OK, I'm getting ready to jump into the DSLR market and can't make up my mind on which camera to buy. Looking at the Nikon D3000 or the Canon EOS Rebel XS.

Any recommendations here? Or maybe make a case why I should step up from the "entry level" models.

I'm not looking to spend the big bucks, but want something that will last and I won't want to be upgrading from in a couple of years if I start to get a little more serious about photography.

Hopefully I can get as good as my dad. Here's a small sample of his stuff:
[Reply]

Yikes, there are some pretty special photos there.

You can't go wrong with either of those models IMO. But keep in mind a lot of the investment should be in the glass...the lens. The body is important but not AS important as it is made out to be.
[Reply]

Yeah, he does some pretty awesome work, all as a hobby. He was working with a 8x10 camera at one time. I think that's what you call it. The one where you look under the cloth. I think the two B&W photos are from that. He's using a Nikon DSLR now. Not sure what model but I know he spent a good chunk of my inheritance on it.

So are the lenses that come with these cameras pretty much junk?
[Reply]

They are not so bad that they are junk but...investing in them instead of upping camera bodies provides better results as someone grows as a photographer.
[Reply]

Gotcha. Thanks.

What about live view on the LCD screen? The Canon has it, the Nikon does not. I would think that might be useful.
[Reply]

I'm not sure what your budget is, but if you're considering the D3000, you should take the time to check out the new D3100. Nikon did a great job in upgrading their entry-level model, and in the long-run, I'd think you would be happier with the choice.

You can get into the D3100 with the kit lens for around $640, and if you plan on using the kit lens for a while, the glass that comes with a Nikon is better than what you'd get with the Canon.
[Reply]

Yeah, that one looks good. A bit more than I planned to spend, but still affordable. Been reading reviews and its pretty highly rated. This one has gone to the top of my wish list.

Thanks!
[Reply]

I don't usually do this but I will share a few photos that were taken recently in Khogyani District, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. In this first one, I am talking with villagers about their concerns.
[Reply]

I'll post more later. My internet connection is crappy right now. :-)
[Reply]

That one of the creek is almost "I'm tripping and hiking". Badass.
[Reply]

To be honest I have never seen the feature in person.

I don't think it is a bad thing but you sound like someone that wants to grow as a photographer. I think a live view screen would like...enable me to mail it in more than I should. Kind of like the idea that someone driving a manual is a safer driver. Don't know if that makes any sense.

Often I am not a big help when it comes to gear because I jumped straight from my point and shoot to my professional rig. I haven't had that much exposure to different cameras.

Are you in the KC area? I was shocked...simply shocked at the amount of camera stuff Nebraska Furniture Mart has. Go out there and get a feel for these two different cameras...how they feel in your hand stuff like that.
[Reply]

I have live view on my canon and never use it tbh.
[Reply]

[Reply]

[Reply]

[Reply]