450D or D3100 for n00b

[Craggles]

Hi All,

Friend is wanting a camera to start getting into photography.

Just wondering which of the two options you would consider to be better for n00b.

450D seems to be the cheaper option which is obviously a big factor but any other reccomendations / things to think about would be appreciated.

I've got no idea when it comes to nikon.

Cheers

[kini_mini]

The 450D is a couple of generations behind the D3100 isn't it?

Seeing as you've already bought into the Canon/EOS system, it might make sense for your friend to get a Canon too so you can share equipment.

Thom Hogan's D3100 review - seems reasonably positive on the Nikon side, I haven't kept up with the 550D and the xxD range in general.

[House]

Originally Posted by kini_mini

Seeing as you've already bought into the Canon/EOS system, it might make sense for your friend to get a Canon too so you can share equipment.

This is the only consideration I take into account when recommending a camera to an enthusiastic newcomer. Buy whatever your friends have.

The 450D is 4generations behind the times (600D is current) but it was the first low-end body to have live-view (like the point'n'shoots) so it's a very friendly first camera.

The 3100 Nikon was only announced mid-last year and is still $750 new from Teds. So you're offering the option of 'cheap old canon' vs 'new entrylevel nikon'... and only the purchaser can ultimately make the buying decision between New vs Cheaper.

Both good choices, but given the options I don't think we can help you.

[Frozen_Hell]

Originally Posted by House

'cheap old canon' vs 'new entrylevel nikon'

The D3100 is probably a much better camera purely because its 3-4 generations newer. The 450D is an entry level camera as well, its just been superceded multiple times over. The D3100 also records video, something the 450D doesn't.

Maybe get your friend to handhold both cameras and play with the controls to see if either immediately seems easier to him. If he wants to shoot video then the decision is quite easy.. but that said, aren't 550Ds similarly priced as the D3100 anyway?

[terrastrife]

you want to continue into photography?
get a D90 or similar secondhand.

you will outgrow entry level bodies in no time at all. and i mean, no time.

[House]

Originally Posted by terrastrife

you will outgrow entry level bodies in no time at all. and i mean, no time.

Can't disagree with this.
Still, I kept my 400D for over 3 years and collected lenses along the way.
I see a few 300D and 350Ds around still and their owners are often not overly geeky or looking for an upgrade, even with such an old camera.

I wouldn't necessarily suggest a 60D (or equiv nikon) to an newbie, and certainly wouldn't recommend a 7D/5D/1D, but many first timers will still go that route of their own accord. I figure if they buy a 7D or above they're happy to part with the money and they've probably delved pretty deep into all the online resources and forums for understanding of their own.

So, this all depends on the buyer. Are they 'thinking about being arty', or more 'driven to immerse themselves in photography'?