Choosing the Best Camera Kit for Outdoor and Portrait Photography

If you are considering a camera for outdoor and portrait photography, the choice of camera and accompanying lens can significantly impact the quality of your work. Two popular options are the Nikon D5600 with an 18-140mm kit lens, and the Nikon D5300 with a 18-140mm lens and a 35mm prime lens. Let's explore the benefits of each option to help you make an informed decision.

Nikon D5600 with 18-140mm Kit Lens

The Nikon D5600 is an upgrade over the D5300 and D5500. As you mentioned, the 18-140mm lens should cover 90% of your shooting needs. While it is a solid choice, it might be worth considering additional lens options later, such as a 35mm prime lens, depending on your specific requirements.

Nikon D5300 with 18-140mm Lens and 35mm Prime Lens

I would recommend you to go with the D5300 with the 18-140mm lens and a 35mm prime lens. This combination offers versatility and high-quality results, which are especially important for outdoor and portrait photography. The 35mm prime lens brings a unique beauty and clarity to your photos, providing stunning bokeh, sharpness, and ideal wide aperture performance in low lighting conditions.

Owner of the Nikon D5100, 70-300mm lens, and a range of other lenses, I can tell you that each lens has its unique advantages. The 35mm prime lens is particularly versatile, allowing you to play with the focus point for better portrait photography.

Practical Considerations

Considering your budget and future needs, it's important to recognize that more space for lenses often provides more flexibility. However, if you are not in dire need of a specific feature found only in the newer model, the D5300 with the 18-140mm lens and a 35mm prime lens would be a more favorable choice.

Non-Touch Display and Battery Life

For outdoor photography, a non-touch display is preferable as it reduces battery life compared to a touch screen display. Since the D5600 has a touch display, it might not be the best choice as it could drain your battery more quickly during outdoor shoots.

Wi-Fi and Battery Conservation

Avoid using Wi-Fi to transfer files when possible, as this can also reduce battery life. Instead, rely on USB or a Memory Card to transfer your photos.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the best equipment to support your photography needs. Have fun capturing outdoor and portrait moments!