Camera New DSLR for beginner

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RD274

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I'm looking for a camera around 20 - 25. I learnt photography in school on a Pentex film camera years ago and I still remember my basics as I still use f number/shutter speeds/iso values while working in Vray. The thing is I need the camera for shooting video in a dimly lit room for a project- over photography in general (not porn before you ask).

So basically D3300 or 1200D? I take it that the D3300 has a better and newer sensor but the 1200D has better video shooting capabilities and autofocus. Thing is, I can get the 1200D + 18-55 + 55-200 for 26k on ebay whereas the D3300 with only 18-55 in 27-28 bringing it very close to the 600D too. So what do I pick in this scenario? Also, @abracadbra mentioned used cameras like the 550D/600D/etc. Is there are a used market/forum where I can consider getting one of these cams?
 
If you want a camera setup specifically for low light video shoots, I would suggest a used (if your budget doesn't allow) 600D with a prime lens. However the cheap Canon 50mm 1.8 is quite noisy and you will get the *whirr click click* sometimes while recording as the camera shifts focus. If you can, get the Canon 40mm 2.8 STM Pancake lens. These are super silent lenses designed for video. For photography in general, you can get the 18-55mm as well.
I would suggest the 600D kit with 18-55 + 40mm 2.8 STM.
Have heard numerous people being confused over the 1200D vs the 600D dilemma since the price gap has decreased. The 1200D is a newer camera but that's just it. The 600D is old but has the following advantages:
Canon 1200D - Canon 600D
Screen: 460k dot screen - 1040k dots
Speed: 3fps continuous - 3.7fps
Flash: 9m flash power - 13m (GN, ISO100/m)
500 shot battery life - 440 shot life

Also the 600D has an articulating screen which is great for shooting video plus it can trigger a remote flash. 1200D doesnt have the feature.
 
TheNightwing said:
If you want a camera setup specifically for low light video shoots, I would suggest a used (if your budget doesn't allow) 600D with a prime lens. However the cheap Canon 50mm 1.8 is quite noisy and you will get the *whirr click click* sometimes while recording as the camera shifts focus. If you can, get the Canon 40mm 2.8 STM Pancake lens. These are super silent lenses designed for video. For photography in general, you can get the 18-55mm as well.
I would suggest the 600D kit with 18-55 + 40mm 2.8 STM.
Have heard numerous people being confused over the 1200D vs the 600D dilemma since the price gap has decreased. The 1200D is a newer camera but that's just it. The 600D is old but has the following advantages:
Canon 1200D - Canon 600D
Screen: 460k dot screen - 1040k dots
Speed: 3fps continuous - 3.7fps
Flash: 9m flash power - 13m (GN, ISO100/m)
500 shot battery life - 440 shot life

Also the 600D has an articulating screen which is great for shooting video plus it can trigger a remote flash. 1200D doesnt have the feature.
Click to expand...

Yes, I'd be fairly happy with a used 600D but can't see to find any of them on sale used for under 25, which is sad as I'd lap it up immediately :p. As for the lenses, I'm quite sorted as I have two Canon using friends who have the 50mm prime lens, although no one has that pancake lens which is amazing from what I've heard about it. Although I highly doubt my usage is professional enough that I would need that. Right now I'm still confused with regard to the camera.

How about a D5100? It literarily has the same pricing options as the D3300 (22 without lens, 26 with 18-55). And although it does have an articulating screen, is it comparable/better than the 1200D or D3300 at everything else.
 
RD274 said:
Yes, I'd be fairly happy with a used 600D but can't see to find any of them on sale used for under 25, which is sad as I'd lap it up immediately :p. As for the lenses, I'm quite sorted as I have two Canon using friends who have the 50mm prime lens, although no one has that pancake lens which is amazing from what I've heard about it. Although I highly doubt my usage is professional enough that I would need that. Right now I'm still confused with regard to the camera.

How about a D5100? It literarily has the same pricing options as the D3300 (22 without lens, 26 with 18-55). And although it does have an articulating screen, is it comparable/better than the 1200D or D3300 at everything else.
Click to expand...
D5100 shares the same sensor as the D7000 so image quality wise both are the same. For me, D7000 has one of best sensors put in a DX cameras to date. But since the D5100 doesn't have an autofocus motor hence it cant autofocus older lenses. (most of the those old lenses have newer variants with in-built motors so it's not much of a problem now)
The D3300 has a newer sensor and much better noise control than either of the two.
For video and since your friends already own Canon gear, I would suggest sticking to the Canon system.
You can try posting here as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/camerabuysell/
If you can get a used 650D in good condition then go for it eyes closed.
 
1. If you haven't bought, consider Sony before buying. Sony shoots better video than Canon/Nikon.
2. I am not sure/don't remember if the cameras you mentioned do have full manual controls in video recording. Check them before buying.
3. For serious video work, it's better to use manual focus. So don't worry about AF whizzing sound.
 
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