Which beginners bridge camera for wildlife?
Discussion
Hi, I wondered if anyone can offer some advice on a fairly easy to use, ‘beginners’ bridge type camera for my wife. She’s keen to have something with her to take pictures of wildlife and stuff we see if we’re out walking in the forest or at the coast. I think budget of around £300 but that’s not a hard stop, but just as an idea in case she doesn’t take to it!
I guess a bit of a zoom and something able to deal with differing light?
Also are there any good beginners post processing softwares? I used to use photoshop many years ago and I don’t mind paying for something if needed but I guess ideally free until we know she sticks with it.
I realise it’s a bit vague and I’m sure I could research it all elseware but I’ve had some good advice on here in the past and I’d like to get it quite quickly in time for an upcoming trip.
Cheers
I guess a bit of a zoom and something able to deal with differing light?
Also are there any good beginners post processing softwares? I used to use photoshop many years ago and I don’t mind paying for something if needed but I guess ideally free until we know she sticks with it.
I realise it’s a bit vague and I’m sure I could research it all elseware but I’ve had some good advice on here in the past and I’d like to get it quite quickly in time for an upcoming trip.
Cheers
£300 is a bit on the lean side. Certainly for something new.
She'll need a camera with a lens with a long reach. Some bridge cameras do provide some seemingly impressive focal lengths (the Nikon P950 goes to 2,000mm for example), but this is largely achieved through cropping rather than being optical so she may well be disappointed with the quality of of shots at the upper end of the focal range, which will be most of the shots she takes.
Something like a second hand Nikon D3200 can be had for around £250. This will normally come with a standard 'kit lens'. But for wildlife, she'd need something like the Sigma 150-600 lens - second hand they're around £600. Would also suggest a monopod as the lens is a bit of a lump. Quite a bit more than your budget but this sort of combo will be optimal for the sort of try-and-test you're looking for. If it's not for her, you can stick all back on the market for not a lot less than you paid for it.
All of the main camera retailers sell second hand stuff but have a look at https://www.mpb.com as a good start point.
Editing: Lightroom is the go-to option (a more easy to use version of Photoshop) - but requires a subscription. Affinity is good, just a one off fee. If you run a Mac, MacPhotos is a native app that comes with the computer and is very good.
HTH
She'll need a camera with a lens with a long reach. Some bridge cameras do provide some seemingly impressive focal lengths (the Nikon P950 goes to 2,000mm for example), but this is largely achieved through cropping rather than being optical so she may well be disappointed with the quality of of shots at the upper end of the focal range, which will be most of the shots she takes.
Something like a second hand Nikon D3200 can be had for around £250. This will normally come with a standard 'kit lens'. But for wildlife, she'd need something like the Sigma 150-600 lens - second hand they're around £600. Would also suggest a monopod as the lens is a bit of a lump. Quite a bit more than your budget but this sort of combo will be optimal for the sort of try-and-test you're looking for. If it's not for her, you can stick all back on the market for not a lot less than you paid for it.
All of the main camera retailers sell second hand stuff but have a look at https://www.mpb.com as a good start point.
Editing: Lightroom is the go-to option (a more easy to use version of Photoshop) - but requires a subscription. Affinity is good, just a one off fee. If you run a Mac, MacPhotos is a native app that comes with the computer and is very good.
HTH
I'd suggest if the OP has mentioned a bridge camera, it's unlikely his wife would want to be carrying any kind of DSLR lens with a 600 in the description tbh.
OP - Would say she needs to decide on what kind of picture quality and how close she thinks can get to the targets. Would personally say for a bridge you'd want a 1 inch sensor and give up some zoom which limits you to mainly the Panasonic FZ1000 or Sony RX 10 mk iii given they are the 2 that usually come to mind with 'decent' zoom which is always helpful. If pic quality is less of an issue, as mentioned above the Nikon P series offers a lot more zoom but on a much smaller sensor.
OP - Would say she needs to decide on what kind of picture quality and how close she thinks can get to the targets. Would personally say for a bridge you'd want a 1 inch sensor and give up some zoom which limits you to mainly the Panasonic FZ1000 or Sony RX 10 mk iii given they are the 2 that usually come to mind with 'decent' zoom which is always helpful. If pic quality is less of an issue, as mentioned above the Nikon P series offers a lot more zoom but on a much smaller sensor.
Thanks both. I do realise the budget is a bit tight, I have an old Canon bridge which was about that I think and is surprisingly good which is what I based it on. It’s about 10 years old though so I guess technology has moved on so prices may have gone up!
And yeah, I don’t think she’s in the market or mindset for an SLR yet. I’d dearly love one but I don’t think it would suit her and may put her off if it’s too complicated to use or learn.
She’s not looking for professional quality pictures, more documenting what we see and a bit of fun if we spot something unusual. I’ll take a look at the two mentioned, that’s the kind of thing I was thinking thanks
And yeah, I don’t think she’s in the market or mindset for an SLR yet. I’d dearly love one but I don’t think it would suit her and may put her off if it’s too complicated to use or learn.
She’s not looking for professional quality pictures, more documenting what we see and a bit of fun if we spot something unusual. I’ll take a look at the two mentioned, that’s the kind of thing I was thinking thanks
I had to put up with a Sigma 150-600 recently while my 100-500 was away being repaired. Ok, it was the heavier Sport model, but I wouldn’t recommend that lens to anyone if they’re going to be walking around with it. It resulted in me not wanting to go out with it. So happy when my 100-500 was returned! Nearly 3kg v 1.5kg ish…
Hunt around the usual places for used bridge cameras. That’ll open up the options and performance a little.
Hunt around the usual places for used bridge cameras. That’ll open up the options and performance a little.
I would definitely say go for a used camera - it will be cheaper, will keep within budget and also help her work out what she wants out of it.
It will be a few years old, but that isn't really much of an issue in my view (especially as she has no other benchmark to compare it to).
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
I have bought a few things from Park Cameras (cameras and lenses) and always found them very competitively priced and in good condition (I would say better than described by their gradings) plus they offer a six month warranty.
It will be a few years old, but that isn't really much of an issue in my view (especially as she has no other benchmark to compare it to).
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
I have bought a few things from Park Cameras (cameras and lenses) and always found them very competitively priced and in good condition (I would say better than described by their gradings) plus they offer a six month warranty.
I used Nikon and Panasonic bridge cameras, although some years ago now. I really liked them. The difference between the two for me was that the Pan handled so much better and felt more comfortable to hold. I'd suggest making your way to a camera shop or photo club and playing with a selection. All decent makes will provide quality images, so go for one you like, or even just like the look of.
I used to take a full frame camera with a small selection of lenses on shoots, but ended up opting for the bridge in many cases. A friend bought a Nikon with a super zoom and for a time I was inundated with images of the Moon. They were excellent. I was impressed, but after the first 40 or so, they tended to pall. But the camera suited him. He still has it after 10 years. Still loves it.
I used to take a full frame camera with a small selection of lenses on shoots, but ended up opting for the bridge in many cases. A friend bought a Nikon with a super zoom and for a time I was inundated with images of the Moon. They were excellent. I was impressed, but after the first 40 or so, they tended to pall. But the camera suited him. He still has it after 10 years. Still loves it.
Derek Smith said:
I used Nikon and Panasonic bridge cameras, although some years ago now. I really liked them. The difference between the two for me was that the Pan handled so much better and felt more comfortable to hold. I'd suggest making your way to a camera shop or photo club and playing with a selection. All decent makes will provide quality images, so go for one you like, or even just like the look of.
I used to take a full frame camera with a small selection of lenses on shoots, but ended up opting for the bridge in many cases. A friend bought a Nikon with a super zoom and for a time I was inundated with images of the Moon. They were excellent. I was impressed, but after the first 40 or so, they tended to pall. But the camera suited him. He still has it after 10 years. Still loves it.
Must admit my old Canon Powershot takes a really good picture of the moon when fully zoomed! I'd assumed that things had perhaps moved on further in the 10 years I've had it than they have. Probably have to be fair but so has the price.I used to take a full frame camera with a small selection of lenses on shoots, but ended up opting for the bridge in many cases. A friend bought a Nikon with a super zoom and for a time I was inundated with images of the Moon. They were excellent. I was impressed, but after the first 40 or so, they tended to pall. But the camera suited him. He still has it after 10 years. Still loves it.
Lots of food for thought thanks. Maybe I just need to give her my old one and see how she gets on with that to begin with. I was trying to fuel her enthusiasm but I think I may have been a bit ambitious in the cost v difference from what I already have...!
Maybe I'll see how she does with my old one and if she takes to it, we'll get a decent SLR between us.
David_M said:
I would definitely say go for a used camera - it will be cheaper, will keep within budget and also help her work out what she wants out of it.
It will be a few years old, but that isn't really much of an issue in my view (especially as she has no other benchmark to compare it to).
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
I have bought a few things from Park Cameras (cameras and lenses) and always found them very competitively priced and in good condition (I would say better than described by their gradings) plus they offer a six month warranty.
Thanks. I have to admit I've always been wary of second hand electrical items but that's probably a hangover from my parents being the same, for no real reason!It will be a few years old, but that isn't really much of an issue in my view (especially as she has no other benchmark to compare it to).
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
I have bought a few things from Park Cameras (cameras and lenses) and always found them very competitively priced and in good condition (I would say better than described by their gradings) plus they offer a six month warranty.
I'll have a little poke around that site
May I recommend MFT system (Micro 4/3rds). Given your looking at bridge cameras that have tiny sensors anyway a MFT sensor is normally appreciably bigger. I have been doing all sorts of wildlife photography for about 3 years so still learning my trade.
I have never bought a brand new lens or body always buy used via WEX (1st choice) or MPB (2nd choice) WEX for me as I am Norfolk based and nearby to there flagship headquarters warehouse. WEX offers 1 yr warranty on used, MPB 6 months. Prices virtually mirror each other. Also WEX offer free postage whilst MPB charge a fee. WEX have branches throughout the UK and used stuff can be ordered online and delivered to a branch of your choice free of charge.
WEX are top quality re any aftercare or issues, not that I have had any. Having said that I have a MPB lens arriving tomorrow!
Would suggest a Olympus 75 -300mm used, paid £286 for mine, and something like a Olympus EM10 MK1 or 2 or EM1 Mk. (from £200 - £250) The lens is equivalent to 150 - 600mm in full frame terms and would be so light to carry, one of the cheapest ways into wildlife photography. Several half decent smaller zooms from around £80 should the hobby take off for normal use. Said lens copes even with birds in flight, the cheaper bodies less so but BIF another subject!
In my experience bridge cameras are built to a fairly low consumer standard, don't get much use other than holidays and the Panasonics in your original budget, like most Panasonics are not really repairable nor parts available. Power zoom lens built into bridge cameras are a weakness as they age and are fragile at best.Best of luck whatever you do!
I have never bought a brand new lens or body always buy used via WEX (1st choice) or MPB (2nd choice) WEX for me as I am Norfolk based and nearby to there flagship headquarters warehouse. WEX offers 1 yr warranty on used, MPB 6 months. Prices virtually mirror each other. Also WEX offer free postage whilst MPB charge a fee. WEX have branches throughout the UK and used stuff can be ordered online and delivered to a branch of your choice free of charge.
WEX are top quality re any aftercare or issues, not that I have had any. Having said that I have a MPB lens arriving tomorrow!
Would suggest a Olympus 75 -300mm used, paid £286 for mine, and something like a Olympus EM10 MK1 or 2 or EM1 Mk. (from £200 - £250) The lens is equivalent to 150 - 600mm in full frame terms and would be so light to carry, one of the cheapest ways into wildlife photography. Several half decent smaller zooms from around £80 should the hobby take off for normal use. Said lens copes even with birds in flight, the cheaper bodies less so but BIF another subject!
In my experience bridge cameras are built to a fairly low consumer standard, don't get much use other than holidays and the Panasonics in your original budget, like most Panasonics are not really repairable nor parts available. Power zoom lens built into bridge cameras are a weakness as they age and are fragile at best.Best of luck whatever you do!
Weso60 said:
May I recommend MFT system (Micro 4/3rds). Given your looking at bridge cameras that have tiny sensors anyway a MFT sensor is normally appreciably bigger. I have been doing all sorts of wildlife photography for about 3 years so still learning my trade.
I have never bought a brand new lens or body always buy used via WEX (1st choice) or MPB (2nd choice) WEX for me as I am Norfolk based and nearby to there flagship headquarters warehouse. WEX offers 1 yr warranty on used, MPB 6 months. Prices virtually mirror each other. Also WEX offer free postage whilst MPB charge a fee. WEX have branches throughout the UK and used stuff can be ordered online and delivered to a branch of your choice free of charge.
WEX are top quality re any aftercare or issues, not that I have had any. Having said that I have a MPB lens arriving tomorrow!
Would suggest a Olympus 75 -300mm used, paid £286 for mine, and something like a Olympus EM10 MK1 or 2 or EM1 Mk. (from £200 - £250) The lens is equivalent to 150 - 600mm in full frame terms and would be so light to carry, one of the cheapest ways into wildlife photography. Several half decent smaller zooms from around £80 should the hobby take off for normal use. Said lens copes even with birds in flight, the cheaper bodies less so but BIF another subject!
In my experience bridge cameras are built to a fairly low consumer standard, don't get much use other than holidays and the Panasonics in your original budget, like most Panasonics are not really repairable nor parts available. Power zoom lens built into bridge cameras are a weakness as they age and are fragile at best.Best of luck whatever you do!
Completely missing the budget. I have never bought a brand new lens or body always buy used via WEX (1st choice) or MPB (2nd choice) WEX for me as I am Norfolk based and nearby to there flagship headquarters warehouse. WEX offers 1 yr warranty on used, MPB 6 months. Prices virtually mirror each other. Also WEX offer free postage whilst MPB charge a fee. WEX have branches throughout the UK and used stuff can be ordered online and delivered to a branch of your choice free of charge.
WEX are top quality re any aftercare or issues, not that I have had any. Having said that I have a MPB lens arriving tomorrow!
Would suggest a Olympus 75 -300mm used, paid £286 for mine, and something like a Olympus EM10 MK1 or 2 or EM1 Mk. (from £200 - £250) The lens is equivalent to 150 - 600mm in full frame terms and would be so light to carry, one of the cheapest ways into wildlife photography. Several half decent smaller zooms from around £80 should the hobby take off for normal use. Said lens copes even with birds in flight, the cheaper bodies less so but BIF another subject!
In my experience bridge cameras are built to a fairly low consumer standard, don't get much use other than holidays and the Panasonics in your original budget, like most Panasonics are not really repairable nor parts available. Power zoom lens built into bridge cameras are a weakness as they age and are fragile at best.Best of luck whatever you do!
David_M said:
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
This. I borrowed on of these for a safari recently and it was great. Only issue is the autofocus is lacking for fast moving animals but anything at your budget will struggle. The next step up is the FZ330 which has a bigger sensor (so better at low light) but sacrifices zoom, although 600mm equivalent is perfectly adequate.Bill said:
David_M said:
For example this Panasonic with huge zoom - I have no experience of this particular camera but it looks like what you are after - long lens and image stabilisation.
This. I borrowed on of these for a safari recently and it was great. Only issue is the autofocus is lacking for fast moving animals but anything at your budget will struggle. The next step up is the FZ330 which has a bigger sensor (so better at low light) but sacrifices zoom, although 600mm equivalent is perfectly adequate.Gassing Station | Photography & Video | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff