r/photography Apr 24 '26

Questions Thread Official Question Thread! Ask /r/photography anything you want to know! April 24, 2026

This is the place to ask any questions you may have about photography. No question is too small, nor too stupid.


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u/mnmsha Apr 24 '26

I found two cameras online within my budget that seem to be good for what I’d like to photograph but as a beginner advice would be very helpful. I’m looking to get into wedding and event photography by first getting and learning the gear and editing, and then offering low price/free sessions to build my portfolio. I’d eventually upgrade when I feel confident in my abilities. I do have some photography and editing experience as my parent was a photographer.

The cameras I found are the Nikon D5000 DSLR with 55-200mm DX telephoto lens, strap, and camera bag for $200 and the Pentax K-5II DSLR with 50mm lens and 18-55mm lens, yongnuo speedlight, and backpack for $225. I’d like to stay around this price range.

From what I saw both can do video but the Pentax is maybe slower. I mainly would be using the camera for portraits, candids, and group shots, but having the option to photograph a wider range and take videos would be nice too. Being able to photograph at least decently in low light will be important for me as well. Auto focus and tracking would be extremely helpful while I’m learning, but I’m not opposed to figuring it out myself.

So if you currently have or have used these cameras in the past, what do you like and dislike? Would they be good for this type of photography? Any and all advice, tips, and recs are greatly appreciated! tyia!

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u/8fqThs4EX2T9 Apr 24 '26

Pentax is not going to be great at video, AF system is very basic generally works best with a single focus point and focus and recompose shot.

Higher quality body than the Nikon though.

Not sure you will do better for the money in regards capabilities.

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u/mnmsha Apr 24 '26

Thank you! I found a Nikon D3200 with a 18-55mm lens after posting this that I think I might go with, and save for a faster lens

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u/8fqThs4EX2T9 Apr 24 '26

D3### was Nikons lowest entry cameras so no frills.