should i buy a nikon or a canon?

1. 60

   rangelica86posted 14 years ago

   What should i buy? nikon or canon?

   replyreport
   1. 69

      travelespressoposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Welcome to HubPages.
      
      Nikon or Canon - is this an SLR camera?
      
      In my experience there are two definite camps and the Nikon lovers will swear by their brand and vice versa.  I've used both and I love my Canon SLR.  I've also compared the same photographs (enlarged) taken by each camera side by side and sometimes the Canon one looks better but sometimes its the Nikon one. 
      
      Awhile ago the Canon was a much lighter camera but I'm unsure whether thats an issue now.
      
      It then becomes a matter of choice, price, lens selection, the feel and what you want from your camera etc.
      
      I'll look forward to reading the responses from other hubbers.

      replyreport
   2. 0

      ryankettposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Depends really.... if you are an American then you may wish to consider supporting an American corporation and buying a Kodak... they keep a lot of people employed in Rochester...

      replyreport
      1. 77

         kirstenblogposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         Hey cool!
         
         I may be in the UK now but I am still american (even go very southern with my accent from time to time, used to give the kids at my school a giggle when ever I did). I really do love my Kodak

         replyreport
      2. 60

         drgigiposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         I like the idea of supporting the products of your country and thats nationalism. however i consider also how advance the camera.

         replyreport
   3. 59

      incite7posted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Canon, no doubt

      replyreport
   4. 60

      jeremiah.swensonposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Look at your budget and spend 1/3 of it on the body and 2/3 on a lens. Both Nikon and Cannon are excellent cameras so just buy the cheapest one. I personally shoot a Nikon if that matters to you and am very happy with it. Again however, focus your money on a quality lens.

      replyreport
   5. 0

      Charlinexposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      They are all good. What is your goal? Do you want to take photos for fun or professionally?

      replyreport
   6. 61

      KensLensposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Hopefully you have made a purchase by now.  But if not, go Nikon.  There's really no comparison.  See Below:
      
      Ni-kon cam-er-a  (noun)
      1. a renowned, superb, superior, device (the choice of professional photographers) for taking photographs by letting light from an image fall briefly onto sensitized film or image sensor, usually by means of a lens and shutter mechanism.
      
      Can-on (noun)
      1. a modern heavy artillery weapon large enough to need to be mounted for firing, for example, one mounted on a warship or on a tracked vehicle.
      
      So you see Nikon is the clear choice for photography.

      replyreport
   7. 61

      Kazechanposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      No matter What Nikons win my heart, as a photographer. I don't know just something about since I was a kid made me favor it more then any other type of camera. However if the Canon could be a good choice if you don't mind so faults and it sometimes does have better Iso and other things old Nikons don't. It all depends on the user really on what he/she should get. Why not go ot your local storys and play with them for awhile? I'm sure you have a Best Buy with display cameras all over the place!
      :3

      replyreport
   8. 36

      drperetzposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Hey I think you should check out my hub about the importance of a full frame 35mm sensor that is not installed in  all digital cameras.
      
      No advice is better than some advice. don't follow what people tell you and make a decision yourself. There are forums and blogs that talk about this kind of thing all the time. This is a natural phenomenon.
      
      I personally picked Nikon d40, but what I didn't know is that its not really a professional camera since it has only 6.1 megapixels. But I have a 35mm canon d2000 for my film photography which I love more.
      I do pinhole too but that's another story.

      replyreport
2. 0

   Phoebe Pikeposted 14 years ago

   They are just as good as each other, but some are better in certain situations. Canon tends to be more reliable for indoor photography and nice days. Nikon is better for outdoors and is designed for durability of such situations.
   
   So, it really depends on what you're in to.

   replyreport
   1. 60

      Sunny_Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Canon DSLR's are pretty good but if you got a bit more money then i advise the Canon EOS 7D. an absolutely amazing camera with excellent video.

      replyreport
      1. 59

         deweyduckposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         The Canon EOS 7D is AMAZING.  I have a slightly older Canon XSi that I still love.
         
         To rangelica 86, go with a Canon!

         replyreport
         1. 60

            Sunny_Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

            Hey deweyduck im glad you like the canon EOS 7D it is pretty mamazing, i would like to actually buy it but i only got as far as testing it...

            replyreport
3. 77

   kirstenblogposted 14 years ago

   I love my Kodak camera but we couldn't afford much and so spent ages looking for something with a decent spec that was cheep. I love mine even tho it is a compact camera (not fancy slr or anything) as it takes nice enough pics and they have actually been put on like greeting cards n such that have sold. I would love someday to have something for taking pictures of insects as I do struggle with them but otherwise I love my kodak

   replyreport
   1. 60

      Sunny_Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      Kodak also do the most economical printers as well...

      replyreport
4. 59

   Beelzedadposted 14 years ago

   Interestingly enough, there are wonderful reviews of all three competitors on the internet. I saw some that had Nikon as a front runner and some that had Canon. Others said the quality of picture from the Sony was second to none.
   
   Tough choices.

   replyreport
5. 68

   Flightkeeperposted 14 years ago

   Cannon is more known for indoor work. Nikon for outdoor and sports.

   replyreport
   1. 69

      travelespressoposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      My Canon takes excellent outdoor photos! 

      replyreport
      1. 59

         Beelzedadposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         Mine, too.

         replyreport
   2. 59

      Mark Knowlesposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      I see your understanding of photography and cameras is on a par with any other subjects you voice an opinion on.
      
      Canon is world famous as being the choice for sports photographers. In- or out-doors.
      
      

      replyreport
      1. 0

         RFoxposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         So you finally admit Canon is the best!! LOL
         Woohoo!

         replyreport
   3. 60

      guymclarenposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      You know those big white lenses you see at sports events are all Canon right?

      replyreport
      1. 68

         Flightkeeperposted 14 years agoin reply to this

         You do know how to read the posts all the way through right?

         replyreport
6. 62

   blue dogposted 14 years ago

   all of my hubs on chile, patagonia and barton creek were taken with a canon dslr.  outdoors, as well. 
   
   it's obvious canon works just fine outdoors.

   replyreport
7. 86

   rebekahELLEposted 14 years ago

   Canon takes amazing outdoor shots.
   
   
   
   this was taken by my son who has a canon, not sure which one, but he uses it outdoors all the time.
   
   bluedog's photos are top of the line. beautiful
   
   I have a Nikon, and I like it, but I think Canon makes a better camera. my next will be upgraded to a Canon.

   replyreport
   1. 60

      Sunny_Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      brilliant picture

      replyreport
8. 0

   SilverGenesposted 14 years ago

   Canon for me, all the way. Not that Nikon is less of a camera, but the pros use mostly Canon and so there is a lot more out there made for the Canon and/or with Canon in mind. I'm assuming you are not talking strictly economy here but quality.

   replyreport
9. 68

   Flightkeeperposted 14 years ago

   Ask any pro, Nikon is what they prefer to use in terms of design, ease of use, sensible layout, camera built from quality materials, camera features, the way the accessories are designed it's more ergonomic, performance -- especially less shutter lag, and great images even at higher ISOs.  Canon is used by the big corporations because the cameras and accessories are cheaper -- they get a better break from the company, they sponsor a lot of events and any accredited photojournalist can go to their tent and borrow what they need, that's why you see so many of those pale colored lenses out there.  But from an aesthetic and functional point of view the pro photographer prefers Nikon.

   replyreport
10. 58

    Studio Eposted 14 years ago

    Get a Timex camera they make nice watches too. just kidding go for Canon.

    replyreport
11. 83

    akirchnerposted 14 years ago

    Both are super - but I have a Nikon because I had an older 35 mm with a bunch of great lenses and didn't want to reinvest in new lenses.  I bought a digital and all the lenses fit and it is SO awesome.  I've always been a Nikon girl myself though I've seen the pics from some of my friends' Canon and I think they are just as awesome....and there are many others out there!

    replyreport
12. 86

    rebekahELLEposted 14 years ago

    check out FCEtier's profile page. he is a photographer.

    replyreport
13. 59

    SomewayOuttaHereposted 14 years ago

    I have a nikon...but can't provide further info re comparing anything...I like it and am getting to know it...I'm going to publish a hub with some pics I've been taking one day.  I'd like a longer/bigger lense though...soon....

    replyreport
14. 69

    Journey *posted 14 years ago

    I think Canon is awesome!

    replyreport
15. 73

    KCC Big Countryposted 14 years ago

    We have a Nikon D300 and love it!

    replyreport
16. 85

    Good Guyposted 14 years ago

    Both are as good.  There is actually no comparison.  It's just like twins.  By the way I have my Nikon.

    replyreport
17. 60

    Jane@CMposted 14 years ago

    I would like a Cannon, but my hubby bought me a Sony DSLR.  It takes great pictures.

    replyreport
    1. 60

       Sunny_Sposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       Yup the DSLR is pretty decent, nice camera

       replyreport
18. 49

    kellyybrownnposted 14 years ago

    it all depends on your needs, personally i like a nikon better than a cannon.
    cannons tend to be a little more expensive, but have more options, best suggestion is go to a store and check them out and see which one feels better to you.

    replyreport
    1. 75

       Steve 3.0posted 14 years agoin reply to this

       I find canon cheaper than nikon in the UK.  Can't see a nikon that matches the 550D for that price.

       replyreport
19. 75

    liljen23posted 14 years ago

    From some reviews, I think Nikon is the best as far as the latest technology in cameras and making good photos. Nikon is really moving up to be the best cameras to get and I like the fact they are small and sleek to fit anywhere like your pocket or purse. I seen one that had a touch screen on it and I fell in love with it. I will be purchasing one for Christmas..

    replyreport
20. 60

    junglejuicedposted 14 years ago

    There are too many factors to consider and it's not easy to say one or another. I've found in my own personal experience that you need to get hands on with it to see if it fits your hand well. The entry level Canon's have a better interface for one handed control than the Nikons so thats what I preferred and is why I went with Canon but as you spend more money it comes down to personal preference.
    
    Now I'm with Canon though I wouldn't change over as I'm incredibly happy with them!

    replyreport
21. 61

    darkinlightposted 14 years ago

    go go go for nikon D3s .. cool

    replyreport
22. 51

    lauriemellorposted 14 years ago

    Having said that, you can set either to look like the other. You can de-saturate and cool a Nikon down just as easy as you can warmify and ramp up the saturation in the Canon. If you are wanting to buy, color rendition SHOULD NOT be the deciding factor since each is very tweakable.
    Acai Advanced Cleanse

    replyreport
23. 72

    Beth100posted 14 years ago

    Nikon.  They produce the highest quality of lenses on the market.  I own several Nikons all at different ages.  My best is my still camera, which I purchased in 1987.  The quality of photos that I shoot are amazing.  For daily fun use, I own a Sony and it also takes great shots.  I have owned Canons in the past, but was never satisfied with them.  I would never hesitate to purchase another Nikon.

    replyreport
24. 0

    Lady_Eposted 14 years ago

    How about Canon as it has such a good reputation...
    
    Takes Excellent Photos.

    replyreport
25. 60

    MalcolmKlockposted 14 years ago

    Either can do fine for you, I personally prefer Canon as its what I'm familiar with but many people will champion Nikon. The real difference will be made in the glass you invest in. Good lenses will outlive whatever your camera body is.
    
    Personally though, the T2i through 5D MKII line of Canon DSLR's is untouchable in terms of value and quality. The video features really make them irresistible.

    replyreport
26. 60

    MalcolmKlockposted 14 years ago

    Also, in this thread I see a lot of Canon vs Nikon talk, but not much in the way of specifics about models. Don't just make the choice to go with one brand or another, the individual models scale in both price and quality from the low hundreds to several thousand. Its really about what you need, different models have different strengths. You really want to know what kind of photographer you are before you invest in pricey gear. With camera's its easy to spend way more than necessary for features you will never touch, or spend just a little less and be cheated out of mountains of quality.

    replyreport
27. 61

    nokiliposted 14 years ago

    I have a Nikon D90 it takes absolutely amazing photos. Nikon makes amazing lenses and I can shoot video. I agree that  the lenses are your biggest (and can be most expensive) asset. I know you aren't supposed to link in the posts and I wont, but you and anyone else who is serious about taking pictures should google Ken Rockwell Photography. He has taught me so much and he has several reviews on his website. Above all he has a wonderful article on why your camera doesn't matter, all that can take a great picture is you.
    
    have fun!

    replyreport
28. 75

    mypleasurefantasyposted 14 years ago

    I use a nikon, because I enjoy the small sizes some of the models come in. Nikon is a great camera, but canon is amazing for color hues and tones, where as Nikon tends to mute the tones. As far as price goes, it depends on your budget. Canon tends to be cheaper by far, especially in the lens department; whereas Nikon is expensive with both bodies and lenses. So really, its up to you. Go to a photo equipment store and try them both out to see which one suits your needs the best. Good luck!! I hope you find your perfect DSLR!

    replyreport
29. 60

    alexandruvposted 14 years ago

    Love the KensLens reply. Too funny.
    
    Anyway both Canon and Nikon are very good cameras. If you're talking about a SLR Canon or Nikon there are a few things to consider: Nikon bodies are better than Canon ones BUT Canon lens are better than Nikon ones
    
    That's in my opinion - I have used both brands for many years. I ended up using Canon - just because I got used to them but I'd use a Nikon anytime. I'm talking only about the pro DSLR's (eos 5D or D700).
    
    If you're after the point and shoot...probably Canon cameras are better. They look cool too. But I guess it doesn't really matter if it's a Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Kodak etc - all point and shoot are the same.
    
    Hope it helps...B&H is a really good place to buy photographic equipment from!
    B&H is a really good place to buy photographic equipment from!

    replyreport
30. 49

    draganflameposted 14 years ago

    i prefer to use Nikon for a long time cause only this company can recommend good quality and accessible price like this Nikon d90 bundle

    replyreport
31. 0

    Butch Newsposted 14 years ago

    Both brands of camera are excellent.  Both are rapidly changing the available models.
    
    Pick a camera that feels comfortable in your hands with controls you can easily find and use.
    
    Personally I've been a Nikon user for 40 years but have nothing to bad to say about Canon products.  Canon seems to be the choice of sports photographers and Nikon the choice of fashion and glamour photographers.  I know of no reason for this.
    
    Nikon was the camera of choice for professionals in the 70's but Canon improved their products substantially in the 80's.
    
    Trust in a brand is what makes it popular.

    replyreport
32. 60

    World-Travelerposted 14 years ago

    I don't too much about the brand that you mentioned but have used the Olympus X-920 for digital photography on my Hubpages.  I am a very satisfied customer.
    

    replyreport
33. 60

    World-Travelerposted 14 years ago

    I don't know too much about the brand that you mentioned but
    have used the Olympus X-920 with great success for digital photography on my Hubpages.  I am a very satisfied customer.  Your question is an excellent for writers considering a first time digital camera to supple photographs to their writing on Hubpages.
    

    replyreport
34. 60

    Randy Godwinposted 14 years ago

    I use a Nikon SLR for most of the photos and videos on my hubs.  My son just bought a Canon T2i which not only makes great photos, but HD video too!  His first camera and here is the first real video he made on River Street in Savannah a few weeks ago.
    
    
    
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIxO7XZgdUg

    replyreport
35. 60

    jokeapptvposted 14 years ago

    i would buy both and test them out.

    replyreport
36. 56

    shecodesposted 14 years ago

    Whatever you choose, keep in mind that the lenses are what should be the deciding factor. I've a lot of money invested in glass. I've chosen to go with Canon, so haven't evaluated Nikon is years. Personal preference and all that.
    
    Now smaller cameras I'll mix and match brand wise.

    replyreport
37. 85

    Midnight Oilposted 14 years ago

    Nikon - but I am totally in love with Nikon.  Had Nikons for over 20 years - superb cameras, well built to last and deliver the goods too.
    
    Tried Canon, but could never get into them...
    
    But best to go and try a few out in the shop first to see what you like the look and feel of first...

    replyreport
38. 56

    yenajeonposted 14 years ago

    I notice that the op has not responded since the post. It has turned into a discussion for hp. lol I have a Canon slr and I love it!

    replyreport
    1. 85

       Midnight Oilposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       It's all a matter of taste...  There is nothing wrong with Canon at all, I just prefer Nikon.  I have Nikon D300 & D80 digital and the love of my life my Nikon F5, perhaps the ultimate film camera and a design classic.
       
       But people have love affairs with their Canons too...
       
       Yet, its not which camera you use, which is a device to record what your eye see, its the results and joy you get from them.

       replyreport
39. 78

    LuisEGonzalezposted 14 years ago

    I have been using Canon for over 20 years. To date I have found it to be simple to use, hardier, and has a larger accessibility to lenses or adapters. I currently use a Minolta lens that works like a glove on my Canon. However, which brand to use remains a matter of taste. Both Nikon and Canon make very high quality equipment.

    replyreport
40. 67

    thewayeyeseeitposted 14 years ago

    I'm a Canon guy, but I wouldn't hesitate to buy a Nikon. This debate has been ongoing for a long time. You read somewhere that Nikon is the best outdoor camera, then you see a football game with all the Canon "cannons" taking the photos and you have to wonder. Both make incredible digital SLRs, and technology is improving all the time. And they are both pretty good at marketing, too, so they will probably be the top two for a long time.
    
    However, the newer cameras that are smaller and mirrorless prove to be very interesting and may give the big boys a run for their money, since neither one has produced a similar product yet. Only time will tell.

    replyreport
    1. 71

       joyfuldesignsposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       It's such a hard decision to find which is the best for each person.  Really depends on their needs and budget.
       
       I have a Nikon D5000 that I'm very happy with.

       replyreport
    2. 59

       unerposted 14 years agoin reply to this

       i'm a canon guy, too
       
       first when i started, i used Nikon. was satisfied with all the results i get as a beginner. as time passes, i upgrade to Sony Alpha and change all the lense system. experience gets better, as well as results.
       
       then when i get better, again i upgrade the body and whole lense system to Canon.
       
       what i can say, all these cameras done a great job. every camera will have a different characteristics, pros and cons. once you own one, you will need sometime to get familiar with these characteristics and then you will know how to use it well.
       
       Nikon will have a saturated color but wide range of lenses selection. but some beginner's camera body will not have a motor for auto focus, therefore you will need to spend more on the lense which will come with build in motor, price will be more expensive.
       
       sony in other hand, has less lense collection, but the result is still okay
       
       Canon however stays in my heart for all occasions, outdoors, weddings, indoors, sports and candid shots. lense collections are as much as Nikon. the colors are purely natural unlike Nikon. but if you use RAW format, chances are you will be having quite saturated color as well. but still great.

       replyreport
41. 60

    pilesnowayposted 14 years ago

    I'd go for Nikon.
    
    Why not compare? You can look for the perks of having a Nikon and a Canon. Then compare and find out what's the best for you.

    replyreport