Good first camera for around $500

djdelarosa25 · May 13, 2016

This is going to be my first camera. Video is going to be my first priority, but I don't want to skimp out on image quality either. DSLR or mirrorless is okay. I'll only be using the stock kit lens since this is just for schoolwork and casual photography. Thanks!

KC1 · May 13, 2016

Research for yourself is the best way, because what you want will change with more information and a static, 'buy this camera' will never be helpful to you personally.

PaulWog · May 13, 2016

djdelarosa25 said:
This is going to be my first camera. Video is going to be my first priority, but I don't want to skimp out on image quality either. DSLR or mirrorless is okay. I'll only be using the stock kit lens since this is just for schoolwork and casual photography. Thanks!

For video on a budget, I would be inclined to get the best Canon DSLR you can afford. The reason is their ultra wide angle offering. It's added cost, but their 10-18mm lens with image stabilization makes a lot of sense for videography.

If you don't know what an 18-55mm f4-5.6 lens is, then I would say research what lenses do first.

KmH · May 14, 2016

Image quality results from photographer knowledge and skill.

With video being your first priority I say get a video camera not a DSLR or mirrorless.
To shoot good video with a DSLR you need several different accessories, like a follow focus set up and, at the least, a shoulder rig.

table1349 · May 14, 2016

KmH said:
Image quality results from photographer knowledge and skill.

With video being your first priority I say get a video camera not a DSLR or mirrorless.
To shoot good video with a DSLR you need several different accessories, like a follow focus set up and, at the least, a shoulder rig.

So that's why my moving business failed. I bought a motorcycle instead of the truck to haul the peoples furniture. :biggrin-93:

djdelarosa25 · May 14, 2016

KmH said:
Image quality results from photographer knowledge and skill.

With video being your first priority I say get a video camera not a DSLR or mirrorless.
To shoot good video with a DSLR you need several different accessories, like a follow focus set up and, at the least, a shoulder rig.

I also said that I don't want to skimp out on photo quality since I also want to learn basic photography

goodguy · May 14, 2016

Maybe Panasonic G7

djdelarosa25 · May 14, 2016

Overpriced here. It's like $1000+ dollars when I saw it yesterday.

djdelarosa25 · May 14, 2016

KmH said:
Image quality results from photographer knowledge and skill.

With video being your first priority I say get a video camera not a DSLR or mirrorless.
To shoot good video with a DSLR you need several different accessories, like a follow focus set up and, at the least, a shoulder rig.

I think you do not understand my situation. I am just a high school student who needs a good camera to shoot our projects (infomercials, music videos). I don't need a studio to do those obviously, since our teachers don't expect is to make pro-level video.

Long story short, please just recommend me a good camera in that price range that could shoot good video but still take good photos with the kit lens.

KC1 · May 14, 2016

I still recommend you do your own research, especially as a HS student, the ability to do quality research on a subject or topic will help more than a camera recommendation.

djdelarosa25 · May 14, 2016

KC1 said:
I still recommend you do your own research, especially as a HS student, the ability to do quality research on a subject or topic will help more than a camera recommendation.

I have already spent the past few days doing nothing but researching on which camera to buy. But for some reason, I think I'll be regretting whatever decision I make.

So I ask, D3300 vs 700D vs D5300 vs A5100 vs A6000?

Can you rank them (based on your opinion) on which is best for both CASUAL photo and video?

KC1 · May 14, 2016

Do you want 4k video or 1080?

jaomul · May 15, 2016

If you can get a Sony A6000 for your budget you'll likely be happy. It's a well rounded camera. The d3300 is nice also. You really can't go wrong with your list, the Sony a6000 ,though is more able than the other 3 listed

djdelarosa25 · May 15, 2016

KC1 said:
Do you want 4k video or 1080?

Only 1080p please

djdelarosa25 · May 15, 2016

jaomul said:
If you can get a Sony A6000 for your budget you'll likely be happy. It's a well rounded camera. The d3300 is nice also. You really can't go wrong with your list, the Sony a6000 ,though is more able than the other 3 listed

Thanks!

Don't you think the 700D is better than the D3300 for video? Articulating LCD, touch screen, silent lens. They also say that the focus motor of the D3300 and D5300's kit lens is loud.