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Big post- I'm a bit disillusioned with my current setup and looking to switch things up.
Currently use a d5300+18-55 kit+ 55-200 kit+ 35 prime, and I've run into two primary limitations making me want to upgrade(~$1100 budget):
1. Image Quality; as I've started printing my work(mostly landscape and astro) for people, I've been pretty disappointed with the sharpness. Fairly obviously a lens problem, so I'd like to upgrade one of the two zooms I currently have, unsure which one atm though. I never use the 35mm so I'll most likely sell it.
2. Features of camera body; when I bought the d5300 instead of the d7000 I really ignored talk about convenient buttons and extra luxuries on the hardware side. Now I'm beginning to regret that as the d5300 is overwhelmingly tougher to work with on location than I would like, even worse than my first d200. I'd like to possibly switch the body for something more extensive in features- at this point I wouldn't even mind switching brands. Ideally I'm looking for the new body to be weather sealed and somewhat similarly light as the d5300 since 90% of my shots take place hiking, although these aren't dealbreakers.
This is what I can put towards the overhaul:
$500 cash, $350+ from selling the d5300, $170 from selling the 35mm prime, $100 from selling a zoom lens if upgraded. So total budget comes out to around $1100 for complete switch, or $750 for just a lens, or $1000 for just a body.
What are my options at this price point? Again, I’m looking to switch things up and invest in a system that can last me until I’m ready to jump to a full frame DSLR. Hoping to improve on image quality, or body functionality, or both; to buy a new lens, or a new body, or both. My biggest uncertainty is whether to get a wide angle lens or telephoto, as I use ‘em both relatively equally. Any advice is seriously appreciated.
