Newbie Question for DSLR

**Wackytpt** · 28th Jan 2008, 16:23

Hi,

After seeing so much nice pictures taken by some of the members here.

It makes me consider whether should I get a proper camera to take pictures of the fishes I have.

Currently in the midst of deciding whether I should get a DSLR or a Pro Camera like the Cannon G Series.

Being in this hobby for quite a number of years, I have kept and rear some of the nicest fishes that I could get through the help of friends.

The fishes I kept are mainly apisto. And I hope to take some nice pictures of them for memories sake.

What is the basic requirement do i need to look out for and how much budget should I set aside?

Hope to hear from the expert out there.

**benny** · 28th Jan 2008, 17:11

In my opinion, you need the following to take some serious fish pictures.

1. Camera (preferably digital and SLR are better)
2. Macro Lens (minimum of 90/100/105 mm macro)
3. Flash (One with wireless capability for later expansion)
4. Wireless transmitter/cable (Wireless will open up a world of opportunity)

I would suggest buying used equipment to maximise your budget. The camera should be the least portion of your budget. Avoid going for new, top end stuff if budget is a constraint.

However, before you go invest in something, I would suggestion maximising your current gear and more importantly understand the basics of photography (aperture, shutter speed, focal length vs. ability to hand hold, ISO, etc, etcO so as to be able to milk the enhanced capabilities of your new setup.

Cheers,

**valice** · 28th Jan 2008, 17:25

To give you a feel of the minimum amount of money to start with, and like we discussed before, I listed out the possible equipment and associated costs.

And I am going by the Canon system as that is the only system I am familiar with. Those who knows Nikon, or other systems, can chip in too.

1. Camera (preferably digital and SLR are better): used 350D with kit lens -> $650
2. Macro Lens (minimum of 90/100/105 mm macro): used Tamron 90mm -> $550
3. Flash (One with wireless capability for later expansion): used 550EX -> $350
4. Wireless transmitter/cable (Wireless will open up a world of opportunity): new ST-E2 -> $270

Grand total of $1820.

And if you choose new bodies like 400D or the Canon 100m, the price will of course be higher. So minimum, you will need $2k.

**Wackytpt** · 29th Jan 2008, 09:29

Hi Benny,

Appreciate the kind advice. I currently only have a Canon Ixus 75.

I don't intend to go for first hand as of yet. Looking for 2nd hand stuff first to start off.

Will definitely need to seek advice from you soon.

Current interest will be more of taking fishes pictures and maybe nature in the near future.

Valice,

I remember the conversation I had with you. Think is time to save up and start looking around for 2nd hand deals in camera stuff.

PS : Might need to bother both of you in this area of interest as I am a total newbie to it. Simon will seek your help too.

**Simon** · 29th Jan 2008, 09:37

you have always been bothering me in MSN :P, just continue with that

**zenscape** · 29th Jan 2008, 11:35

Apisto are beautiful fish that deserve nice shots to be taken. I am also a newbie to photography and I just got my DSLR this year. The shots taken for my tanks are now much more impressive than previous pictures. You will definitely enjoy taking photographs of your fish with a DSLR and the members here are so willing to help and full of encouragement.

A used entry level DSLR is already good enough to offer you the flexibility that a P&S camera can't do. Get you hands on one and you will definitely appreciate it.

I add to the list of purchase:
1. Camera (preferably digital and SLR are better): used 350D with kit lens -> $650
2. Macro Lens (minimum of 90/100/105 mm macro): used Tamron 90mm -> $550
3. Flash (One with wireless capability for later expansion): used 550EX -> $350, entry level 420EX used S$250
4. Wireless transmitter/cable (Wireless will open up a world of opportunity): new ST-E2 - $270
5. A tripod that can hold at least 5kg (used - S$80)
6. A dry cabinet 'Digi Cabi' 30L to protect your camera and lens (carrefour- S$109)

**valice** · 29th Jan 2008, 11:57

Actually, still got other hidden costs like batteries for flash, spare batteries for camera, CF memory cards, flash diffusors, eye-piece extender, battery grip, hand strape... Think the lists will go on quite abit.

**Wackytpt** · 29th Jan 2008, 12:21

Thanks Guys for the input.

I was just above to post to ask regarding these stuff.

Cheers

**Goondoo** · 29th Jan 2008, 14:09

Originally Posted by valice

Actually, still got other hidden costs like batteries for flash, spare batteries for camera, CF memory cards, flash diffusors, eye-piece extender, battery grip, hand strape... Think the lists will go on quite abit.

And not forgetting the addiction of buying camera bags for different occasions

**valice** · 29th Jan 2008, 14:15

Yah... One sling bag, one backpack, one lens bag, one trekking bag... Anymore.

Then buy tripod also, still got tripod back, then got different ball heads...

After some time, one flash not enough, will dig for more...

Like I told wasabii last time. DSLR is not a solution to a problem. It is the beginning of a BIGGER problem.

**hwchoy** · 29th Jan 2008, 14:24

yes, in the beginning you are damn impressed with ƒ/3.5-5.6, then you realise the smaller the better, so you got impressed with constant ƒ/4, then you discover ƒ/2.8, then people tell you when the going gets tough, the tough get ultra-fast primes, so you are a toughie with ƒ/1.8, then you found out you can be tough yet sexy at ƒ/1.4, and then you found out you can be tough, sexy yet elegant with ƒ/1.2 and then…

you go broke over ƒ/1.0

**Wackytpt** · 29th Jan 2008, 15:41

You guys are scary

**Goondoo** · 29th Jan 2008, 15:50

Originally Posted by valice

Yah... One sling bag, one backpack, one lens bag, one trekking bag... Anymore.

Basically would be something like one that can carry everything, one that can carry most of the things, one that can carry few of the things...
One that is heavy duty and water resistant (example:AW), one that is light and comfortable, one that carries a nice brand and looks cool.... etc

(each of the above)

**zenscape** · 29th Jan 2008, 16:03

Haha, you guys are scaring Nicholas

But really, after getting a DSLR, the nightmare just begin...

**luenny** · 29th Jan 2008, 16:22

This is the reason why I don't go read the posting on clubsnap anymore. The more you read the more things you find you want to buy.

**benny** · 29th Jan 2008, 17:02

Here. We try to borrow or share if possible. The community is still small enough. Until you can determine that it's the right gear for you, then buy. And buy used if possible.

Cheers,

**valice** · 29th Jan 2008, 17:18

Originally Posted by zenscape

Haha, you guys are scaring Nicholas

But really, after getting a DSLR, the nightmare just begin...

It is better to know the bitter truth now rather than finding it out the hard way later.

Think the buying spree starts at the beginning.. Subsequently, the urge to buy is not so much when you understand your own shooting interests and needs.

**celticfish** · 29th Jan 2008, 17:22

our friend still don't know what an ST-E2 is for...
but i believe he should be going for it!
so he can keep pictures of beautiful specimens of apistos for posterity...