Advanced beginner DSLR under $300

[Puss_In_Boots]

I want to get into DSLR photography to up my Insta game and to get into photo editing. I don’t want a basic beginner camera though. I want to be able to play with settings and learn. I don’t mind if a camera is used or a few years old but I don’t have that much money. Nor do I want to spend $600 on something I’ll be able to use twice a month if possible. I’ve had a look around but there are too many companies for me to just go in without suggestions. The one thing that is a must have is 1080p/30. Other than that If anyone could leave suggestions on how to do this on this extreme budget that would be great!

[dizmo]

I think for $300 you should be able to find a Canon 550D. That's what I'd go for. Most DSLRs have the same features as far as settings etc go.

IIRC there's also aftermarket firmware for the Canons.

[Radium_Angel]

13 minutes ago, Puss_In_Boots said:

DSLR photography

A Nikon D7000 would fit that as well.

[nick name]

4 minutes ago, Radium_Angel said:

A Nikon D7000 would fit that as well.

Or a D7100.

 

Also, start researching glass aka lenses.  I recommend buying the body and then buying a good prime lens and something else that might suit what you'll be photographing.  DO NOT fall for the bundles put together by the manufacturer.  And if you find a good deal on a bundle I would try to sell that bundled lens (it won't be for much) and find a better lens.  Those can also be found used for good deals.  

[Radium_Angel]

1 minute ago, nick name said:

start researching glass

Agreed. Far more important than the body

[cc143]

You could go for the cheapest Canon Dslr ou can get like a 550d, 600d, maybe even a 60d sometimes ( which is actually a huge upgrade from the downstream models at that point) and a 24mm f/2.8 panny possibly. 

 

Alternatively, a fuji xt10/xpro1/xe2 could be possible in that budget. I'm not sure what sort of lens yo could get for it though, a 16-50mm probably but its a pretty crappy lens, so if you can get it bundled with the 18-55mm, go for that, even if you have to spend a bit more. 

[Puss_In_Boots]

Thank you for the suggestions! This put me on the right track. Last night I almost got a 550D with a lens but I was outbid at the last second. I’m now watching a few T3Is and 60d’s. I also found a good lens to buy and I’m just waiting a bit to actually buy it.