Since I bought my first camera back in 2014, I’ve been a loyal Nikon user. I’ve found them easy to use, light weight, function-able, and all around great for beginners like myself. Although, like any brand, there’s good and bad cameras. Luckily for me, I wasn’t allowed to make such a big purchase until I had loads of research. This led me to the Nikon d3200, which at the time wasn’t the newest model, but for a seventh grader, was more financially sensible.

Five years later, I made the upgrade to the Nikon d5600. In my opinion, it puts the d3200 to rest, but the quality of photo is comparable, while the d5600 performs at a more impressive rate.

I’m able to get professional grade photos with both cameras, but in certain light conditions, the older models can’t get that nice crisp photo.

One of the biggest appeals of Nikon is the price. Prices for a Nikon DSLR for the most part are in the ballpark of $500 if you know how to shop. Then, there’s the lenses. This is where I see the greatest price difference. Canon lenses have a pretty hefty price tag on them, so it’s hard to make easy upgrades. For any person wanting to get into photography, there’s always a learning process. A lot of the time, people put down a lot of money in the start only to realize they might want an upgrade in a few years. Then, they are left with regret after spending around $1,000 – $2,000 plus, on a new camera.

As a student, I feel like I have more options when it comes to lenses, because I can more realistically afford to buy them. Don’t get me wrong, Canons focus speed and overall performance has always made me a little jealous, but the price is intimidating. For me personally, if I ever want to pursue photography as a profession, or just to make some money on the side, I’d want to make the switch. Yet, as a still learning photographer, I’m okay with the level of work I’m able to produce with my Nikon.

On the other hand, there’s Canon. I’ve never personally used a Canon, but from lot’s of personal research and minimal handling in stores, I can tell it’s a nice brand. With a nice focus speed, and pure overall photo sharpness, Canons are top of the line. While nice, it’s very pricey. For many established photographers, they’re able to put down a large sum of money for a camera. When holding a Canon, the feel is much more professional, and the camera has an easier time adjusting to different settings of light and time of day.

Overall, Nikon is a nice entry-level camera that offers a less expensive option for new photographers. Canon is a more expensive alternative that may be better suited for a more experienced handler. In addition, Canon may offer a smoothers focusing and an easier time in different conditions, but with these upgrades comes a price. At the end of the day, it’s personal preference as to what the individual photographer wants. So the question still stands, Nikon or Canon?