camera to take pictures of my knives

[Sentinel09]

Hi all! Can anyone recommend a camera that takes nice close up pictures of knives that I see here on the forum. The camera on my phone just doesn't cut it. Thanks

 

[cchu518]

I think that Cameras have mostly been replaced these days by quality digi phone cameras. The one on my Samsung S3 is great. I have a Canon T2i at home its a great DSlr overkill in most areas. A solid camera line is the Canon Powershot G series like the G15 but it might be overkill. That said I have a really handy all weather instamatic that takes really nice pics its a Panasonic LumixTS25 for about $150. Its dual purpose in that we can take it out in wet weather and humidity and the electronics won't fry. Takes decent macro shots so long as you have the proper lighting and its easy to use.

 

[zcd]

What is your price range? A few of us are also extreme camera nerds

 

[Bob W]

Are you interested in photography other than taking knife pictures? If so, I recommend an entry level DSLR like the Nikon D3100. Under 500 bucks and takes pictures just as good, to my eyes anyway, as a thousand-dollar camera.

If you need something more pocket-able and/or less expensive, nothing wrong with most point-and-shoot models. I do suggest at least going for a more advanced model than the really basic cameras - look for a camera that you can at least select your own aperture and shutter speed. I'm a fan of Canon P&S cameras because of their treatment of colors.

Plenty of other options too, something in-between a basic P&S and a DSLR:

Don't overlook the fact that most of your time, and a small bit of money, will be spent on peripherals. Lighting, tripod, computer and software...

 

[Sentinel09]

Thanks for all the good advice everyone. I need to keep the price around $200. Is that possible?

 

[zcd]

For $200 you'll be looking at a point and shoot, if you can manage $345 you can get a Canon EOS M + 18-55 lens which would be a great little unit.

 

[mqqn]

Hi Sentinel -

Please take some time and go read the advice at Ken Rockwell's site (search google for Ken Rockwell) -

Several years ago, on his advice, I bought a Nikon D40 refurbished unit from Adorama with a kit lens for $350 dollars.

I have taken over 20,000 snaps with this camera and it has gone through hell with me as I hang it around my neck and then travel across country on my motorcycle, taking pictures all the way.

Just read Ken's advice, and then make your decision based on your newfound knowledge.

The Nikon 3100 is a great choice - and you can get the refurbished kit from Adorama for around $350.

You can also see the recommendation for your price range.

Happy researching!

best

mqqn

 

[SteyrAUG]

If you look around you can even find Nikon D5100s brand new in the just over $500 range. IMO worth spending the extra $150.00

 

[Bob W]

Thanks for all the good advice everyone. I need to keep the price around $200. Is that possible?

Take a look at the Canon Powershot sx170. $180.

The point-and-shoot I use is the Canon sx230 shown above. I use it for traveling overseas and when on the motorcycle. It's discontinued now; the new model is the Canon sx280 that sells for about $250. Lots of features for the price, including built-in GPS, 20x optical zoom, image stabilization, and aperture / shutter speed / fully manual modes.

A couple of pictures from the sx230 showing a variety of shooting and lighting conditions: