Any camera geeks here? Need some input.

[InspectorVol]

I don't know exactly what I need but I am wanting a good/decent digital
camera that I can use for vacations. I would like it to be able to take
some time-lapse shots of the night sky and wide angle would be good as
well. I don't want to overbuy for features I will likely never use and
size does matter (somewhat) as it will on trails with us. At the
very least if I could get some input on specifics that makes a camera a
quality camera and which brands are good, that would be great. I am
not concerned video capability as I plan on getting a gopro to use as
well. Would be great if I was able to buy one and accessories for under
$500, but idk if that is possible.


Thanks in advance.

 

[VolMax]

Are you thinking DSLR or point and shoot? I'd suggest DSLR. Every point and shoot I've bought has been obsolete within a couple of years. I bought a Nikon D70 when my son was born 12 years ago and still use it. I am planning on upgrading to a D500 soon and the lenses I have accumulated over the years will work with it. Camera folks are either Nikon or Canon faithful (I'm a Nikonite). I think both are great. If you have any buddies with DSLR's, find out which brand they have so you can borrow each other's lenses. Check out bandhphoto.com or adorama.com. I'd suggest picking out a used or refurbed to start. There are several bodies that would be a significant upgrade for me for $350'ish (the d500 will be lightyears ahead of my D70 - I want the awesome low light capabilities...faster sensor = shorter exposure = less blur in moving subjects and less noise (distortion) in low light (even dark) stills). The $350 leaves you some dough for a basic lense or two. Over time, you can buy better (faster) lenses - which will be compatible with future bodies as you trade up (which you will).

Sorry for the long answer but getting into a real/decent camera lead to some great pix of my kids. Feel free to ask questions...I love the subject!

 

[txbo]

If you do go the DSLR route, go with either Nikon or Canon. They have the best availability/quality of lenses. I'm a Canon guy. The Canon Rebel is a great first DSLR at a reasonable price.

 

[Orangedogsrule]

Point and shoot cameras on new phones are fully adequate for "point and shoot quality" when you set max pixels. Lightweight zoom, fisheye and superclose macro lense kits are available and suitable for ultralight backpacking. Or days you don't carry your DSLR. The best have a case your phone snaps in and then the lenses screw solidly into the case. Carry a solar charger and your good to go. Still or video. You get the moment(s), or view saved.

But if you want the "quality" shots IMHO DSLR is usually the way to go. And, just like with smart phones, you are also going to get video. So, get one that also gives you pretty good video capability.

As far as weight goes, with DSLR, you just do the camera thing. It's what you're about, getting the best shot you can and the added weight on trail or wherever is just what you plan for. All the wildlife photographers just do it. You can too. I'm a total amatuer and I carried one all over Quintana Roo to the Mayan ruins, day hiking when neccessary.

Also, now you have "frame grabber" apps that give you the capability to pick and choose the still you want from video. You get the "I'm gonna"! as well as the "I did it!" look on the face of your little T-baller before and after she gets her very first hit and and is starting to run.

Nikon and Canon are really great, but aren't the only choices.

http://dslrvideoshooter.com/best-dslr-for-video/