Do lens make a big difference in photography?

I have a Nikon D3200 with standard 18-55mm lens. I've read you can take pro photos with any camera, you just have to know how to use it, but the lens can affect quality. So, can you take professional looking shots with standard lenses? And what do you think of my pic? Thanks.


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Some good budget Nikon Lenses?

I bought a D5200 that came with the basic 18-55mm. I am looking for something to shoot landscape and another one for wedding pictures. I was looking at the 55-200mm and the 18-200mm VRII but the VRII is so expensive! Any recommendation on a cheap lens?

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Advice on purchasing a new DSLR?

Hi, I have finally saved enough money up to purchase my first DSLR. I will be using this DSLR mainly for filmmaking and not so much photography. The only features I really need are having good video quality and having an articulating screen. The camera that has caught my attention the most is the Nikon D5300 and almost bought it a while ago. However, I held myself back as I was still unsure aboout purchasing the camera as I was hoping if anyone knew if there is a newer or better camera I should look at or wait for. My budget is basically $1k but I do not want to spend all of it on just a camera but I would consider it if the camera is really something worth getting. Thanks.

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DSLR Photography: Expensive DSLRs vs CHEAP?

I recently picked up my first DSLR. I began shooting car photos with a Sony Cybershot 20.1 MP point and shoot. I needed a DSLR to improve my photography. So I went with a Nikon D3200. This camera is about 500 bucks with a 18-55 VR lens. I have been already shooting in manual mode and getting the hang of exposure.

To me, the sole purpose of buying a camera is to achieve the BEST quality possible. Isnt that what DSLRs are about? Getting the most crystal clear photo possible. With perfect exposure and colors etc…

I am browsing through many car photos on Flickr tonight and I see so many semi profesional photographers shooting great photos with $1500-2000+ cameras. I ask myself why? It may seem like a very stupid, naive question to most. But photo quality can only get So good before its impossible to get any better. With my Nikon D3200, with better lenses, I know i can achieve the EXACT same quality and image as a camera that costs 3x mine does.

I understand more advanced photographers need FASTER cameras to increase efficiency (faster SS, more features). I realize that top of the line cameras can shoot photos at great shutter speeds and can shoot 50 photos a second, etc. But i feel like a lot of money is wasted for some photographers when they can buy a great lens and slam it on an entry level DSLR like mine, and achieve the same quality.

I'm not saying I am right. I am just telling you my thoughts. And was curious to see what others have to say. Thanks!

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