Going from Analog to Digital for the first time. Looking for Recs?

Salt&Light · Mar 25, 2020

Hi there, I am considering getting my first digital camera. I love the simplicity of analog cameras, where all I'm working with is ISO, aperature, and shutter speed. I never shoot on aperture priority on any analog camera. I would like that same work environment when I pick up and work with a digital camera, where it's easy to set those three things. I've looked into the Canon 5D Classic and that seems up my alley, but they can get pretty expensive on Ebay.

Here are some things I'd want, but I'm open to other ideas:

Full-frame sensor
12 or more megapixels
A camera that allows for an easy installation of MANY compatible lenses
I don't care much for continuous shooting
I want some NICE colors in my shots
I could deal with the ISO max being 1600, but 3200 would be great

I'm looking for a digital camera that is essentially very similar to my workflow with my analog cameras just without loading and unloading film in and out of the camera.

Any advice or recommendations?
Thank you

darkosaric · Mar 25, 2020

Welcome to the forum.
Full frame and not expensive does not go together. Used full frame is 500$ and up, but for digital I would avoid used cameras without at least 6 months warranty, so it will be more. Nikon D600, Canon 5D and Sony alpha are first choices when it comes to affordable full frame. This site is very good for digital cameras reviews: http://kenrockwell.com/

Ko.Fe. · Mar 25, 2020

If even 200$ now 5Dc is expensive for you on eBay, I don't think you are qualified for FF digital camera. I recommend used Canon Rebel series with its kit lens. Starting from 500D model and up.
I still have it and it is high quality images camera. All settings are controlled by buttons and dials via VF if needed.
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fr...&_odkw=canon+5d&LH_Complete=1&rt=nc&LH_Sold=1
Sold 5D years ago. To get decent image from it, I have to use L EF series lenses. Old cheap film lenses can't give it.

Anon Ymous · Mar 25, 2020

You don't mention your budget, so it's hard to suggest anything specific. Considering that the 5D is expensive for you, I'd say buy the best three digit Canon APS DSLR you can get. Low shutter count bodies can be had cheaply. An IS STM kit lens would also be a nice addition, not because it's a stellar performer, but because it's a great walk around one.

Andrew O'Neill · Mar 25, 2020

I bought a Nikon D850 a few months ago. It's a great camera but I've barely used it. Film is just too much fun!

mshchem · Mar 25, 2020

If you could find a virgin Nikon D3, I found one that was perfect, my dealer couldn't sell it, I paid 750 bucks, this was 3 or 4 years back. I sold it cheap after I bought my D5. That D3 was the best bargain I ever found. At the same time I had a D800, in spite of the difference in resolution I always grabbed the D3.

D3 or a D4 off a reputable Ebay seller. The 3rd party batteries that B&H sell work great too.

TheFlyingCamera · Mar 25, 2020

I'd say what you want is a Fuji - they're not full frame (but I've found the APS-C sensor to be NO problem with image quality). The camera ergonomics are very much what you're used to with a film camera. If you're on a budget, then look at an XT-1 or XPro-1. They're a couple versions out-of-date now, so they're getting affordable now. I switched from a Canon 5D Mk1 to a Fuji XT1 and could not be happier.

GRHazelton · Mar 25, 2020

You didn't say what system you're using for analog; a real consideration would be whether your current lenses would be easily usable on a DSLR. Pentax and Nikon, for example, are quite compatible with older bayonet lenses, Canon not so much since they have had, what is it, three lens mounts since the first CanonFlex. Please note that I'm not denigrating Canon!

Adrian Bacon · Mar 25, 2020

ANVIL_OG said:
Hi there, I am considering getting my first digital camera. I love the simplicity of analog cameras, where all I'm working with is ISO, aperature, and shutter speed. I never shoot on aperture priority on any analog camera. I would like that same work environment when I pick up and work with a digital camera, where it's easy to set those three things. I've looked into the Canon 5D Classic and that seems up my alley, but they can get pretty expensive on Ebay.

Here are some things I'd want, but I'm open to other ideas:

Full-frame sensor
12 or more megapixels
A camera that allows for an easy installation of MANY compatible lenses
I don't care much for continuous shooting
I want some NICE colors in my shots
I could deal with the ISO max being 1600, but 3200 would be great

I'm looking for a digital camera that is essentially very similar to my workflow with my analog cameras just without loading and unloading film in and out of the camera.

Any advice or recommendations?
Thank you

what’s your budget?

I’ve been messing around with the Canon EOS RP. It’s full frame, mirrorless, and surprisingly a real joy to use. I put the RF 35mm lens on it, put it in manual mode, and the front dial controls shutter speed, the rear dial aperture, and the lens control ring ISO. With the view in the electronic viewfinder, you see exactly what it’s going to capture and what it’s going to look like before you ever push the shutter button and can adjust it right there on the fly.

Since it’s mirrorless, you can adapt pretty much anything that has an adapter for it. All of Canon’s giant catalog of existing EF glass adapts flawlessly.

cost wise it might be out of your budget, but with the body, an RF to EF adapter, and the 35mm RF lens, I was out the door for less than 2 grand including tax, which for a new full frame camera is pretty cheap.

Salt&Light · Mar 25, 2020

Since I mostly shoot analog, I'd love to get quality images for around less than $500, preferably, @Adrian Bacon

@GRHazelton I shoot with a Nikon F2, Nikomat FT2, and a Mamiya 645e. My Nikon and Nikomat use Nikon F-Mount Lenses (1959-1976, "non-AI") that index to the aperture pin with a prong. I'm not sure, but would those old school lenses fit on a Nikon DSLR?

@TheFlyingCamera I do love FUJI's films. I've never owned a fuji camera. I'll look into it.

I will also look into all the other recommendations you all have posted. Thank you.

Adrian Bacon · Mar 25, 2020

ANVIL_OG said:
Since I mostly shoot analog, I'd love to get quality images for around less than $500, preferably, @Adrian Bacon

@GRHazelton I shoot with a Nikon F2, Nikomat FT2, and a Mamiya 645e. My Nikon and Nikomat use Nikon F-Mount Lenses (1959-1976, "non-AI") that index to the aperture pin with a prong. I'm not sure, but would those old school lenses fit on a Nikon DSLR?

@TheFlyingCamera I do love FUJI's films. I've never owned a fuji camera. I'll look into it.

I will also look into all the other recommendations you all have posted. Thank you.

Then I would recommend staying analog, as $500 in digital land buys almost nothing except the very most basic of entry level APS-C cameras new, and used doesn't really get much better. All that being said, most all the other specs you cited were surpassed by dedicated digital cameras over a decade ago, so in the used field, your biggest problem will be to find something that is not so worn out that it's junk.

Salt&Light · Mar 25, 2020

@TheFlyingCamera I found this used Fujifilm X-T1 for a solid price:
https://www.adorama.com/us 1250001.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwguzzBRBiEiwAgU0FT4ZGvqkb9xDq-QrX_IcBIct50XL_E6vo7cT_ntiBpfv3E8NkAijGEBoC6KUQAvD_BwE&utm_source=adl-gbase

BUT, plot twist! So, my mom recently gave me a sony alpha NEX-5n that she dug out of her house. How is that in comparison to this FUJIFILM? I will try to find a battery charger to charge the dead NP-FW50 battery in the sony and see if the camera works before I consider purchasing a camera.

But, will a NP-FW50 charge up if its been dead for 5+ years?

@Adrian Bacon I don't think I would buy a full-priced, new digital camera before I even know if I like shooting digital. I'd rather find a functional used digital out there for my first go around. Is it really not possible to find a good used digital camera?
All my analog cameras have been passed from owner to owner due to how rigid and sturdy analogs are. Aren't we all camera collectors and re-sellers? We use a camera for awhile, once we want to upgrade or get sick of it we sell it, right?

RalphLambrecht · Mar 25, 2020

darkosaric said:
Welcome to the forum.
Full frame and not expensive does not go together. Used full frame is 500$ and up, but for digital I would avoid used cameras without at least 6 months warranty, so it will be more. Nikon D600, Canon 5D and Sony alpha are first choices when it comes to affordable full frame. This site is very good for digital cameras reviews: http://kenrockwell.com/

I 2nd the vote on Nikon D600.

Deleted member 88956 · Mar 26, 2020

Fujifilm X-T30 if on lower budget, yet you are after "analog" experience. Direct dial controls, great image quality. Higher budget ... higher models from same.

Above is not full frame and you do NOT need one.

darkosaric · Mar 26, 2020

Witold said:
Fujifilm X-T30 if on lower budget, yet you are after "analog" experience. Direct dial controls, great image quality. Higher budget ... higher models from same.

Above is not full frame and you do NOT need one.

I remember once going with a colleague on a photo walk, was getting dark, my Ilford delta 3200 was not enough...he had one of those Fuji X cameras. Handheld shots were so clear and bright. Those cameras can see in the dark, and yes - it was not full frame.
If one will shoot often in low light - then one of those newer digital cameras (brand not important) is best to get - high iso on newer digital cameras is amazing.

miha · Mar 26, 2020

I think a Nikon D700 would fit yout bill perfectly. Look around for good deals; I got mine last year for 250 €.

radiant · Mar 26, 2020

Witold said:
Fujifilm X-T30 if on lower budget, yet you are after "analog" experience. Direct dial controls, great image quality. Higher budget ... higher models from same.

Above is not full frame and you do NOT need one.

This is me. I purchased X-T30 1-2 months ago as I decided to shoot also on digital. I am 100% satisfied with X-T30, the film emulations and overall film camera style (dials) really feels like a hybrid shooter. I also shoot old crappy FD lenses with the camera and for me it is really really close to film experience. And I still shoot film and the combo just feels great. I was quite strict film shooter previously but X-T30 liberated me

My X-T30 frames can be seen here: http://kuvau.tuu.fi/tag/x-t30/ and especially http://kuvau.tuu.fi/tag/fd135mmf2-8/ (the lense cost me 10 euros and has fungus on front lense).

Tom Kershaw · Mar 26, 2020

darkosaric said:
If one will shoot often in low light - then one of those newer digital cameras (brand not important) is best to get - high iso on newer digital cameras is amazing.

My experience with using the X-T2 is that colour quality can start to degrade after around ISO 800, but switching to black & white makes the camera usable at higher speeds with reasonable image quality.

radiant · Mar 26, 2020

darkosaric said:
I remember once going with a colleague on a photo walk, was getting dark, my Ilford delta 3200 was not enough...he had one of those Fuji X cameras. Handheld shots were so clear and bright. Those cameras can see in the dark, and yes - it was not full frame.
If one will shoot often in low light - then one of those newer digital cameras (brand not important) is best to get - high iso on newer digital cameras is amazing.

This is so true. The X-T30 for example has a crazy light sensitivity. When I edit the digital files I very often darken the shadows and brighten higlights. My acros-emulation profile in the camera has shadows/highlights values changed too. What is brilliant is that these affect on the viewfinder too.

Where the light sensivity helps is that I can keep aperture closed even on bad weather and shoot handheld. It is just crazy.

darkosaric · Mar 26, 2020

I am not a guy who shots a lot at night, film iso 400 is enough for me in 99% of time, but if I am - that would be reason to switch to digital: crazy high iso is where digital shines. Sharpnes, resolution and those BS are not so important, but when you can shot hand held in the middle of the night - well ... you must admit that is awesome.

TheFlyingCamera · Mar 26, 2020

ANVIL_OG said:
@TheFlyingCamera I found this used Fujifilm X-T1 for a solid price:
https://www.adorama.com/us 1250001.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwguzzBRBiEiwAgU0FT4ZGvqkb9xDq-QrX_IcBIct50XL_E6vo7cT_ntiBpfv3E8NkAijGEBoC6KUQAvD_BwE&utm_source=adl-gbase

BUT, plot twist! So, my mom recently gave me a sony alpha NEX-5n that she dug out of her house. How is that in comparison to this FUJIFILM? I will try to find a battery charger to charge the dead NP-FW50 battery in the sony and see if the camera works before I consider purchasing a camera.

But, will a NP-FW50 charge up if its been dead for 5+ years?

@Adrian Bacon I don't think I would buy a full-priced, new digital camera before I even know if I like shooting digital. I'd rather find a functional used digital out there for my first go around. Is it really not possible to find a good used digital camera?
All my analog cameras have been passed from owner to owner due to how rigid and sturdy analogs are. Aren't we all camera collectors and re-sellers? We use a camera for awhile, once we want to upgrade or get sick of it we sell it, right?

the NEX5 is a very old camera that will be out-performed by lots of other cameras.

jtk · Mar 26, 2020

#1 don't think about what's best.
#2 get a an inkjet printer
#3 ...

runswithsizzers · Mar 26, 2020

If you can live with an APS-C size sensor rather than full frame, I'll add another recomendation for a Fuji X-T1 or X-T30. Mirrorless cameras like the Fujis are ideal for adapted lenses because - with no mirror box to work around, there is more room to fit in adaptors. And Fuji are better than most for providing proper dials and buttons so their cameras operate a little more like anaog cameras. "Nice colors" is very subjective, but that is another area where Fuji cameras may have some advantage over their competitors. About one year ago, I paid $360, US, for my used X-T1, and I'm pretty sure you can beat that price today.

Sadly, one area of concern for all mirrorless cameras is the electronic viewfinders they use. In some ways, the electronic viewfinders (EVF) are great because they can be set to accurately preview what the shot will look like before you take it. And they can provide a lot more information than most optical viewfinders. But the downside is - compared to the big bright pentaprism viewfinders on film SLRs - the EVFs on mirrorless cameras look small and dim in normal daylight. (In very dim light, they are much brighter than optical viewfinders.) You get used to it, but if I am switching back and forth between my Pentax SLRs and my Fuji X-T1, the Fuji viewfinder is a real let down.

As far as EVFs go, I believe the one on the Fuji X-T1 is above average - maybe even one of the best available (?) I haven't used any non-Fuji EVFs, but looking at specifications, I don't believe other manufacturers offer anything bigger than the 0.5" EVF on the X-T1. (Others may know more.) I have a second Fuji camera, the X-E2, and it has a 0.39" EVF - which I believe is the same as the one used on X-T30 (?). The bigger EVF on the X-T1 is noticably easier for me to use - but as I said, still a poor substitute for a Pentax pentaprism.

Of course, the digital cameras also have a big LED screen on the back which can be better than any viewfinder in some situations.

jtk · Mar 26, 2020

If you have not been printing your own film that might be more rewarding than camera shopping.

jtk · Mar 26, 2020

Buy used from KEH...because their descriptions and warrenty. Is there an equivalent outside US ?

APSc has been better than film for a decade or more unless you're serious about darkroom.

Going from Analog to Digital for the first time. Looking for Recs?

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