Posted by TheGuitarist Thanks for all the info. Obviously I'm not limited to just those two options, but I am in the $300 range due to my VERY limited budget.

I too have the issue of a shitty budget, so I guess I'll stick around here until something comes up.

Posted by TheGuitarist Why doesn't anyone make a cheap camera that can take good pictures in drains? xD I have a fairly good knowledge of using cameras in manual mode, so if anyone has any recommendations, I'd gladly listen.

An XS (with a working autofocus) would do you fine to get started.

I used an XSi for many years.

If you're willing to go used, you can find a lot in your price range.

http://www.bhphoto...rt&mnp=150&mxp=350

It's silly, but sometimes it's true that "The best camera is the one in your hands" because until it's in your hands, there's nothing. Don't worry about "the best" don't worry about what you can't afford, just pick something up (but make sure it isn't shit) and start shooting and working on your technique. Build skill (and gear) as you go and as you are able.

The trick to drains (and underground/no light photography in general) is your lighting. A camera alone won't do it. But THAT'S a whole different conversation...

^Some very good points made in that post, particularly about buying used. You can definitely get a better quality camera for less money if you buy used. You, of course, need to be smart about it and not buy products with major defects like, say, I don't know, broken autofocus :p I bought my current camera and lens off of people on craigslist and saved nearly $2,000 over buying new and both items are practically brand new. I definitely wouldn't have been able to buy that stuff new. The camera only has just under 5k actuations and the lens came with all the accessories including the original box and is completely scratch and dirt free.

I love craigslist so I would say if you're comfortable looking on there, do it! It's nice to be able to see what you're getting before you pay for it, especially when it's items that are so expensive. However, if you don't do that I would recommend buying used from a trusted site like B&H or somewhere that has an accommodating return policy just incase you find any damage you didn't expect.

Also, if you're still looking into the xs, one thing I should mention that I don't think I did before is that it can't shoot video. I didn't care about that since that wasn't what I bought it for, but I don't know how you're planning on using your camera.

Okay, guess I'm going to keep looking around Craigslist then. Thanks for the help everyone.

Posted by NotBatman If you're willing to go used, you can find a lot in your price range. http://www.bhphoto...rt&mnp=150&mxp=350

I checked out that link, is this any good? I'm not sure if it includes the lens, but if so then I think it's quite a good deal: http://www.bhphoto...ital_rebel_xt.html

Looking for my first LF camera

Posted by Sceptic Looking for my first LF camera

Me too

Posted by Trackrunner I checked out that link, is this any good? I'm not sure if it includes the lens, but if so then I think it's quite a good deal: http://www.bhphoto...ital_rebel_xt.html

Looks like it's body only, but a kit lens can be had for cheap - especially used.

I've never used one myself, but I know a guy who's still doing some really nice things with an XT. Mind you, he's a goddamn WIZARD, but this is his weapon.

That being said, it's an old body and, as such, old tech. Your results probably will vary. THAT ALSO being said, one of the best exposures I've ever made was with an even older model...

Personally, I would buy something newer. I'm not a fan of spending the absolute max of my budget, but I'm also not one to spend the absolute minimum, either.

This exceptionally wishy-washy response should be read as: Buy something newer. I've heard a lot of nice things about the T1. http://www.bhphoto...l_t1i_digital.html You'll still need a lens, but you can pick up a decent kit lens for nearly dirt.

If you're not in a hurry, troll Craigslist for a little while. You can find some pretty sweet deals there, if you're patient. Keep in mind, you'll need batteries, chargers, memory cards, etc. I seem to run across a number of "complete kits" that seem reasonable. Plus, you can put your hands on the items beforehand, ask questions, etc.

I have the opportunity to pick up a Horseman 45HF with sinaron 90mm f4.5 along with four film holders for $1,000. Apparently the porthole was modified in order to accommodate this lens and others. Quick suggestions would be appreciated!

Posted by NotBatman You'll still need a lens, but you can pick up a decent kit lens for nearly dirt.

What would you consider "cheap,"? Also, would the lens affect the picture too much? I'm really torn between a used dslr or a new compact-ish camera

eBay is also a good option for used gear. That's where I've bought most of my equipment.

I would be a little weary of ebay, especially when it comes to buying lenses. I would hate to drop a couple hundred or more on a lens and get it only to find it's scratched or dirty inside or whatever else. That's why I recommend craigslist. It's nice to try before you buy. Though make sure you come prepared, if you're buying a body bring a lens and memory card, if you're buying a lens bring a body and memory card, etc..

Posted by Sceptic I have the opportunity to pick up a Horseman 45HF with sinaron 90mm f4.5 along with four film holders for $1,000. Apparently the porthole was modified in order to accommodate this lens and others. Quick suggestions would be appreciated!

Yes!

Posted by DawnPatrol I would be a little weary of ebay, especially when it comes to buying lenses. I would hate to drop a couple hundred or more on a lens and get it only to find it's scratched or dirty inside or whatever else. That's why I recommend craigslist. It's nice to try before you buy. Though make sure you come prepared, if you're buying a body bring a lens and memory card, if you're buying a lens bring a body and memory card, etc..

I stand by eBay. The ONLY time that I've had an issue with a lens, the seller took it back, and when he tried to stiff me on a refund, eBay upheld my complaint. Sure, you need to be mindful even with eBay's protections, but there's plenty of quality equipment on there.

Canon EOS Rebel T3 for $330. Should I jump on it? Comes with lens and bag, I think it looks pretty decent, is in very good condition.

Just a tip for all looking for decent but cheap digital gear.

Check out KEH.com. I don't work for them and they're probably a well-kept secret I shouldn't be sharing but they offer affordable used gear and their rating system is very understated. Meaning, I buy products often that are marked EX +or- and they're more like new. I've never had a problem with gear I've purchased from them. IMO, it's safer than Craigslist.

hmmm, just checked them out for some lenses I've been looking for. Seems like they have more ebay listings than listings on their site. Only found one of the lenses I've been looking at and they were selling it used for $20 less than amazon is selling it brand new. I guess it depends what you're looking for.

Posted by ISO640 Just a tip for all looking for decent but cheap digital gear. Check out KEH.com. I don't work for them and they're probably a well-kept secret I shouldn't be sharing but they offer affordable used gear and their rating system is very understated. Meaning, I buy products often that are marked EX +or- and they're more like new. I've never had a problem with gear I've purchased from them. IMO, it's safer than Craigslist.

I was just going to suggest KEH.com they're great! I've ordered quite a few items from them over the years and never had any issues. I've heard their return policy is great as well - never had to make use of it.

Another option is the FM Buy/Sell forum. http://www.fredmir...com/forum/board/10 There are a few deals on there, from time-to-time. The only thing I don't like is there are members who buy gear and sell it to make a profit. Despite these members having great feedback I usually stay away from those listings. I'd rather buy from the original owner or someone looking to sell gear to upgrade vs. selling to make a profit.

Okay, I'm pretty much stuck deciding which one of these cameras to get. I found 2 D5100's but they haven't replied to my email. I'm gonna post the links to the other two. The Samsung NX1000 is like 23 MP. But just has the 20-50mm lens, but it's also only $200. The other is a Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G3. It's only 16 MP but comes with the stock lens and a 45-200mm lens. It's $450. And I don't know a whole about cameras so I could really use the help. I'm trying to buy from Craigslist so that I can just go pick it up. I don't wanna wait for shipping. Here's the links:


https://atlanta.cr...le/4346491670.html


http://atlanta.cra...le/4286340277.html

Posted by Sceptic Looking for my first LF camera

LF isn't for everyone.. or even hardly anyone.. But that's good news in a way...

Since you haven't had a LF before I'd suggest you find an old Graflex. They are as old as dirt and just about as cheap.. ( or even free! ) As long as the bellows & shutter are good.. you are good to go..

Just check the bellows for light leaks.. & set the shutter down to 1s & compare it to your watch. If it's pretty close to 1s you will be fine..

It's big.. Bulky.. & a pain in the a$$.. But if you get into it you'll be hooked and won't feel like you wasted money when you go to upgrade..

If you find it isn't for you.. It still looks great sitting on a shelf and it didn't hardly cost you anything..