What is a good camera and lens to get into studio portrait photography as a hobby?

Question

Hi all, I've always wanted to set up my own studio and do portrait photography as a hobby, finally I have some capital to get started, I'm going to sign up for some classes, and to start I need a camera to attend.

Whats a good camera and lens to start out with? (portrait photography in mind)

I want to get something that will give me a good foundation, and that I don't have to upgrade as I acquire the equipment for my hobby studio or get more advanced in my photography.

My budget is $1000 o $1500 for the camera and lens to start out (please let me know if this is too little, I would rather spend more and get the right thing)

Also I'd like to know what other equipment I will need to do studio portraits for future reference,,,

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

With that budget a dslr, whatever brand you prefer.  Probably should be at least 12MP.  Some of your clients will want prints as large as 16x20.

You will need backdrops in different colors, at least 3 lights or  off camera strobes, posing stool and a tripod.  Ideally for portraiture, though, it would be  best to use a medium format film camera.  The larger negative has a lot more detail, great for big enlargements and the square format makes cropping a lot easier.  But they cost way more than $1500.00  Also, you will need a photographic umbrella.  

Answer 2

As far as camera goes any DSLR will do fine. I would look at the Canon Rebels or the Nikon D40 or D60. In your budget these will get you started. Both brands are excellent and have many lenses to choose from. Prices for the cameras will range from about $500 for the D40 up to about $700 for the Canon Rebel XSi. Add the two lenses mentioned below and your at $1,400 or so. You will need a good fast prime lens. A 50mm F1.4 would be good. Price about $325. Another good lens to have would be an 85mm F1.8. ($350).

If you want to step up your camera body a bit you can get the Canon 40D or the Nikon D90 camera bodies for about $1,000. These would put you a little over your budget but are better cameras. Image quality wont be much if any better but they are better built, will last longer and have some more advanced features.