DSLR Recommendations for a Specific Niche

I'm wasn't sure if I was supposed to just continue in this thread or if it's okay to start a new thread. I am in need of a camera for a specific niche.

Background

  • Camera layman but willing to learn.

Requirements

  • Extreme close-up shots of human bodily cavities, smiles, and teeth.
  • Enough detail (especially colour) to show before and after shots.
  • Ability to quickly upload/transfer the photos to a PC so I can run them through a simple on the spot photo editor (wi-fi?).

Budget

  • < $1000 for the camera body.
  • Requirements trumps budget so willing to up the budget.

Shortlist

  • Nikon 3400
  • Nikon 5600

Additional Info

  • Other people in my profession use a DSLR + Macro Lense + Ring Flash set-up

Open to suggestions from more experienced camera enthusiasts beyond my shortlist which was made from simple googling.

Would be even more thankful if anyone can tell me the place to get the camera at the best price as well.

Poll Options

  • 3
    Nikon 3400
  • 2
    Nikon 5600
  • 2
    Other

Comments

  • +2

    Nikon D3400 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens Kit $397 (after $50 Cashback) @ Harvey Norman

    https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/299822

    • Cheers for that. I somehow missed that deal.

  • +2

    Personally, a standard lens might not be what you're after. I'd be considering a macro lens if you intend to be extreme closeups.

    Otherwise really any DSLR with a 18-55mm lens will do the job. Whether Canon or Nikon. I have a Canon 700D, with a 18-135mm lens. This allows greater freedom to take photos of things further away. (Not really applicable to your situation, but would also allow you to use your camera for general photography).

    As for the fast transfer, corded will be easier. Just plug it into your computer and the pictures are there.

    • I was looking for suggestions for the camera body because as a noob I figured that would be the base and then I'd work out which macro lens and ring flash to get next.

      Would getting the D3400 from this dealand then buying a macro lense the right way to go about it?

  • Spotted this and wondered if it might be interesting for you:
    http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Nikon-Medical-NIKKOR-C-Auto-f-5-6…

    Just to be clear, its not mine or anyone I know so I'm in no way recommending the seller or anything.

    Merely pointing out a direction you might choose to explore.

    • Camera stuff looks so alien to me. I have no idea what that is haha but I will look into it thanks.

  • +2

    Haha are you on DPR? (the fb group)

    Possibly go for the d3400 if you don't need the movable screen like the d5400?

    • Hahaha I might be. Small world.

      As a total camera noob, how do I choose a good Macro lense and Ring Flash to go with the D3400?

      • +1

        Not sure about the macro lens and ring flash to go with your dslr.

        You could also go to your local camera store and try out some lenses/flash gear to see which would suit your needs.

        You could possibly get them cheap used from a buy/sell/swap camera fb group in NSW (melbourne has one).

        Looking forward to see some of your work posted doc

  • -1

    You can use extension tube for an extreme macro shot. Kenko is one of good brand, which it can retain your AF lens function.

    Or use Nikon branded PK-11A, PK-12, & PK-13 tubes. They are rare, expensive & manual focusing only.

    PS: must use a tripod with these tubes.

  • I'm going to assume that a huge DSLR body, viewfinder, additional external flash and macro lens tubes will be overkill. For an easier no fuss solution you can get a Canon M10 and the Canon EF-M Macro lens which has a built in light. The tilt screen will help you for awkward angles, and the lens can focus as close as 9.5cm.

    • Canon M10 with 15-45mm Kit lens - $576.00 @ VideoPro
    • Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM Lens - $467.00 @ Camera Electronic

    Total = $1043 for local stock

  • +1

    If you're looking at a dental setup then a better option size-wise (for hands) is Olympus

    Olympus PEN or EM body (some have built-in wifi)
    Metz MS-1 ringflash
    60mm f/2.8 M.zuiko lens

  • +1

    Oh no! I impulse bought the D3400!

    Sorry for everyone who took time out to give me advice.

    I was too tempted by the deal.

    • Did you read this comment though? Hopefully you still get your cashback. NM Just read the updated description, you should do.

    • Great little unit and at a great price.

      You'll find that most real macro, or micro as Nikon refers to it, is done with manual focus.

      I think that type of lens I pointed out above will still work fine with your D3400 in manual focus.

      I think it or one of its closely related brethren is the real deal as far as the correct type of lens for your stated use.

      Nikons best micro, the AF-200mm f4 micro is currently out of your budget but I think the eBay linked micro medical lenses are both within your budget and have the built in ring flash so correct for your use.

      I'm reasonably sure you can use them on your D3400 utilising manual focus.

      • Thanks Rifraf.

        I'll ask around about the lens in your link to get some expert opinions before I impulse buy again.

    • Canon just announced a decently priced macro lens with built in LED for their DSLR mount. Pair that with any cheap Canon DSLR and it would have been the cheapest option. Now youll have to look at paying a few hundred dollars more for a macro flash ring.

      • Impulse buying :(

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