MissFightstar7 :
Hello, I purchased my Nikon D5000 a couple of years ago and I have had so much fun with it!
Lately I have been looking at my images and wanting more.
I am looking to produce sharper images, I am studying and really looking to get into wedding photography - I cannot afford a pro camera but something to get me started.
I have been looking at the Sony Alpha 580 also the Nikon D7000, I am open to any brand - some help with this would be great!
Thank you.
Hi there, just a few quick thoughts to your post.
I think you'd do well with either the Alpha 580 or D7000. If you are comfortable with the Nikon system and want to stay with the APS-C (DX) format, then D7000 is a logical step. Compared to the D5000, it has more manual-based controls for faster setting changes, dual memory card slot (backup is critical for weddings), and substantially better performance for low-light, indoor shoots. The 39-point AF may also help depending on the scenario and your shooting style. One thing you may miss is the articulated screen if you often shoot at unusual angles
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that upgrading your camera body will
NOT help you produce sharper images. In fact, you would probably have to spend time re-familiarising with the new body and its 'quirks' to get your shots as sharp as the current body-lens combo. Getting a sharp image is all about understanding your body's AF system and the "sweet spot" of the lens.
Finally, I would highly recommend being a second shooter to an experienced wedding photographer. Wedding photography is generally a whirlwind of chaos, emotions and the unexpected. It is very easy to be overwhelmed and miss everything. You can plan as meticulously as you want but nothing beats experience when it comes to knowing how to interact with people and where and when you have to be to get that right shot.
Good luck!