Second hand DSLR + prime lens? Advice

[yourcontact]

Hi
I'd like to buy a second hand DSLR with a prime lens 50 mm 1.8
Here is the list of what falls within my budget (£300)

Nikon D40 £150 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
D60 £200 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
I know I will have to use manual focus as the AF is not compatible (not AF-S)
D70 £150 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
D50 £120 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100

Canon EOS 1000D refurbished £240 + Canon EF 50 mm f/1.8 II Lens £90
Canon EOS 450d £250 + Canon EF 50 mm f/1.8 II Lens £90
Canon EOS 20D £150 + Canon EF 50 mm f/1.8 II Lens £90

Most of my pictures are taken on the street (portrait, people, street scene)

Could you please help me to narrow my choice?
Have any of these cameras had major problems over the last years?
Which camera would you pick out of these?

Thank you very much

 

[john.e]

I'm not really in a position to give you advice on the cameras but just a tip; Nikon 50mm 1.8's go for around £80 rather than £100 second hand so this frees your budget up a little.

 

[wicker_man]

The best thing to do would be to try out the cameras and see how they feel in your hand to see what is more comfortable.

Canon wise, I own a 20D (and 40D) and it is a very solid feeling camera, and quite a bit larger than a 450D/1000D. I find the larger size of the 20D much more comfortable to use (we have a 400D as a society camera at uni which I have used quite a bit.) It also has the second control wheel which makes it easier when changing settings and a faster burst mode (which may be useful to you?) It is a slightly older camera, so the LCD is smaller, but as it is only for image review I don't find it a major issue.

I don't have much experience of Nikon cameras, but as you mentioned there is the issue of lenses without built in AF motors not autofocusing on the D40/60, although I presume this is not a major issue for you?

Bear in mind that a 50mm lens on an APS-C camera will give you an equivalent field of view of 75mm on Nikon or 80mm on Canon.

 

[yourcontact]

I'm not really in a position to give you advice on the cameras but just a tip; Nikon 50mm 1.8's go for around £80 rather than £100 second hand so this frees your budget up a little.

Thanks a lot

 

[Flash In The Pan]

Nikon D40 £150 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
D60 £200 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
I know I will have to use manual focus as the AF is not compatible (not AF-S)
D70 £150 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100
D50 £120 + Nikon 50mm F1.8D AF Nikkor Lens £100

Can't offer any advice on the Canons, but from the list of Nikons above my choice would be the D60 as it has the "rangefinder" feature to help with manual focussing and is the most modern of the bunch. Failing that, the D70, D50 and D40, in that order as there's not much to choose between then when it comes down to it.

 

[yourcontact]

The best thing to do would be to try out the cameras and see how they feel in your hand to see what is more comfortable.

Canon wise, I own a 20D (and 40D) and it is a very solid feeling camera, and quite a bit larger than a 450D/1000D. I find the larger size of the 20D much more comfortable to use (we have a 400D as a society camera at uni which I have used quite a bit.)

It also has the second control wheel which makes it easier when changing settings and a faster burst mode (which may be useful to you?) It is a slightly older camera, so the LCD is smaller, but as it is only for image review I don't find it a major issue.

Thanks I think I would prefer a smaller camera so maybe the 450d/1000D.

I don't have much experience of Nikon cameras, but as you mentioned there is the issue of lenses without built in AF motors not autofocusing on the D40/60, although I presume this is not a major issue for you?

Bear in mind that a 50mm lens on an APS-C camera will give you an equivalent field of view of 75mm on Nikon or 80mm on Canon.

I am quite comfortable with manual focus so it should be fine although it is still comfortable to have an AF sometime...

 

[yourcontact]

Can't offer any advice on the Canons, but from the list of Nikons above my choice would be the D60 as it has the "rangefinder" feature to help with manual focussing and is the most modern of the bunch. Failing that, the D70, D50 and D40, in that order as there's not much to choose between then when it comes down to it.

Thanks for the advice regarding the Nikons

 

[mishu]

If you go with a Nikon camera I'd suggest a 35mm f1.8 DX lens. It will have AF on each body and the FOV on DX is close to 50mm which is much better for street photography. Maybe you can find a used copy to fit in your budget.

 

[andyred]

Thanks I think I would prefer a smaller camera so maybe the 450d/1000D....

From these 2 I'd probably opt for the 450D - it is a cracker of a body.

The 50mm 1.8 can be got for £75 del new from Ian (Kerso) on here - see classified traders thread or slightly less 2nd hand.

 

[andyred]

Hi Roman


Link to Ian (Kerso) re 50mm

http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=80

Hope this helps

 

[samsnikon]

I think the D50 combo will work well, its what I used for a couple of years. I dont think the premium for the d60/70 is worth it.

I would definately do what the above poster said and play with the controls and size of camera to see what you prefer.

 

[yourcontact]

If you go with a Nikon camera I'd suggest a 35mm f1.8 DX lens. It will have AF on each body and the FOV on DX is close to 50mm which is much better for street photography. Maybe you can find a used copy to fit in your budget.

Yes, this is what I thought but I am afraid I will be a bit wide for portraits...I guess I will save up and get a 28 mm and a 50 mm or something like that later on

 

[yourcontact]

From these 2 I'd probably opt for the 450D - it is a cracker of a body.

The 50mm 1.8 can be got for £75 del new from Ian (Kerso) on here - see classified traders thread or slightly less 2nd hand.

Thanks for the tip. I'll take a look

 

[BacktotheFuji]

If you are willing to manual focus, I would buy a Canon EOS 450D or 30D, and an old MF lens with adapter e.g. Asahi Pentax Super Takumar 55/1.8 and M42 adapter will set you back £30-40. Alternatively, a Nikon adapter and a Nikkor 50/1.8 will cost about £50.00. Or an Olympus adapter with Zuiko 50/1.8 is even cheaper at around £20.00. Or if you are on a real budget, a Helios 44-2 and M42 adapter about £15.00

 

[gary43]

If you are willing to manual focus, I would buy a Canon EOS 450D or 30D, and an old MF lens with adapter e.g. Asahi Pentax Super Takumar 55/1.8 and M42 adapter will set you back £30-40. Alternatively, a Nikon adapter and a Nikkor 50/1.8 will cost about £50.00. Or an Olympus adapter with Zuiko 50/1.8 is even cheaper at around £20.00. Or if you are on a real budget, a Helios 44-2 and M42 adapter about £15.00

+1 for the 30D. A really nice camera for the money nowadays.

Also +1 for getting the 50 f1.8 from Kerso. Excellent, useful lens for the right price.

The OPcannot go too far wrong with this combination.

Sorry, I know nothing about the Nikons.

Did used to shoot with Pentax gear though some years ago and their kit is great value for money; did not like the high iso on a k10D, hence the switch to Canon. But that is another story..

 

[Mark_C]

I had the 50mm 1.8 on my camera, excellent lens for a fantastic price. I've seen them go for £60 or so second hand here.

 

[yourcontact]

I thought I would get the D50 because of the autofocus and cause it is a bit cheaper than D40/D60.
I was considering buying it from ebay. Any other website I could look at?
How much shall I pay for the D50 Body?
Thanks

 

[yourcontact]

I think the D50 combo will work well, its what I used for a couple of years. I dont think the premium for the d60/70 is worth it.

I would definately do what the above poster said and play with the controls and size of camera to see what you prefer.

I thought I would get the D50 because of the autofocus and cause it is a bit cheaper than D40/D60.
I was considering buying it from ebay. Any other website I could look at?
How much shall I pay for the D50 Body?
Thanks

 

[TCR4x4]

I thought I would get the D50 because of the autofocus and cause it is a bit cheaper than D40/D60.
I was considering buying it from ebay. Any other website I could look at?
How much shall I pay for the D50 Body?
Thanks

Here, AV forums, Misfuds, MPB, Grays of westminster.

You should get a D50 for £150-£250 ish.

Nice little camera, I had one when they first came out, was my first DSLR.

 

[yourcontact]

If you are willing to manual focus, I would buy a Canon EOS 450D or 30D, and an old MF lens with adapter e.g. Asahi Pentax Super Takumar 55/1.8 and M42 adapter will set you back £30-40. Alternatively, a Nikon adapter and a Nikkor 50/1.8 will cost about £50.00. Or an Olympus adapter with Zuiko 50/1.8 is even cheaper at around £20.00. Or if you are on a real budget, a Helios 44-2 and M42 adapter about £15.00

According to the review, 450D would easily suit my needs however I have not had the chance to try it yet...Whereas I tried Nikon D60 and D70 however I would rather go for the D50 due to budget constraint.

Thanks for the tips regarding the lenses.

 

[yourcontact]

+1 for the 30D. A really nice camera for the money nowadays.

Also +1 for getting the 50 f1.8 from Kerso. Excellent, useful lens for the right price.

The OPcannot go too far wrong with this combination.

Sorry, I know nothing about the Nikons.

Did used to shoot with Pentax gear though some years ago and their kit is great value for money; did not like the high iso on a k10D, hence the switch to Canon. But that is another story..

I read a year ago that Canon 20D was a good one to buy second hand. Is this statement outdated? What about 30D vs 450d (body only)?

Is the K10D still a good buy (secon hand)?
Thanks

 

[TCR4x4]

The 450d is ok too. I bought one about 4-5 months ago when I started back into photography. I just couldnt get on with the Canon ergonomics, so I came back to Nikon and bought another D700.

The D50 will do fine, although the screen is pretty small compared to modern standards, its not that much of an issue. If you get a D50 or D70 then you have any lens Nikon have ever made in the last 50 years at your disposal. The only issue is some of the really old ones wont meter, but all will autofocus. Where as the D60 wont autofocus as it doesnt have the built in motor.

 

[wicker_man]

I read a year ago that Canon 20D was a good one to buy second hand. Is this statement outdated?

The 30D is pretty much the same as the 20D performance wise, they use the same sensor (8mp) and the only changes are a bigger LCD and a few minor tweaks. I'd say it is a great value camera, and performance is close to my 40D, even at high ISOs.

 

[wack61]

£250-£300 should get you a second hand D40 and Nikon 35mm f/1.8 AFs , the D40 is a vastly underrated camera IMO.

The D50 does have the AF motor but the technology is a good few years behind the D40

 

[yourcontact]

If you are willing to manual focus, I would buy a Canon EOS 450D or 30D, and an old MF lens with adapter e.g. Asahi Pentax Super Takumar 55/1.8 and M42 adapter will set you back £30-40. Alternatively, a Nikon adapter and a Nikkor 50/1.8 will cost about £50.00. Or an Olympus adapter with Zuiko 50/1.8 is even cheaper at around £20.00. Or if you are on a real budget, a Helios 44-2 and M42 adapter about £15.00

Thanks. Do you know where I could find more information about these old lenses? I posted a thread on that but not many people replied...

 

[Tracer]

Before considering old MF lenses check that they will meter with your chosen camera - I don't know about Canon but only the higher-end Nikon bodies will. Otherwise you are down to chimping,which may or may not be your thing. Also manual focusing by eye on a crop body DSLR is not nearly as easy as on an old film SLR, as the viewfinder screen is smaller and doesn't have any focusing aids.

An AF 50 1.8 would at least give a green light indicator in the D40 and D60. However if you are wanting to shoot candid street pics I really think you would be better off with the D50 or D70 for trouble-free auto-focusing. Of these two the D50 gives better OOC jpegs and looks better value for money - it was and still is an excellent, robust camera and would be my choice on your budget. It would also leave you money to spare towards other goodies.

 

[BacktotheFuji]

Hi

Canons meter with all old lenses. You will need to focus and set the aperture on the lens manually though. I've not had a problem manual focusing, but then I have good eyes! Many adapters come with a chip now which enables the focus confirm system in the camera. The latest generation come with an EMF chip which you can program on the camera to ensure that the focus confirmation is perfect, I'd definately recommend one of these. The adapters range from about £10-20.

 

[timmygcsc2308]

£250-£300 should get you a second hand D40 and Nikon 35mm f/1.8 AFs , the D40 is a vastly underrated camera IMO.

The D50 does have the AF motor but the technology is a good few years behind the D40

this is the best advice on this thread. I much preferred my 35mm Nikon to the 50mm

 

[ecniv]

OP:
Out of the original options... d70 because it has the motor so you can look around at the older af lenses.

Do you have any second hand photo stores near you? If so take your list and budget to them, see what they can do. But you don't have to buy, its for trying out and seeing whether its the right camera for you.

D40 is a good camera for starting with. A colleague here has one, and hes only just upgraded to the d7000 (which he loves).

Lenses, well the 50mm f1.8 new at 100ukp will probably give you what you need on the street side. Note that you might need to step back a bit.
20, 24, 30 or 35mm might give you a better view, but prices are probably out of your budget. Worth a quick check. If you are over at a store, see whether they will let you take a pic/peek with these lenses so you can see the difference.

Post back if you buy something!

 

[timmygcsc2308]

20, 24, 30 or 35mm might give you a better view, but prices are probably out of your budget.

D40 used should be no more than £160, and I sold my 35mm on here for about £130

 

[yourcontact]

OP:
Out of the original options... d70 because it has the motor so you can look around at the older af lenses.

Do you have any second hand photo stores near you? If so take your list and budget to them, see what they can do. But you don't have to buy, its for trying out and seeing whether its the right camera for you.

D40 is a good camera for starting with. A colleague here has one, and hes only just upgraded to the d7000 (which he loves).

Lenses, well the 50mm f1.8 new at 100ukp will probably give you what you need on the street side. Note that you might need to step back a bit.
20, 24, 30 or 35mm might give you a better view, but prices are probably out of your budget. Worth a quick check. If you are over at a store, see whether they will let you take a pic/peek with these lenses so you can see the difference.

Post back if you buy something!

Hi, I live in B'ham too. Do you know any second hand shops where I could go to take a look? Thanks

 

[yourcontact]

Thanks for all the advice so far.

I had a look at several Nikon and Canon bodies and I am more comfortable with Nikons.

So I am considering buying either the D60 or D50.

I also tried 35mm and 50mm lenses. I will buy the 50mm 1.8

Is it worth buying the 50mm f/1.8 rather than the 50mm AF f/1.8 to save a bit if I go for the D60?

 

[yourcontact]

bump

 

[boliston]

Before considering old MF lenses check that they will meter with your chosen camera - I don't know about Canon but only the higher-end Nikon bodies will. Otherwise you are down to chimping,which may or may not be your thing. Also manual focusing by eye on a crop body DSLR is not nearly as easy as on an old film SLR, as the viewfinder screen is smaller and doesn't have any focusing aids.

An AF 50 1.8 would at least give a green light indicator in the D40 and D60. However if you are wanting to shoot candid street pics I really think you would be better off with the D50 or D70 for trouble-free auto-focusing. Of these two the D50 gives better OOC jpegs and looks better value for money - it was and still is an excellent, robust camera and would be my choice on your budget. It would also leave you money to spare towards other goodies.

Just noticed this post regarding viewfinders. A thing to be aware of is that Nikon have a habit of trying to save money on the viewfinder on some consumer cams by using a "pentamirror" instead of a traditional glass "pentaprism" that were always used in traditional film SLR cams.

I liked my old D70s a lot, but the cheaper type of viewfinder gave quite a small dark viewfinder image. I have used the D80 which has a traditional glass prism and this gave a good bright viewfinder image which made manual focussing a lot easier. As far as I'm aware the only consumer bodies to have glass prism are D80, D90 & D7000, so it might be good to get a lens like the 35/1.8g which supports autofocus if going for one of the newer consumer cams like the D40/D60 without a motor.

 

[Nogbad]

I bought a 2nd hand 450D from London Camera Exchange 9 months ago and think is a cracking camera, easy to use and great results. I got mine with the 18-55 Kit lens which is no so good and died 2 months out of guarantee, I have a good selection of Sigma lenses now and just ordered the Sigma 17-70 which has great reviews as a walk around lens. Have good fun choosing from so many reviews and opinions.

 

[yourcontact]

Just noticed this post regarding viewfinders. A thing to be aware of is that Nikon have a habit of trying to save money on the viewfinder on some consumer cams by using a "pentamirror" instead of a traditional glass "pentaprism" that were always used in traditional film SLR cams.

I liked my old D70s a lot, but the cheaper type of viewfinder gave quite a small dark viewfinder image. I have used the D80 which has a traditional glass prism and this gave a good bright viewfinder image which made manual focussing a lot easier. As far as I'm aware the only consumer bodies to have glass prism are D80, D90 & D7000, so it might be good to get a lens like the 35/1.8g which supports autofocus if going for one of the newer consumer cams like the D40/D60 without a motor.

Thanks a lot for the information

 

[yourcontact]

I bought a 2nd hand 450D from London Camera Exchange 9 months ago and think is a cracking camera, easy to use and great results. I got mine with the 18-55 Kit lens which is no so good and died 2 months out of guarantee, I have a good selection of Sigma lenses now and just ordered the Sigma 17-70 which has great reviews as a walk around lens. Have good fun choosing from so many reviews and opinions.

Thanks. I bought a lens Nikkor 50mm f1.8 AF. I also found out that I can borrow a nikon D70 and D60 from the photo society at my university. So I will be using Nikon D70 or D60 + 50mm f/1.8 AF until June... I will look at buying a body a bit later when money is less scarce!

Thanks to everyone by the way !!