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memorybliss
newbie


Reged: 23/08/2008
Posts: 9
D80 and Raw
      #700065 - 01/09/2008 18:56

Hi all, I'm seriously considering the above camera, but have a couple of questions though. I hear that it doesn't come with good software for RAW pictures, so was wondering how much such software would cost. Also, was wondering how the kit lens(18-135mm) compares against other lenses.....what is the quality like? Obviously before taking the plunge I'm curious as can't decide between the 450 D and the Nikon.

Any pointers/advice please?


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stenchbings
addict


Reged: 16/07/2007
Posts: 478
Loc: uk
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: memorybliss]
      #700069 - 01/09/2008 19:08

i have the D80 with the 18-70 lens. i chose this lens over the 18-135 after reading countless reviews from professionals and amatuers.which other lenses were you looking at? i have not been more happy with my choice. you can download basic raw editing programs on the net for free, whilst nikons capture NX can be found for around £40 or the newer version cature nx 2 can be be bought for around £100.

Have you been into a shop and held both of the cameras? i alo chose the nikon because is it heavier and suited the my hands better. felt like i was holding the camera if that makes sense?

both cameras are capable of great results. bear in mind the upgrade to the D80 has just be announced, so if you budget will stretch that extra bit further then might be worth waiting for the D90 to drop in price a bit (give it 2 months)

hope ive helped.


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memorybliss
newbie


Reged: 23/08/2008
Posts: 9
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: stenchbings]
      #700074 - 01/09/2008 19:27

I'm seeking all help I can at the moment just to build up as much information as I can. I've not looked at other lenses as such but just wondered how they compared. I've had a look at both cameras in a shop and had a good play with them. The nikon does feel more substantial although I'm aware they are both very capable pieces of equipment. Thanks anyhow.

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Towershot
old hand


Reged: 19/03/2007
Posts: 773
Loc: Lancashire, U,K.
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: memorybliss]
      #700205 - 01/09/2008 22:55

As stenchbings says ,the D90 coming out soon,and if you wait a couple of months the price of the D80 will drop also.

Get the 18-70 with it as it is a very good lens.

Then when you are ready for another lens ,you will probably know by then which one you want.....good luck.

--------------------
Got a good camera, now to get a good photographer.:~<

Rick

My Flickr


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numanr
newbie


Reged: 27/08/2008
Posts: 4
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: Towershot]
      #700214 - 01/09/2008 23:21

Oh my goodness, I am thinking of buying an Alpha 350, Canon 450 or D80. I havent handled any of them yet as I need to do as much research before taking the plunge,(I am restricted to buying from comet owing to vouchers being part of my payment method). To be honest I was choosing the 450 or 350 but my good lady said to increase my cash and suddenly the d80 is in sight. A camera shop I respect have advised me to steer clear of the 450, (they have had some returned faulty) they sing the praises of the 350 but as I didnt have the cash left out the D80. My question is, should I go for a camera which is older, less pixels, no live view, no image stabilisation etc or the 350? I am a keen beginner rather than keen amatuer. I have photographed weddings, christenings etc, I love macro, I have been told I take very good photgraphs and alot of friends love my photos of beach scenes and landscapes. I want quality images, I want quality build and I want it to last. Can you guys tell me if a keen beginner can learn using a d80 or should I play safe with the 350?

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stenchbings
addict


Reged: 16/07/2007
Posts: 478
Loc: uk
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: numanr]
      #700421 - 02/09/2008 13:25

I was a keen beginner when i bought the D80. I went from using a fuji s5700 bridge. I would say from a personal perspective the D80 is a simple camera to use but hard to master. therefore it was easy for me to pick up and now as i learn more what it is capable of, my photography is growing aswell. if you can see yourself continuing to learn and you will be taking pictures for the forseeable future you may buy a entry level camera and be left wanting more, in the near future.


if you want quality images and something that will last then the D80 will definitely tick both boxes.


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numanr
newbie


Reged: 27/08/2008
Posts: 4
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: stenchbings]
      #700684 - 02/09/2008 20:48

Thanks for that, hopefully will be going to my camera shop for advice and to handle them all, this weekend. Will post back when I have made a final decision.

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phiggy



Reged: 15/01/2002
Posts: 2438
Loc: Shropshire U.K.
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: numanr]
      #701490 - 04/09/2008 09:56

A friend of mine purchased his D80 with the DX 18mm-135mm and it turns out some stunning images.
I use my D80 with the 18mm-200mm VR which has come down by a considerable ammount from when I purchased mine.
If you can stretch to the later all well and good but if not you won't be disappointed with the 18mm-135 image quality wise.
With the D90 hitting the shops you will probably find some bargain kit deals and bundles for D80 and lens if you shop around.

--------------------
Phiggy

Take nothing but photos leave nothing but Footprints


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memorybliss
newbie


Reged: 23/08/2008
Posts: 9
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: phiggy]
      #702559 - 06/09/2008 11:22

Hi Phiggy, can I just ask what the main difference would be between the other lenses and the 18-200 that you mention? Friend of mine I've just found out has the D80 and now it just seems like I'm going to wait for price to drop a bit and decide on the lens.

Thanks


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davidknibb
newbie


Reged: 18/08/2006
Posts: 4
Re: D80 and Raw [Re: memorybliss]
      #708237 - 18/09/2008 13:45

The first question was for Raw s/w. I've got a D80 - had for about 6 months as an upgrade to my older D50 - and I'm delighted with it.
RAw s/w for Windows or Linux is freely available - might not be as good as PS - but excellent all the same.
Try - for example UFRAW and RawTherapee - they are both free (as in beer) - and UFRAW can be run as a aprt of The Gimp is you want to.
David


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