What's a decent budget DSLR for a newbie?

Ropuchy · 08-28-2018, 07:01 PM

Originally posted by UncleVanya

There are also systems that mount a clip to a backpack strap to redistribute the weight. The clip goes on the bottom and usually acts as a swiss arca type quick release plate also.

Oh, interesting!

---------- Post added 08-28-18 at 07:04 PM ----------

Originally posted by TER-OR

Yes, the heavier the camera the more you'll want to get the weight off your chest!
This year on the prairies I'm carrying the K-3 with FA100mm macro and ring flash on one strap, and my K5 with DA300 on the second strap. This is the harness: BlackRapid | Double Breathe

My K-5 with a 50mm f2 is pretty light, so I suppose that's why I have no problem with using a neck strap. It would be a pain to have my 75-300mm on it, though.

That's quite the harness! Probably makes the cameras feel like feathers.

pxt · 08-29-2018, 02:34 AM - **1 Like**

Interesting strap is from Peak Design:
Clutch Camera Hand Strap | Peak Design

To be honest I don't use it. I see only video, so I can't say that it I can recommened, but is maybe other option to consider for you.

**TER-OR** · 08-29-2018, 06:53 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by Ropuchy

Oh, interesting!

---------- Post added 08-28-18 at 07:04 PM ----------

My K-5 with a 50mm f2 is pretty light, so I suppose that's why I have no problem with using a neck strap. It would be a pain to have my 75-300mm on it, though.

That's quite the harness! Probably makes the cameras feel like feathers.

I wouldn't go that far!

It does distribute the weight well, though, and keeps both at the ready.

pxt · 08-29-2018, 10:52 AM - **1 Like**

Neck strap it can be use as stabilistation:

You Tube

Ropuchy · 08-29-2018, 12:18 PM

Originally posted by pxt

Interesting strap is from Peak Design:
Clutch Camera Hand Strap | Peak Design

To be honest I don't use it. I see only video, so I can't say that it I can recommened, but is maybe other option to consider for you.

Ah ok, thanks!

---------- Post added 08-29-18 at 12:19 PM ----------

Originally posted by TER-OR

I wouldn't go that far!

It does distribute the weight well, though, and keeps both at the ready.

Yeah, I might have been exaggerating a little bit

I'm sure having both cameras at the ready is very useful!

---------- Post added 08-29-18 at 12:21 PM ----------

Originally posted by pxt

Neck strap it can be use as stabilistation:

Camera Strap Stabilization: Strap + Lens With Image Stabilization = Jib-Like Shots - YouTube

I've used my neck strap in that way before. It works alright.
I'm sure the same can be done with other types of straps and harnesses, though.

**rogerstg** · 08-29-2018, 01:53 PM - **2 Likes**

Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance.

I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap.

Ropuchy · 08-29-2018, 02:17 PM

Originally posted by rogerstg

Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance.

I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap.

Ah ok, thanks for your input!

pxt · 08-30-2018, 04:36 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by rogerstg

I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap.

Is it really better protection from slide / move after adjustment of lenght?

Originally posted by Ropuchy

I've used my neck strap in that way before. It works alright.
I'm sure the same can be done with other types of straps and harnesses, though.

I think the same. Peak Design after watching video looks as good design. Lifetime guarantee seems atractractive for me.

**TER-OR** · 08-30-2018, 05:58 AM - **2 Likes**

Originally posted by rogerstg

Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance.

I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap.

I have slings from a Kickstarter, they're pretty nice as they're built from car seatbelt material. They're not as comfortable as the Black Rapid but they're very long, so I use them in the winter when I have a jacket on anyway. I gave one to my Dad who still coaches soccer and hikes in his mid-70s. The sling lets him keep his hands more free.

You'll figure out what's best for you, and it may not be a single solution.

**rogerstg** · 08-30-2018, 10:59 AM

Originally posted by pxt

Is it really better protection from slide / move after adjustment of lenght?

I'm not sure I understand your question, but I was comparing the security of the Peak Lite strap to the security of a simple strap hung by one lug. The Peak strap uses two attachment points, causing a tele lens to stay against my body, vs a tendency for the camera/lens to twist more with a simple strap. Also, the Peak strap has a rubberized coating on one side. It's a simple matter to flip the strap at my shoulder to temporarily keep the camera from sliding. For example, when my granddaughter ran up to me at her birthday party, I simply slid the camera behind me as I flipped the strap at the shoulder (so the anti slip coating contacted my shirt), and bent to pick her up as she got to me. My old system usually required me to hold the camera with my right hand to prevent it swinging forward from my backside when bending forward.

I hope this helps.

pxt · 08-30-2018, 11:20 AM

Yes, it is what I ask for. I simple was afraid that this strap has tendency to swinging few mm. Advertise and reality sometimes are diffrent...

MiLKMAN · 08-30-2018, 12:31 PM

If You want something more pro, then K10D. If something smaller, then K200D or K-m. All of them have SR and nice CCD sensor, but the first two have in addition weather sealing, which is very good

For manual focus with old lenses these cameras are great.

jack002 · 08-30-2018, 01:58 PM

Originally posted by Ropuchy

Yeah, I've been having a great time with it!
I've skimmed through the manual a couple times, but have yet to read it fully.

And yeah, the K-5 looks like it's great for the money! Hopefully I can keep most of my stuff cost-effective

Any suggestions for my K-5? Things you wish you knew about when you first got it or stuff like that?

Nothing of note. I wanted to use my manual lenses, so knowing how to set it to do that was important. Get to know where everything is. I don't worry with white balance now, I can set that in post. Get it to make raw files, with or without the JPGS.
I keep a battery charged all the time to swap if I run out of power.
I never got into 'back focus' where you auto focus with the AF button on the back, I use manual mode a lot, not a lot of fast moving subjects for me most times.
Get familiar with how to change aperture, shutter speed, iso, and the built in flash has a way to turn down the brightness.
I never got into the user settings for user mode.
Good luck. Keep us up on how you like it and things you're doing with it.

jack002 · 08-31-2018, 07:51 AM

This is the link to how to use a manual focus lens
Using Manual Lenses (M42 Screwmount, M , K) on Pentax DSLRs F-- - PentaxForums.com

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08-28-2018, 07:01 PM	#166
Ropuchy Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Photos: Albums Posts: 206 Original Poster	Originally posted by UncleVanya There are also systems that mount a clip to a backpack strap to redistribute the weight. The clip goes on the bottom and usually acts as a swiss arca type quick release plate also. Oh, interesting! ---------- Post added 08-28-18 at 07:04 PM ---------- Originally posted by TER-OR Yes, the heavier the camera the more you'll want to get the weight off your chest! This year on the prairies I'm carrying the K-3 with FA100mm macro and ring flash on one strap, and my K5 with DA300 on the second strap. This is the harness: BlackRapid \| Double Breathe My K-5 with a 50mm f2 is pretty light, so I suppose that's why I have no problem with using a neck strap. It would be a pain to have my 75-300mm on it, though. That's quite the harness! Probably makes the cameras feel like feathers.

08-29-2018, 02:34 AM - 1 Like	#167
pxt Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Posts: 287	Interesting strap is from Peak Design: Clutch Camera Hand Strap \| Peak Design To be honest I don't use it. I see only video, so I can't say that it I can recommened, but is maybe other option to consider for you.

08-29-2018, 06:53 AM - 1 Like	#168
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,696	Originally posted by Ropuchy Oh, interesting! ---------- Post added 08-28-18 at 07:04 PM ---------- My K-5 with a 50mm f2 is pretty light, so I suppose that's why I have no problem with using a neck strap. It would be a pain to have my 75-300mm on it, though. That's quite the harness! Probably makes the cameras feel like feathers. I wouldn't go that far! It does distribute the weight well, though, and keeps both at the ready.

08-29-2018, 12:18 PM	#170
Ropuchy Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Photos: Albums Posts: 206 Original Poster	Originally posted by pxt Interesting strap is from Peak Design: Clutch Camera Hand Strap \| Peak Design To be honest I don't use it. I see only video, so I can't say that it I can recommened, but is maybe other option to consider for you. Ah ok, thanks! ---------- Post added 08-29-18 at 12:19 PM ---------- Originally posted by TER-OR I wouldn't go that far! It does distribute the weight well, though, and keeps both at the ready. Yeah, I might have been exaggerating a little bit I'm sure having both cameras at the ready is very useful! ---------- Post added 08-29-18 at 12:21 PM ---------- Originally posted by pxt Neck strap it can be use as stabilistation: Camera Strap Stabilization: Strap + Lens With Image Stabilization = Jib-Like Shots - YouTube I've used my neck strap in that way before. It works alright. I'm sure the same can be done with other types of straps and harnesses, though.

08-29-2018, 01:53 PM - 2 Likes	#171
rogerstg Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Rhode Island Photos: Albums Posts: 1,137	Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance. I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap.

08-29-2018, 02:17 PM	#172
Ropuchy Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Photos: Albums Posts: 206 Original Poster	Originally posted by rogerstg Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance. I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap. Ah ok, thanks for your input!

08-30-2018, 04:36 AM - 1 Like	#173
pxt Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Posts: 287	Originally posted by rogerstg I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap. Is it really better protection from slide / move after adjustment of lenght? Originally posted by Ropuchy I've used my neck strap in that way before. It works alright. I'm sure the same can be done with other types of straps and harnesses, though. I think the same. Peak Design after watching video looks as good design. Lifetime guarantee seems atractractive for me.

08-30-2018, 05:58 AM - 2 Likes	#174
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,696	Originally posted by rogerstg Since the 1980s, I've been using a simple sling set up instead of "around the neck" orientation. As a casual amateur, I found it much more convenient to have the camera resting at/in my right hand, near my hip. When moving about, it is less obtrusive than a tele lens projecting from my chest, and allows me to shift it to the front or behind as needed. Back then, I simply fastened both ends of a neck strap to one lug. It worked pretty well. When not using the sling strap, I use a simple wrist strap. It allows me to carry the camera in a relaxed manner, with added safety if it is somehow knocked free. It hasn't happened in 30+ years, but serves as cheap insurance. I've recently "upgraded" to a purpose built sling strap and wrist strap. I'm not yet sure how much of an upgrade it is, aside from better security, ease of adjustment and slightly better fit. I use the Peak Design Slide Lite, as a sling strap and their Cuff as a wrist strap. I have slings from a Kickstarter, they're pretty nice as they're built from car seatbelt material. They're not as comfortable as the Black Rapid but they're very long, so I use them in the winter when I have a jacket on anyway. I gave one to my Dad who still coaches soccer and hikes in his mid-70s. The sling lets him keep his hands more free. You'll figure out what's best for you, and it may not be a single solution.

08-30-2018, 10:59 AM	#175
rogerstg Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Rhode Island Photos: Albums Posts: 1,137	Originally posted by pxt Is it really better protection from slide / move after adjustment of lenght? I'm not sure I understand your question, but I was comparing the security of the Peak Lite strap to the security of a simple strap hung by one lug. The Peak strap uses two attachment points, causing a tele lens to stay against my body, vs a tendency for the camera/lens to twist more with a simple strap. Also, the Peak strap has a rubberized coating on one side. It's a simple matter to flip the strap at my shoulder to temporarily keep the camera from sliding. For example, when my granddaughter ran up to me at her birthday party, I simply slid the camera behind me as I flipped the strap at the shoulder (so the anti slip coating contacted my shirt), and bent to pick her up as she got to me. My old system usually required me to hold the camera with my right hand to prevent it swinging forward from my backside when bending forward. I hope this helps.

08-30-2018, 11:20 AM	#176
pxt Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2018 Posts: 287	Yes, it is what I ask for. I simple was afraid that this strap has tendency to swinging few mm. Advertise and reality sometimes are diffrent...

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08-30-2018, 12:31 PM	#177
MiLKMAN Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Tallinn Photos: Gallery Posts: 142	If You want something more pro, then K10D. If something smaller, then K200D or K-m. All of them have SR and nice CCD sensor, but the first two have in addition weather sealing, which is very good For manual focus with old lenses these cameras are great.

08-30-2018, 01:58 PM	#178
jack002 Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Missouri Photos: Albums Posts: 727	Originally posted by Ropuchy Yeah, I've been having a great time with it! I've skimmed through the manual a couple times, but have yet to read it fully. And yeah, the K-5 looks like it's great for the money! Hopefully I can keep most of my stuff cost-effective Any suggestions for my K-5? Things you wish you knew about when you first got it or stuff like that? Nothing of note. I wanted to use my manual lenses, so knowing how to set it to do that was important. Get to know where everything is. I don't worry with white balance now, I can set that in post. Get it to make raw files, with or without the JPGS. I keep a battery charged all the time to swap if I run out of power. I never got into 'back focus' where you auto focus with the AF button on the back, I use manual mode a lot, not a lot of fast moving subjects for me most times. Get familiar with how to change aperture, shutter speed, iso, and the built in flash has a way to turn down the brightness. I never got into the user settings for user mode. Good luck. Keep us up on how you like it and things you're doing with it.

08-31-2018, 07:51 AM	#179
jack002 Veteran Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Missouri Photos: Albums Posts: 727	This is the link to how to use a manual focus lens Using Manual Lenses (M42 Screwmount, M , K) on Pentax DSLRs F-- - PentaxForums.com