Hi! Can you please help me?


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prehistorik

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Nov 12, 2009
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Singapore West
Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!


1) Where is the best place here in Singapore to shop for a DSLR? Please recommend a shop who wont play a fool out of me, a shop where the goods are quality but has a reasonable price.
(I went out one time to do canvassing in shops like lucky plaza, china town, CP and Funan. What i found was that lucky plaza and china town were cheaper than that of CP and Funan. The difference was S$ 50-70. But what i was skeptic about is what i heard bad reputation of shops in Lucky Plaza, and my friends are not so sure that of in chinatown but they do recommend that of Funan.)

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)

3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)


Thanks guys! May you help me with these. I'll be buying the gear this December 2009. I'm hoping that there would be promos, discounts and freebies.....;)
 

Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!


1) Where is the best place here in Singapore to shop for a DSLR? Please recommend a shop who wont play a fool out of me, a shop where the goods are quality but has a reasonable price.
(I went out one time to do canvassing in shops like lucky plaza, china town, CP and Funan. What i found was that lucky plaza and china town were cheaper than that of CP and Funan. The difference was S$ 50-70. But what i was skeptic about is what i heard bad reputation of shops in Lucky Plaza, and my friends are not so sure that of in chinatown but they do recommend that of Funan.)

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)

3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)


Thanks guys! May you help me with these. I'll be buying the gear this December 2009. I'm hoping that there would be promos, discounts and freebies.....;)

1) Cathay is still your best bet. or MS color. Lucky plaza shops will force you to buy cr@ppy accessories like Vitacon filters etc.

2) Canon 450d/ Nikon d5000/ Pentax k-x/ Olympus e-620/ Sony a330

3) Not really, i've never used one. depends on where you store it if you dont have a dry cabinet.
 

if you dont want to get a dry cabinet, you can always use air-tight locknlock boxes. Just need to put some silicon gel. As for how much silicon gel, it depends again. If you open the box often, then more and vice versa.
Better to get a hygrometer to measure the humidity(around 45% is ideal), can get from hardware stores, then you calibrate how much silicon gel to use.

As always. There are many camera brands, if you are into nikon, d5000 is a great choice. Mid-entry level, video, etc.
Funan is your best bet if you do not know your way around. There are some reputable shop names you should see around the forum. Hang around a little and you will know....
 

Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!


1) Where is the best place here in Singapore to shop for a DSLR? Please recommend a shop who wont play a fool out of me, a shop where the goods are quality but has a reasonable price.
(I went out one time to do canvassing in shops like lucky plaza, china town, CP and Funan. What i found was that lucky plaza and china town were cheaper than that of CP and Funan. The difference was S$ 50-70. But what i was skeptic about is what i heard bad reputation of shops in Lucky Plaza, and my friends are not so sure that of in chinatown but they do recommend that of Funan.)

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)

3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)


Thanks guys! May you help me with these. I'll be buying the gear this December 2009. I'm hoping that there would be promos, discounts and freebies.....;)

1) Depends on your preference on the 'style' of the sales people. The more reputable places are MS color, Cathay Photo, Orient photo, SLR revolution (new), John 3:16.

2) Sounds like you have already decided on the D5000. Just get it.

3) I would say it is your choice. You can also go for a dy box with silica gel solution. A little more hassle, and you probably save $60 over a dry cabinate, but you have to monitor it carefully. If you can handle the risk of having fungus growth in your DSLR or/and lenses so you can save on the $108 on a dry cabinate or $50 for a dry box+silicagel , go ahead. If fungus grows on your lenses or DSLR, you have to pay $150 for each item to get it cleaned. And with fungus growth, there is always a big possibility will be permanent damage to the item.
 

1) Do your homework, check out the price guide threads and know the right price, accessories that should come in the package, etc. Don't get influenced to get other products that the salespersons may try to recommend to you. Only buy what you have already researched on.


I got mine from Lords over at Lucky Plaza, #01-79, good price and never get chopped carrot head :thumbsup:
 

Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!


1) Where is the best place here in Singapore to shop for a DSLR? Please recommend a shop who wont play a fool out of me, a shop where the goods are quality but has a reasonable price.
(I went out one time to do canvassing in shops like lucky plaza, china town, CP and Funan. What i found was that lucky plaza and china town were cheaper than that of CP and Funan. The difference was S$ 50-70. But what i was skeptic about is what i heard bad reputation of shops in Lucky Plaza,and mhttp://www.clubsnap.com/forums/images/cs2008/editor/menupop.gify friends are not so sure that of in chinatown but they do recommend that of Funan.)

Everyone will recommend different shops. And your experience there may differ drastically from your recommender for various human reasons.
1, My favourite shop is TCW (The Camera Workshop) at Peninsula Shopping Centre cos I know them very long and have struck a relationship. I've seen so many complains about TCW that sometimes my heart aches for them.
2, Orient Photo. Good shop at Sim Lim Square 6th floor. Run by three China man and a Chinese lady. No nonsense fellows. Not the most talkative but only answers soecifically right to your question. Price-wise? Certainly one of the best. The know it. And no point bargaining, cos they won't budge. They give same price to everyone.
3. Cathay Photo - established shop 老字号! Very well staffed and sales person can tell you all you need to know. Generally when your at at CP, you are in safe hands cos no cut throat and pushing you to buy more things. Only thing is, their prices are generally the higher ones in the photographer's market.

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)

Then I must congratulate you on making a very good choice, Now you check the price of this set of Nikon D5000 together with its kit lens at Clubsnap's price list guide, then go to Cathay Photo and ask first. Now you pick up your handphone and call Orient Photo and ask them what is their price for the same. Then take a walk across the road to TCW to ask and ask for more gifts.. Whichever sound best will have your business.


3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)
If that is all you have, a Nikon D5000 and a kit lens, then get the air tight box and put in silica gel. Sincerely, this is the cheapest. But when your gears begin to increase in number and volume, then the time for a Dry Cabinet will naturally come. Keep about $100-150 savings aside for the most basic of these dry cabinets.
 

prehistorik said:
Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!

.
.
.

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)
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You've pretty much covered most aspects of photography!! :)
So how? You'll need many many lenses in that case ;)
Well, certainly for night lights, a tripod is a worthwhile purchase. So you'll need to set aside some budget for that too. You can always choose to buy this later on if budget is tight at the moment.
 

i dunno about the pricing recently.
but just for your info, i saw an ad from chinese ZaoBao yesterday, got a full page ad.

selling 1299 for D5000 with kit 1.
free:
2x 8GB, drybox, cleaning kit, tripod, DSLR bag, LCD screen protector, and something else (i forgot)
 

d5k is a good model off start off with.

to me, a dry cabinet is a must due to the humid air we hv.

the kit len for d5k is the 18-55vr, it's a decent len n i would suggest u go ard shooting 1st.
the additional lens can come at a later time

oh...if there is any promotion for 'purchase-with purchase' sb600 flash, do get it.
 

Last edited:
i dunno about the pricing recently.
but just for your info, i saw an ad from chinese ZaoBao yesterday, got a full page ad.

selling 1299 for D5000 with kit 1.
free:
2x 8GB, drybox, cleaning kit, tripod, DSLR bag, LCD screen protector, and something else (i forgot)

Actually it's from the electronic fair at suntec this weekends.
2x 8GB, drybox, cleaning kit, tripod, bag, USB card reader, Lens filter, Flash, extra battery.
Can anyone advise if this is a good deal for all these freebies +d5000 +kit = $1299?

Another deal is $1599 with all those mentioned above + additional 55mm-200mm lens.

I think MS selling about $1160 with standard kit + tripod + something else.
I've been looking through the price guide, but it's not easy to know the pricing of those accessories.


I'm new to CS and also looking for my first DSLR, eyeing on D5000 as well ;)
 

Hi!

I'm new here in clubsnap so as I'll be a new DSLR-wanna-be buyer. I have some following questions. I would like to ask for your honest opinion. Thanks in advance!


1) Where is the best place here in Singapore to shop for a DSLR? Please recommend a shop who wont play a fool out of me, a shop where the goods are quality but has a reasonable price.
(I went out one time to do canvassing in shops like lucky plaza, china town, CP and Funan. What i found was that lucky plaza and china town were cheaper than that of CP and Funan. The difference was S$ 50-70. But what i was skeptic about is what i heard bad reputation of shops in Lucky Plaza, and my friends are not so sure that of in chinatown but they do recommend that of Funan.)

2) What brand and model would you recommend me for a first time DSLR user like me?
(I have a budget of S$ 1150. I like the Nikon D5000. I found it great in features and physique enough for me. My handling and grip have a good feel with it. It suits my budget line too. Aside from that I like to take photos about people, landscape, scenery, city and night lights, sunset, and indoors. I'm doing this as a hobby and not making it as a profession so high-end DSLRS are not really in to me. I just want to improve skills where I'm from digital compact cameras.)

3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)


Thanks guys! May you help me with these. I'll be buying the gear this December 2009. I'm hoping that there would be promos, discounts and freebies.....;)

Hihi, Well u could get it from cathay photo to get a better price! But dont buy from havey norman because they con u until your broke.! somemore the free gift there is crap. And the best time to get your new dslr is during END OF YEAR! because they have always give promo and lots and lots of free gift until u cant carry.

For 1st time dslr you should get a canon 500d or nikon 5000d? well see u have to shoot if u like to shoot sports then get canon. If you shoot like building portrait photos then u should get 5000d.

Well depend u have alot of lens i rather u buy dry cabinet but if u just want to play your dslr + kit lens then get a dry box
 

I just saw this event in suntec warehouse sale, U can go there to take a look on NIKON 5000, they are selling 2 lenses 18-55 + 55-200. for the price of $1599. If you dont buy is ok just go and look look and have the feel of the camera, after which walk to Funan.

Dry cabinet is up to you, I got one recently. I reget for not getting one, my old SLR camera 200-300 lens got fungus already :''''(
 

thanks guys!

thanks for your overwhelming response. I'm pleased to hear your help advices here. Now I'm very much convinced of the Nikon D5000. Im considering CP shop this time, or maybe shops in Funan like J316 as you've mentioned.

for the dry cabinet, i might get it next year for im in a budget constraint now. i just hope my wife approves for it.

by the way, do you have any idea of when is the best time (week) to buy a gear this December? I'm planning on the first week already coz I'm really excited to have one. I can't wait to use it this Christmas season. im looking for the reasonable price with those tons of freebies....hehehehe;)

thanks again guys! hope im welcome here at clubsnap....:thumbsup:
 

1) I personally find the decent shops are in the Funan/Peninsula belt. Shops like John 3:16, and Cathay Photo. I have went to shops at Lucky Plaza and Sim Lim before but I notice they look at people before they quote you prices. So some times it higher, some times it is lower. And I don't find the people there knowledgeable but mainly product pushers. These are of course based on my personal experiences and opinion. By no means am I saying the 2 shops I mentioned are the best. I just feel more comfortable there. But DSLR is an expensive hobby. And there are just a lot of products with questionable quality (mostly those replicas) out there in the market. Sometimes it's the warranty, ... etc... and sometimes it's the service level of the sale people the shops employ. Go and visit them yourselves. You might get different experiences. I buy based on my comfort level. So some shops I won't go back even if it is recommend by users here.


2) My suggestion is that you must be more realistic with your budget. Because based on what you mentioned on what you are shooting, it's not just the body and kit lens that you should be getting. If that is your upfront capital investment at the moment, I would suggest Nikon D3000 or Nikon D5000. I am biased because I am a Nikon user. You will need to invest more on your lens in the future when you have an idea of what you like to take and to improve the image quality of your shots. The budget I mentioned is not realistic because it is not the end of your purchases. Filters, dry cabinet, lessons, external flashes, diffusers, bags, tripod, ............... Yes even as a hobby you will need them. Are you sure you want to enter the world of DSLR? Cos a good Point n Shoot can do a relatively decent job too.


3) Yes for dry cabinet. Lens require special care. And lens can be quite expensive. It is actually. And there is also resale value. Plus you want to keep dusk away from your lens and your camera body as much as possible. You don't want to spend so much and not able to give your investment decent protection do you?


My advice is don't be rushed into something you are not prepared for. I know of a lot of DSLR newbies who have problem understanding about exposure, ... .... I was like one of them before and I still have a lot of learn. Getting a DSLR now, the story doesn't end here. So question to you is, are you ready and are you sure you want to do this? If yes, then start with D3000 or D5000 first. I can't advise on other brands simply because I have never use them before.
 

MrKami said:
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.For 1st time dslr you should get a canon 500d or nikon 5000d? well see u have to shoot if u like to shoot sports then get canon. If you shoot like building portrait photos then u should get 5000d.

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You seem to suggest that D5000 is better than 500D for portraits?
I don't think such a statement is true la.
Truth be told, the image quality (tone, sharpness, etc) is pretty much indistinguishable between the brands for such entry level cameras. Some people say Canon colours are warmer la, Nikon better for skin tone la... I don't buy such statements.

You could toss a coin between the 2 and not make a mistake either way.
TS: do also consider the other brands like Sony, Olympus, Panasonic, Pentax, etc. They're worth a look.

I bought Nikon mainly because I could share lenses and accessories with my dad. I prefer the ergonomics and flash system.
 

Just be aware of the lack of an in-body AF motor on the D5000. Not that you get surprised later on...
 

3) If I buy a DSLR camera, do i have to buy (really need) a dry cabinet too, to store my gear? If not, what then would you advise me on how to take care of my gear on a tight budget like me?
(I'm just worried about what pro's called "fungus". I'll be using the gear here in Singapore and Philippines in which both are tropical countries.)
The key is "controlled humidity" in the right range. Many ways to skin a cat and if your budget is tight and you will be in two places during the year then dry box with Silica gel and hygrometer is one way. No worries, fungus needs time to grow. Nothing that happens over night in your bag.

Thanks guys! May you help me with these. I'll be buying the gear this December 2009. I'm hoping that there would be promos, discounts and freebies.....;)
Nobody really has something to give a way for free. Such items have rather symbolic character: flimsy tripod, cheap little blower, small bag etc. or they sit on the shelf and have to go. Don't get blinded by that. Get the camera and memory cards, then read up about all other accessories. The forum here is full of advice.
 

check out SLR revolution at funan 5th floor opp john316... prices there are competitive.

if u insist and are somehow able to get very good rates at shops like lucky plaza or chinatown, make sure u check that the serial number of the camera corresponds to that of the warranty card. and also not to get conned into buying anything extra u do not need.

best is also to find out the prices of the 'little' stuff like memory card, filters, tripod, whatnot... so in case any shop offers u a 'bundle' and raise the price of the camera, they are not raising it too drastically and take advantage of the fact that u r a newbie and prob hasn't bought camera stuff before.
 

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