet too - it's so strong! I will be buying some extra panels I think. <insert gratuitous puppy pic> Gratuitous puppy pics always welcome. That pup's down stay is going to be interesting ROFL .. he got the upside down genes in spades, didn't he, bless him. Oh stop! Soooo cute!!!!

They are the exact combo of crates I have here already I have a wire from Vebo! It's very good! Lol

Hi Starkehre It wasn't me that sent an email to you... I know the frame &/or cover are replaceable and I thought of this however, I think the issue for me now is the size is too big & heavy to carry to agility.. also knowing my dog could fit in the next one down, makes me consider buying a completely new one around 36" might suit better. Unfortunately money is a bit tight so I don't think I can justify another from you... I do think they are the best crates around - I did lots of research before I bought mine a few years ago - but I was disappointed the carry handle ripped off - I don't have a carry bag but most of the time I actually carry it folded up by the frame.. I just happened to pick it up by the handle one day and it ripped off completely on one side. The plastic sliders that lock the frame have also split open making it difficult to erect. One night at training my dog (who is very well behaved in the crate) must have chewed or got hold of the fabric on the inside ceiling and within 10 minutes it was all coming away at the seams...? No idea what happened there... I must say your customer service has been great though. I will keep this crate for home use and I plan on getting a second dog (male) next year so will most likely need that size at some point. Thankyou for replying

I own a Vizsla so am bias for the breed... I think they are the best Vizsla's have a single coat and it is velvety smooth - especially their ears! They have very little doggy odour and shed very minimally - although their short red hairs get stuck in clothing! They would do well with your exercise requirements although you can't start running any large breed until they are 18 months. Vizsla's have one of the highest energy levels of any breed.. they will take as much as you can give them, although sometimes they don't know when to stop so it's important not to over exercise them. They are couch potatoes at home, and by couch I mean lap dogs (literally) They don't like to be left alone for long periods, but if well exercised and loved when you are home they will most likely sleep all day when your at work. They are not a dog to be left outside. They MUST be inside with their family. If you like personal space, don't own a Vizsla! I can't remember the last time I went to the bathroom in private! They often have to be touching you too (velcro dog), if not they will only be 1-2m away ... watching your every move! haha. So once again if you don't want a dog to constantly be nagging for your attention, cuddling you, lying ON you, then look for another breed. They can be great with kids although supervision as with any dog is a necessity. I don't have kids but have heard from the Vizsla clubs of many families having to rehome new Vizsla's as they are too much for their kids. As puppies Vizsla's can be extremely unruly. They need a lot of time and consistency put into them and one day the light bulb comes on and they change into the most amazing dog! Have a look on YouTube in the meantime before meeting different breeds - I think it gives a good insight into breeds at home... lots on Vizsla zoomies.... Good luck with your search! Great you are doing the research. If you have any V questions feel free to ask

I'm just bumping this thread up again... Has anyone got experience with the NoztoNoz or Puppy Power (ebay) soft dog crates?